Mosque in Turkey
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I decided to make it “Let’s Talk Turkey Week” here at Chasing La Bella Vita. Or as those of us in the know say “here at CLBV“. Everything sounds so much cooler if you say it with acronyms!
As promised here is the second article sent to me by Ruby Andrew. It is packed with great information and wonderful links. Please check out all the links for photos, history, travel information and videos showing you these magnificent places.
So, without further introduction, here is Ms. Andrew’s article!
Turkey’s Top Ten List of Experiences You Cannot Miss
Ruby Andrew
Turkey is a vast and varied country boasting incredible landscapes and breathtaking natural scenery. Because of its riches, Turkey has long been a travel destination for savvy voyagers.
Recently, Turkey has been discovered by more mainstream travelers. The people of Turkey have taken this opportunity to create lavish hotels to accommodate new tourists. Those looking for creature comforts can now be accommodated in high style.
The Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah is a top quality hotel with all the features one would look for in luxury accommodations. It is located in Istanbul and makes a great home base for your explorations in and around Turkey.
For those looking for a more homey experience, bed and breakfasts have sprung up everywhere in Turkey. There is a huge variety available on Air B n B.
When visiting Istanbul and other areas, The Hilton Hotel chain has Hiltons, Hamptons and Doubletrees Just about everywhere you would wish to visit. If you are looking for good comfortable lodgings, this may be for you.
Turkey has so much to offer visitors that one could become overwhelmed by all of the beautiful and awe inspiring things to experience. If you only have a short time to visit, you may want to plan a return visit to see the things you will miss the first time around.
The City of Istanbul
Istanbul has had several names in the past, all of which can confuse the traveler who does not know its history. During the late Roman period, the city was called Byzantium until such time as the emperor Constantine turned his attention to it. It then became Constantinople and kept its name until theOttomans took over. It then became Istanbul.
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. It is almost always buzzing with activity and excitement. This is a great first stop to get a taste of the Turkish culture.
Istanbul itself is big and there is enough to see and experience to keep you busy for quite some time. No matter what interests you, there is something for you in this diverse city.
From modern art, to mosaics, to Turkish and Islamic art, there are museums featuring all of it. Turkey, being situated where it is, on the crossroads of the Silk Route and the Mediterranean trade routes, has a very rich history. The museums are an excellent way to learn about the history of this part of the world.
One can never forget the sweeping beauty of Aya Sofya (Also called Hagia Sophia), the Byzantine archetectural masterpiece church, turned mosque, turned museum.
Nor will one lose sight of the Basilica Cistern designed long ago to bring drinking water into the city. It is now decorated with lights and music to make visiting there a beautiful and unique experience.
The Topkapi Palace, is likewise a must see as it was home to numerous Sultans and their wives and harems.
Many Mosques were Byzantine churches and later converted into Mosques. Each one has its own unique character and beauty.
Two markets are a must to see when visiting Istanbul. The Spice Market is also known as the Egyptian Bazaar as, centuries ago it was a trading place for items brought from Egypt. The Grand Bazaar was originally set up by the Sultan Mesmhet II to establish a textile trading market within the city walls.
The Grand Bazaar is a HUGE market employing over 20,000 people. Most anything you are looking for, you can find there. Even if you are not looking to purchase anything specific, the Grand Bazaar is not to be missed. It is one of the most visited highlights of Istanbul.
Istanbul’s nightlife is also something that must be experienced. Taksim square is the center of Istanbul’s nightlife. There you will find bars, lounges, and restaurants. Don’t be surprised if you get pulled into a street dance there as they are friendly and plentiful.
Derinkuyu, the underground town
Nestled in the hills of Cappadocia lies an underground city. Derinkuyu was possibly created in the 7th and 8th centuries BC by the Phrygians although it is unclear exactly when it was originally built.
This huge, underground, 8 level city was used as a refuge for many generations of people since it was built. In addition to huge stone doors that were designed to be closed from the inside sealing residents in and intruders out, it features miles of tunnels and is attached to other underground cities.
