8 Finest Souvenirs to Buy from Ä°stanbul in 2023

February 2, 2023

Istanbul has traditionally been a unique commercial hub due to its beautiful location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Its extensive cultural diversity, deep-rooted handicraft heritage, and influences from worldwide because of its advantageous location have turned it into an incredible shopping paradise. In summary, shopping in Istanbul is also a cultural experience. The Grand Bazaar is likely one of the most appropriate locations to comprehend this better. In this fantastic ancient arcade, you may find many unique products you might encounter while exploring Turkey.

How will we choose what to buy, then? It is almost impossible to avoid getting lost in the sea of choices. Not to worry! The most well-liked ones were listed for you. Here are the 8 best souvenirs from Istanbul, including Turkish rugs, Turkish tea, Turkish coffee, coffee pots, Turkish delight, and more.

Istanbul has rich history and culture and the best souvenir options. Ultimately, you can apply for a turkey e-visa online.

Turkish Tea

Turkish tea, often known as çay locally, is probably Turkey’s most famous hot beverage. It is prepared in a traditional double teapot called a çaydanlik and is a black tea from the Black Sea region. It is a crucial component of Turkish culture and is drank throughout the day. Therefore, throughout your vacation to Istanbul, you can be sure that you will observe people sipping tea in homes, parks, and even shops all day long. Finally, remember that the best way to get to know someone here is to drink tea together. What a drink!

Turkish Coffee & Cezve

Turkish coffee is famous not only in Turkey but also around the world. It is traditionally served with a cup of water and boiled in a unique pot called a cezve. To improve the taste of your coffee, you must drink water before it. One of Istanbul’s best attractions, the Grand Bazaar, is where you should go if you want to get some Turkish coffee to bring home. Along with Turkish coffee, you may stock your kitchen with this authentic tradition by purchasing a cezve or Turkish coffee set.

Lokum and Turkish Baklava

We advise you to buy some lokum before leaving Istanbul. Considering these delicious confections, Turkey’s most well-liked traditional sweets are often known as Turkish pleasure abroad. They contain gel starch, crushed dates, and icing sugar on top. There are several varieties, including ones with rosewater, lemon, almonds, and pistachios. You could go to The Spice Bazaar, which offers all the traditional flavours, to decide which best suits your taste. While discussing desserts, we should bring up Baklava, which is even more, well-known than lokum. Baklava is a dessert consisting of delicate layers of dough filled with chopped pistachios or walnuts and drenched in sweet syrup. This delicious dessert is one of the greatest options to bring home!

Blue Evil Eye

Nearly all Turkish souvenir shops display the blue evil eye when you are shopping. This jewellery, known locally as Nazar Boncgu, features a blue stone in the shape of an eye. Many people once thought those protected them from the evil curse. Today, though, it’s typically used for aesthetic purposes rather than for superstitious ones. This catchy item is offered in various forms, including jewellery, key chains, and refrigerator magnets. If you like them, purchase one for yourself as a memory.

Turkish Spices

The origin of spices is Turkey. That its cuisine is so wonderful is therefore not surprising. Among the most well-known are allspice, paprika, and especially sumac. They might be the tastiest souvenirs you bring back from Turkey. We are aware of a beautiful location where you may find a variety of spices. The Spice Bazaar, located in the centre of Istanbul, has abundant spices you would desire to experience. You can also taste numerous regional flavours and unique tea and spices.

Ä°znik Ceramic

The typical motifs of Iznik tiles, which feature tulip patterns and turquoise colours, can be seen in many of Istanbul’s mediaeval mosques and palaces. Imagine having some of these lovely patterns on home decor items as well. Here is a robust case for visiting the Grand Bazaar.

Count on finding various ceramic pieces there, including vases, bowls, ashtrays, and plates. It will be impossible to forget Istanbul’s beauty and memories, irrespective of whether you return home.

Turkish Rugs and Turkish Carpets

It’s not surprising that Turkish rugs and carpets are among the most sought-after souvenirs in Istanbul, given their distinctive designs and vibrant colours. The art of carpet weaving has been passed down through the generations and continues to showcase the talents of great artisans. Turkish rugs, also called kilim locally, may make ideal souvenirs from Istanbul because they are transportable. Authentic, handcrafted carpets and rugs can be a little pricey, but they are worth it.

Mosaic Lamps

The mosaic lamp is yet another one of Istanbul’s most well-liked mementoes. They can be found in almost all historic bazaars. Glass items, small hanging lamps, and chandeliers have distinctive designs. They will undoubtedly be a fantastic option to enhance the elegance of the rooms in your home. You might get smaller ones to make them easier to transport on your trip.

We offer turkey visa online to Turkey for your desired tour, from romantic honeymoons to scenic self-drive road trips to significant destinations.

 

Traditional Turkish Musical Instruments You Should Know

February 1, 2023

Every culture has a distinct tone and beat. This country has a rich range of sounds and traces passed down from generation to generation from many cultures across the two countries. Turkey is one of the places where this diversity in art and music is most apparent.

Numerous new instruments for diverse genres of music have been created or even invented due to the emergence of various sorts of music. You will have the opportunity to hear hundreds of different sounds and incredibly distinctive tones when you travel to Turkey if you already have a turkey visa online. Prepare to meet the musical instruments of traditional Turkey.

Tef (Def) Tambourine

This percussion instrument, which some sources refer to as a tambourine (tef), can also be written as def in Turkish. It is made by wrapping a leather cover over a wooden frame and playing with it with the fingertips. It has ties to numerous cultures and is from ancient history. The tambourine is one of the most frequently used instruments in Turkish Art Music. A recent dig turned up three figurines holding tambourines used as research tools for Mesopotamian cultures. Tambourine might be a pleasant gift for those who wish to get lost in the beat and those who want to take rhythm home.

