A feast for the eyes: a stall at the Grand Bazaar( above) and hot-air balloons ascending over Cappadocia( top of page).
wonders. Located in central Anatolia, the region is famed for its otherworldly landscapes of fairy chimneys and rock-carved dwellings. For many visitors, the highlight is a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, when hundreds of colorful balloons float gracefully above the valleys and volcanic formations.
The Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into ancient monastic life, with rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Beneath the surface, Cappadocia hides vast underground cities, some of which descend more than 15 levels deep. These subterranean refuges once sheltered up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock and supplies, as a way to protect them from invading armies.
Art and craftsmanship thrive here as well. A visit to Chez Galip showcases the work of Galip Körükçü, an internationally renowned sixthgeneration potter whose artistry connects the region’ s deep traditions with contemporary creativity.
Hotel of note: Any of Cappadocia’ s cave hotels, which range from budget-friendly to luxury, provide a unique and unforgettable stay.
Ephesus: Walking Through Ancient Times
On Türkiye’ s Aegean coast lies Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Once a bustling Roman metropolis and major center of early Christianity, Ephesus offers an unparalleled journey into the past. Walking its marble streets, you’ ll encounter the remains of grand theaters, aqueducts, and the famed Library of Celsus, whose elegant facade still inspires awe.
Nearby stands the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though only a single column remains today. The House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where Mary spent her final years, draws pilgrims of all faiths. Together, these sites make Ephesus a destination that seamlessly blends archaeology, spirituality, and the past.
Hotel of note: The Akanthus Hotel in Selçuk, praised for its hospitality and attention to detail, offers guests excellent quality and a restful night’ s sleep.
At more than 1,400 years old, the Hagia Sophia is a brilliant example of Byzantine art and design.
A Country That Calls You Back
From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the dreamlike valleys of Cappadocia to the ancient grandeur of Ephesus, Türkiye offers an endless variety of experiences. And yet, no matter how much you see, you’ ll always feel there’ s more waiting to be discovered.
For me, what began as a brief stop on a larger journey became a lifelong connection. Once you visit, you may find yourself, like me, longing to return again and again.
Atlanta-based Ilyse Tasdemir and her Turkish-born husband, Faruk, offer personalized tours of Türkiye for a maximum of six guests every April and October. Check out their website or reach out for additional information.
TÜRKIYE TRAVELS turkiye-travels. com |( 404) 934-4108
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