Turkey
Where East Meets West in a Feast for the Senses!
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Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure!
Turkey, a country that straddles two continents and offers a mesmerizing blend of cultures, histories, and landscapes. This is a place where every corner tells a story, from the majestic mosques and bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the remarkably preserved Roman cities on the Aegean coast. It’s a land where you can float in a hot air balloon over otherworldly rock formations in the morning and swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon.
Prepare for a journey that will dazzle your senses. Taste the incredible diversity of Turkish cuisine, from sizzling kebabs to sweet, sticky baklava. Hear the enchanting call to prayer echo across ancient cityscapes. Feel the warmth of the sun on the Turquoise Coast and the even greater warmth of the legendary Turkish hospitality. Whether you're a history buff, a sun-seeker, or an adventurer, Turkey promises a rich and unforgettable holiday experience.
Your Turkish Itinerary: At a Glance
Planning your journey to this crossroads of the world is the first step of the adventure. Here’s all the essential information you need to know.
Flight Time
Istanbul: around 4 hours.
To the Turquoise Coast (Dalaman, Antalya, Bodrum): around 4 to 4.5 hours.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders can visit Turkey for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism purposes without needing a visa.
Timezone
Turkey is on Turkey Time (TRT), which means it is 2 hours ahead of the UK.
Currencies
The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While Euros may be accepted in some large tourist resorts, it's always best to use Lira for better value. Cash is handy for markets and smaller purchases, while cards are widely accepted elsewhere.
Average Weather
Turkey has a wonderfully varied climate. For the perfect blend of pleasant weather for both sightseeing and coastal relaxation, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal. For a dedicated beach holiday with guaranteed sunshine, the summer months (July and August) are hot and vibrant.
Transportation Options
For covering the vast distances in Turkey, domestic flights are fast and surprisingly affordable. The network of modern, comfortable long-distance buses is excellent and a very popular way to travel. For local trips in coastal resorts, look out for the dolmuş (shared minibuses) that run on set routes.
Four Unforgettable Turkish Experiences
Istanbul: A Tale of Two Continents
There is nowhere on Earth quite like Istanbul. This magnificent city, with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, has been the capital of three great empires. Stand in awe of the stunning Blue Mosque and the historic Hagia Sophia, get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, and cruise down the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that divides the two continents. From ancient palaces to chic rooftop bars, Istanbul is a city that will completely captivate you.
Cappadocia: A Real-Life Fairy-Tale
Prepare to enter a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet. Cappadocia is famous for its unique "fairy chimneys" – tall, cone-shaped rock formations clustered in valleys. For the ultimate magical experience, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, floating silently over this surreal landscape as hundreds of other balloons fill the sky. Stay in a unique "cave hotel" carved into the rock and explore ancient underground cities for a truly unforgettable adventure.
The Turquoise Coast: Dive into Paradise
Discover why this stretch of the Mediterranean is known as the Turquoise Coast. In the area around Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Europe. See the world-famous Blue Lagoon from above by taking a tandem paragliding flight from Mount Babadağ – a thrilling experience with unbeatable views. Or, take a relaxing "Blue Cruise" boat trip for a day, hopping between idyllic islands, swimming in crystal-clear bays, and soaking up the glorious sunshine.
Ephesus: Walk Through Ancient History
Step back in time at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world. Walk down marble streets, past magnificent temples, fountains, and theatres, and marvel at the incredible Library of Celsus. It’s easy to imagine life here 2,000 years ago as you explore this vast archaeological site. It's a must-see for any history lover and provides a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
Top Tips for Your Turkish Holiday
Master the Art of Haggling
When you visit a bazaar or market in Turkey, remember that the first price you're given is just a starting point. Haggling, or bargaining, is an expected and traditional part of the shopping experience. Keep it friendly, polite, and have a price in mind. Be prepared to walk away – you might be called back with a better offer! It’s a fun interaction, not a battle.
Always Accept a Cup of Tea
Turkish hospitality is legendary, and you'll often be offered a small, tulip-shaped glass of black tea (çay) by shopkeepers and locals. Accepting it is a wonderful gesture of goodwill and a great way to engage in a friendly conversation. It's a cornerstone of the culture, so sit back, sip, and enjoy the moment.
Dress Respectfully for Mosques
When visiting Turkey's beautiful and historic mosques, it’s important to dress respectfully. Both men and women should ensure their legs and shoulders are covered. Women will also need to cover their hair. Most major mosques provide scarves and wraps to borrow free of charge at the entrance, so don't worry if you forget to bring your own.
Look Beyond the Kebab
While Turkish kebabs are delicious, there is so much more to the country's cuisine! Be sure to try meze (a selection of small appetisers), pide (a Turkish-style pizza), and fresh seafood on the coast. For breakfast, don't miss out on a traditional Turkish spread (kahvaltı), a feast of cheeses, olives, honey, eggs, and fresh bread.
Your Turkish Delight Awaits!
A Land of History, Hospitality, and Heavenly Views
Turkey is a destination that offers a thousand holidays in one. It’s the awe-inspiring sight of a magnificent mosque, the thrill of floating over a fairy-tale landscape, the taste of a rich, strong Turkish coffee, and the feeling of the warm Mediterranean sun on your skin. It’s a country where ancient history is not just in museums but is a living, breathing part of the landscape.
You’ll return home with a suitcase full of beautiful souvenirs and a heart full of warm memories of the welcoming people and stunning scenery. The magic of Turkey is waiting to be discovered. So, are you ready for an adventure that crosses continents? Get in touch with our expert team at Youngs Travel today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable trip!
