Beholding historical civilizations and kingdoms, with ancient archaeological sites from mosques to ruins and palaces. Mediterranean coastline with top beaches
Take yourself away from everyday customary vacations and venture to Turkey. Inspirational culture and vivid splendor of mountains, translucent cyan sea, beaches, and burbling cascading waterfalls. Learn to communicate your appetite with the delicious Turkish cuisine that you can savor. Cities that define their own language of architecture and history.
Content
Are Turkish People Hospitable
It can be quite an eye-opener when visiting Turkey for the first time. Don’t be surprised if you are treated like a long-lost friend returning home or even if you are invited to their home for a meal. Turkish people are exceedingly hospitable as they love to cook and socialize. Respect for family and friends is seen everywhere and they most certainly take care of each other. Delightful storytellers, they thrive to tell you all about the history of Turkey, or a marvellous restaurant outside the normal tourist hub.
7 Inventions that Originated in Turkey: changing history
1. Saint Nicholas or rather as we know him, Santa Claus was born on 15 March 270 AD, in Patara, Turkey. He was known for his kindness, compassion and generosity, with a habit of throwing coins down chimneys of poor homes.
2. Sabiha Gokcen was the world’s first female combat pilot. She initially was going to be a skydiver but loved flying. At the age of 12, she was adopted and Sabiha stored more than 8000 hours of flying time and flew more than 22 different types of aircraft, in her lifetime.
3. During the 7th century BC, the ruler of Lydia, Alyattes, now western Turkey, replaced the bartering system with a mixture of gold and silver coins, called electrum alloy. The story goes he wanted to control the bullion currency, so only the coin with the roaring lion head and bull could be used.
4. Ismail Al-Jazari, born in 1136 CE, was a great Turkish inventor who invented the first flushing toilet and vacuum cleaner, furthermore known as the “father of robotics”. 50 mechanical inventions were recorded from his time including the humanoid robot and the first mechanical clocks driven by water and weights.
5. The world’s first Christian Church was a cave church in Antioch and was believed to have been dug by St Peter himself. Inside the church, graves and burial sites have been located inside and the outside gardens are a cemetery which has been used for hundreds of years.
6. Lady Mary Wortley Montagu was responsible for the first smallpox vaccination. She eloped at the age of 23 and went with her husband to Istanbul in 1716. She wrote vivid descriptions of how Turkish women used a method of inoculation against dreaded smallpox, equally important Wortley took this back to England.
7. The Ottomans were the first ones to use gunpowder in military weapons such as cannons. Even though the Chinese were the first to invent gunpowder for fireworks this was taken one step further by the Ottomans.
Best and Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Turkey
6 Must-Sees in Ankara
The capital of Turkey is Ankara, located in Central Anatolia, although it is the second largest. Kemal Atatürk, the first president of Turkey, declared Ankara the capital in 1923. As it is located in the center of railway and roadwork networks, it is regarded as the prime industrial and commercial city.
Do you know where Angora wool originated? Yes, Ankara. Angora is an old word for Ankara. Angora wool is shorn from Angora goats, rabbits, and even the Angora cat.
Honey, pears, and muscat grapes are also farmed in this area.
* Hamamönü Neighborhood
Visit the Hamamönü Neighborhood, and do non-touristy things to make your vacation more alive. The houses incorporate the features of Ottoman civic architecture, restored cafes, and restaurants with Ankara cuisine. Arts, culture, and souvenirs are handmade selling in quaint gift shops.
* Gençlik Park
Virtually in the center of Ankara, this green space is 68 acres and is appreciated by locals and tourists. alike. Numerous kiosks are within the park, plus a swimming pool, open-air theatre, and two small trains, but visit in the evening to view the night lights which are magnificent, or keep it simple and just have a picnic on the lawn alongside the lake and fountains.
* Ankara Castle
The Ankara Castle, also known as Ankara Citadel (Hisar), keeps guard over the Ankara Old Town. History reflects the Roman, Seljuk, and Ottoman Empires, and the castle was built approximately between 476 B.C. and 33 B.C. Walls that extend three stories high surround the castle, not to mention that inside the castle, you will find “Ankara houses” that were built in different periods, a mosque, inn, and museum. Much is revealed once you go in!