BaÄŸlama & Saz

The baglama is one of the primary instruments used in Turkish folk music. This stringed musical instrument is played with a plectrum and has an extended grip. It came to Anatolia from Asia and developed from the lute. The Anatolian lands are undoubtedly the best place in the world to listen to this instrument, whose tone may elicit various emotions in listeners.

Kemençe The Black Sea fiddle

A three-string traditional folk instrument is played with a bow, a phenomenal instrument that has virtually become a symbol of the Black Sea region. The instrument is known as the Black Sea fiddle to avoid confusion with the classical violin used in western music. The music is played vigorously and accompanied by dancing, which sets the type of work apart from other cultures.

Kanun – Qanun or Kanoon

With its enticing and alluring sound, kanun holds an essential position in classical Turkish music. Like the violin or piano, this instrument, with Asian and Anatolian traditions, is regarded as one of the most challenging to master. Kanun is played with a plectrum while positioned on the knees. When listening to this lovely instrument, you’ll no doubt hear a tone or music you enjoy.

Kaval – The Shepherd’s Flute

One of the most potent Turkish wind instruments, the Shepherd’s Flute, comes in two primary variations: with or without a reed. The shepherd’s flute, according to tradition, is used to comfort and calm grazing animals.

The shepherd’s flute is one of the oldest instruments known to humankind, despite several opinions and hypotheses on its history. The Middle East and Central Asia are home to various instrument types. In Anatolian towns, you may always hear this cheerful and soft music.

Visit TurkeyVisaOnline.com and apply for a turkey e visa in a group or solo if you have some queries. Kindly connect with our team of visa experts. They will be happy to help you.

 

Turkish Wedding All You Need to Know

January 31, 2023

Every culture places a high value on marriage, and wedding traditions vary widely from country to country. Since Turkey is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and histories, it is unsurprising that its wedding traditions have evolved into something exclusive to Turkey.

However, one crucial aspect of Turkish weddings is that they are incredibly inclusive. If you come across a Turkish wedding, feel free to greet the happy couple—you could even get a wedding invitation! Thousands of people frequently attend weddings when entire villages gather, and the mood is “the more, the merrier”, in contrast to the more private weddings that are more typical in other countries.

Follow along to learn more about Turkish weddings before you can attend one yourself or use it as inspiration for your dream destination wedding!

We offer turkey visa online to Turkey for your desired tour, from romantic honeymoons to scenic self-drive road trips to significant destinations.

No “Hen Party”, but a “Henne Night!”

In truth, henna night (also known as kna gecesi in Turkish) serves the same function as a “hen night,” which is to bid adieu to singledom and welcome marriage.

Naturally, despite their similarity, the word has nothing to do with hen parties and instead comes from the custom of burning henna, which is thought to keep married couples safe from harm and strengthen their love for one another. Henna will be intricately painted on everyone attending the wedding, including the bride. The bride and her friends are the main celebrants during the event, while the groom and his friends may make an appearance (clear customs differ).

The fact that the Henna night is both a joyful and sorrowful occasion, with the bride frequently crying as she accepts that she is leaving one way of life and entering another, is another unique aspect of the event.

Playing the pipe and drums.

Turkish drums called davuls and pipes called zurna are traditional wedding music, especially during the run-up. Even though the main wedding music tends to be more modern, similar traditions are still formed today.

As the bride is taken away, there is a celebration.

Typically, the bride’s relatives and friends “give her away” before the groom arrives to take her away. He usually comes in a car decorated with flowers and sashes. As a prank, the bride’s family “refuses to open the door to him,” so the groom frequently needs to knock again. According to some customs, the groom must “bribe” the kids by holding the door closed with change or treats.

Car convoy

This custom originated when horses were the preferred mode of transportation. The bridal car is now followed by a convoy of vehicles that go straight through the village, town, or city. Frequently, the vehicle will stop and play “davul” and “zurna.” As part of the convoy, people often beep their horns. Children will crowd the streets as the car stops and beg the bride and groom for pocket money; the bride and groom usually carry modest amounts of cash in packets ready to give to the kids.

Local dances and halay

The most popular folk dance for weddings is the halay, traditionally performed with the zurna and the davul. People dance in unison while holding hands or dancing together while the same tune cycles through slowly at first and then quickly.

Although the halay dances have varying regional customs, it’s rare to see a Turkish wedding without it being played and danced to!

The actual wedding ceremony

The ceremony itself couldn’t be easier. A municipality or local authority official (nikah memuru) will legally pronounce you married after the bride and groom each chooses a witness. This employee is a local government official who acknowledges your marriage; they are neither religious leaders nor lawyers. From beginning to end, the process takes about 15 minutes. The marriage certificate is presented to the happy couple after witnesses, the bride, and the groom have signed it, and the ceremony is done. Now it’s time to party!

Pinning gifts on the bride and groom

In Türkiye, the traditional wedding presents are gold and cash, and there is often even a ceremony after the legal union is complete. The couple is wearing sashes as guests approach one at a time to snap pictures with the bride and groom and pin gold or cash onto the sashes. The funds will then assist the couple in starting their new lives together by purchasing a home or other needs.

Food and celebration

Following a wedding, there is often a large feast for all the guests, dancing, and celebration—usually lasting well into the night! The “top of the pop” music that plays everywhere is just as likely to be heard at a Turkish wedding celebration as everywhere else, even though the music is more likely to be Turkish. In general, this is probably like the rest of the world.

Apply for a turkey visa online, pack your bags and book a flight is all necessary to begin a fantastic vacation.

