Turkish Travel Blog

Turkish People, Culture, History, and Places inTurkey

Aegean Coast of Turkey

The Aegean coast of Turkey stretches from the North near Istanbul to the Marmaris peninsula. The region has a variety of holiday resorts, beaches, things to do and places to go. One of the highlights is the ancient ruins of Ephesus which at the height of it's existence was the second largest city of Rome. Camel wrestling is a favourite past time and tradition while the gorgeous, sandy beaches of Izmir, Bodrum, Kusadasi and the Datca peninsula will suit those who are looking for beach holidays.I also happen to be biased because it is where I live in Turkey.

The Majestic Ephesus Ancient City and Ruins

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To see Ephesus' ancient city ruins in Turkey is to see one of the world's largest Roman archaeological sites. The colourful timeline of Turkey's history means the country is awash with historical sites dating from many civilizations. But Ephesus is the most well-known on the western shores of the Aegean coast, attracting thousands of visitors daily. Ephesus ancient city is to … [Read more...] about The Majestic Ephesus Ancient City and Ruins

Beautiful Pamukkale in Turkey: Thermal Pools and Ancient Hierapolis City

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Pamukkale in Turkey is a top visited attraction and a sight to wow at. Pamukkale in the Denizli region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nicknamed "Cotton Castle" because of solidified white calcium thermal pools that cascade down the side of a hill. Sitting inland within an agricultural province, on my 2002 visit to Pamukkale and Hierapolis ancient city, I didn't fully absorb … [Read more...] about Beautiful Pamukkale in Turkey: Thermal Pools and Ancient Hierapolis City

The Impressive Stadium of Magnesia on the Meander

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I’d drove past the sign for Magnesia ancient city ruins many times. Hardly talked about or featured in guidebooks, I figured there was not much to see, yet curiosity still made me want to visit. So last month, our hobby photography group piled into the cars and made our way there. Sitting in the Aydin region of Aegean Turkey, it was just an hour’s drive away from my home, and … [Read more...] about The Impressive Stadium of Magnesia on the Meander

Things to Do in Kusadasi: Around the Port, Centre, & Close By

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I have been rather critical of Kusadasi in the past. Yet following developments in the town; I’m warming up to it and now highly admired it for the famous international reputation it has built up. It is also extremely hard to ignore the fact that there are plently of unique things to do in Kusadasi. Indeed, as a major cruising port, cruises from around the world dock in yearly … [Read more...] about Things to Do in Kusadasi: Around the Port, Centre, & Close By

Breakfast at Bafa Lake

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Sitting by Bafa Lake eating breakfast, always makes me feels creatively bohemian. Even better, is that it is a traditional Turkish breakfast, and not my native English fry up that cures my hangovers. In my mind, the rustic lakeside settings, fresh organic ingredients, and the ideal summer weather takes me away from the standard 9 to 5 lifestyle. I love saying to my friends “Oh … [Read more...] about Breakfast at Bafa Lake

My Plans and Izmir Travel Tips

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In 2012, CN Traveler called Izmir “Turkey’s most overlooked city “and they were right. Although it is the third largest metropolis in the country, it is often pushed into the shadows by the likes of Istanbul and Ankara. Let’s be honest though. Izmir cannot compete against Istanbul as a top city break destination, simply because it’s historical timeline is nowhere near as … [Read more...] about My Plans and Izmir Travel Tips

Saint John’s Basilica in Selcuk : Was He Really Buried There?

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Saint John’s Basilica in Selcuk is one of those places that still intrigues me, long after my visit. Actually, if you are a Christian, the whole district is worth visiting because the nearby grand theatre of Ephesus is where Paul the Apostle faced the wrath of the silversmith crowds, who were angry that he questioned the validity of the goddess Artemis. Also, the suspected last … [Read more...] about Saint John’s Basilica in Selcuk : Was He Really Buried There?