* Anitkabir Mausoleum
The Anitkabir Mausoleum was constructed between 1944 and 1953 final resting place of the first president of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Path of Honor, which is the staircase leading up to the Court of Honor, is fringed by reclining Hittite lions. The modern-day vastness, paintings, and “soldiers” marching are the best part.
* Day Trip to Hattuşa and the Archaeological Site of Alacahöyük
Two archaeological sites you must visit are the Hattusa and Alacahöyük sites. Day trips can be made from Katara, or you can stay closer to the sites at a selection of hotels. Tripadvisor portrays a selection for you to choose from. I recommend the Baskent Demiralan Hotel
* Eymir Lake
Eymir Lake is part of a natural park henceforth for those of you who love to hike and appreciate nature at its best, take a trip. Not far from Ankara. If you prefer cycling, you can hire bicycles and go exploring. The restaurant with awe-inspiring gardens was originally a historical building and is in a beautiful setting.
Istanbul the City on Two Continents
Istanbul is the only city in the world on two continents: Europe and Asia. Being the largest city in Turkey and only getting its official name ‘Istanbul” in 1920, it was previously known as Byzantium in ancient times, then became Constantinople in 324 CE.
What Istanbul is also known as
Extolled in the distant past, Istanbul is also known as ” the second Rome”, for over 2000 years of history greets you around every corner. Remains of the proof of the four empires, the Roman Empire (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395-1204), the Latin Empire (1204-1261), the Byzantine Empire (1261-1453) and the Ottoman Empire (1453-1922), have left their mark in Istanbul.
* Hagai Sophia & Blue Mosque
Two totally different mosques but standing opposite each other. Both are magnificent and can be visited in one day.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
The Hagia Sophia Mosque is a beautiful piece of architecture representing the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Also known as Ayasofya in Turkish or Church of the Divine Wisdom. Yes, this mosque was once a church, then later became a mosque, and now a museum.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, the official name, of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was established during the Otterman era. It has 6 minarets (these are slender towers, typically part of a mosque, with a balcony from which a muezzin calls Muslims to prayer) and in the interior, there is a blue color that projects out from the tiles on the walls. Truly stunning!
Both mosques are open to the public but when entering respect the mosque etiquette. Here are 10 reminders. Remember to the Muslims this is the house of God.
- Before entering the mosque, remove your shoes
- Don’t take photographs inside
- Women are to cover their hair. Often the mosques have scarves outside for the tourist to “borrow” while entering
- Wear clothes that cover your body. Don’t wear shorts or over-revealing tops.
- Outside before entering, turn your cell phone off
- Be quiet inside, use your very soft voice
- Please don’t leave your rubbish inside
- Eating or drinking is a definite NO NO
- If you have kids or grandkids, they must not run around and play
- Only enter the mosque when it is not prayer time
* Palaces in Istanbul
From the 15th century to the 19th century, numerous palaces and castles were built by the Otterman Sultans. You can see many of them in Istanbul, but I have recommended 3 that you spend time viewing and without delay, I suggest taking a guided tour.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Largest mono-block palace in Turkey
- Last and most costly residence of the sultans
- The reason behind the construction of this palace was to hide the fact that the Ottoman Empire was in decline. It was extravagantly decorated. Began in 1843 and was finished in 1856.
- It has been home to six sultans.
Topkapı Palace
Imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years
- First palace to be built of all the Otterman palaces
- Built on the principle of 4 different courtyards which are surrounded by a wall. This palace tells the lives of 25 different sultans
- In 1924 the palace was converted into a museum and in 1985 it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Çırağan Palace
Now a five-star hotel ultimate in glamour and luxury
- Located on the shores of the magnificent Bosphorus overlooking the ancient city of Istanbul,
- Has 310 different rooms, 20 suites in the hotel and 11 suites in the historical Palace.
- It is ranked number 14 on World’s 15 most expensive hotel suites
* Turkish Bath & Hammam
What is a Turkish Bath
A Turkish hammam or rather a Turkish Bath should be on your bucket list to comprehend and get the composition of the sensation. A hammam is a Middle Eastern variant of a steam bath. You get the standard Turkish bath which consists of washing; traditional body scrubbing with a handwoven wash cloth known as a kese; a foam wash; and a massage, which will occur over 45 minutes. You can opt-in for other treatments as well.
What should you wear?