In Derinkuyu, one can visit the kitchens these people used, the cellars where they stored their goods, and their churches
The rooms are narrow and low requiring visitors to bend throughout. If you suffer from back trouble, you may want to think twice before choosing Derinkuyu for sightseeing.
Turkish Delight
Antalya
Once an ancient and busy port, Antalya is now a beach town popular among foreigners and locals alike. It has all you could ask for in a beachside resort town.
In addition to magnificent beaches, you can find restaurants with amazing views, a huge waterpark that is great for kids and resort hotels for the most discerning guests.
The Antalya Museum is a place to see if you are interested in local culture.
If you enjoy night life, this town has a plenty of bars and restaurants.
Kas
Kas is a coastal town known for its art appreciation. It is very easy to pick up souvenirs here as the streets are filled with antique shops where one can purchase art and also take in a spectacular view of the harbor and beyond that, the Mediterranean Sea.
If you are at Kas during the Turkish National Day (i.e. Republic day) you can enjoy a street parade and the celebrations.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a region in Turkey rather than a city. Cappadocia has long been known for its striking geological and other natural features. It is also a world Heritage Site.
Natural stone cave houses with mountain views are what Cappadocia has to offer tourists as well as hot air balloon rides which help you truly absorb all the beauty Cappadocia has to offer.
There are also plenty of the Churches and Underground tunnels to visit in this amazing region.
Tea on a rooftop cafe
Tea drinking is one of the main customs of the people of Istanbul. As a tourist, you have to seek out the rooftop cafes because many of them are not visible from the ground. Ask your hotel staff for advice on which ones to visit, then enjoy your tea while taking in a striking view of the city These cafes are usually beautiful terraces rising above the city. They offer great views of the entire city and some fantastic tea.
Carriage rides in Princes’ island
The Princes’ Island are a chain of nine small islands in the sea of the Marmara. Of the nine, only four are open to public. Tourists may consider taking ferries to Princes’ island to enjoy the serenity this location offers. It is a welcome break from the noise and buzz of Istanbul. Carriage rides are the best option in viewing the islands. A picnic of local Turkish delicacies is an excellent and romantic idea.
The sunrise
At the beginning of a day filled with wonder and excitement, find an elevated spot and pause long enough to watch the sunrise. Each one is different and dramatically beautiful. This simple pleasure is one of the things in Turkey that you won’t want to miss.
Splash in Pamukkale
Pamukkale means “Cotton Castles” in Turkish. Centuries of flowing water have left calcium deposits that have formed into giant white terraced landscapes and fairylike structures. All of the sculptures there have been sculpted by nature.
There are about 17 hot springs in Pamukkale. The scenery is extremely surreal featuring acres and acres of glittering terraces and waterfalls kept flowing from the same underground springs that once nurtured the ancient city of Hieropolis.
Gallipoli
This war site is preserved to remind others of those who lost their lives in WWI. It is where the ANZAC (For Australian New Zealand Army Corps) day festivities are held. This day is set aside to remember all those that lost their lives during the war.
If you plan on visiting Gallipoli during these festivities, plan far ahead as they are extremely crowded.
These are just a few of the amazing wonders Turkey has to offer. Turkey is a precious gem that one should not miss. Tourists who are already planning their trips should not forget to apply for their Turkey visas before embarking on their trips.
Editor’s note: From time to time, there are travel advisories about travel in various parts of the world including Turkey. As with any travel anywhere in the world, please check here before making plans, to ensure the health and safety of yourself and those you travel with.
Also, I have not personally used the services mentioned herein so cannot make a personal recommendation. Please do your homework before travelling.
Ruby Andrew, Author Bio
Ruby Andrew lives in Bristol, UK and is an avid reader and blogger. Since her early years she’s had a passion for writing. Her articles have been published in leading UK newspapers. Her areas of interest are food, reviews (Book/Movie), Travel, Fashion, Lifestyle, Fitness and Health. She works as a guest blogger on her chosen areas of interest and currently writes on behalf of turkey visas
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