When I heard that Molly-Mae Hague and Stacey Solomon had both stayed at the Anda Barut Collection in Didim, I expected a glitzy, influencer-style playground.

What I found instead was one of the most welcoming and unexpectedly family-friendly resorts on Turkey's Aegean coast - a place that makes luxury feel warm, not exclusive.

Luxury started from the moment I landed at Bodrum Airport.

The flight from London Gatwick to Bodrum took just four hours - short enough for those who dread long-haul flights, but far enough to feel like a proper escape.

Our driver greeted us in a sleek Mercedes-Benz Vito, complete with chilled water, plenty of legroom, and even a TV for the scenic 90-minute journey to Didim.

The ride itself set the tone for what was to come: smooth, stylish, and deeply relaxing.

The road to the Anda Barut Collection unfolded like a postcard. Crystal-blue waters shimmered alongside rugged mountain tops, and the sunlight reflected off whitewashed villas that dotted the coast.

Even before arriving, it was clear - this wasn't going to be just another holiday.

Arriving at the hotel felt surreal.

Outside, tranquil water features framed the walkway, creating a spa-like calm. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows revealed panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, with the silhouettes of mountains and passing boats painting the horizon.

Staff immediately offered warm smiles and genuine help - something that felt sincere rather than scripted.

As this was my first visit to Turkey, they shared insights about local culture and recommended things to try within the resort. That hospitality instantly made the place feel like home.

Located on the Delice Peninsula, the Anda Barut Collection overlooks a quiet bay about seven kilometres from Didim's main centre.

It's perfectly placed for those who want Aegean views without the chaos of busier hotspots like Bodrum or Antalya.

Anda Barut calls itself "ultra all-inclusive" - and they mean it.

With ten swimming pools (some heated for cooler months), a private beach, 13 à la carte restaurants, and even a mini theme park, there's little reason to leave the grounds.

At night, the park transforms into something magical. Bright lights, music, and laughter fill the air as families and couples queue for the bumper cars or the mini rollercoaster I was surprised by.

I even went on the unicorn merry-go-round - twice - to fulfil my inner child dreams.

The staff encouraged me to, and honestly, it brought everyone together.

Walking back to my room, the sound of crickets along the coastline was a gentle reminder that I was truly on holiday.

By day two, it already felt like a home away from home.

Some five-star hotels can feel intimidating - maybe it's the price tag, or the kind of guests they attract.

But what I discovered at the Anda Barut Collection is that true luxury doesn't need to feel exclusive.

Everything here feels intentional - from the warmth of the staff to the thoughtful details that make guests feel seen.

Service was top-notch: my glass was never empty, and there was always more than enough food to choose from.

It's the kind of trip that feels aspirational for anyone - something you might save up for, but know it's worth every penny.

Because what you take home isn't just the memories, but a sense of calm you rarely get from even five holidays combined.

Breakfast at one of my personal favourites, Zest, was buffet-style and could have easily been my only meal of the day.

From chips and pancakes to beans, toast, and traditional Turkish pastries, there was something for everyone - and it ran until 11 am.

Of course, no meal felt complete without a cup of authentic Turkish tea.

Dinner was just as impressive, with themed nights and a mix of global and local dishes. The sushi night drew long queues, but it was the Turkish options that stole the show - grilled meats, fragrant rice, and endless trays of baklava.

It's no wonder the Anda Barut Collection stands out among the best all-inclusive resorts in Turkey, balancing indulgence with a genuine sense of warmth

The best part of the trip - apart from meeting amazing people - was the reminder to slow down.

Life gets busy with work and commitments, but being here gave me permission to just be still.

The resort's garden paths are lined with fragrant flowers and palm trees, leading to quiet corners where you can read, think or simply soak up the sun.

There was something grounding about that simplicity - the kind of peace you can't fake.

A standout moment for me came on my last night, standing outside my room by the swim-up pool, watching the reflections of the hotel lights dance across the water.

The silence, broken only by the sound of crickets, was unforgettable.

I'll admit, I expected the Anda Barut to be an influencer's paradise - after all, Molly-Mae Hague and Stacey Solomon have both stayed here.

But instead of exclusivity, I found warmth.

The resort strikes that rare balance: it's luxurious but welcoming, polished but personal.

If I had to sum up who it's for, I'd say it's perfect for families, couples and anyone looking for family holidays in Turkey that mix style with genuine relaxation.

By the end of my stay, I wasn't just relaxed - I was recharged.

The Anda Barut Collection reminded me that true luxury isn't about marble floors or fancy menus; it's about feeling completely at ease.

Some hotels impress you. This one stays with you - not for the glitz, but for the calm, the kindness and the way it makes you stop, breathe, and remember what a real holiday feels like.