Parkim Ayaz Hotel

The Parkim Ayaz Hotel was formerly two smaller properties that merged into this resort-style beachfront property. The grounds of this all-inclusive are defined by open spaces, with simple two- and three-story buildings connected by stone pathways and green courtyards filled with local flora and banana trees. The atmosphere is casual, with broad terraces and sundecks shaded by sail canopies, making it a prime spot for young couples and groups looking for a relaxed spot close to the town's nightlife. Families make up a large portion of the guests too, attracted by the all-inclusive rates and kid-friendly facilities. The interiors are less inviting than the sunny outdoor spaces, with dated pastel decor, along with pink and gray furnishings that would be more appropriate in a nightclub than a beach hotel's lobby. Still, the lower rates and unpretentious vibe here manages to keep this a well-liked pick in the Bodrum area.

The Parkim Ayaz Hotel is on the beachfront in the resort town of Gumbet, which has developed a regional reputation for its water sports and vibrant nightlife. Several bars are within walking distance, but the hilly landscape can be an impediment. More dining and nightlife can be found in nearby Bodrum City, about a 10- to 15-minute drive to the east. Bodrum City is also home to several major attractions, including the site of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the medieval Bodrum Castle. Expect a 45-minute drive to Milas–Bodrum Airport.  

All of the hotel's 237 rooms have furnished balconies or patios, some of which open right onto sundecks around the pool. Other rooms have garden views and some upgraded rooms have sea views. Still, many of the patios are small wooden numbers, giving them a slight budget-like look. Inside, rooms feature pleasant, casual decor that's a mix of contemporary light wood-veneer furnishings and floral fabric accents -- while upon closer inspection, everything is modern and well-kept, the overall effect is dated, in part due to color choices and patterns. Some higher-category rooms have living areas and details like exposed wood-beam ceilings that give them a bit more character. Basic amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, but not all rooms have tea/coffee facilities. Standard Rooms have one double or two twin beds, along with a sitting area with a lounge chair. All rooms have ample storage space with small closets and shelves. Family Rooms add desks along with sofa beds, while the Pool Suites add in-room whirlpool tubs and big covered terraces. The bathrooms have stylized tiles with bamboo motifs, and small walk-in showers. Most lack much in the way of counter space, with just a shelf above wall-mounted sinks. Basic toiletries are provided. 

Various water sports, including motorized boats, are available at the beach, where small thatched umbrellas and numerous trees provide a little shade along the wide shoreline. Off the sand, there are no less than three different outdoor pools, two hot tubs, and a kiddy pool. One of the pools has a spiral waterslide, and there's a lot of sun-bathing real estate on sundecks shaded by sail canopies. Other kid-friendly amenities include a kids' club and an outdoor playground with swings and slides, along with other facilities like a climbing wall and an open-air game room with several pool tables. Though the spa is showing its age, it has multiple treatment rooms and a big Turkish bath. There's also a decent-size fitness center with cardio machines and weight-training equipment -- including a punching bag -- though, again, the look is a bit outdated. Tennis courts are available as well. The hotel's all-inclusive rates cover meals and drinks at several different dining options. Apart from the obligatory international buffet with outdoor seating, there's also a Turkish restaurant and an Italian restaurant, along with a steakhouse that has a big outdoor terrace. Food gets mostly positive marks from previous guests. The hotel also has a cocktail lounge, a swim-up bar, and a beach bar that occasionally has live evening entertainment. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and parking is free as well.