Blue Dreams Resort

Appearing like something landed from space, it's hard to miss the bold, futuristic structure that marks the entryway to the Club Blue Dreams. The driveway, flanked by bougainvillea and ivy-clad walls, winds down past a glass-cube guard box and to the hotel's lobby entrance. Inside, the feel is rustic-chic, with redbrick ceilings and natural stone combining with contemporary art pieces and low-profile seating. Built into the steep hillside, elevators connect to the lower levels, a series of sweeping terraces, and a huge infinity pool that has stunning views over the Aegean Sea from every angle. The upscale, all-inclusive complex is spread over 70 acres and even tiers down to its own stretch of shingle beach complete with a jetty. Guests are an even mix of (mostly British) families with kids and couples, including honeymooners.

The hotel is set into the side of a cliff in Zeytinli Kahve, one of the most picturesque bays in the popular tourist destination of Bodrum. The complex is entirely self-contained, with other high-end hotels on either side and nothing of real interest within walking distance. A shuttle service (for a fee) runs to Bodrum center, which is full of bars, restaurant, and shops, as well as ancient attractions such as Bodrum Castle and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus; the ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Closer to the hotel, the pretty seaside village of Torba -- about a five-minute drive away -- is popular with day-trippers and has excellent seafood dining. The nearest international airport is Milas–Bodrum Airport, located about half an hour away by car.

While the 291 guest rooms vary in size -- from tiny to spacious -- decor all leans toward stylish and contemporary, with wood floors, carved latticework, and simple modern furnishings in muted tones. Most of the rooms have either balconies or terraces -- many with sea views. Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (though they are short on English-language channels), minibars with free soda and water (though a fee to refill), and coffee- and tea-making facilities; upgraded rooms add bathrobes and DVD players. Simple beige bathrooms come with hairdryers, toiletries, and walk-in showers with directional and/or rainfall showerheads. Wi-Fi is not available in the rooms.

The hotel's main restaurant serves a buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner and opens to a lovely sea-view terrace. There's also a choice of Turkish, Italian, Chinese, or seafood a la carte dining (once a week included in the all-inclusive plan), though reports suggest quality of food is generally poor, especially at the buffet. Soft drinks and domestic alcoholic beverages are available at one of several bars, which include a poolside bar, a beach bar, and a leafy and shaded tea garden. The highlight of the hotel is its large infinity pool, lined with lounge chairs and offering lovely sea views. There are also an activity pool with an animation team on staff, a quiet pool for adults, and a mini water park with a few water slides; children also have a separate splash pool and a kids' club. The spa provides an indoor pool, as well as a traditional Turkish bath, a sauna, and a fitness room. Evening entertainment takes the form of various live acts including dancing, music, and magic shows. Free Wi-Fi is available, but only in a couple of designated public areas.