Mysterious Holidays in Turkey

Visit two continents in one trip by doing your holiday in wonderful Turkey. Straddling Europe and Asia, a small part of the country’s land (Thrace) is in Europe, while the larger part is what was formerly known as Asia Minor or Anatolia. The unique distinction makes Turkey an excellent tourist destination, as the blend of East and West as well as the succession of great empires that ruled its territories left a rich, diverse heritage. Similarly, the largest city and former capital, Istanbul, is the only major city in the world that is situated in two continents. Ranked third best city in Europe, Istanbul is home to magnificent monuments of the past glory, like the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi and Dolmabahçe Palaces, Galata Tower, Chora Church and Basilica Cistern. It also offers contemporary attractions, such as the Miniaturk, Museum of Archeology, and the lovely Bosphorus shoreline village of Ortaköy, where the artists and literati converge.

After journeying through Istanbul, it’s time you head to the other fabulous destinations of Turkey. Visit Ankara and see relics of empires that once ruled the nation. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in the Ankara Castle has a rich collection of artefacts on display, while the Mustafa Kemal Atatürk mausoleum called Anitkabir exhibits a collection of Atatürk memorabilia. Near the capital is the moonscaped Cappadocia region, where one is transported, literally, to a fairy tale world. Walking through the Cappadocian cities of Göreme, Uçhisar and Nevsehir lets you see the Fairy Chimneys and rock houses up close, as well as exploring underground cities, monasteries and temples used by early Christians fleeing persecution. To really appreciate the beauty of the region, hot-air balloon tours are available for those wishing to view the natural formations from above, while adventurous types can stay in one of the several cave houses converted into first-class hotels.

A fitting finale for your Turkey holiday is a visit to the Turkish Riviera. The country’s Turquoise Coast compares well with other beach destinations elsewhere in the Mediteranean, with sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes and lively nightlife. The resort city of Antalya is the hub in this region, as one gets to the smaller seaside cities like Kemer, Ölüdeniz and Fethiye from it. In Antalya, one can see ancient ruins and modern malls, monuments dating back from prehistoric times like the Hadrian’s Gate and Hidirlik Tower, and  beaches like Konyaalti and Lara. South of Antalya is the town of Demre (ancient town of Myra) which is where St. Nicholas of Myra - the original Santa Claus - lived. Demre also has Lycian rock tombs in the cliff sides and Roman ruins. For some adventure, venture into the town of Olimpos, where spartan accommodations in tree house style bungalows, isolated beach area that require traversing through ruins, and lively backpackers’ bars welcome visitors. In the neighboring village of Cirali you get to witness the eternal flame of Chimera on the hillside - just one more mystery in  your fairytale journey in Turkey.

Marice Willard is a travel writer who writes for Zencarhire.com - Zen car hire offer cheap car hire in 17,000 locations worldwide.  To book your car hire Ireland  visit www.zencarhire.com