Turkey

Step into Turkey and you're treading on layers of history, where East meets West, and where ancient ruins stand sentinel amidst modern metropolises. Stretching from the sun-drenched beaches of its Aegean coast to the otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia, Turkey is a land of contrasts and confluences. The majestic spires of Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque pierce the skyline, bearing witness to empires and epochs that have shaped this nation at the crossroads of continents. Yet beyond its iconic landmarks, Turkey’s tapestry is richly woven with tales of Trojan warriors, Byzantine emperors, and Ottoman sultans.

The true essence of Turkey, however, lies in its mosaic of experiences. It's in the fragrant wafts from bustling bazaars, where spices and textiles vie for your attention. It’s in the rhythmic cadence of traditional folk dances and the warm hospitality served alongside strong Turkish tea or richly brewed coffee. Traverse the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, or soak in the ancient thermal baths of Pamukkale, and you're experiencing a slice of Turkey’s diverse allure. So, fasten your walking shoes, rehearse your 'merhaba' and 'teşekkür ederim', and embark on a journey through Turkey's myriad paths. With each turn, there's a tale to tell, a flavour to savour, and a vista to behold. In Turkey, every horizon whispers of adventures past and beckons with promises of those yet to come.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June): Blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.

Autumn (September to November): Mild weather and fewer tourists, great for exploring historical sites.

Summer : can be hot, especially in the south, but is great for coastal areas.

Key Places to See

Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and a cruise on the Bosphorus.

Cappadocia: Unique rock formations, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides.

Ephesus: Ancient Greco-Roman city with the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.

Pamukkale: Terraces of carbonate minerals with hot springs, adjacent to ancient Hierapolis.

Antalya: Lush beaches, Hadrian's Gate, and Düden Waterfalls.

Bodrum: Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Bodrum Castle, and its vibrant nightlife.

Trabzon: Sumela Monastery, Uzungöl, and Atatürk's Villa.

Göbekli Tepe: Archaeological site with the world's oldest known temples.

Troy: Ancient city famous for the Trojan War.

Mount Ararat: Turkey's highest mountain, associated with the biblical Noah's Ark.

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Top Tips

Dress Code: Turkey is a secular country, but modesty is appreciated, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites.

Language: Turkish is the official language. English is spoken in major tourist areas, but basic Turkish phrases will be appreciated.

Tipping: A tip (başiş) of 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. It's also common to round up the fare for taxi drivers.

Transport: Intercity buses (otobüs) and domestic flights are effective for long distances. In cities, use metros, trams, or dolmuş (shared taxis).

Electricity: Standard voltage is 220V. Power plugs and sockets are of type F.

Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are common, but carrying cash can be handy for smaller establishments.

Etiquette: Greetings are important. A handshake will suffice, but close friends and family may cheek-kiss upon meeting.

Safety: Exercise usual precautions. Be wary of tourist-targeted scams, especially in busy areas.

Food: Savour local dishes like kebabs, baklava, mezes, and Turkish delight. Don't miss out on a traditional Turkish breakfast.

Cultural Respect: Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. Respect the calls to prayer and those who are practising.