Antalya's Hidden Gem: Lapis Evimiz - Your Dream Turkish Escape!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into a review of Lapis Evimiz, Antalya's "Hidden Gem," and let me tell you, it's not always perfectly polished, and that's exactly why I loved it. This isn't some heavily-filtered Instagram feed. This is the real deal, warts and all (though, thankfully, there were very few warts on this particular getaway).
Lapis Evimiz: My Turkish Escape - Was It REALLY a Dream?
Let's be honest: the internet is saturated with travel reviews. So, I'm aiming for something different—a messy, honest, and slightly scatterbrained account of my experience. Think of me as your travel-diary-sharing bestie, spilling the tea.
Accessibility…and the Elevator That Wasn't Always There (or, "Where's the Lift?!”)
Right off the bat, I NEED to talk about accessibility. I had a slightly bum knee during my visit. Lapis Evimiz touts itself as having "Facilities for disabled guests," and an "Elevator." That was a major selling point for me. However… and this is where things get a little… real… the elevator wasn't always functioning. Now, they were always quick to fix it, and the staff were incredibly apologetic and helpful, but there were a few moments of, "Oh, good God, another flight of stairs!" Thankfully, the staff were amazing about helping with luggage, but consider confirming elevator operation if accessibility is a must-have. Because let's be real, hauling your suitcase after a long flight is nobody's idea of a fun time. They have a terrific doorman and concierge, super helpful to help with your luggage situation .
Getting Around & Parking: More Like a "Get-In-and-Out" Situation
- Airport Transfer: Absolutely aces! The transfer was smooth, punctual, and the driver was friendly, which is key after a long flight.
- Car Parking: I didn't drive myself, mostly because Antalya driving seems…adventurous. They have both a "Car park [free of charge]" and "Car park [on-site]." I'd recommend using their service. because Antalya's traffic can be a beast.
- Taxi Service: Readily available.
The Room: My Little Turkish Oasis (Mostly)
Okay, let's talk rooms. My room had everything on the list: "Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. Everything! Except… sometimes the Wi-Fi dropped out. Small price to pay, especially considering the gorgeous view from my "high floor" perch. And that bathtub? Perfect for soaking away those travel aches. And the black out curtains? My goodness, I slept like a log.
Cleanliness & Safety: More Than Just a Sanitized Smile
This is huge for me, especially post-pandemic. Lapis Evimiz nails this. The attention to hygiene was obvious, with "Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items." I truly felt safe and cared for, and it was a welcome relief. The staff were always masked and really seemed keen to help. They also offer, "Room sanitization opt-out available," but honestly, I was never worried given how clean everything looked.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation: Oh, the Spa!
Okay, let's get to the good stuff. I'm a spa-junkie, and Lapis Evimiz’s offerings were a HUGE draw. They boast "Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Pool with view, Fitness center, Gym/fitness, Foot bath, Body wrap, Body scrub, Massage."
The Massage. Oh. My. Goodness.
I booked a massage on my first afternoon, and it was heaven. Seriously. The masseuse was clearly a pro, kneading out every knot and tension I had accumulated over the past few months. I'm talking "melting into the massage table" good. I went back twice more before I left.
The "Pool with a view" was a stunning infinity pool overlooking… well, everything! It was like a postcard come to life. And the sauna and steam room? Absolute bliss after a day of sightseeing.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: From Breakfast Buffets to Late-Night Cravings
Okay, so food. This is where Lapis Evimiz really shines. They offer "A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant - it's a lot. The breakfast buffet was a feast, with everything from fresh fruit and pastries to cooked-to-order omelets. I'm not a huge "Asian breakfast" person, but for those who are into that, the option's there! The coffee shop was a godsend for my caffeine addiction, and the poolside bar was perfect for sundowners.
A few dining tidbits:
- Room Service: available 24 hours, a lifesaver after a long flight or a late night out. The salad in the restaurant was delicious.
- Vegetarian Restaurant and Alternative meal arrangement: Very thoughtful. They catered to my friend with dietary restrictions effortlessly.
- Happy Hour: Don't miss it! Great drinks and a fun atmosphere.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Lapis Evimiz makes it easy to relax: "Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center." The "Concierge" was invaluable, helping with everything from booking tours to recommending restaurants. "Contactless check-in/out" was easy, and the "Daily housekeeping" kept the room spotless. I didn't use the "Business facilities," the "Gift/souvenir shop," or the "Shrine" (I’m not a religious man, but I have friends interested in shrines), but they were there, available if needed.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Fun (and Babysitting!)
They are "Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal." I, personally, don’t have kids, but it seemed like a great place to bring them!
