Turkey Travel Guide

Turkey is a one of the biggest countries of the Mediterranen and spans two continents, creating a country that is a fascinating mixture of Asian and European influences. It's lands have been hotly contested over the centuries and it has had an epic history of battles and Empire which have come and gone. The history of Turkey is one of it's drawcards but certainly not the only trick in it's repertoire, Turkey also enjoys more than 8000 kilometres of coastline and is home to luxurious resorts, modern cities and chic living.

History and culture

History lovers will find no shortage of mythical legends, tragedies and stories of war. It is from Turkey that Alexander the Great set out on his conquests and Turkey was the land of Troy. Although these historic events have often been the subject of Hollywood films, the real thing can be the trip of a lifetime.

Turkey's past goes right back to the beginnings of civilisation, and successive Empires have made the turkish lands their own. Among the major civilisations that have occupied what is today Turkey are the Hittites, the Romans, Greeks, Byzantines and the Ottomans. Each has left their mark on the land and the collective culture and the fascinating architectural legacy and archaeological remains can be found all over the country.

More modern history can also be found at some famous World War 1 battle sites, with beaches and cliffs of Gallipoli of particular significance. This was the location of the first major battles for the newly formed Australia and New Zealand Army Corps, the legendary ANZACs. The Gallipoli campaign raged fiercely for almost a year and it remains today the most significant military campaign commemorated in Australia and New Zealander.

Istanbul is a that reflects the diversity and historical significance of Turkey as a whole. Monuments, churches, mosques and buildings from across different ages and ethnic origins dominate the skyline. Don't miss St Sophia or 'the Church of the Divine Wisdom'; which was built over 1200 years ago by the Byzantines and is considered to be one of the great architectural constructions in the world. Instanbul is also hums with culture of a more modern variety, and is filled with exciting art galleries new and happening music and fashion scene which co-exist with the ancient mosques and treasure filled museums, creating one of Europe's most unusual and increasingly popular destinations.

Nature

The landscape in Turkey is a mix of arid desert zones, massive lakes, tall mountains and verdant forests all surrounded by the calm and warm waters of its four seas. The coastal zones are boats huge stretches of shorelines with a beaches, cliffs and delightful coastal towns and resort centres areas with everything from 5 star luxury to affordable holiday accommodation.

The interior of the country is a different thing altogether, it has boundless expanses of sand, wild volcanic mountain ranges, dotted with outposts of green vegetation and fertile rivers. You will find abandoned fortresses and ruins rising from the yellow dust, and feeling of surreal timelessness the seeps from the ancient landscapes that surround you. Nowhere is this experience more evident than Cappadocia, a land of imposing cliffs, deep caves and steep gorges.

Shopping

Istanbul is surprisingly full of modern shopping malls but also has many remaining ancient bazaars where a more traditional shopping experience can be had. There are streets full of busy market stalls and charismatic hawkers pedalling their goods, so you won't have trouble finding something unusual for a souvenir. Be sure to visit to the largest covered bazaar in the world, the Kapali Carsi, which is set in an antiquated Ottoman domed buildings and has over 4000 vendors.

Away from the capital, other tourist centres like Marmaris, Coppadocia and Bodrum have some great places to pick up souvenirs but make sure you have practiced your haggling, even if just for the fun of it.

Dining

Turkish culture is centred on generous hospitality and you will be welcomed to enjoy a meal in friendly restaurants where good humour flows freely. The cuisine is tasty with the liberal use of spices, it has slowly evolved over hundreds of years and has borrowed from the many influences of it's Empires. Spiced meatballs (Kofte) and or course kebabs are always among the favourites for visitors and locals. Get away from the main tourist centres to find more reasonably priced establishments which are also excellent quality. Don't miss the deliciously decadent sweet desert baklava.