 

8 Best Beaches In Türkiye

January 27, 2023

You may find the best beach destinations in the world in Turkey, which has coastlines along the Aegean and the Mediterranean. It could be fairer to refer to this coastline as an ideal line where white sand beaches and turquoise waters meet. In Turkey, there are several good reasons to take a beach holiday. There is a reason why countless beachgoers travel to Turkey each year to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. We believe that they are behaving with deep knowledge.

On your mind right now is where in Turkey the most excellent beaches. Not to worry. To make your job easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top ones from Antalya Beach to Marmaris Beach in Turkey. If You have a turkey e visa, then Holidays in Turkey won’t be a difficult subject anymore! Here we go to apply for a turkey visa online.

Lara Beach, Antalya

Let’s begin with Antalya, the tourist haven of Turkey! There are numerous beaches in this magnificent city that stretches along the Mediterranean coast. However, Lara Beach is the perfect place for you if you want to be close to the city centre’s bustling cafes, popular shops, and nightlife. You may also participate in water sports or play beach volleyball here while enjoying the warm waves and golden sands. Because of its central location, you can quickly get there from Antalya International Airport. Now all you have to do is pick the ideal hotel from the many Antalya hotels that combine luxury and comfort!

KaputaÅŸ Beach, KaÅŸ

One of the most stunning beaches on this list may be KaputaÅŸ Beach, which is close to Kalkan. Its spectacular perspective and unmatched beauty are featured on the covers of well-known travel guides. It is sandwiched between two tall cliffs covered in trees. To get there, you must start at the top of a long staircase and descend from there. Or you can go on boat tours organised in KaÅŸ or Kalkan. You will experience a unique ambience while lying on its blonde beach and taking in the blue waves.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye

You may be sure that Kabak Bay will satisfy your desire for beautiful beaches if you love them. This spotless, half-moon-shaped beach has been able to avoid the Mediterranean’s pouring floods! White sands embrace turquoise and quiet waters in this location, flanked by mountains and pine forests. Starting from the settlement of Kabak, you must travel a steep and challenging trail for 30 minutes. However, the beautiful natural setting there will make an effort completely worthwhile.

İçmeler Beach, Marmaris

Only 8 kilometres from Marmaris, içmeler Beach is a unique seaside where you can enjoy active and relaxing vacations. Pine trees surround the beach, adding to the area’s fresh feel. It is also well known for its crystal-clear waters and golden soft sands. Imagine resting in the sun on the soft sands and swimming in the clear seas. It sounds thrilling, yes? No concerns if you want a busier holiday. Here, you can spend the day engaging in water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and scuba diving or simply relaxing at one of the many restaurants and entertaining beach bars.

Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz

Butterfly Valley is a beach on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast that is home to a wide variety of butterflies, as its title suggests. In addition, it attracts visitors who are as liberated as butterflies. The majority of its visitors are hippies, backpackers, or campers. However, this area is sufficient to accommodate everyone who wants a close encounter with nature. Make sure you can get the ideal combination of blue and green in this cove of white sand surrounded by sharp rocks. You can board boats leaving from Olüdeniz, Fethiye, to get there. Along hiking paths, you can also discover hidden waterfalls and shoot pictures on a level with those on postcards.

Çıralı Beach, Kemer

A car may take you from Antalya to Cirali Beach in about an hour. Due to the area’s rocky terrain, getting there is a little challenging, but this also means that it is less busy. This magnificent beach offers much more than the typical sun, sand, and water! In addition to a happy possibility for rest, it guarantees a mythological experience. Nearby must-see attractions include the Chimera, an eternal flame, and Olympos Ancient City, where Lycian cultural ruins can be found. The Caretta Caretta sea turtles are renowned for nesting at this vital beach. You might even see turtles hatching if you visit the beach early in the morning.

Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz

Welcome to one of the Aegean’s most beautiful beaches. With its stunning surrounding coves, Olüdeniz Beach, also known as Blue Lagoon, is almost like a natural treasure. This treasure can be found after a trip that takes 20 minutes or less by car from the Fethiye area. Looking at the above picture, it would appear that renting a lounge chair and taking in the sunshine and the calm waves would be the best route. There are also many more. You can rent a paddleboard, go paragliding, see yachts at sea, or hang out in the bars as much as you like. Your decision is entirely up to you!

Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

The following route leads to Cleopatra Beach, located directly at the foot of the Taurus Mountains! This beach in the heart of Alanya’s city will fascinate you if you plan a more energetic vacation! According to mythology, Queen Cleopatra gave the bay its name because she loved it and frequently visited to swim during her Mediterranean cruises. Whether the story is genuine or not, it is a beautiful vacation spot. It captivates visitors with its lovely white sand and clear blue waters. There are various activities besides sunbathing and swimming, such as hanging out at beach bars, engaging in water sports, and browsing the shops.

If you are looking for the best escape, apply for a turkey visa online and visit Turkish beaches once in a lifetime.

 

7 Adventures You Didn’t Know Were Feasible Türkiye

January 26, 2023

Beyond the famous and popular hot air balloon rides in the volcanic landscape of Cappadocia and under the dizzying heights of paragliding over the turquoise lagoon of Olüdeniz, Turkey’s menu of thrilling activities has plenty to offer people of all interests, ages, and financial abilities. Here are 7 amazing adventures you might not know were possible in Turkey.

You must have a reason to apply for a turkey visa online now. Visit our website and apply for a turkey e-visa online.