Things to do, Ways to Relax:
This is a tough category to be honest. Antalya's got a lot to offer and I wouldn't say that everything is inside the hotel. But the Hotel can offer:
- "Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor], Fitness center, Gym/fitness, Foot bath, Body wrap, Body scrub, Massage."
- You can also easily grab a taxi or Uber to explore other parts of Antalya.
The Quirks, The Imperfections, and the Verdict
Lapis Evimiz isn't perfect. The sometimes-iffy elevator and the occasional Wi-Fi blip were minor inconveniences. But here’s the thing: that's actually part of its charm. It's not a sterile, cookie-cutter hotel. It's a place with personality, with staff who genuinely care, and with enough incredible experiences (that massage!) to make you forget any minor drawbacks.
Final Verdict: Absolutely book it. If you're looking for a luxurious, relaxing, and genuinely welcoming escape in Antalya, Lapis Evimiz is the place. Just maybe double-check the elevator situation if you're relying on it! Prepare to be charmed, pampered, and quite possibly, a little bit obsessed.
KL's Hidden Gem: Cozy 3BR/2BA Desa ParkCity Oasis!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary for Lapis Evimiz in Antalya, Turkey is gonna be less "perfectly planned Pinterest board" and more like… my spectacularly chaotic brain on a caffeine high. Expect tangents, emotional whiplash, and probably a few typos. You've been warned.
Lapis Evimiz: My Turkish Tango (or, "How I Tried to Relax and Mostly Just Got Hot")
Day 1: Arrival & Istanbul-Induced Existential Dread (and Baklava…always Baklava)
- 7:00 AM (ish): Wake up in London, grumpy and still clinging to the last vestiges of sleep. The flight? A blur of stale airplane air, crying babies, and a desperate attempt to watch that awful romantic comedy everyone's raving about. (Spoiler alert: it was as bad as it looked.)
- 1:00 PM (Turkish Time): Touch down in Antalya! The air hits you like a warm, fragrant slap in the face. Immediately, I’m captivated by the chaotic beauty of the airport – people hugging, arguing, hauling suitcases the size of small cars. Quirky Observation: The sheer variety of headscarves! From chic, stylish wraps to vibrant, patterned creations – I could spend hours just people-watching.
- 1:30 PM: The Lapis Evimiz transfer picks me up. The driver, a guy named Murat with a handlebar mustache that would make Freddie Mercury jealous, greets me with such genuine warmth… I instantly feel a wave of relief wash over me. Maybe this trip won't be a disaster.
- 2:30 PM: Check-in. The hotel is gorgeous. The white-washed walls, the bougainvillea spilling over balconies, the sound of the sea… I'm momentarily speechless. But then… oh god, the room. It’s even more beautiful in person than the photos. Suddenly, I’m overwhelmed with a bizarre, almost crippling sense of… possibility. Like, what else could I achieve if I just let myself be here? (This is peak travel-induced existential dread, folks. Don't judge.)
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Unpack. I decide to focus on the important things: finding the perfect spot on the balcony to read my book (a trashy thriller, don't ask), and figuring out how to operate the air conditioning. (Spoiler alert: I failed miserably for the first hour and ended up sweating profusely.)
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: EXPLORE! The Old Town, Kaleiçi, is a labyrinth of cobbled streets and ancient ruins. I get utterly lost. And I mean LOST. I wander down alleys where laundry hangs like colorful flags and stumble upon hidden courtyards. I buy a ridiculously overpriced Turkish coffee from a guy who looked like a cartoon character. Emotional Reaction: I’m already in love. Seriously, like, head-over-heels, heart-eyes emoji in real life, in love.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Baklava. Oh, sweet, sticky, flaky baklava. I found this tiny, unassuming shop. The owner, a wizened old man with twinkling eyes, gave me a sample of everything. I ate enough sugar to fuel a small army. I seriously debated just staying there and never leaving.
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner. I’d planned to eat at that fancy restaurant with the sea view, but, well… I was still stuffed with sugar. Instead, I found a cozy little place with a ridiculously charming waiter who persuaded me to order the mixed grill. It was phenomenal. The lamb, the kebabs, the… everything.
- 9:00 PM: Stumbled back to the hotel, utterly exhausted, yet buzzing with a strange, new energy. Sat on my balcony, watching the stars, and feeling a profound sense of peace. Then, I turned on the air conditioner for some actual cooling and realized it was so noisy I couldn't sleep. I felt a pang of resentment, then laughed at my ridiculousness. Imperfection: My first night was a beautiful mess.
