It claims to be the land of sun, hospitality and culture and the resort of Antalya in Turkey is aiming to increase its list of cultural attractions by establishing its own International Choir Festival this year.

The municipal authorities of Antalya have been working hard to establish the town's credentials as a location that is much more than just a popular holiday destination. Antalya has no trouble in attracting tourists during the main holiday season, with its combination of wonderful weather, spectacular scenery and depth of cultural history. However the stronger holiday resorts are the ones who are able to extend their seasons, either into the Autumn or by starting them earlier in the year. Antalya has been trying to do just that. It has a large conference centre on the outskirts of the town which is suitable for both business and sporting gatherings.

Last month, Antalya hosted the World Fencing Championships there, which brought competitors from all over the world to the town. The new choir festival is made up of two separate competitions, one in April and another in November. The Autumn festival takes place over five days between 4th and 8th November and the organisers have invited youth choirs from around Europe to its inaugural event this year. The competition is split into four sections with choirs competing in two or more of them. Every choir must take part in the outdoor performance and then choose from age group competitions or the non-competitive folk and pop categories.

The weather in Antalya at the moment is hot with temperatures in the high twenties. Typically during October it remains at a warm daytime average of 21 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for a late season break. FlyThomasCook flights to Antalya from the UK continue through October and November.