  1. Dive down to a Dakota DC-3 aeroplane on the Mediterranean seabed.

One of Turkey’s top diving sites is the intact, 65-foot-long Dakota DC-3 aeroplane, buried under the Mediterranean Sea and only ten minutes away by boat from KaÅŸ. It has twin engines, propellers, landing gear, and cockpit instruments. The 12.25-ton, 95-foot-wide aircraft, built during World War II and deliberately buried here in 2009, was formerly employed by the Turkish Air Force to transport paratroopers. The wreck is now home to various marine life, including stingrays, loggerhead turtles, octopuses, and scuba divers looking for underwater adventures. It is located around 70 feet under the surface of the ocean. Divers can access the plane’s cargo hold, oddly perched skyward as if getting ready for another flight.

  1. Ride the winds and surf of the Çeşme Peninsula.

The best spot in Türkiye for kites and windsurfers seeking fast speeds on the Aegean Sea is located an hour’s drive west of cosmopolitan Izmir. The Cesme Peninsula is one of the top travel locations in the world for fans of wind-powered surfing thanks to the Poyraz and Lodos winds, which once facilitated (and hampered) trade to ancient Anatolia. While more experienced kite surfers can look for the strong winds and white caps at Pirlanta Beach, beginner and intermediate surfers can enjoy the tranquil seas and shallow waters of Alaçati Bay and Urla. When the sails are down, Alaçati, an inland village of 19th-century greystone homes covered in vines, offers enough to discover in the upscale shops, chic bars, and fine eating establishments that line its narrow winding streets. Alaçati also serves as the site of the yearly PWA Windsurfing World Cup.

  1. Make “yakamoz angels” on a blue cruise during a new moon.

In Turkish, “Yakamoz,” named the most beautiful word in the world in 2007, is “phosphorescence.” When floating phytoplankton light the sea and leave a trail of twinkling light in their wake when disturbed, it is primarily understood to mean “moonlight on water,” but it can also relate to another marine event. The greatest time to view Mother Nature’s colourful display is on a Mediterranean blue cruise during a new moon when lunar light is at its lowest. To make “yakamoz angels,” passengers can dive into the water and wade on their backs.

  1. Get a bird’s-eye view of Ephesus

Most visitors spend hours seeing the ruins of the Roman Empire in Ephesus, which was named a World Heritage Site. These sites include the 25,000-seat Great Theatre, the Library of Celsus, and other structures. However, people frequently need to pay more attention to the enormous collection of relics from the Hellenistic and Neolithic eras outside the paid area. Few of the millions of visitors that walk Ephesus’ marble streets each year have also amazed at the city’s vast splendour from above.

The finest vantage point to understand the scope and scale of the city’s historical footprint is from one of the air tours available from Selçuk, which is close by. Adventurers can soar above Roman ruins, the relics of the Temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and more with microlight, ultralight, and skydiving flights. The brand-new International Türkiye Balloon Fiesta might offer a future aerial view of Ephesus, so watch it too.

  1. Sea kayak over a sunken Lycian city.

The ruins of a buried Lycian city are hidden in the waters of the Mediterranean between Kekova Island and Kaleköy. A town was shaken by an earthquake in the second century AD, causing the city’s structures to sink beneath the water. The ruins of residential buildings, stairways, and shipyards may still be seen today above and below the water as they appear to slip down Kekova Island’s side.

In addition to the masses of day-trippers on all-inclusive cruises, tourists can kayak over the underwater ruins for a slower-paced, more personal experience.

  1. Take a wild family adventure in Dalyan.

The eco-friendly town of Dalyan is one of Turkey’s most underrated coastal retreats, situated between the hedonistic beaches of Marmaris and Fethiye in a Special Environmental Protection Area. Families will love this place for its unmatched outdoor adventure possibilities. The town is home to coastal wetlands, the freshwater Köyceiz Lake, the Dalyan River, which flows into the Mediterranean, and iztuzu Beach, which serves as a breeding area for loggerhead turtles, which are a threatened species.

Take a rowboat over the river to the ancient Carian city of Kaunos, stroll past the pomegranate gardens, relax in the hot springs and mud baths that line the Dalyan River and Köycegiz Lake, and take a riverboat ride past some of Türkiye’s most stunning cliff-face Lycian tombs. Travellers have a greater possibility of seeing wildlife on land and in the sea, such as wild goats, donkeys, turtles, blue crabs, grey mullets, and sea bass. To swim and tan, continue along the river to iztuzu Beach. While there, stop at the Kaptan June Sea Turtle Conservation Foundation to see sick sea turtles being treated and hear about the local conservation efforts.

  1. Hike the gastro-trekking trails of the Kızılırmak River Basin.

Most seasoned hikers are familiar with Turkey’s long-distance Lycian Way, which follows the Mediterranean Coast. Still, a quick visit to the Cultural Routes Society website reveals that there are many other hiking options available all around the nation. It would help if you looked no further than the self-guided Gastronomy Route in the Corum Province, northeast of Ankara, to combine trekking with culinary delights. This is the first route of its kind in Turkey, and it follows the traditional migration and trade routes that were once primarily focused on the Kizilirmak River Basin. The itinerary, which includes 25 walking trails, 7 cycling trails, and a 702km car route, is best explored between April and November. The many routes provide access to the distinctive culture, crafts, and farm-to-table specialities of the communities along the Way as they pass waterfalls, forests, castles, bridges, and lakes in northern Central Anatolia.

We offer turkey visa online to Turkey for your desired tour, from romantic honeymoons to scenic self-drive road trips to significant destinations.

