In recent years the divide between the two has narrowed as major hotel groups, such as the Ritz Carlton or the Plaza in New York, have begun offering branded residential accommodation within their resorts, airlines have begun offering property investment packages and even property investment holidays are available.

Last week the cycle came full circle when the long-established Irish-owned tour operator, Abbey Travel, entered the overseas property market and launched a new product in the Turkish coastal resort of Alanya, known as the pearl of the Turkish Riviera.

Oba Valley Court is located along the rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea and has access to five kilometres of sandy beaches. When the International Blue Flag organisation announced its Blue Flag awards, 430 of Turkey's beaches were awarded, making it the third mostflagged country, beaten only by Spain and Greece.

The resort of Alanya, which is part of the European Association of Historic Towns and Regions, is very dependent on tourism and accounts for roughly 10% of Turkish tourism.

Oba Valley Court comprises 30 twobed and 10 four-bed apartments, ranging in size from 1,100 to 1,500sq ft. The enclosed development has beautifully landscaped gardens and large pools with children's area.

Prices at Oba Valley Court start at 67,500 and potential investors will be interested to learn that similar projects in the area have been experiencing an average capital appreciation of around 20% a year over the past five years.

Abbey Travel is offering a one-week holiday deal including flights from Dublin to Antalya, transfers, hotel accommodation and inspection trip.

The package costs 199 per person sharing plus tax. Flights depart on 29 August.

For further information contact Jenny at Abbey Travel on 01-804 7119.