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Turkey is a modern, historical and traditional country, with a bit of Europe and a bit of the Middle East mixed in for what is a truly unique vacation destination. The spicy place that is Turkey has seen its fair share of hard times, but you wouldn’‘t know it from the Turkish people. Always welcoming and warm, this country alludes all of the aspects of an adventurous and remarkable vacation- outstanding cuisine, metropolitan cities, mysterious and mystical castles and mosques, and miles of coastlines on the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea.
Once you get to Turkey, you will not be short on things to do and places to see.
Turkey’‘s largest city and the former capital of both the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires is a great place to start your vacation. Is it Istanbul or Constantinople? It’‘s Istanbul and it’‘s spectacular. Istanbul is the only city to straddle two continents. Perhaps it’‘s this location that adds to its uniqueness and beauty. The best time to visit Istanbul is spring and autumn, which is when the climate is perfect for the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Istanbul also boatst a winter tourism season, which is not the case for the rest of Turkey. Peak season is from July to mid-September, and this is also the time most Turks take their holiday. Once in Istanbul, be sure to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Galata Whirling Dervish Hall, just to name a few spots.
Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the second largest city, after Istanbul. When traveling to Ankara be sure to visit the Anitkabir and the Atakule Tower. Also see some outstanding archeological remains, such as the Citadel, Roman Bath, and the Temple of Augustus.
Other Turkish destinations for your vacation travels would be the island of Bozcaada, the town of Beypazari, and the resort Marmaris in Mugla. Olympos is a vibrant tourist attraction for young people, known for its rich night life and wooden tree-houses.
You can travel by bus, by car (traffic is a bit scary), by bike, or by ferry once you are in Turkey. Walking is fairly common and there will be signs to accommodate pedestrians. Be attentive of dress codes before entering mosques (women must wear head scarves) and be considerate when asking for directions, help, food, etc. The Turkish people are very hospitable and would expect the same out of holiday seekers. The official language is Turkish and the official currency is the Turkish Lira (YTL). The unofficial drink is the ayran, which is water and yoghurt (similar to buttermilk). Turkish coffee is also a delicious and popular choice. Turkish meals are long and wonderful, so be prepared.
No matter where you are in the world, always be aware of your surroundings. Have a wonderful Turkish holiday!
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