Aegean Paradise
AT THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL BODRUM
At the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, the resort's understated opulence seems to extend as freely and endlessly as the dark azure of the Aegean itself. From the outdoor lobby, a modern water-surrounded terrace offers arriving guests panoramic views of the resort grounds and the Turkish Riviera. Just beyond, anchored yachts bob along Paradise Bay's sleek and unwavering waters with the occasional passing by of gulls squawking above; it's a beautiful prelude that encapsulates the idyllic constant one can expect when staying here.
Morning dawns early on the Bodrum peninsula. A warm ray from the rising sun peeks through a small twitch from our bedroom curtains, vying to flood in. Surrendering, I draw the beige drapes back. Crisp lines form onto the sandy hued interior, highlighting touches of understated luxury along the way. The grain from the oversized sliding teak doors comes into clarity, and hand-loomed Turkish rugs lay plush and high-end tech from the Danish designer Bang & Olufsen, subtly dot across the room.
Hopping into the rainfall shower, I settle here for a while, lingering almost. Between the satisfying warm drench of an invigorating shower and the picturesque views of the Riviera, it's easy to lose track of the time. Later, I step outside, barefoot, onto the connecting wooden sundeck. It’s mellow and comfortingly meditative, gently heated by the soft glow of daybreak. Watching the waves, I sit still. There's plenty to do below, but I am in no rush; I'm happy to linger a while longer to watch, to bask, to think – that's already plenty to do before the prelude ends.
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