TURKEY
Hagia Sophia – The Essence of Istanbul
Aya Sofya, Hagia Sophia or, in English, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, is a mighty structure defining the heart and soul of Istanbul, melding the characteristics of a city that crosses time, continent and culture. If you only have time to visit one sight in Istanbul this is it.
Istanbul and the Beauty of the Blue Mosque
A visit to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque one of the ‘must-see’ stops on a trip to Istanbul – including photography of the mosque, tips on when to go, dress code and opening times.
Istanbul’s Sweetest Side
Turkish sweets and confectionery from Turkish Delight to Baklava – Turkey didn’t disappoint when it came to sweet treats and confectionery, some of it too sweet even for me, and that’s a first… The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul had stalls piled high with endless varieties of Turkish sweets and sugary scrumptiousness.
Bodrum, Boats and a bit of a Barter
How to spend a few days in Bodrum, Turkey. Explore the town’s history, take to the water on a gulet, enjoy some fabulous food and shop in the local market.
Hierapolis and the Gate to Hell
Resting on a plateau above Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle are the remnants of the ancient town of Hierapolis. With views over the dazzling white travertine terraces and 17 thermal springs, this town has to be home of the original spa break. If you visit Pamukkale I recommend you take a wander through Hierapolis – your trip won’t be complete without it.
Pictures from Pamukkale
Pamukkale means ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish and perfectly describes the white terraces, known as travertines, which tread their way down the Turkish hillside. Each pool is created from startling white limestone deposits filled with water from 17 of the natural hot water springs in the area.
Love Valley and the Evil Eye Tree
A hike through Love Valley in Goreme, a visit to the evil eye tree and a sting in the tail. Read about our misadventures here…
The Perfect Turkish Breakfast
There’s something about eating outdoors under blue sky on a balmy day that makes the food seem twice as tasty but it was the surprise location of this breakfast that made it so special.
Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia
Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is still high up on my list of epic travel memories. Cappadocia in central Turkey, is known for its valleys and unique rock formations shaped centuries ago by erupting volcanoes. Rose Valley with its...
Deep Inside Derinkuyu – Underground City
A jittery visit to Derinkuyu an underground city in Cappadocia, Turkey. The city is many floors deep with it’s own underground stream and some very narrow passages…
Goreme – Fairy Chimneys and Cave Hotels
Goreme, town of troglodytes, cave hotels and fairy chimneys was the first stop on our mini tour of Turkey. Located in Cappadocia, Central Anatolia, it sits slap bang in the middle of the country and is home to rock-cut churches adorned with ancient Christian frescoes, underground cities and unique volcanic rock formations and it’s where I spent my first night in a fairy chimney…
A Mini Tour of Turkey
A mini-tour of Turkey starting at Goreme, Cappadocia to explore underground cities, cave churches and the incredible volcanic terrain. Next stop the travertines and Hierapolis at Pamukkale. Some R&R at Bodrum and finally ending up in the capital of Istanbul.
Going Underground in Istanbul – The Basilica Cistern
Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern and the part it has played in keeping the city supplied with water since the 6th century.