Falling in love with Turkey
Mystical landscape of Cappadocia
This post is by guest blogger Allison Villasenor, Collette’s senior project manager, who recently returned from Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures Classical Turkey, a tour she rode with 36 other passengers. Allison has been with Collette since 2003 and this was her first time to Turkey…but hopefully not her last.
As I boarded the plane for Istanbul I decided that I would arrive in the country with a completely open mind. Not knowing too much more than the simple facts: Dr. Oz is Turkish and throughout history Turkey has been ruled by so many from the Hittites, to the Persians, to the Romans, Ottomans and so many more… I thought it’d be best to wait and develop my opinion as I traveled.
As soon as I started out on the cab ride from Ataturk Airport, I began to fall in love with Turkey. I arrived a day into the tour, and so my fellow passengers who arrived on schedule were greeted by our tour manager at the airport. It was helpful that my cab driver had an excellent command of English!
I could feel the energy and see the development; the city of Istanbul was bustling! With over 40% of the population under the age of 25, Turkey is destined to emerge as a leader. I found one of the statements that my cab driver made to be very profound and true of Turkey… “We are not the Middle East, we are not Europe – we are building an identity all our own.”
Once I arrived at the hotel, which I am told by my cab driver is the hotel that President Obama stayed at recently; I immediately went to Summit, the rooftop restaurant to take in the views. Turkey is the only country that straddles two continents – Asia and Europe– and from my seat in the Summit, I was able to watch the sun go down over the Bosphorous, a Turkish strait that forms part of the boundary between Europe and Asia, with stunning views of both continents.
As our tour unfolded we journeyed to the region of Cappadocia to view what are called the Fairy Chimneys… one claim to fame is that the original Star Wars was filmed here. I can attest─you feel transported. The rock formations which have been created over millions of years from erosion are dramatic and endless! The region is truly breathtaking but also historic.
In the village of Kaymakli, we had the privilege to visit with an older gentleman who grew up playing hide and seek in the underground city! As we talked through the winding tunnels and into the different rooms, it was easy to sense how the Christians lived when they were here.
We traveled south from Cappadocia to Antalya over the Taurus Mountains – the views were breathtaking – especially when we caught the sunset as we descended to the Mediterranean coast. En route, we made an interesting stop at The Melvana Museum – Melvana was the founder of the Whirling Dervish sect. This gave us a very interesting look at the history of religion in Turkey.
Once on the coast we visited amazing ruins daily. Imagining life as it must have been in these ancient cities was such a great lesson in history as we explored the city of Perga, theatre of Aspendos, city of Pammukkale, with it’s calcified hot pools, Troy and, of course, Ephesus.
Allison at the Library of Celsus at Ephesus
I was told by our national guide that Ephesus was more impressive than Petra! Having been to Petra, I didn’t believe him until we arrived at Ephesus. “Wow!” was all I could say – they are both so impressive and I feel privileged to have seen them both.
Ephesus, one of the most powerful cities in antiquity, is situated close to the Aegean on the top of a hill and to think only 8% of the city has been uncovered! The sheer scope is overwhelming. The stunning focal points of Curetes Street, Latriana, and the Temple of Hadrian are in the shadow of the most impressive structure – the library.
And I would be remiss if I failed to mention the food – as it was a highlight! The Turkish way is to show hospitality through food making sure that the table is never empty. And it was true – we certainly didn’t go hungry!
Turkish food is colorful and delicious!
Tremendous offerings of salads and greens, grilled meats and sauces or stews were part of the cuisine which has a Mediterranean feel to it, but is uniquely Turkish, too.
And can we talk dessert for a moment? Dessert is a Turkish specialty – Helva was my favorite – custard made from Tahini and sesame seeds!
As I reflect on this tour and the country of Turkey it is easy to say that it is on the top of my list. I’d recommend this destination to anyone who has an interest in history, scenic beauty and great people! Turkey is a must see!
posted by Melissa McKee
Collette Vacations
Tags: Collette, Destination Spotlight, Escorted Tours, Food, Tour Manager, Turkey
