News that Turkey is abolishing tourist visas from March – a saving of £27 – means the country is better value than ever: good timing for sociable singles holiday specialist Friendship Travel to add two new holidays.

The first is a week of guided walks on the Lycian Way, based at the small and friendly Forever Hotel in Hisaronu above Olu Deniz. Departure dates are 27 April and 4 May for perfect hiking temperature, with prices from just £635.

That includes flights from Gatwick (a host of regional departures available), transfers, seven nights' sole occupancy of a double/twin bedded room on B&B basis, four dinners and three picnic lunches while out hiking.

The routes – led by an experienced local guide and involving up to five hours medium/hard hiking – take in the 'ghost village' of Kayakoy, a section from Kirme through wildflower meadows at the foot of Babadag mountain and a route from Butterfly Valley nature reserve to the coastal village of Kabak.

The other new holiday is for culture vultures who enjoy a bit of luxury. Based at the five-star Charisma de Luxe hotel on the edge of Kusadasi, the package includes a full day's guided visit to the magnificent and sprawling site of Ephesus and a second day's outing taking in the three 'jewels of ancient Ionia' namely the ruins of Priene, Miletus and Didyma.

There's also a relaxing hammam experience in the hotel spa, and on other days guests will no doubt make full use of the superb seafront location, with an infinity pool and glamorous deck offering direct access to the sea.

Departure dates are 16 May and 26 September, with prices from £925 to include flights from Gatwick (and regional options), transfers, seven nights' sole occupancy of a sea view double/twin bedded room on a B&B basis, two picnic lunches while sightseeing and five dinners with wine.

Friendship Travel's other solo holidays in Turkey this summer are at the boutique 4Reasons Hotel in Yalikavak, a five-star all-inclusive foodie holiday at the Raga in Side, house-party style holidays at the Forever Hotel in Oludeniz and small group cruising on exclusive Gulet charters.

As with all Friendship Travel holidays, guests enjoy the luxury of their own room (or cabin) with no single supplement to pay, and sociable meals taken around one large table.

Prices correct at date of issue, but subject to change/availability.

Friendship Travel, 0289 446 2211, www.friendshiptravel.com 

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