 

List of Most Famous Turkish Kebabs That Tempt Your Tastebuds

January 25, 2023

Kebabs are eaten in many countries worldwide, so what does the word “kebab” even mean? In essence, it’s a method of combining several types of beef meals. They are typically roasted on a spit or a skewer. According to some evidence, the name “Turkish” originally meant “grilled meat” and came from the ancient Turkic languages, which were derived partly from Arabic. We’ll list a few kebabs that will quickly become your favourites from the wide variety of kebabs available in Turkish kebab restaurants.

You must have a reason to apply for a turkey visa online now. Visit our website and apply for a turkey e-visa online.

The most popular type of kebab is marinated lamb or beef cooked on a skewer known as a “shish,” or ÅŸiÅŸ in Turkish. When cooking with them, vegetables are sometimes included. Popular veggies include eggplant, tomato, bell pepper, onions, pickles, and mushrooms.

Çöp Şiş Kebab

This and a traditional shish kebab are similar. The only real difference is that the skewers are made of wood rather than iron, but the types of marinades, meats, and vegetables used are the same. Although Cöp ÅŸiÅŸ, which translates to “rubbish shish,” frequently has more minor cuts of beef & fewer veggies, its flavour is anything from mocking! Usually fatty, the smaller chunks of meat are mashed with tomato and garlic before being mixed with spices. More minor cuts result in crispier kebabs than larger ones. They’re frequently served as starters before an enormous kebab dinner.

Adana Kebab and Urfa Kebab

Although they are featured as two distinct variants on any given menu, Adana is a hotter variation of the Urfa Kebab. The southeast region of Turkey is thought to produce the best kebab dishes (among many other cuisines), and Urfa and Adana are two of the region’s most famous cities in this region.

Both kebabs mix ground beef and lamb with onion, garlic, and local spices before hand-packing on a shish. The main difference between Urfa and Adana kebabs is in the spices, with Urfa using paprika and other milder spices (such as oregano & cumin) that still burst with flavour without being overly spicy. Adana kebabs use red pepper flakes. You can see a hole right through the middle when the meat is cooked because the dripping fat glues the heart together.

Other grilled veggies are typically served with the kebabs, although on a different shish than the kebab.

Iskender Kebab

Iskender is hugely well-liked, especially in Istanbul and Bursa, where the kebab was first created. The Turkish moniker “Iskender” (which translates to “Alexander”) honours the chef from Bursa who is credited with creating the spinning kebab known as the Döner.

Iskender kebab is made by slicing off pieces of döner kebab and placing them on little squares of pide bread. A spicy tomato sauce, creamy yoghurt, and melted cheese are next. It is frequently served with tomato and roasted peppers. One of the most substantial kebabs, it is delicious when the tastes all work together nicely.

We offer turkey visa online to Turkey for your desired tour, from romantic honeymoons to scenic self-drive road trips to significant destinations.

 

9 Must-See Excavation Sites in Türkiye

January 24, 2023

Turkey’s history is incredibly complicated and immensely diverse. Turkey is waiting for you to visit and uncover the secrets of its ancient history. With ancient archaeological sites like Gobeklitepe, mythological towns like Hattusa, whose secrets are still being revealed, and well-known ancient cities like Ephesus, Pergamon, and Troy. Whether you want to take a leisurely boat tour of ancient remains like the sunken city of Kekova in the Mediterranean or Olympos further inland. Türkiye and her historical tales are waiting for you if you are an avid explorer determined to discover as much as possible about the ancients of Catalhoyuk.

Apply for a turkey visa online, pack your bags and book a flight is all necessary to begin a fantastic vacation.

  1. Ephesus

The most significant city in the Roman Empire outside of Rome was Ephesus. The city of Asia Minor’s capital was wealthy, flourishing, and highly educated. Most tourists consider Ephesus a must-see because of the reconstructed Library of Celsus, a large amphitheatre, the Temple of Artemis, an Odeon, and essential locations in Christian history. The ancient city of Ephesus is a short-day excursion from the Aegean coast, not far from present-day Izmir.

  1. Hattusa

The Hittite people once called Hattusa their capital. The Hattusa site, which was initially thought to be nothing more than a myth, was found in the late 1800s. Archaeologists are still excavating here as they make great efforts to understand the people who lived here. Hattusa is situated in central Anatolia, some 200 kilometres east of Ankara, the country’s capital.

  1. Gobeklitepe

One of the greatest archaeological discoveries ever, Gobeklitepe, has been recognized for changing the course of human history. Gobeklitepe was initially identified in the 1960s and was given the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2018. Excavation started in 1995, and discoveries show that Gobeklitepe is 12.000 years old and dated to the 10th–8th millennia BCE. Gobeklitepe, one of the oldest religious buildings, is considered the world’s first Temple. The location has a quarry and pillars with unique carvings, inscriptions, and sculptures that are considered part of a large main temple that may include 20 different temples. Some of the larger pillars found during the excavations at Gobeklitepe, which is close to the ancient city of Sanliurfa, are kept in the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum.

  1. Olympos

Olympos is now a little beach town with plenty of bungalows and travellers. Olympos assisted in tying together towns all over the Mediterranean during the Lycian era by having access to a significant seaport. Although the city was abandoned in the 15th century, remnants of the town still exist. The region is now covered in vegetation, with trees thriving amid the Lycian ruins in the thriving city. Near Dalaman on the Mediterranean coast, Olympos is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts with access to the sea, diving, rock climbing, and more.

  1. Kekova, Sunken Ruins

A unique excavation site can be found close to Kas on the Mediterranean coast called Kekova. It’s buried! Take a boat, then, rather than explore the city’s ruins! It is breathtaking to fly over the underwater remains of the ancient Lycian town of Dolchiste. In the 2nd century, a quake triggered some of the city to be lost. Day trips from Kas are simple and reasonably priced.

