My husband and I stayed in the Charisma for a couple of nights in September on our drive through Southern and Western Turkey. At first sight, it’s a large, impersonal 5-star with all mod cons but without much soul. It’s also not the easiest place to find if you are driving yourself (just north of the main bay below the hospital; beware of one-way systems). On the plus side, it takes its Covid precautions very seriously and guests were not allowed to wander anywhere in the hotel, including the breakfast area, without masks. We got a deluxe corner room which was absolutely huge and luxurious, with a big balcony equipped with sofas and a delightful swinging wicker-basket chair. While the sunsets were outstanding, the view was somewhat spoilt by being overlooked by a big, multi-story hospital block. The A/C was set on an arctic temperature that couldn’t be changed. The pool was lovely while the “beach” area (wooden deck) was a bit disappointing – slippery ladders and very choppy waters but then we were probably spoilt from the crystal-clear sea and pebble beaches in Fethiye. The spa looked lovely but we didn’t get a chance to use it while the jeweller in the foyer was a lovely gentleman and very helpful. The breakfast buffet was outstanding, with a large selection of amazing breads, sweets and cakes, by far the best we came across in Turkey. Charides seafood restaurant was also...My husband and I stayed in the Charisma for a couple of nights in September on our drive through Southern and Western Turkey. At first sight, it’s a large, impersonal 5-star with all mod cons but without much soul. It’s also not the easiest place to find if you are driving yourself (just north of the main bay below the hospital; beware of one-way systems). On the plus side, it takes its Covid precautions very seriously and guests were not allowed to wander anywhere in the hotel, including the breakfast area, without masks.

We got a deluxe corner room which was absolutely huge and luxurious, with a big balcony equipped with sofas and a delightful swinging wicker-basket chair. While the sunsets were outstanding, the view was somewhat spoilt by being overlooked by a big, multi-story hospital block. The A/C was set on an arctic temperature that couldn’t be changed. The pool was lovely while the “beach” area (wooden deck) was a bit disappointing – slippery ladders and very choppy waters but then we were probably spoilt from the crystal-clear sea and pebble beaches in Fethiye. The spa looked lovely but we didn’t get a chance to use it while the jeweller in the foyer was a lovely gentleman and very helpful. The breakfast buffet was outstanding, with a large selection of amazing breads, sweets and cakes, by far the best we came across in Turkey. Charides seafood restaurant was also fantastic (separate review) and Charisma guests get 15% off the bill. On the other hand, we were shocked to be charged 130 Lira for two beers and two small bottles of water from the mini-bar when checking out. What a rip-off.

All in all, a good base for exploring Ephesus and other amazing sites in the vicinity, as well as walking into town for a bit of retail therapy. Otherwise, Kusadasi wasn’t really for us. You’ll get much more atmosphere in Fethiye or Bodrum.More