A good mix of temples and monasteries, natural wonders, traditional lifestyles, and everyday modern life.
The gers were fine, even the more basic ones, as were the hotels. It was good to have the option of en-suite bathrooms in some, which made things easier for my wife. Several other group members would have take up tthis option if they had known about it, although Duuree did well to arrange them on the fly.
The drivers were all good, some better than others obviously, and presented an interesting variety of characters and styles. Special shout-out to Oggi. The cars were comfortable recent-model Lamd Cruisers, not just “jeeps”, which is just as well because there is a LOT of driving.
Cultural Holidays in Turkey
Turkey Culture Holidays
Top 5 Places to Explore on Cultural Holidays in Turkey
Cappadocia: One of the most bizarre and spectacular landscapes in the world, Cappadocia is like nowhere else on earth. Its giant rock pillars form a distinctive skyline that is often described as a fairytale setting by anyone that visits. Found among central Turkey’s hilly landscape, these geological wonders are known as the ‘fairy chimneys’. One of the most beautiful sights you’ll see are colourful hot air balloons floating across the sky with visitors wanting to gain a bird’s-eye perspective of Cappadocia.
Goreme Open-Air Museum: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Goreme Open-Air Museum is one of the most incredible places to discover the culture in Turkey. It’s believed to be a monastic settlement dating back to Byzantine times, later becoming an important pilgrimage site. The museum has been meticulously preserved throughout the centuries and you can see wonderful examples of Byzantine architecture and artwork that pepper the landscape. Wander around rock-hewn churches, monasteries and chapels where fabulous frescoes give you an insight into the history and culture of Goreme. The Dark Church and the Chapel of St Basil are particularly interesting buildings to explore when you visit Goreme.
Ephesus: This ancient site is located in the Central Aegean region of Turkey and is one of the finest classical cities you’ll see in the Mediterranean. The well-preserved remains of Ephesus include Greco-Roman architecture, ancient squares and magnificent monuments. Ephesus was first discovered in the 11th-century BCE by the Ionian Greeks and was deemed a significant religious site. Originally built in honour of Artemis, the temple of Ephesus would later become the Temple of Diana, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As you explore the marble paved streets, step back in time and walk in the footsteps of Mark Antony and Cleopatra.
Pergamon: Rising above Tukey’s Aegean region in southwestern Europe, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pergamon is a Greek city home to ancient temples, theatres and monuments protected by the city walls. This fascinating site was once the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty and dates to circa 323 to 31 BCE. A cable car ride takes you up to the Acropolis of Pergamon where some of the most significant archaeological remains and burial mounds can be found. Roam around the temples, library and palaces and discover the history of the Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine empires of Turkey.
Istanbul: One of the most unique and fascinating cities in western Europe, Istanbul is a heady concoction of cultures from the East and West. This alluring capital of Turkey flaunts imposing mosques, basilicas and palaces among its frenetic streets and the sound of bustling bazaars fills the air. There are so many sites to explore in Istanbul that it’s hard to know where to start but the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque should be top of your list. If you need a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Gülhane Park, a beautiful green space next to the palace.
Lawrence Mastin Discover Mongolia – Naadam Festival
Christine Beeton Discover Namibia – LodgesI absolutely loved every minute of that trip. I went in April and we got to see many different dramatic landscapes and amazing wildlife. Every evening we had clear details on what would happen the next day, departure and driving times, number of stops, and what to wear. Some drives looked long on paper but the landscapes were always interesting to watch and we never knew when wildlife would be visible.
The itinerary is well designed as we discovered landscapes and alternated days with short drives and multiple hikes and days with longer drives but plenty of stops on the way. Some mornings started relatively early but that is necessary to see wildlife and walk in the desert before it gets too hot.
The lodging ranged from absolutely fabulous (Damara Mopane Lodge and Otjiwa Safari Lodge for example) to painting peeling off the wall in Etosha National Park. Regardless, all were clean and quiet and being so close to the waterhole in Etosha was well worth the slightly less luxurious room.
The bus we used is especially well designed to travel on dirt roads and to see immense landscapes and wildlife. The provided extra cushions were welcome on bumpy roads and all seats had seatbelts. Once we got into Etosha, we opened the roof and (shoes off) would stand on seats to have a 360 degrees view. The front and side windows also open. That means everyone could see the wildlife from different angles with obstructing the view of others in the group.
I had high expectations when I booked that trip and I came home with all those expectations exceeded.
Planning your Cultural Trip to Turkey?
Is Turkey safe for tourists?
Turkey is generally a safe destination for tourists, with its rich history, diverse culture and beautiful landscapes. However, like many other countries, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and respect local customs and traditions. Stay informed about current events and be cautious in crowded areas where there may be a chance of pickpocketing. Follow the advice of local authorities and take safety measures when necessary while exploring the country.
What kind of food is eaten in Turkey?
The dishes of Turkey are renowned for their rich flavours and diverse influences from Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Central Asian cuisines. Turkish cuisine is characterised by a wide variety of dishes, including kebabs, mezes and sweet pastries. Popular ingredients include lamb, eggplant, tomatoes and spices like cumin, red pepper and mint. Traditional Turkish meals often feature a mouthwatering spread of dishes, which encourages communal dining and sharing. Baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts and syrup, is one of the most popular desserts.
What should I wear in Turkey?
While there are no strict laws for how you should dress in Turkey, there are certain customs and expectations that locals and visitors are encouraged to follow. One of the key factors influencing the dress in Turkey is the country’s predominantly Muslim population. Modesty is highly valued, and both men and women are expected to dress conservatively in public places, especially in more traditional and rural areas. For women, this typically means covering their shoulders, cleavage and knees, while men are expected to avoid wearing shorts in certain settings.
In major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, where Western influences are more prominent, clothing tends to be more relaxed. However, even in urban areas, it’s advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as mosques. It’s also common practice for women to carry a scarf or shawl to cover their heads when entering places of worship as a sign of respect.
What are Turkey’s best ancient sites?
Turkey is home to several remarkable ancient sites that introduce you to the country’s history and culture. One of the most impressive sites is Ephesus, an ancient Greek city famous for its well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. Another iconic site is Hierapolis-Pamukkale, home to terraced hot springs and ancient ruins. The city of Troy, with its legendary Trojan Horse and archaeological excavations, is another site we highly recommend visiting when seeking your fix of history and culture in Turkey.
When is the best time to visit Turkey?
The best time to visit Turkey is during the spring (from April to June) and autumn (from September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are fewer. However, each season offers unique experiences, so choose the time that aligns with your interests. In spring and autumn, the weather is mild in Turkey, and it is the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The main sites are also less crowded compared to the summer months. Experiencing the cultural festivals and events that take place in Turkey during these seasons can provide a deeper insight into the country’s traditions and heritage.
What are the best places to see in Turkey?
Turkey is filled with history, culture, natural beauty and a wealth of fascinating sites to explore. One of the best places to visit in Turkey is Istanbul, the vibrant metropolis that straddles two continents with its intriguing blend of east and west. The spectacular natural wonders of Cappadocia with its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides are another must-see. Discover the sprawling white terraces of thermal waters at Pamukkale and visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Hierapolis, which give you a glimpse into Turkey’s past. Whether you’re a beach or history lover, the picturesque coastal town of Antalya is worth a trip.
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