The Isa Bey Mosque of Selcuk

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Finding the Isa Bey Mosque was easier than expected. I had geared myself up for a bus ride or long trek, but felt quite the fool when the hotel receptionist said, “leave the hotel, turn left, walk 50 metres and it’s there.” Situated in the heart of Selcuk town at the bottom of a hill, Isa Bey Mosque was originally built in 1375 in honour of the ruler of the Selcuk region … [Read more...] about The Isa Bey Mosque of Selcuk

Priene Ancient City in Aegean Turkey and the Historical Wonders

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According to history books, Priene ancient city in Aegean, Turkey is important for two reasons: the Priene Inscription and Calendar, two informative scripts passed down for future generations. Although no city could ever leave behind a more significant legacy like that, for me, strolling around the ancient ruins provoked a state of joyful excitement, even though they are not as … [Read more...] about Priene Ancient City in Aegean Turkey and the Historical Wonders

Dilek National Park, 2 Angry Boars and a Cave

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Sitting on the Aegean coast of Turkey, Dilek National Park is a protected green area and an all-rounder in terms of things to do. Gorgeous beaches attract swimmers and sunbathers while landscape photographers adore the scenery. Hikers love the extensive range of walking trails and an abundance of wildlife lures lovers of nature. I could return  again and again to this mass of … [Read more...] about Dilek National Park, 2 Angry Boars and a Cave

Izmir City in Turkey: Misunderstood and Underrated

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Izmir city in Turkey is a good alternative if you want to swap from Istanbul. Any good travel book naturally lists Istanbul as Turkey's best destination for city-break holidays. Attempting to knock Istanbul off its throne is something only a fool would contemplate but further down the Aegean coastline, the bustling city of Izmir and surrounding coastal resorts make for a great … [Read more...] about Izmir City in Turkey: Misunderstood and Underrated

The Celsus Library in Ephesus – Turkey and Majestic Architecture

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The Celsus library in Ephesus is probably Turkey’s most photographed historical structure of Turkey. It belongs to the ancient city on the Aegean coast, near Kusadasi holiday resort and Selcuk in the Izmir province. One of my interests while living here is Turkey’s history, so naturally, I have tremendous respect for excavated ruins and their magnificent architecture. However, … [Read more...] about The Celsus Library in Ephesus – Turkey and Majestic Architecture

My Turkish Painting Holiday

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Drawing and painting have never been strong talents of mine. I believe I’m a creative person but throughout my life, have never been able to use a pencil or art brush to create pictures worth hanging on the wall. Maybe that is why I drifted towards photography instead, because it seems like all the work is done for you. The eagerness for artistic creativity has always been … [Read more...] about My Turkish Painting Holiday

Aphrodisias in Turkey: Ruins of the Ancient City of Sculptures

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Along with my guide, I arrived at Aphrodisias in Turkey, the city of sculptures, creativity, ancient ruins, and a story of how the ruins dominated one man’s life nearly 500 years after the city fell into oblivion. Sitting near current-day Aydin city, in Aegean, Turkey, Aphrodisias centred itself around the goddess Aphrodite, who represented love. However, because of small … [Read more...] about Aphrodisias in Turkey: Ruins of the Ancient City of Sculptures

The Ruins of Ephesus Theatre

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To be truthful, the Ephesus theatre is not my favourite place. I feel detest for this prominent ruined structure of the ancient Greco-Roman city, because it was also the scene for gladiator and animal fights. I don’t want to pay homage to a place, where unnecessary death and pain reigned simply for the pointless pleasure of human beings. Having said that, the natural course … [Read more...] about The Ruins of Ephesus Theatre

Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Temple of Artemis, One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

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The Antipater of Sidon, a famous Greek poet lived during the latter half of the 2nd century BC. During his travels, he visited landmarks belonging to the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This included the Temple of Artemis that now stands near the ancient ruins of Ephesus, in Selcuk on the Aegean coast of Turkey. The Greek Temple, also known as the Temple of Diana, was … [Read more...] about Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Temple of Artemis, One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Visiting the Temple of Apollo in Didim – Turkey

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The Temple of Apollo in Didim is a major Aegean landmark for surrounding touristic resorts. The temple receives thousands of travellers and tourists every year, and in historical times was referred to as Didyma. Even today, signs of Greek history are everywhere. This is not the only Apollo Temple. There are four ruined temples dedicated to Apollo in Greece, three in Italy … [Read more...] about Visiting the Temple of Apollo in Didim – Turkey

Selcuk Town in Turkey: Why is it ignored by the Mainstream Travel Market?