  1. Catalhoyuk

One of Turkey’s oldest buildings, Catalhoyuk, contains exquisite Neolithic rock carvings and paintings. Excavations are still being on at this location, just found in the 1950s, to help us learn more about the building and its function. Near the east of Konya is the city of Catalhoyuk.

  1. Nemrut

One of Turkey’s most fascinating and spectacular archaeological sites is Mount Nemrut. Mt. Nemrut is a Hierothesion, or temple-tomb and home of the Gods that King Antiochus I of Means nearly constructed during the Hellenistic era to honour himself in life and death. In addition to statues of gods and inscriptions that illustrate Antiochos’ history and stories with Greek and Persian roots, this huge monument also has statues of an eagle and a lion, which are thought to be the site’s guardians. Mt. Nemrut is a must-see archaeological site that is situated in eastern Anatolia.

  1. Troy

In his renowned Illiad, which recounts the Trojan War, Homer mentions Troy. This site dates to 3000 BC and has a wall, gate, and watchtower remains that show it once had fortifications. The property is close to Canakkale and is easily reachable from neighbouring towns.

  1. Pergamon

Pergamon, the capital of its own Kingdom of Pergamon, was an influential metropolis during the Hellenistic era. The ruins of this ancient city, which dates to the third century BC, contain a theatre carved out of the hillside and signs of temples, bath complexes, and other structures near the contemporary settlement of Bergama.

You must have a reason to apply for a Turkish visa online now. Visit our website and apply for a turkey e-visa online.

 

Alaçati: A Sophisticated Seaside Town Where Different Tastes Meet

January 23, 2023

Alaçati, one of the cutest towns in Turkey, is the most well-liked vacation spot on the Aegean coast thanks to its renovated stone houses, attractive boutique hotels, dining and entertainment options that pour out onto the streets, and coves and beaches that are all more stunning than the last. Alaçati, often known as the “pearl of Turkey,” is a charming Izmir village on the western coast that serves as a culinary hotspot with its regional cuisine and a wide selection of mezes created with Aegean herbs.

If you are looking for the best escape, apply for a turkey visa online and visit Alacati Island once in a lifetime.

Alaçati perfectly captures the energetic Aegean attitude and transports you to a warm, genuine, and lively era with its vibrant stone houses and winding alleys. It would help if you stayed at Alaçati because as soon as you walk in the door, a revered, two-century-old mastic tree will welcome you. You will begin to feel the famous Alaçati wind as you go closer to the seaside, blowing through the unique stone homes and cobblestone streets. Stone homes covered with a random variety of flowers are lovely and helpful since the specially cut stones used to create them keep their inhabitants warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Visitors from all over the world travel to the Alaçati coastline to stay in this variety of houses.

You may smell the fragrance of countless flowers as you stroll through Alaçati’s winding, picturesque alleyways, where the warm, pleasant, and delightful Aegean environment emerges. You will be treated to the sight and smell of bougainvillaea, black pepper trees, mastic trees, mimosas, and beautiful jasmines.

Aegean’s regional cuisine makes a vibrant scene in Alaçatı.

Now that you’ve taken a stroll around Alaçati’s vibrant streets, it’s time to treat yourself and savour some Aegean cuisine! One of the best places to enjoy “kumru,” an exceptional comfort food specific to the area, is Alaçati. The unique kumru bread of Izmir, loaded with sausages, fermented Turkish sausages, tomatoes, and Tulum cheese, is a delicious summertime snack and the most excellent way to satisfy your hunger after a seaside swim.

Alaçati offers its guests a delicious spread that includes everything from appetizers to mezes and desserts. The diverse tastes available at the town’s signature dish, artichoke, to the retro-style little chairs and tables set up alongside the streets come from local restaurants to Traditional and modern recipes combined in Aegean mezes and dishes with olive oil. It’s time for dessert after all these light dishes that are distinctive to Mediterranean cuisine and are a pleasure to look at, taste, and digest. Additionally, if you want to cool off, save room for Alaçati’s very own mastic ice cream (sakizli dondurma) and mastic milk pudding (sakizli muhallebi).

Alaçatı with its sea & the wind

Alaçati is an excellent place for water activities like windsurfing because of the strong wind that blows across the clear waters. Alaçati is a popular destination for amateur and professional windsurfers worldwide when the wind speed is between 15 and 25 knots. A sizable windsurfing centre and numerous windsurfing schools are available along the shore due to Alaçati virtually being the heart of windsurfing worldwide.

Try Delikli Cove, with its beautiful waters and holey stones, if you want to escape the noise and bustle of Alaçati. For those who want to appreciate the clear water and peace, this hidden cove offers nothing short of a paradise because it shields itself from the wind around it.

You must have a reason to apply for a Turkish visa online now. Visit our website and apply for a turkey e-visa online.

 

Natures Delight Turkish Dried Fruits & Nuts

January 20, 2023

Fresh fruits have already built up a reputation for adding to a balanced and nutritious diet. They are sometimes ignored even though their “dry” counterparts are even more healthy. Dried fruits are just as delicious and nourishing for your health as fresh fruits, being a natural source of antioxidants and rich in healthy fats and protein.

Visit our web page, apply for a turkey visa online in a group or solo and if you have some queries. Kindly connect with our team of visa experts. They will be happy to help you.

It would only be possible to discuss Turkish cuisine by noting its love of all dried fruits and nuts, given that the nation leads the globe in producing and exporting dried fruits. Turkish people have a long-standing affection for these goods, and these healthy treats have become a standard in our kitchens.

Many kuruyemiş, a Turkish word for dried fruits and nuts, may be found in Türkiye. You might see multiple shops that sell these delights at affordable prices.

