Turkey

If you’re one of those people who enjoys diversity, welcome to Turkey – a country that has been the capital of three different empires, is surrounded by four different seas and sits on two continents. On top of that, from a geographical perspective it is both East and West, from a religious perspective both Muslim and Christian and, from a historic one both Roman and Hittite.

Istanbul, sitting on both sides of the Bosphorus, which separates Europe from Asia, is an amazing city that provides a mix of European, Ottoman and Anatolian cultural influences. It’s a crowded city teeming with vendors, handcarts, food stands and just about anything else you could imagine.

Tops on any traveler’s list here are Topkapi Palace, seat of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years; the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) with its six minarets and 20,000+ blue tiles inside; Hagia Sophia with its stunning interior; and the ancient Roman Hippodrome. And, of course, no trip to Turkey would be complete without a visit to Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar.

Beyond Istanbul or, for some, instead of, many sun-seekers flock to the Turquoise Coast, the country’s Mediterranean beachhead. Others visit Ephesus, south of Istanbul and one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, and Cappadocia, an area of unique rock formations where caves have been used as an “underground city” by various cultures over the centuries.

Many enjoy Turkey not only because of its mélange of cultures and sites of interest to travelers, but also because Turks are renown for their friendliness and hospitality.

Top Experiences

Istanbul — the chaotic meeting of East and West
Ephesus — an important ancient city
Cappadocia — unique cities beneath the lunar-like landscape

Good to Know

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar
An incredible labyrinth of centuries-old passages housing some 4,000 shops,there’s nothing  like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar in the world.

Transportation

Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport receives flight from most major European and several U.S. cities. Both air and bus transportation within the country are good. In Istanbul there are plenty of taxis, although you should ensure that the meter is working and turned on. Buses in Istanbul are also plentiful. One popular means of transport are the many ferries that ply the Bosphorus. Driving in Istanbul is not recommended for anyone.

Hotels

There numerous  hotels in Istanbul, both chains and independents, in all price ranges and categories.

Food

Travelers will find a wide variety of foods in Istanbul ranging from Turkish specialties to top-rated international cuisine. In Istanbul venture outside of the areas around Topkapi Palace and Sultanahmet Camii — away from the tourist restaurants that gouge tourists — and seek out restaurants which provide good, authentic Turkish cuisine at a lower cost.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)

Good