Turkey

Turkey sits between Europe and Asia and feels like both. It’s got ancient ruins, stunning coastlines, amazing food, and it’s still affordable. Istanbul alone could keep you busy for a week. The history is everywhere and the hospitality is genuine.

Istanbul is huge and chaotic and incredible. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are right next to each other and both are stunning. The Grand Bazaar is touristy but fun to wander. Spice Bazaar smells amazing. Take a Bosphorus boat cruise between continents. Taksim Square and Istiklal Street for modern Istanbul. Street food is incredible. Simit, doner, balik ekmek fish sandwiches.

Cappadocia is the fairy chimney landscape with hot air balloons at sunrise. It’s touristy but unique. Underground cities, cave hotels, hiking through valleys. Goreme is the main town. Book balloon rides ahead because weather cancels them often. The rock formations are wild.

The coast is beautiful. Antalya has beaches and old town. Side has Roman ruins right on the beach. Fethiye and Oludeniz have the Blue Lagoon and paragliding. Kas is quieter and great for diving. The turquoise coast boat trips are popular. Pamukkale has white travertine terraces and thermal pools.

Ephesus near Izmir is one of the best preserved Roman cities. The library facade is famous. Nearby Selcuk has cheap hotels. Bodrum is the party town with clubs and beaches. More upscale than other coastal spots.

Getting around means buses or flights. Buses go everywhere and are comfortable and cheap. Flights between cities cost almost nothing. Istanbul has trams and metro. Dolmus minibuses connect smaller towns.

Money goes far even with recent inflation. Street food is cheap, meals are affordable. Haggle at markets. Turkish lira fluctuates so check rates. Cards work in cities, cash for smaller places.