Southeast Turkey is home to some of the most popular kuruyemiÅŸ types, including apricots from Malatya and pistachios from Siirt and Gaziantep. The Black Sea region’s hazelnuts are among the other delicious, dried fruits and nuts produced in Turkey. These goods have stood the test of time and give tourists to Turkey a delightful vacation.

Here is a list of the finest nuts and dried fruits to energize your upcoming travels in Turkey. So why are you waiting to apply for a turkey e visa online now?

A sultana is a type of seedless grape widely cultivated in the Aegean Turkish region of Izmir. They are handled after being dried in the sun for seven to eight days during manufacture. Due to their high carbohydrate, they transform into a source of power generation once they are ready for eating.

They also include several minerals, vitamin B1 and vitamin B2. This is why their health has so many positive effects. In addition to serving as a significant energy source, sultanas also promote healthy growth in children, reduce inflammation and fever, and improve the kidneys and liver.

With a 25% production rate and 85% of its exports going overseas, Turkey leads the rest of the world in the production of sultana raisins.

Dried figs

A large chunk of the world’s fig supply is produced along the Turkish coast of the Aegean Sea. With a rate of 75%, Turkey is the leading producer of dried figs. The province of Aydin’s southwest, especially its districts of Germencik, incirliova, and Nazilli, is where figs are primarily grown. Turkish figs are distinguished from other figs by their thin skin and natural honey filling. The climate in this region is ideal for fig production.

The greatest time to harvest figs is in August. Turkish farmers then dry the figs in the sun for almost a week. If you plan to travel to Turkey during the summer, you might want to include the Aegean region in your itinerary for August to taste recently harvested figs.

Dried apricots

Malatya city in the Eastern Anatolian region is well-known worldwide for producing fresh and dried apricots. Turkish farmers harvest fresh apricots in August, but the exact period depends on how much of the fruit has matured. Turkish apricots are typically sweeter compared to those produced elsewhere in the world because of the climate in Malatya.

The vitamins A, B, C, and E, iron, calcium, and magnesium included in dried apricots, make them particularly well-known as vitamin and mineral sources. They also help in bettering bowel movements and gut health.

Dried mulberries

In Turkiye, dried mulberries are regarded as superfoods. In addition to having a great flavour, mulberries are high in calcium, vitamin C, protein, and fibre. They are the greatest snacks for dieters because they are low in calories. Mulberries help you prevent cancer and keep your skin, nails, and hair healthy. Mulberries are the finest grown in Elazig and Malatya in Türkiye and are best harvested in July and August.

You should ensure to include a few handfuls of Turkish dried mulberries in your daily diet to maintain the health of your heart.

Thompson raisins

Thompson raisins and sultanas are both made from the same sort of seedless grapes. The grapes take longer to dry and develop a virtually black colour if not dipped in a specific solution to speed up the drying process. Turkey is one of the nations with the best vine-growing conditions. Around August and September, Turkish farmers carefully collect these raisins. The outer layer of these raisins is less crunchy. Thompson raisins, which have the same heritage as Sultanas, are excellent energy sources due to their high carbohydrate.

Golden raisins

Golden raisins get their name because they are a lighter shade of golden than Sultana raisins. They help people of all ages in obtaining the vitamins and minerals they need each day.

Due to the region’s abundance of golden raisins, Türkiye is one of the greatest areas to look at. They are easier to preserve and make beautiful decorations for various delicacies, including cakes and biscuits. Golden raisins that have been dried might also ease constipation.

They guard your teeth while reducing your chances of cancer and heart attacks. If you have a sweet tooth, you should consider golden raisins as a sugar replacement in your diet.

Dried sour cherries

In Türkiye, fresh Turkish sour cherries are harvested in July and August and are often dried naturally in the sun. Due to their sweetness, juiciness, and plumpness, dried sour cherries are perfect for sweets. Dried cherries can quickly become your new favourite snack if you enjoy tangy, sweet-and-sour flavours. Like the other goods on this list, dried cherries are suitable for everyday consumption and help get the recommended intake of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they are a natural source of vitamin A, which guards the eyes, lowers the risk of cancer, boosts the immune system, and aids in the battle against skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Dried apples

The most common apple varieties in Turkey are Red Delicious, Golden, Amasya, and Granny Smith, with Red Delicious enjoying particular popularity across the board.

The dried apples from Turkey are a delectable feast of flavours because of their distinctive flavours. In supplement to being high in antioxidants, they also increase blood flow, enhance digestion, and lower the risk of several diseases. They rank among the healthiest snacks available in Turkey.

Dried prunes

One of the most adaptive fruits to eat when dried is the prune. Dried prunes, also referred to as Erik kurusu in Turkish, have a long-lasting sweet flavour and are an ideal source of vitamins and minerals.

The greatest way to experience them is to pair them with cheese, almonds, and cashews. They are a critical element in Turkish food, especially desserts. They were also well-liked during the Ottoman era when the Sultans’ families often ate them. It would help if you thought about incorporating them into your diet to lead a healthy life because they are high in fibre, potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin A.

We offer a turkey e-visa for your desired tour, from romantic honeymoons to scenic self-drive road trips for significant destinations.

 

Best Instagrammable Spots in Ä°stanbul

January 19, 2023

The city of Istanbul is brimming with picturesque locations, from Anadoluhisari (Anatolian Castle) to its sister building across the Bosphorus, Rumelihisari (Rumelian Castle); from Emirgan Korusu (Emirgan Park) in the Sariyer district to Yildiz Park, which adorns Beşiktaş; from the neighbourhoods that embellish the shores of the Istanbul Strait, such as Arnavutköy and Bebek.