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A particular aspect has always puzzled me about the Turkish travel market. The ancient ruins of Ephesus on the Aegean coast of Turkey are a top visited attraction of the country, receiving thousands of visitors daily, especially in summer. Yet, if I look at a majority of overnight tours on travel agency sites, hardly any of them mention Selcuk town, where Ephesus is based. I … [Read more...] about Selcuk Town in Turkey: Why is it ignored by the Mainstream Travel Market?

Sevgi Plaji – The Beach of Love and Hate

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Turks have a habit of naming places, with a direct translation that means something. For example, the bustling holiday resort of “Marmaris” means “hang the architect” in reference to an Ottoman sultan, Suleyman the magnificent who in 1522, ordered a new fortress to be built and was totally disgusted at the finished result. Likewise, Altinkum means “golden sands” referring to … [Read more...] about Sevgi Plaji – The Beach of Love and Hate

5 Things to Do in Yalikavak on the Bodrum Peninsula

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Having travelled to Yalikavak in Bodrum many times, it is now, my favourite holiday destination in Turkey. With much to admire, this beautiful seaside resort, is popular with foreign and Turkish tourists. There are five reasons in particular why I keep going back, and this article also serves as a good guide for first time visitors to the resort. Things to do in … [Read more...] about 5 Things to Do in Yalikavak on the Bodrum Peninsula

Travel Scam Alert : Fake Antique Coins in Selcuk

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Last month, on impulse, I stayed in the town of Selcuk, near the ruins of Ephesus. Due to my hasty decision, I did no research but despite my lack of planning, the trip was fantastic. I made new Turkish friends, explored recommended attractions, ate good food, and drank lots of beer! However, I was seriously disappointed by a travel scam, targeting foreign tourists. Infact, the … [Read more...] about Travel Scam Alert : Fake Antique Coins in Selcuk

Wine Tasting in Sirince Village

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If you ever find yourself on the Aegean coast of Turkey then be sure to take a visit to Sirince Village.  Known throughout Turkey for wine tasting and production, it's mountainside location is perfect for seeing natural Turkey and all through the village are shops where you can put your wine tasting skills to the test. How To Get To Sirince Village I drove a car which … [Read more...] about Wine Tasting in Sirince Village

Old Doganbey Village Near Dilek National Park

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There are many old Greek villages situated around Turkey. They now either have Turkish citizens or are deserted as in the case of the ghost village of Kayakoy on the Mediterranean coast. This happened after the Greek / Turkish citizen exchange treaty that was agreed at the end of the Turkish war of independence. Greeks had to go back to Greece and vice versa. The Greek village … [Read more...] about Old Doganbey Village Near Dilek National Park

Kusadasi Harbour in Turkey

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Kusadasi harbour is one aspect of the town that has remained true to its roots as a small village despite the growing popularity of the town as a cruise-ship destination. A lot of people miss out on this part of the town because it is  distanced from the main center. Some prefer the private marina where luxury boats dock in and restaurants charge a fortune for fine dining. … [Read more...] about Kusadasi Harbour in Turkey

The Flying Fish Boat in Altinkum

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When I lived in England, I never understood the popular sport of fishing. It seemed pointless to catch fish and throw it back in. I was also a city girl and my staple diet was fast food, or frozen microwave meals. I hardly ate fish unless it was from the local take away, coated in thick, batter, served with greasy, fat chips, and wrapped in paper. Later I moved to Turkey, and … [Read more...] about The Flying Fish Boat in Altinkum

