Vibrant, colourful, and full of culture at the same time, it envisions itself as a member European Union soon, developing and evolving its structure and cleaning up its act in every sense of the word. To most, Turkey is remembered as a severed part of the erstwhile Ottoman Empire; they could not miss the big picture more.
My trip to Turkey, confined to eight days, was the most extraordinary experience.
Talking about Istanbul, you will find beautiful, top-notch architecture, incredible cuisine, and exhilarating views. The largest city in Turkey, a part of this city, lies in Europe and another in Asia! Even culturally, I think this place is a blend of both cultures. The Bosphorous canal separates the city. To the west is Europe, and to the east is Asia. Thankfully, people don't go "Indian? Snake charmers?" any more. They go, "Indian? Shah Rukh khan? Amitabh Bachchan?" Turkish people are the friendliest and funniest people I have ever seen! However, it is essential to remain cautious and be a savvy traveller, as often scammers are seen fooling unaware travellers.
Topkapi Palace Museum (began in 1462, home of Turkish sultans for centuries), St. Sophia (the former sixth-century church and mosque, now a museum), the Blue Mosque (17th century), and the Hippodrome, dating back to Roman times third-century). These were the attractions we visited and were left in complete awe, looking at their exuberance and exotic beauty. The Grand Bazaar, the oldest bazaar in the world, should not be missed, for its grandeur cannot be compared. Although the Grand bazaar seems to have it all from spices, lanterns, clothes to various jewellery and ornaments, there are only a few things worth buying. What has to be kept in mind is that you should stick to smart buying, bargain, and if you don't like the offer, move on.
Add to the list as you please, with plenty of sights, as Istanbul was, after all, the capital of two of the world's most famous empires, the Byzantine and the Ottoman.
Turkish cuisine is very diverse, and Istanbul is a pot full of blended cultures, and this can be seen in the cuisine it offers. From Kahvalti (Turkish breakfast), Donor Kebab, Kumpir (Baked Potato), Turkish meze to Menemen (Turkish Omelette). These are few dishes that absolutely will please your taste buds and will leave you for craving more. And how can I forget Baklava? A very famous Turkish dessert that will make you dance with joy.
Our next stop was the cave city of Cappadocia, splendid beauty, and the most magical city. Cappadocia's magnificent landscape is formed by volcanic activity, and the soft tufa rock allowed early inhabitants to fashion dwellings in the rock hills themselves. I had seen Cappadocia pictures before, but nothing could prepare me for the splendid beauty that the place is. My jaw dropped open as soon as we reached there, and it's safe to say my mouth stayed open in amazement for a long time.
Waking up amidst this landscape had the surreal quality of a beautiful dream. We stayed at cave hotels and then visited the fascinating Derinkuyu underground cities. It's an experience like none other; I was in love with the city. It is cold and dingy inside and something I had never experienced before. The next day was the day we were very patiently waiting. It was the day for Hot Air Ballooning. They look like fairy chimneys or magic mushrooms, whatever you want to call them.
The flight was a surreal experience. We glided over sleepy villages and beautiful rock formations. The balloons reached skyward like a fantasy world. As the sun rose, the colours changed, it was epic, and the view of sunrise and sunset will spoil you for life. It is a dream to photograph and such an ethereal experience. We landed very smoothly and celebrated with a glass of alcoholic bubbly. The magical ride ended with the presentation of a certificate as a great souvenir of an incredible couple of hours.
I fell in love with the spirit of the country and would encourage everyone to visit Turkey. My trip was a taste of beautiful culture and an experience to cherish forever.
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