10 Compelling Reasons To Plan Your Next Trip To Turkey
Read this and you’ll be inspired to start planning your own trip to Turkey soon. To me, Turkey’s variety inside such a compact area is one of its greatest strengths. I mean, Turkey is a little country—roughly 1.25 times larger than Texas. Most people wrongly assume that Turkey is a Middle Eastern country or a third-world nation. While it is officially in the Middle East, it doesn’t feel at all like that region. If you are unfamiliar with this nation, this piece will explain why you need to put it on your list of must-see destinations. Let’s get right into the reasons why I believe you should visit Turkey.
Turkey’s Warm Hospitality
The Turks are renowned for being hospitable. Although it is visible from anywhere, it is greatly appreciated when far from the madding crowds of tourists. Attend a culinary lesson in a nearby small town if you ever have the opportunity. Alternatively, you might visit a nearby store. It will benefit you considerably more if you speak some Turkish. Turkish people generally provide you with refreshments when you visit their homes. Whilst you wait for your cab, the owner of the bakery across the street will offer you tea. They will go out of their way to help you and take care of you.
Yummy Turkish Food
Turkey is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine, beverages, and sweets. Try similar meals in different parts of the country. This is especially fun if you are moving around the country for a bit. Manti, a kind of handcrafted Turkish ravioli, varies greatly from one location to another. It’s usually coated with a little yoghurt and a little spicy sauce if you visit Istanbul. It will resemble soup more if you visit Kayseri, Cappadocia.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites Across the Country
In Turkey, there are many UNESCO places, which is another reason to go there. There are 19 sites in Turkey that are recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. Some of them include:
Hagia Sophia: In the fifth century, this stunning structure served as a cathedral for the Greek Orthodox Christian faith. The structure is still standing today. It has been transformed into a museum, a mosque, and back again throughout the years.
Ephesus: Considered to be among Turkey’s most famous historical sites. While just one of the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation in the bible, it is the only one to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Göbekli Tepe: About 11,500 years ago, people lived in Upper Mesopotamia. This old site is thought to show us what their religious views and daily lives were like. Situated in the highlands of Southeastern Anatolia, it is easily recognizable by the T-shaped pillars onto which various animals have been carved.
Wonderful Beaches Along Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast
Globally, the Turkish Riviera has some of the most gorgeous beaches. The water temperature in the Mediterranean is usually higher than in the Aegean Sea. It’s fascinating that Turkish beaches vary. Some beaches have larger rocks, others have small pebbles, and some have white powdered sand. You can use Google Maps to determine the beach’s type.
Istanbul: A Historic City Located on Two Continents
Located in both Asia and Europe, this historic city is quite unique. Take a private Bosphorus trip to discover from the boat! The ancient remains of Constantinople still carry their rich history. You can explore centuries-old buildings, have Turkish coffee with the shopkeeper, or just observe the unique combination of contemporary and ancient. This amazing city has so much to say!
Historic Cities and Places
There are additional historic sites to see besides those listed by UNESCO. Some locations, like Kayaköy, were abandoned during the First World War’s aftermath. A historical landmark that is well worth visiting is Sumela Monastery. Its hidden amid Trabzon’s mountains on the Black Sea. There is one more church of Revelation here called Laodicea. If you like historic churches, this one beautifully restored. You can observe the floor mosaics and building construction. You’ll have a great time.
Pretty Towns
There are usually charming communities nestled a little off the main route. There are several little mountain communities in Rize, near the Black Sea. Visiting a small town is like going back in time. Everything is a little more natural, and time goes even more slowly. It’s a very delightful experience. Additionally, there is Sirince, which is near Ephesus. This little village makes sweet wine.
Turkish Bath Houses, or Hamams
For those of you who like spas, you have to try a hammam. Most luxury hotels include a hamam for guests to relax and unwind in. Separate hamams are also available. If you’re going to Turkey, this is one of the top things you can do there. One of my favourites is the Aziziye Hamam in Kadikoy. Also, The Caalolu Hamam is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something classier at a fair price. However, For an absolutely amazing experience, visit the Hürrem Sultan Hamam, which is ideally situated between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia.
Marvels of Nature
Turkey has amazing natural beauty, perfect for those who like the outdoors. Lakes, parks, and mountains are abundant here. Also, You will really like it! Pamukkale is a fascinating location. It is an area of terraced basins that formed naturally. You can experience the warm, calcite-filled waters that have produced this natural beauty, as well as view petrified waterfalls. Also, There are several mountain ranges and national parks as well. You can enjoy skiing, hiking, or camping, among other activities.
Cappadocia’s Extraordinary Natural Beauty
Places like Pamukkale are examples of the natural beauty that can be seen across Turkey. Or the Love Valley, famous for its phallic-shaped fairy chimneys. And then there’s Cappadocia. Also, You will witness something completely different in these fairy chimneys and caverns cut into the side of the rocks. You will feel as if you have stepped into another universe as you explore the wonders of Cappadocia. I hope this article has convinced you to add Turkey to your bucket list and Plan your travel by making a Turkish Airlines booking soon. Turkey is known for a lot of different things. Istanbul is perhaps the most popular, but there are plenty of other sights to explore. Check out the stunning Black Sea Area, Cappadocia, and the rest of Turkey. For all the right reasons, Turkey should be on your travel itinerary, I highly recommend it!