Soke – A Town On The Aegean Coast of Turkey

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Soke is not a tourist town and does not seem to be in a rush to make itself one. It is on the Aegean coast of Turkey and is a short drive from the holiday resorts of Altinkum and Kusadasi. Alternatively, you could visit there if you are on your way to Izmir, Ephesus or Selcuk as Soke has a major bus station which is a stopover point for many people traveling by bus. I have … [Read more...] about Soke – A Town On The Aegean Coast of Turkey

Degirmen Farm, Horse Ranch, and Restaurants: Kusadasi

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I have always stated that the Aegean resort of Kusadasi does nothing for me. I find it false, pretentious, and annoying that when cruise ships dock in, prices everywhere suddenly go up and local sellers seem obsessed with American and Chinese passengers. It is a popular holiday resort though, especially for people looking for a decent package deal or some spontaneous last … [Read more...] about Degirmen Farm, Horse Ranch, and Restaurants: Kusadasi

Venosa Beach Resort and Spa

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I recently got the opportunity to have a full guided tour of a 5 star luxury resort and spa. Now,  considering how nosy I am, it did not take me two seconds to scream “yes, I am coming”.  I am talking about the Venosa Beach Resort and Spa that opened it's doors in May of this year, in the area called Yesilkent on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. Trip Advisor would indicate that … [Read more...] about Venosa Beach Resort and Spa

Is Turkish Village Life Doomed?

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This morning I was out and about, and found myself racing back to life in the touristic obsessed destination of Altinkum and normality.  English breakfasts and football shirts suddenly seemed like a welcome sight. Normally, I am a fan of getting off the beaten track and seeing traditional Turkish life so you may be asking the reason for my doom and gloom. The answer is my trip … [Read more...] about Is Turkish Village Life Doomed?

Should Animals Be Kept In Zoos?

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I recently spent a lot of time thinking about the question of “should animals be kept in Zoos?” I was prompted to ponder this topical debate subject after discussing Izmir zoo with a few friends.  These friends stated strongly that they would not accompany me on the two hour journey to Izmir, because they viewed zoos as cruel establishments that had no place on the face of the … [Read more...] about Should Animals Be Kept In Zoos?

Visit the Miletus Ancient Ruins and Museum in Turkey

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Miletus is just one of many ancient ruin sites that I explored lately on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. After viewing the magnificent Ephesus ruin, all other ancient-ruin sites pale in comparison, but Miletus impressed me. The aura surrounding Miletus open-air museum leaves tourists wondering about the many hidden secrets from the past. These days, many tour agencies operate … [Read more...] about Visit the Miletus Ancient Ruins and Museum in Turkey

Bogazici and My Quest To Find It

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In my quest to find the tiny fishing village of Bogazici, I got lost in the Mugla region of Turkey.  I was previously told directions of how to get to Bogazici but instead  found myself driving up narrow, mountains roads that were taking me to the middle of nowhere.Eventually, I made it back onto the Bodrum Mugla highway where crazy “MALE” drivers were breaking the speed limit … [Read more...] about Bogazici and My Quest To Find It

The Sleeping Valley of Uyku Vadisi

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Uyku Vadisi translated from Turkish to English means Sleeping Valley and the person that gave this touristic establishment the name; definitely hit the nail on the head. My visit on Sunday was totally unplanned however it reinforced my belief that the best days are the unplanned ones. Even though this is a tourist establishment, I have never seen it mentioned in any guide … [Read more...] about The Sleeping Valley of Uyku Vadisi

Gallipoli Battle & Anzac Cove : A Poignant Reminder in Photos

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Today's post is by Ash Clark, a writer from Australia, who traveled to Turkey to take part in the Gallipoli and Anzac Cove remembrance day, a poignant reminder of the innocent casualties of war. Brighton Beach, found on the coast of the Turkish Dardanelles, is a humble beach with no stand out land features within its immediate surroundings. Put simply, it is ‘flat’ from the … [Read more...] about Gallipoli Battle & Anzac Cove : A Poignant Reminder in Photos

Bozbuk Beach Life

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I have found my new haven and it is a beach in Bozbuk. This beach is going to be my place to get away from it all. My place to relax, unwind and calm down when daily life gets too much. Bozbuk beach is a place that has gone straight to my heart. The strange aspect is that the beach is just part of a small village which is not really attractive at all. Bozbuk as a village … [Read more...] about Bozbuk Beach Life