We’ve gathered these photoshoots for you and made an effort to include a setting that would work for any occasion or dream. For more information about where in Istanbul to find the most beautiful land and coastlines, please keep reading, but before that, apply for a turkey visa online.

The ancient fortress, Anadoluhisari, also called Güzelce Hisar (the Beauteous Castle), is situated in the Bosphorus Istanbul. The stronghold was known as “Anadolu” by the people of Istanbul, who refer to the Asian region of the nation by that name. The Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I authorized its building as a watchtower as part of his preparations to encircle the Byzantine city of Constantinople (now Istanbul), making it the oldest surviving structure in Istanbul.

The stronghold and its sibling building, Rumelihisari, will always impress you as a photography location, whether you desire a street view or just a picture taken from the centre of the Bosphorus. Rumelihisari, which faces Anadoluhisari from across the Bosphorus, was constructed at the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II’s request and intended to cooperate with its elder sister. It is also known as Bogazkesen Castle (Strait-Blocker), and it is the most magnificent building ever. You can take the picture in parts of Istanbul with the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the background.

These two fortresses are surrounded by some beachfront districts, such as Beykoz, which offer the best vantage points for viewing the Bosphorus (or are surrounded by it). Of the two bridges, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the Bosphorus Bridge (formally known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge), these areas provide the most picturesque views.

With its Bosphorus perspective, Istanbul’s Cengelköy district on the Asian side has captured photographers’ hearts for years. Numerous cafes and restaurants are located along its beach, and their verandas provide picture-perfect views of the Bosphorus. The coastlines of Istanbul are decorated with multiple additional homes and villas just waiting to be found and taken.

The village is renowned for its wooden homes, samples of Ottoman architecture, and the Kuleli Military High School, which dates back to 1845 and is now a museum.

On the European side, various historic structures welcome photographers with the most beautiful natural settings and unique architectural features.

With its historic trams, Galata Tower, and streets that show an unmatched history outside of Istanbul, Beyoglu should be a photographer’s first stop. Istiklal Street is the most well-known of these streets. The streetcar serves an aesthetic function with its history, shape, vibrant red colour, and significance as a mode of transit. The Galata Tower, once the tallest building in the city, provides a 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Beyoglu is renowned for its arcades, which showcase a range of trends and provide insight into the region’s history.

Additionally, we suggest you use the nearby Rainbow Stairs and Kamondo Stairs, which offer an excellent opportunity to capture an unmatched Instagrammable picture.

According to legend, a banker named Kamondo had the steps built so his grandkids might use them as a shortcut to get to school. Whatever his intention, the stairs significantly contribute to the city’s urban fabric, especially that of the Karaköy district.

Ihlamur Kasri, a former imperial Ottoman summer palace in Beşiktaş, welcomes visitors who wish to snap photographs or have their images taken. The pavilions, built under Sultan Abdülmecid I (1839–1860), are one of the most magnificent examples of Ottoman structures from the 19th century, with architectural details recalling the Neo-Baroque movement.

Here is a short list of Istanbul’s most beautiful parks and woods if you wish to see more green space: Yildiz Park, Maçka Democracy Park, Gülhane Park, Atatürk Arboretum, and Belgrade Forest. If you want fresh air and fulfil your desire to snap gorgeous images of Istanbul, they are only a few stops from the city’s most important locations.

The seagulls are the most photogenic animals you will ever see, and it would be a good idea to take a ferry from Asia to the European side to see them swooping down for a bit of simit (Turkish bagels).

Süleymaniye, Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque, and Ortaköy Mosque are three of Istanbul’s most well-known mosques, and they all have decorated exteriors and interiors that match any other architectural marvel.

You’ll always feel as though you need to take more pictures to adequately capture the beauty of these works of art because of their religious significance, which gives them an aura. Near and around these mosques, there are a lot of rooftops where it’s simple to get the nicest seascapes and aerial shots of the mosques.

The Topkapi Palace, which functioned as the Ottoman sultans’ primary palace and administrative centre for centuries, can be found directly behind the Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque, near the far end of the historic hippodrome in the Fatih district. It records a significant amount of history and begs for your recording. Additionally, close by, inside the Topkapi Palace’s outer walls, is the Tiled Kiosk. It is an excellent resource for photographers because it includes numerous samples of Iznik tiles and Seljuk poetry.

Take the tram to the Baharatçilar Bazaar, Kapali Bazaar, and the side bazaars leading them to experience the local cuisine, handicrafts, and Ottoman architecture, the three things that best define Istanbul. In its Ottoman era, Misir Carşisi used to sell spices brought from Egypt; for this reason, it is also sometimes referred to as the Egyptian Bazaar.

Good if you still need to please your inner photographer. There are still several available spaces to suggest to you. Visit Haliç (also known as the Golden Horn) to view the Balat district’s winding, vibrant streets, a cultural mosaic decorated with various Jewish and Greek heritages. Continue your journey towards the district of Eyüp, where Pierre Loti Tepesi (Pierre Loti Hill) is located. This popular gathering place offers a panoramic view of the Golden Horn and serves Turkish coffee brewed on hot sand. The French novelist Pierre Loti, who lived in Istanbul for a while and visited the area, is credited with giving the hill its name.

You believed you had finished with Istanbul? Avoid doing so since Istanbul will always have cameras! The Prince Islands, also known as Adalar, are situated on the shore of Istanbul and are considered a part of the city. They are Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kinaliada, respectively. They are all reachable by the same boat. We advise you to get off in Büyükada, the largest of all, and explore its historic structures and pristine landscape.

Apply for a turkey visa online, pack your bags and book a flight is all necessary to begin a fantastic vacation.