Male and female sections are separate and it is ok to take your bathing suit if you feel more comfortable, but most Turks and visitors will be wearing nothing. You will be given a peshtemal, a thin cotton towel, to wrap around yourself and the washing spaces are separated by marble panels giving you that sense of privacy. As we age, the process of skin renewal slows down and deep exfoliation serves to remove the dead skin.
5 Suggested Turkish Hammams in Istanbul:
Hurrem Sultan Hamami
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hammam
Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami
Felicity Spa & Wellness
Sultan Suleyman Hamam
* Luxurious Bosphorus sunset cruise
Bosphorus Sea Strait
The Bosphorus is a sea strait between the Blacksea and the Marmara Sea separating parts of Asian Turkey (Anatolia) from European Turkey. Under the 1936 Montreux Convention, Turkey controls the Bosphorus.
Best Tourist Viewing
Going on a luxury yacht cruise is most certainly the best way to avoid crowds. The sunsets are spectacular and the experienced guide and host will fill you in on all the sights you pass, for the most part, it takes about 2.5 hrs and is comfortable, and relaxing and you even will have snacks on board.
Advice to Try
Have a look at this video to give you an idea. The one tour I recommend is advised by Tripadvisor. You will pass by castles, and palaces and pass under bridges. As for those who have read my article on Pursuing the Most Dangerous & Weirdest Bridges: for the adventurous senior viewing the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn in Istanbul always gives me a thrill!
Antalya filled with culture, adventure, and relaxation
A city not to be missed. Best beaches, cable cars, ruins, waterfalls, and theatre in ancient open ruins and caves. Luxurious hotels to be spoilt in.
1. The Old City Marina is the picture-perfect spot to gaze upon the sunset, engross your desires upon those luxurious yachts that you would never be able to afford, but can enjoy from a distance, and allow your imagination to believe you could; have the most appetizing seafood cuisine and just live the moment of heaven.
2. Hike or cycle along the Lycian Coast on the Lycian Way. Although it is 500km long, there is no need for you to do all the kilometers, just do the distance you want. Whatever it is, you will be pleasantly surprised as the picturesque views of the turquoise colors of the Mediterranean Sea are rewarding in themselves.
The Lycian Way Paperback by Kate Clow is a super book to purchase if you plan to hike for more than a few hours. Lycian Way is Turkey’s first long-distance walking route. “The book is a full description of the route with background information on the history and culture of the area. It includes a full-color topographical map.”
3. Of course, one of my favorite pastimes in any country I go to is chasing waterfalls. “Watching a waterfall has an immediate effect by increasing your serotonin levels, which results in improving your mood, decreases depression and anxiety, lessens stress levels, and peacefulness, increases your energy levels, and leaves you with a feeling of happiness, joy, and awe.”
Two waterfalls you just have to visit are the Upper Duden Falls (my pet choice) and the Kursunlu Waterfall. Appreciate the Upper Duden Falls from above, walk alongside them, and even enjoy them from the cave inside. A real treat!
4. Antalya is known for its stunning beaches. (Tips on Chasing Beaches all over the World) Vitamin Sea is the best medicine to revive your holiday vibe and while doing so, meander down to the 12km beach of soft sand, and vibrant colors of the Mediterranean, go with the flow, and swim safely in the clear waters.
Lara Beach has Blue Flag status, which means “in order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.”
5. The ancient city of Aspendos is a huge tourist attraction. Surprisingly well preserved this city was founded by the famous Greek diviner Mopsos around 1000 BCE and Aspendos’ theatre was one of the largest ever built by the Romans. Today it is still used and if visiting in the summer months you can come to experience open-air performances.
Awesome Tourist Attractions Not to be Missed
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Spectacular Pamukkale where the mineral-rich thermal waters flow down white terraces made up of years of massive usually layered calcium carbonate formed by deposition from hot springs. And you know what, you can even swim in two of the pools, Cleopatra’s Pool and the public pools.
Can you Swim in the Pools?
The public pools to swim in are automatically included in your entrance ticket. I wouldn’t advise swimming in the top, first pool, or the bottom pool as this is where the water is the hottest. The hotels and restaurants in Pamukkale are lovely, such as the Bellamaritimo Hotel.