Altinkum Resort Information

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Altinkum is a small and clicky holiday resort on the Aegean coast of Turkey. It attracted much negative press because of expats who have been swindled out of life savings by unqualified property dealers who saw quick cash to be made during a property boom. Also a famous American writer visited Altinkum last year and declared that she will never come back because it was not … [Read more...] about Altinkum Resort Information

Kusadasi – Not Quite The Jewel Of Turkey

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I have been meaning to write this post about Kusadasi for quite a while but other  ideas have popped into my mind and it was pushed on a back burner.  You see, Kusadasi is a place in Turkey that I neither love nor hate. It does not excite me but it does not disappoint me either. I have spent many years both living in the resort and also traveling to it from my home resort of … [Read more...] about Kusadasi – Not Quite The Jewel Of Turkey

The Euromos Ruins of Turkey

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I love walking around historical monuments and after a friend mentioned Euromos I decided to head there on a day trip. I was told it was old ruins that were definitely worth a look in. Now, let's get straight to the point here. If you are passing by the Euromos ruins while on the Bodrum / Milas road then do stop off to take a look. Take a couple of photos and get back in your … [Read more...] about The Euromos Ruins of Turkey

Herakleia and The Hard-Core, Street Crew of Turkey

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Don’t be fooled by the flowery trousers and cute smiles. Don’t assume that these five women are just plain, simple Turkish housewives. They rule the streets with iron fists and even the menfolk of the village run and shrink into the shadows of doorways when they pass. I met the hard-core,  street crew yesterday when we were driving around the old village of Herakleia in Milas … [Read more...] about Herakleia and The Hard-Core, Street Crew of Turkey

Mavisehir : Beautiful Sunsets and Night Markets in Turkey

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I’ve been holidaying in Turkey with my wife for almost four years. We own a small apartment in a town called Altinkum, Didim, which is about an hour’s drive North of Bodrum airport. Every year that we visit, I fall more in love with Turkey. The people, lifestyle, culture and traditions all fuse to present a unique destination. Anyone who has not been to Turkey is missing out on … [Read more...] about Mavisehir : Beautiful Sunsets and Night Markets in Turkey

Horse Racing in Turkey – How NOT To Blend In With the Locals

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Here is the thing about horseracing and me. There is no great passion on my behalf. I do not bet, follow jockeys, go to the tracks and I have never ridden a horse either. However, I like to keep an open mind in Turkey and experience everything at least once. Therefore, when a group trip was arranged to visit the Izmir horse track, I decided to tag along with a group of … [Read more...] about Horse Racing in Turkey – How NOT To Blend In With the Locals

Visiting Turgutreis in Bodrum and a Day of Indulgence

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Turgutreis in Bodrum - Turkey, filled me with an overwhelming sense of comfort and familiarity, even though I had never been there before. I felt lured to experience something new and confident, being in a strange place and meeting new people. But I only travelled to Turgutreis resort for one day and was introduced to a lifestyle that would surely kill me if I adopted it … [Read more...] about Visiting Turgutreis in Bodrum and a Day of Indulgence

Yesiltepe – Where Is Everyone?

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I looked left and then I looked right. There was not a soul to be seen in the small village of Yesiltepe. I had been to this area many times before but it had always been a fleeting visit and I was eager to find out why a lot of ex-pats were attracted to buying property here. It was a not a place that instantly captivated me but I had decided to return and give it one more … [Read more...] about Yesiltepe – Where Is Everyone?

Yesilkent : A Quiet Resort Near Altinkum in Turkey

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Yesilkent is a hidden gem on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. Correction, it WAS a hidden gem. It was not often mentioned in tourist guides and the only way to find out about it was browsing through forums and blogs. It was a quiet resort with a couple of beaches and restaurants. All that changed however with the opening in May of the Venosa Beach Resort. This hotel towers above … [Read more...] about Yesilkent : A Quiet Resort Near Altinkum in Turkey