nights out Sertab style!

we'd been practising for weeks, (well, as much as backward circumstances would allow) and so were well prepared to take Bodrum by storm.

It took a matter of seconds to suss out what was on special offer at  Sunny's roof-top bar - the classy cocktail that is Sex on the Beach. Highly 'amusing' to order, but order we did, (many times) to get us in the mood before heading into town. The fact that it came with a sparkler, straw, parasol and plastic man enhanced our holiday tenfold.

Tottering off down the steep hill, past the heavily guarded military base (men with guns), it was never long before we stumbled across a chic eatery. As you can see, Daniel sometimes managed to look quite classy, as he does here, sat at a restaurant suspended over the water's edge. On this particular evening, in sophisticated surroundings, we indulged ourselves with some authentic Turkish cuisine.

Most nights were slightly more dubious (our own fault entirely).  Starved with hunger, we would succumb to the charms of the overtly friendly waiters, and consistently found ourselves in some unique establishments - roof top restaurants a plenty. Wine was cheap and certainly flowed freely. The result? Ordering huge plates of Tiramisu (which means 'pick me up!') and taking strange photos of waiters' hands. Here, we're tucking in and topping up.

THEN - bring on the free drinks! Not content with just wine, the owner of the restaurant decided we needed further encouragement. Emily got another Sex on the Beach, while Daniel got a flaming 'Mans Drink' (Hmmm). Still not enough, then came a glass of Raki! Known locally as Lions' Milk, we weren't sure if this was a good idea, but in the name of research we just had to try. Coaxing ourselves on with "Go on, a sip for the Queen!" and "Oooh, just the one sip for Una," we took it in turns to experience true delight.

We had much fun, and here is the evidence. We KNOW we look rough, but after four hours AT LEAST of solid belly dancing, what do you expect?! The beats of Sertab, Petek, Nez and Tarkan really do make an evening. How shall we cope clubbing without them? Will the DJs play our CDs?