For us, ‘local Is lekker!’
South Africans do not need a visa to travel to this exquisite country. At a time where the rand is not particularly strong in most popular tourist destinations, this is an added bonus. One Turkish Lira is the equivalent of 4.44 South African Rand. To put that in perspective, an international beer would cost R36.13/TL8.14, Raki (local beer) TL8.14 as well, and a Mc Donald’s Big Mac Burger R26.62/TL6.
Shop ‘til you drop!’
Similar to South Africa, Turkey has an abundance of markets. From small towns to big cities, Turkey has unique ceramics, herbs, spice trading, intricately handcrafted rugs, cushion covers, and edible souvenirs like the popular Turkish delight-the list is endless! If you’re visiting Istanbul, do not miss the Beşiktaş Market
, boasting a large variety of handbags and clothing, or the Fatih Market, known as the largest, and oldest, market place in the city.
Turkish delicacies
Lokum, or Turkish delight, is a familiar sweet in our stores, so why not taste it in the land of origin? This exotic treat is a Turkish institution in it’s right! ‘Meat on a stick’ also originated from Turkey, and is famous for the ‘Sis kebab’, which are pieces of lamb on a skewer and grilled.
A cultural crossroad
Turkey, where three nations meet (Asia, Africa, and Europe), is a cradle of cultures and civilisations, making it a unique collection of people. The Ottoman Empire was an influential Muslim empire from the 16
th century until 1918, and was leading in artistry and creativity of that time, inspired by Baroque and Rococo. The architecture is internationally marveled, and most abundantly displayed in northern Turkey, particularly Istanbul, showcasing massive domes, vaults and columns.
Take a bath, or balloon ride, with a view!
Turkish baths, known as
hamams, built using marble by the Sultans, are seen all over Turkey. These (communal) historical baths are a novelty experience, to try at least once! The large marble stone rooms are a splendor to witness, and will definitely leave you calm and rested. If you’re looking for something a little more wildly, try hot air ballooning over the ancient ruins Cappadocia, witnessing the marvelous views of the churches, mountain ranges and famous ‘Monk Valley’. The soft rock became a popular choice for dwellers around the fourth century A.D.
Beaches from sandy dunes to historical ruins
Crystal blue waters and fine, white sand- something South Africans cannot live without (we do boast some of the world’s best beaches, can you blame us!). Turkey is famous for the largest city on the Western Mediterranean coast, right on the gulf of Antalya. This historic city is both classically beautiful and equally modern, with the castles complimenting the oceanic surroundings, antique museums and houses.
Vibrant historic culture
Some of the world’s earliest civilisations like the Greeks, Trojans, Mongols, Crusaders, and Ottomans, have left their mark on the nation of Turkey. Majestic sights like the ancient ruins of Troy and Helyan can be toured where original altars can still be marveled. Visit the Thermal Pools in Pammakule, where the limestone springs are said to have amazing healing properties for asthmatics, as well as the eyes and skin. The National Park in Goreme (Cappadocia) will feed your adventurous side with its spectacular landscape. It’s one-of-a-kind rock formations, ‘fairy chimneys’, are amongst beautiful rock-carved cities and churches. The Ruins of Ephesus, in Selcuk, is one the most visited sites in Turkey, and has a unique to biblical relation (Paul is said to have preached to the pagans here).
Ancient Historical Sites
Tour the multilayered underground city of Derinkuyu, which is can shelter up to 20 000 people. The city can connect to other through various tunnels, and was originally used to protect Muslim-Arabs during the Arab-Byzantine wars. Istanbul’s Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), which is still in use, is famous for magnificent domes and detailed mosaics, and bold use of the colour blue on the interior walls.
With acknowledgement to SPAR Savour Magainze.