Trabzon is not one of my favourite cities in Turkey, yet it serves as a good base for sightseeing in the area. Although few western tourists go in that direction, people from the Middle East are a frequent sight. During the 1990’s, it also enjoyed great financial success as a central hub of the suitcase tourism trade. Socialism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe had … [Read more...] about Trabzon Travel Guide
Black Sea Region of Turkey
The Black sea region of Turkey stretches from the North near Istanbul and heads East to the Artvin province. The region is culturally diverse and has beautiful landscapes views that are quite different from the rest of the country. Without a doubt, it is one of the most under-rated places in the country.
Memories of the Ayder Plateau
Out of all my travel memories from around Turkey, the Ayder plateau stands out for a quirky and possibly absurd reason. I remember that it was the end of June, and while my friends on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts were enjoying alfresco dining on warm summer evenings, I was huddled in my hotel room. Despite wearing two pairs of socks, a jumper, my coat, and covering … [Read more...] about Memories of the Ayder Plateau
Exploring Hattusa and Yazilikaya
Hattusa, on the edge of the central Anatolian and Black Sea regions of Turkey is one of the country’s less visited attractions that was added to the World UNESCO Heritage site list in 1986. Don't underestimate it's historical importance, though. While the guidebooks overshadow it with the likes of Istanbul, Ephesus, and Cappadocia, it is equally significant when discussing past … [Read more...] about Exploring Hattusa and Yazilikaya
Are the Laz and Hemsin Communities of Turkey Losing their Plateau Culture?
My visit to the Northeast region of Turkey has always stuck firmly in my mind. Further inland and outside of the main cities of Trabzon and Rize, it is hard to believe the green hills, tea plantations and cool climate are part of this country. Life in the small villages is basic and old fashioned. I witnessed people building their own wood-houses and milking their cows by … [Read more...] about Are the Laz and Hemsin Communities of Turkey Losing their Plateau Culture?
The Yayla Houses of Demirkapi Plateau
Demirkapi plateau is probably the most surreal place I have visited in Turkey. Located in the Kackar Mountains, we had spent the previous night in Uzungol and the next day, made our way up the mountain using the Haldizen road that was lined with forests, twisted at every opportunity and ran directly next to a fast flowing stream. The aim was to see Yayla houses, which are … [Read more...] about The Yayla Houses of Demirkapi Plateau