Türkiye
It has always been a dream to do one fell swoop along the Turkish coast and Greek Islands. Given the reality of work schedules, I was only able to do a teensie version of that. Welcome to my visual journey through this enchanting country.
PumakkaleDeriving from thermal springs at the crown of the hill, mineral waters cascade down the side of the hill, creating this dreamlike landscape. The waters were originally utilized for scouring and drying wool until the spa city of Hierapolis was founded in the 2nd century B.C. The thermal pools were built to take advantage of the medical benefits of the waters, which are believed to aide in cardiovascular diseases, skin diseases, rheumatic diseases, as well as gastric and intestinal disorders if ingested. In 60 A.D., an Earthquake toppled the columns of a nearly Apollo’s temple into these waters, now allowing visitors to swim amongst ancient ruins while receiving medical benefits of its 36 C waters. Pretty sweet deal if you ask me. Not to worry though, Hierapolis was rebuilt and continued to thrive afterwards. It is mythicized that Mark Antony gifted these baths to Cleopatra during their prime in the Roman- Greco era.
Suggestions When Visiting Pamukkale:
To be totally transparent, you do not need longer than one night through the next afternoon in the city if you only plan to visit Pamukkale and the Antique Pools (Cleopatra Pools). Arrive at night and stay at a hotel within a walking distance to the park. I would highly recommend Melrose House Hotel, as their complimentary breakfast situated amongst a garden full of fruit trees was as delicious as was scenic.
Key Suggestion
Be sure to arrive as soon as the park opens, to avoid the congestion of bus tourists and start your journey at the bottom of the hill. The buses drop their passengers off at the top, and while it allows for an easier walk, you can avoid the masses and be alone in the waters. Who am I kidding- your photos will be incredibly more successful without tons of selfie sticks in the background.
If you tend to plan during trips and get anxious about traveling internationally- seek comfort in knowing the intercity transportation of Pamukkale is one of the easiest I have come across. The hotel desk helps with all the information and there is no need for booking more than a day in advance. The coastal cities of Turkey in general are accommodating to tourists and locals are always willing to help.
Having two weeks total is Turkey and Greece, I tried to jam-pack as many cities as humanly possible. Four glorious days were spent roaming Istanbul. Here is an ever-so-compact list of what the glorious city has to offer…
Must See:
First and foremost, roam the streets. Get lost. Eat all the ice cream. Pet all the dogs. I’m not joking- they’re quite friendly. From what I’ve seen, the policy pertaining strays in the city is extremely kind. The government and it’s citizens take good care of the street animals. They belong to no one, and to everyone.
Ride any ferry along the Galata Canal. The city views are breathtaking and you ride between two continents- how dope is that?
Fish market under Galata Bridge. The fish are caught right in front of the shops, and as fresh as they come. Prices are slightly more expensive (by only a few dollars after conversion), but well worth the views.
Toptaki Palace. By far one of the most beautiful grounds I’ve ever been on. If you’re itching for a photoshoot, put on your bootstraps. Special shoutout to Emma for being my palace muse for the day.
Hagia Sophia (in “Street Roaming” entry).
Grand Bazaar & Mısır Çarşısı Market. It is with great regret I admit that I did not have enough time in the Grand Bazaar, so it is not pictured. , but it is not to be missed. Don’t be like me, and take hours getting lost in the .
Princes’ Islands. Beach paradise in a city of 15 million people, who knew?
Tips:
Seek accommodations around Taksim Square. The square is the center of the city that has Hagia Sophia on one end and the Blue Mosque on the other. It is within relative walking distance of the main attractions, and right off the tram which is way faster.
Buying a “Museum Pass” pays for itself if you plan on going to at least two attractions which include Hagia Sophia and Toptaki Palace.
Keep in mind that the Blue Mosque is frequently under construction, so those epic photos are a bit more challenging to nail. When going, ladies should wear something something modest that covers the shoulders and knees. Bring a scarf. If you happen to forget, don’t fret, free covers are provided.
If you’re a shopper, Istanbul is your city to indulge. The Grand Bazaar and Mısır Çarşısı (for spices) are two magical markets, but don’t forget to visit the street shops. They’re more relaxed and occasionally cheaper since the real estate prices in the markets are through the roof. Keep in mind that it is culturally acceptable to bargain for a price your are happy with, so feel free to do so if you’re comfortable with it!
Istanbul
Bodrum Center was our home base for the second leg of our turkey trip, and treating it as such, I regrettably don't have as many scenic pictures I would like. Maybe you’ll just have to take my A+ review to heart.
The Bodrum region is a peninsula on the Southwest-most point of Turkey. The city center is the most popular destination of the area - which can either be a good or a bad thing depending on your preferences. Normally preferring to be off the beaten path, we still fully enjoyed the convenience of its popularity. Traveling excursions, events, and late night snacks were always at our fingertips. Speaking of late night (or anytime ever) snacks, please do yourself a favor and indulge in the loaded potatoes, lentil soup, or bakes muscles street food for $2 each. Roam the cobblestone streets with the local dogs, or find a comfortable spot on the water to enjoy your high end low cost meals.
It may also be worth mentioning that while it is known as a tourist destination, it is one for Turkish locals in particular. Therefore you still feel as if you’re away, just more amplified than local life.
Bodrum’s location was overly ideal, as you can easily hop on a ferry ride to a Greek Island.
Bodrum
