Everything you need to know about Turkey

Historic, yet with a visibly modern vibe, Turkey is one of the most exotic countries to explore. My Turkish holiday was an eyeopener. Alluring and breathtakingly beautiful, a trip to this yet not-so-explored destination must be in your bucket list.


Istanbul
The only city in the world to be built on two continents - Europe and Asia-Istanbul is unique by its very geographical attribute. First impressions of the city matches up to the predictable picture of the mosques and minarets silhouetting the skyline of this Turkish commercial capital. However, Istanbul is not only a culturally rich city with an extravagant array of bazaars; it has an equally vibrant night life with a peppy crowd and clubs open until wee hours of the morning. Club Reina, one of the most popular night spots in the world, is housed here and witnesses the crème-de-lacrème grooving to the latest Turkish and international music.

Must visit
The blue mosque St. Sophia Topkapi Palace Grand Bazaar

Must try
A boat ride on the Bosphorus A visit to the Ciragan Palace, Kempinski

Cappadocia It's one of those places that can suitably fit into '100 things to see before you die' list. A marvellous natural wonder resembling Indiana Jones movie sets, Cappadocia's entire landscape is formed of volcanic rocks that erupted millions of years ago. Whether it's the Goreme Open Air Museum, the ranch, or the naturally air conditioned pottery making caves in Avanos, Cappadocia, with its utterly breathtaking vista captures your heart. And if you're one of those who are on a 'travel in style' itinerary, make your booking at the Cappadocia Cave Resort (CCR) located on the slopes of Uchisar Castle.



Must visit
Goreme open air musuem Undeground cities Firca Avanos potteries

Must try
Hot air ballooning ATV rides and horse riding at Goreme Ranch

Antalya
There's nothing more exuberating than being in a destination where you can actually ski and swim at the same time. Located in the south of Anatolia, on the Mediterranean coast, this sea resort is a tourist magnet. When in Antalya, definitely visit the Gloria Golf Resort - its green expanse is overwhelming. And if you have the history bug in you, check out the Aspendos amphitheatre in Roman architecture, the Perge ruins.


Must visit
The Aspendos amphitheatre
Perge ruins
Gloria Golf Resort

Must try
Skiing and swimming at the same time in Antalya in April.

File facts
How to get there:
The most convenient way is to avail of Turkish Airlines. It has flights everyday from Mumbai and Delhi to Istanbul.

Climate Turkey has temperate Mediterranean climate. The summer months (June - September) has an average temperature of 28 degree C. In winter (December - March), the temperature can fall below 5 degree C.