10 reasons to visit Turkey

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

If you think that Turkey is the beach near your hotel, then you are completely mistaken. This country contains so many unexpected surprises for travelers that you will come back here again and again.

Ha, Turkey! Are you serious?

This will be approximately the reaction of many of our readers in response to the offer to visit this country again. Indeed, vacation in Turkey in recent years has become so familiar, familiar and commonplace for our tourists that it is perceived without any interest. The only problem is that 9 out of 10 fellow citizens who confidently declare: "Yes, we saw this Turkey of yours!"

In this article we will try to introduce you at least a little to another, not a beach-hotel Turkey. A country whose nature is capable of impressing even the most experienced traveler. A country in which you will see traces of the rise and fall of great civilizations. A country whose life and culture are a unique fusion of West and East.

1. Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most interesting cities in the world, undoubtedly with its own distinctive face. Such a mixture of different cultures, religions, races and peoples still needs to be looked for. No matter how many days you spend in Istanbul, each time you will discover some new, previously unknown aspects of his life. And when it seems that you have already studied the modern city, you can start getting to know Constantinople.

2. Bursa

If you still want to take a break from Istanbul, then turn your attention to the city of Bursa. It is the fourth largest city in the country and was once even the capital of Turkey. Here is a real paradise for history lovers who will appreciate its ancient streets, majestic mosques, exotic markets. And fans of outdoor activities will love the ski slopes on Mount Uludag, which are covered with snow from December to April.

3. People

One of the important reasons to visit Turkey is its people. I would not like to offend anyone, but more hospitable and benevolent people should be looked for. Moreover, the further you get from the promoted tourist centers, the more pleasant and friendly your communication with the locals will be. The low crime rate, the almost complete absence of such a phenomenon as household drunkenness, and respect for foreigners make this country ideal for independent tourism.

4. Valley of the Butterflies

This absolutely fantastic bay looks like it has left the screen of an adventure movie. The secluded cove is located on the western coast of Beljeiz Bay and can only be accessed by boat or yacht. Perhaps that is why this place was chosen by whole colonies of butterflies, which cover the trunks, branches, stones with a solid carpet. In addition, here you can see several beautiful waterfalls and even an ancient village.

5. Amasya

According to legend, this city was founded by the queen of the Amazons Amasis, then became famous as the capital of the Pontine kingdom of Mithridates, was the capital of the emirate of Danishmendida. The city is located in an absolutely fantastic place - on the banks of the river, which is sandwiched between huge rocks. The city amazes with its completely unique architecture, the hallmark of which are houses built in Ottoman times, but still houses of yaliboy.

6. Christianity

It is a little strange to see such a point in an article about a country whose population is Muslim. However, it was this country that served as the cradle for Christianity, and a huge number of religious relics are concentrated here. The apostles preached on this land and there were the first persecutions of Christians. Even the term "Christians" itself originated in these lands. So if you are interested in the history of religion, then this is the best place for that.

7. Cappadocia

Every person who has visited Cappadocia will forever remember this unique place. Unique landscapes give the impression that you are on an alien planet, and smoothly soaring balloons, of which at least a hundred are launched every day, make the picture even more incredible. There are underground cities, rock monasteries and fortresses, the already mentioned balloon flights, scooter and horse rides, excellent local wine and distinctive cuisine. This place deserves to devote not a short excursion to it, but a whole journey.

8. Mardin

This city is interesting at least because it represents a completely different, Arab face of Turkey. Located in the very southeast of the country, practically on the border with Syria, this city has seen the Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, Turks during its centuries-old history. Walking through its streets, you will feel yourself in an ancient oriental fairy tale, because Mardin has practically not changed since the 16th century and it is not for nothing that it is in second place after Venice in the list of cities that have best preserved their appearance.

9. Oriental sweets

Even if Turkish food for some reason doesn't impress you, although it's hard to imagine, you are unlikely to remain indifferent to sweets. Specialty shops with multi-meter showcases of various dishes, the names of which are difficult to even enumerate, will be able to lure even the most persistent tourist. And you will definitely not be able to leave empty-handed from there: try, buy, and then come back.

10. Prices and visas

In terms of the amount of natural, historical and cultural wealth, Turkey leaves behind many other countries, but in terms of prices it itself lags noticeably behind. The standard of living here is relatively low, and a trip to this country will cost you much cheaper than a vacation somewhere in Europe. Add to this great bus connections, a huge number of hotels for all tastes, no visas, and you will see that this is truly a paradise for budget travel.