Embracing the open road
A Journey Through Turkey: Heritage, Splendor, and Serenity
BY GLENDA McCALEB Traveling to Turkey is akin to stepping into a living mosaic of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its rich heritage and stunning natural beauty, Turkey offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Last summer, I embarked on an adventure with my friend and travel companion, Carol Snow. Our journey showcased the country ' s beautiful contrasts, from the architectural majesty of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia and the tranquil Mediterranean coastline.
One of the most memorable highlights of my trip was a surprise birthday gift from Carol: a photoshoot with a talented photographer, set against the iconic backdrop of the Blue Mosque. This architectural gem, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is famous for its impressive domes and graceful minarets. As we donned an exquisite queen’ s costumes, the juxtaposition of the opulent outfit against the mosque’ s stunning architecture was mesmerizing.
Glenda McCaleb
Carol Snow
The early morning sun bathed the scene in a warm glow, casting reflections on the mosque’ s delicate tile work. Our photographer captured not only the grandeur of the mosque but also the joy and excitement of the moment, solidifying them in stunning photographs. Wandering through the mosque’ s expansive courtyards, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection to the history that enveloped this extraordinary place.
Following our memorable experiences in Istanbul, we ventured to Cappadocia, a region renowned for its surreal landscapes and unique geological formations. Our adventure reached new heights— literally— when we embarked on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise. As we ascended into the sky, the panoramic views of Cappadocia’ s fairy chimneys and valleys unfolded beneath us, revealing a breathtaking tapestry of colors and shapes.
There’ s something magical about floating gently high above the ground, watching the sun cast its first light over the unusual rock formations. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painted the landscape in a breathtaking display, and the sense of tranquility while gliding through the sky was an experience unlike any other. After landing, we celebrated with our fellow balloonists, savoring the thrill of the ride and the beauty of the moment.
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S plash!