Home to the only city in the world bridging the continents of Europe and Asia and a colossal landmass bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea, Turkey is the peninsular where East meets West. Its vast area allows for diverse climates from its Mediterranean beaches where the mysterious Lycian ruins lie, to the great mountain ranges where Mount Ararat is believed to be where Noah’s Ark beached post the great flood.
Steeped in centuries of ancient history, the Ottoman empire is a cultural archive to historical sites and renowned ruins the likes of the sacred Göbeklitepe – the oldest archaeological wonder dated 6,500 B.C – the city of Ephesus – one of the seven ancient wonders of the world – and the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic sites. Even after thousands of years, Turkey’s historical conquest by Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans empires is prevalent in the diversity of its Turkish people and the cities of Aphrodisias and Bergama, to name a few.
Indulge in a cultural pilgrimage across Turkey through the historic district of Sultanahmet, join in the hustle at the bustling bazaars and spice markets, catch the whirling dervish and stand in contemplation at the wonders of its UNESCO heritage sites. Take to the skies with exhilarating paragliding flight and scenic hot air balloon ride at Cappadocia, sighting the unique formation of fairy chimneys and rainbow sediments or slow it down with a visit to the stunning white mineral pools in Pamukkale, a traditional gület cruise along the Aegean Sea or a hike to the refreshing Ihala Valley.
In a gastronomy country like Turkey, venture on a culinary journey sampling the various Turkish specialties and sweets and revel in a luxury vineyard stay with award-winning wine cellars.
Turkey is best visited during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to Nov) when the weather is pleasant.