Bodrum Castle – the castle of St Peter
The medieval Bodrum Castle is located in the port city of Bodrum. Is a good example of Gothic-style architecture and is over 600 years old, built in 1402 and completed in 1522, and is now a museum. There are five different towers with the names “Spanish, Italian, German, French, and British Towers”.
To see on Tour
On your tour, you will also see the Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology featuring artifacts from ancient shipwrecks & a large collection of glass. Bodrum is an extremely popular destination for affluent tourists as the weather is incredible and even during winter it seldom goes below 14 degrees.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Cappadocia
The best place to stay in Cappadocia is in Göreme which is a town carved into volcanic rock. Cappadocia is not a town or city but a region, and it is delightful to stay in one of the cave hotels. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour Over the Fairy Chimneys, you will never forget and the duration of the adventure lasts for 2-3 hours and includes a light breakfast. You need to tick this off on your bucket list.
The Ancient City of Troy
Nestled in northwest Turkey, the ancient city of Troy, immortalized in Homer’s epics, is a captivating archaeological site. Layers of history unfold as you explore remnants of ancient walls, houses, and the legendary wooden horse. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to a rich tapestry of myth and reality, drawing visitors into the epic tales of antiquity.
Try the 4 Most Popular Turkish dishes
“It is dull, Son of Adam, to drink without eating,” said the Queen presently. “What would you like best to eat?”
“Turkish Delight, please, your Majesty,” said Edmund. – Author: C.S. Lewis
- Turkish Delight – is one of the oldest sweets in the world and the recipe has almost remained unchanged for 500 years
- Dolma – stuffed vegetable dishes associated with Otterman cuisine. Grape or vine leaves are stuffed mainly with vegetables, but sometimes with a bit of meat as well
- Kebab – Traditionally in Turkey, the kebab is made from lamb (Turk’s favorite meat), but it can also be found with beef and chicken. There are a variety of different kebabs, but the standard kebab on the stick is very popular.
- Kofte – deliciously made with ground mince from lamb, chicken, or beef, mixed with onions and herbs. These meatballs or meatloaf are very popular
3 Recommended Turkey Islands to Visit
Already there is so much for you to see and do in Turkey, but if you have time to spare, I suggest you visit one of these islands. Did you know Turkey has approximately 500 islands? To visit them all would be impossible, but while there, take to opportunity and get there!
Kekova Island
Also named Caravola. On the north shore of the 19km island, you will find the ruins of the ancient Kekova sunken city. This island is uninhabited and there are numerous inlets, lagoons, and bays perfect for swimming.
Karaada Island / Black Island
Famous for the healing power of the hot springs, taking a mud bath and then washing the mud off in the hot spring cave, and the healing and youth that Egyptian Queen Cleopatra will apply to you. On Black Island, there is even a small hotel and restaurant where you can rest for a few days.
Burgazada (Part of Princes Island Group)
Burgazada means “island fortress” and is wonderfully private, quieter, and has a stunning forest to hike through. Explore the Aya Yani Church ( dating back to 867), the Monastery of Christ, and enjoy an all-day breakfast at Cennet Bahçesi Burgazada. Rent a bicycle and ride around, narrow streets and up to the top of the highest peak.
Some Fascinating Facts about Turkey
- The largest producer of hazelnuts in the world
- Turkey has the world’s second underground railway, called Tünel, and began to operate at the beginning of 1875
- Loggerhead turtle comes to lay their eggs between May and October, on one of the most important protected breeding grounds near Fethiye, Iztuzu Beach
- Each year there is an annual camel wrestling festival, called the Selçuk Efes Camel Wrestling Festival, BUT none of the camels come from Turkey
- Noah’s Ark supposedly landed on Mount Ararat
- The best-selling souvenir in Turkey is called the “Evil Eye” worn to protect the person wearing it from evil forces
- Grease wrestling is the national sport of Turkey
- Redwing is the national bird, the grey wolf the national animal, and the tulip the national flower. Tulips originated in Turkey before going to the Netherlands
- It is said that there are over 5,000 parakeets and parrots in Istanbul alone
Have you been to Turkey? How was your encounter? Tell us about it in the comments below.
Recent Posts
Commence on a journey to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes, from the fiery depths of its volcanic regions to the icy expanses of its glaciers, and discover the enchanting beauty of this land of...
Discover the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden treasures of Perth, Australia's west coast gem, beckoning travelers to explore its laid-back lifestyle and vibrant attractions.