Turkey

Well, what can be said about Turkey? This hugely popular country has quickly overtaken many traditional travel destinations as the number one venue for a relaxing retreat or adventure holiday to beat all others! Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey is an exhilarating blend of multi-cultural delights which have built up and merged over thousands of years to shape it into one of the most exciting regions of the world. With a multitude of sandy beaches, diverse landscapes and a rich history to indulge in, Turkey really does tick all the boxes.

Visit Cappadocia

Don’t be tempted to just follow the tourist trail, take some time to delve into the ‘real’ Turkey and experience some adventure in its heartland. Get away from civilisation and venture into the lunar landscape of Cappadocia, where serious trekkers can tackle the Kackar Mountains by foot or take it a bit easier on horseback through the Cappadocian valleys.

This unique landscape is geared up for adventure sports with opportunities to para glide, parachute or take an unforgettable balloon flight over the ‘fairy chimney’s’ – moonlike structures formed by continual erosion by wind and rain. Cappadocia is a unique, fertile landscape lying between two volcanoes, Hasan Dagi and Erciyes. To visit Turkey and not visit this part of the country is to miss out on an exceptional experience.

As well as the requisite hot air balloon over the fairy chimneys, why not enhance your experience with a day tour of Cappadocia?

City Culture

Back amongst the sights and sounds of Turkey’s cities, you will soon come to realise that the warm hospitality of the local people is one of the most appealing aspects of a holiday to Turkey. This, alongside the world-class cuisine, vibrant markets and historical architecture is why more and more travellers are making the journey here.

Istanbul, the capital city, straddles Europe and Asia and truly has something for everyone. It is currently gearing up to be European Capital of Culture 2010 so now is a great time to get caught up in the excitement and pay it a visit. The last town before reaching Iran is affectionately known as ‘Doggy Biscuit’ (Dogubeyazit) and has become an unexpected ‘party town’ for travelers passing through the region as alcohol is strictly prohibited over the border!

Food and Drink

One thing that Turkey’s diverse history has given it is a fantastic cuisine. As a Mediterranean country with a lively culture of eating and drinking, Turkey is renowned for its flavour. The Turks are extremely passionate about their food and draw upon all corners of the former Ottoman Empire to produce rich, spicy food in the south to fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes in the west.

Those who have had the pleasure of visiting this fantastic country in the past will no doubt recommend sampling the Turks’ favourite tipple, Raki – the aniseed-flavoured spirit, which seems to only get stronger the more you water it down!

More great pictures from Turkey…

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