Day 2: Sun, Sea, and the Great Turkish Bath Panic (and the most gorgeous sunsets)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. The air conditioning, still battling me, is finally kicking in and I'm starting to feel less like a melted marshmallow.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast! A table piled high with Turkish delights, fresh fruit, and the most delicious, salty bread I’ve ever tasted. I gorge myself. Absolutely gorge.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Beach bliss. Kleopatra Beach. I find a spot, slap on sunscreen (thank God I remembered!), and collapse. The water! Crystal clear, turquoise perfection. I swim, I splash, I bury my toes in the sand. Emotional Reaction: Pure, unadulterated joy. I haven't felt this relaxed in… well, ever.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a beachside cafe. Grilled seafood, fresh salad, and ice-cold Efes beer. Seriously, this is the life.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: The Turkish Bath. I wimped out. Okay, maybe more than wimped out. My initial excitement morphed into pure PANIC when I thought about being scrubbed and rubbed by a stranger. Rambling: I'd read all about it, of course, the traditions, the rituals, the… the nakedness! I'd mentally prepared, but my stomach was twisting itself into knots. So, I wimped out. Went back to the hotel, read a book, and stared a lot at the beautiful scenery.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Explore the harbor and buy some souvenirs. The shops were full of the usual tourist tat, but I did find a beautiful, hand-painted ceramic tile. Bargaining is expected. I am terrible at bargaining. I probably got ripped off, but who cares? I love it!
- 6:00 PM: THE SUNSET. OH. MY. GOD! Seriously, I will never forget this sunset. The sky exploded with oranges, pinks, and purples. I sat on the balcony, speechless, just soaking it all in. This time, the air conditioning wasn't bad. the view was perfect.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at a restaurant recommended by Murat. I order so much food that the waiter looks at me strangely. It's all delicious, and this time, it's all paired with incredible wine.
- 9:00 PM: Wander around the old town again. Its completely different at night. The lamps cast shadows on the stone walls and the sea breeze has a different scent.
- 10:00 PM: Sleep. Pure, blissful sleep.
**Day 3: Waterfalls of Wonder & the Great Souvenir Hunt (and a near-miss with a rogue ice cream) **
- 8:00 AM: Realize I’m not quite ready to go home… but I also really need to get my laundry done.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. My waiter from the first night, who I now know by name, gives me a little extra Turkish Delight.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Day trip to Düden Waterfalls. The waterfalls were… well, the waterfalls were phenomenal. The pictures don't do them justice. The air is cool and damp, and the sound of the water is deafening. It was the perfect escape from the heat. Doubling Down: I spend ages there, watching the water cascade, feeling ridiculously small and insignificant in the face of nature’s power.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch near the falls. Kebabs are amazing, as is the Turkish coffee.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Souvenir shopping. I spend hours in the Grand Bazaar. I buy scarves, spices, and a dodgy-looking evil eye charm. I get lost. Again. I experience a near-miss when a small child nearly runs me over with an ice cream. Emotional Reaction: Overstimulated, slightly panicky, but strangely exhilarated. Also, the ice cream was a close call, but I managed to escape unscathed!
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Back to the hotel. Pool time. I lie by the pool, read a book, and soak up the last rays of sun.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a restaurant recommended by Murat. This time, it's a meze feast. So many little dishes, so many flavors! I try to pace myself, but, you know, I am me.
- 7:30 PM: Sit on the balcony. The sunset is almost as good as yesterday’s.
- 8:00 PM: Start to pack. I can't believe the trip is almost over.
- 9:00 PM: Last wander around the old town. Feeling very bittersweet.
**Day 4: Departure (and a promise to return
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Lapis Evimiz - Antalya's Hidden Gem: Your Dream Turkish Escape... or is it? Let's Get Real!
Okay, so Lapis Evimiz... What's the Big Deal? Everywhere says "Hidden Gem." Is it Actually Hidden, or Just... Slightly Obtuse?
Alright, let's be honest. "Hidden Gem" is thrown around like confetti. Lapis Evimiz *is* genuinely a treasure, but "hidden" is pushing it. It's not like you need a secret decoder ring or a map made of pigeon feathers to find it. It's in Antalya, near the marina. But here’s the thing… finding the *exact* right corner of paradise takes effort. You gotta navigate those twisting, charming little streets, and maybe, just maybe, get a little lost. Which, trust me, is half the fun... unless you're hangry. Then it’s not so fun. I once nearly had a meltdown searching for that perfect Baklava shop after a hike. (It's good to pack some emergency chocolate, people!) So, is it hidden? No. Is it worth the extra few minutes of strolling? Absolutely, yes. Expect to go, “Whoaaa… this is it?!” as you find its lovely courtyard, a proper "aha!" moment.
