Created on:
March 1, 2021 8:06 AM

Last modified on:
March 28, 2021 10:58 PM

There is one city that lies on two continents, Europe and Asia, and that is Istanbul. It holds so much of Turkey’s history and culture with structures like the Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque (or the Blue Mosque as more commonly known), and the Topkapi Palace. Still, you must make a shopping trip to the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. There are thousands of shops under one roof at the Grand Bazaar where you can purchase anything from leather goods to fashion to jewelry. While the Spice Bazaar, it’s all things food-related. You can pick up your Turkish delights, Turkish tea, and sets, every colorful and tasty spice you can imagine, along with cheeses, marmalades, baked loaves of bread, and other sweet treats. Taksim Square is a vibrant area. It is filled with shops and restaurants and lots of energy to keep you entertained. But then again, this is Istanbul. There is plenty to keep you entertained.

When in Turkey, one must take some time to visit the enchanting city of Cappadocia. It’s like stepping back and time. The Devrent Valley is where your mind will run wild, which is why it is commonly known as Imagination Valley. Rock formations here have taken thousands of years to form. As you look at them, you start to see shapes and figures take place. Some people see penguins, others dogs and fairies. There was even one that reminded me of Fred Flintstone. But the real magic of Cappadocia happens when you watch the day dawn while riding in a hot air balloon. The Birdseye view over the valley is simply magical. The day is new, the sun is bright, and the calm will take you.

The beach is not the first thing to come to mind when one thinks of visiting Turkey, but bathing in the Aegean Sea was quite refreshing and renewing. The Turquoise Coast or the Turkish Riviera offers a coastal lifestyle with its beautiful beach clubs and chic hotels. We visited Bodrum, an ancient port city, now a trendy jetsetter hotspot. The Yalikavak Marina is a must-see! It was voted 2020 International Marina of the Year. It is excellent for walking around and seeing all the multimillion-dollar yachts. There is fabulous shopping as all the luxury brands we know and love can be found alongside some very uniquely Turkish shops. The dining is excellent too. One of my favorite International restaurants, Zuma, is here and many others to satisfy every favor you may crave.

Three different parts of a diverse country. Each With its own energy and charm and none to be missed. Are you thinking of a trip to Turkey? Let's chat about it! Follow us on Instagram or Facebook