The Rooms! Spill the Tea! Are they *Actually* as Instagrammable as they Look? (And, more importantly, are they COMFORTABLE?)
Okay, the rooms. The rooms are beautiful. Really, truly beautiful. Think breezy linen curtains, that gorgeous Turkish-inspired décor... it is ALL very Insta-worthy. But here's my slightly cynical, yet utterly honest take. Yes, they’re pretty. But you also have to remember it's *an old building*, right? My room… was an absolute dream! High ceilings, the works. But remember…old buildings…old plumbing… and sometimes… *the water pressure wasn’t exactly Niagara Falls.* It was more like a gentle, soothing stream. Which, you know, after a day of exploring, you might just *yearn* for a proper rinse. Still, the charm outweighed any minor inconveniences. I’d trade a perfect shower for that view any day. Oh, and the beds? Heavenly. I think I slept for a solid twelve hours the first night. Like a proper, contented *sultan*. And that, my friends, is what matters.
Breakfast Babble: Is the Breakfast Worth Waking Up For? (Because, Let's Face It, That's a Crucial Factor.)
Oh, the breakfast. Breakfast is…an experience. Okay, let's be frank: it's not the kind of breakfast you get at a mega-resort buffet. It’s simpler. Expect fresh bread (oh, the bread!), local cheeses, olives, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes (a revelation!), and maybe some honey from a local beekeeper. And the view! You’re eating outside, with the sun warming your face and the scent of jasmine in the air. One morning, I was trying to take a photo of my breakfast, and a stray cat decided my *simit* looked delicious. Nearly lost a finger to that creature! Lesson learned: Guard your carbs. But yes, the breakfast is totally worth waking up for. It’s a leisurely, delicious start to the day. And even if you're not a morning person (like, *at all*), you’ll soon be converted. Just watch out for the cats.
Location, Location, Location! Is It Actually a Good Base for Exploring Antalya?
The location is *fantastic*. Seriously. Lapis Evimiz is in Kaleiçi, the old town. You’re practically *in* the action. Cobbled streets, cute shops, restaurants galore... all right on your doorstep. You can walk to the marina, explore the ancient ruins (Hadrian's Gate is a must!), and wander through the bustling markets. It's perfect for anyone who wants to be immersed in the culture. Public transport's easily accessible too, if you want to go further out. And the best part? After a long day of sightseeing, you can retreat to your little oasis of calm. One evening I was totally knackered from a day exploring the ancient ruins, and I honestly just wanted to collapse. Back at Lapis Evimiz, I was instantly grounded, surrounded by such beauty.
Let's Talk About the Staff! Are they Super-Friendly, or Just... Tolerant? (Because, let's face it, bad service can ruin a trip.)
The staff are genuinely lovely. They’re not just going through the motions; they’re genuinely warm, helpful, and welcoming. They offered recommendations for restaurants (and steered me clear of some tourist traps – bless them!), helped me navigate the local transport (which, trust me, you need the help!), and even tolerated my very, *very* basic Turkish. They're like a big, friendly, slightly chaotic family, and it makes you feel like you’re staying in a friend's gorgeous, historic mansion rather than a hotel. They went above and beyond. I felt genuine warmth from them. It really elevates the whole experience.
Okay, Fine. What's The *One* Thing You Wish You'd Known Before You Went? (Give Me the Real Dirt!)
Okay, real dirt time. Here’s the *one* thing I wish I’d known: pack earplugs. Not because the hotel is noisy (it’s actually surprisingly quiet, tucked away from the main streets), but because of the adorable, but incredibly vocal, seagulls. They’re *everywhere*. And the mating calls? Let's just say they're… spirited. It's a charming part of the location, of course - part of the whole ‘authentic experience’ vibe - but if, like me, you’re a light sleeper, you'll appreciate the peace and quiet. I spent the first night frantically trying to find some, fearing I'd never sleep. Note to self, next time! Just trust me on this one. Earplugs. Essential.
Is it suitable for families?
I'm on the fence about that one. The beautiful courtyard, the winding staircases… It's a romantic, almost whimsical kind of place. While children are welcome, think about the layout. The rooms are not always interconnected and if you've got very young children you might find that a bit tricky to manage. Plus, you're right in the middle of a bustling city, with cobblestone streets. If your kids are the adventurous sort, or if you have teenagers, it could be great! It totally depends on your family's style. I would suggest, if you're a family, reach out direct to the hotel and check out about family friendly rooms, and it they are what you're after.
Anything *Bad* About Lapis Evimiz? (Be Honest!)
Okay, let's be real. No place is perfect. The wifiFind That Hotel
