Since I began this blog, it has become clear that history is my true passion when exploring Turkey. Give me a choice between a nightclub and an ancient site and I will always pick the ruins. Ask me to write a recipe or describe an archaeological site, and the ruins will win every time. Perhaps … Read more

If you’re seeking a lesser-known Greek island with a welcoming atmosphere, medieval villages, and beautiful beaches that can be enjoyed over a weekend, Chios is calling. Just a short 30-minute ferry from Çeşme, Chios (also called Sakız Ada or Mastic Island in Turkish) is a refreshing alternative to the usual island-hopping routes. Because Chios is … Read more

Miletus is one of several ancient ruin sites I visited recently along Turkey’s Aegean coast. While the grandeur of Ephesus sets a very high bar, Miletus left a strong impression. The open-air remains create an atmosphere that invites reflection about the city’s long history. Many local tour operators include Miletus on their itineraries, and it’s … Read more

Yesilkent is a coastal village on the Aegean coast of Turkey that for years remained off the usual tourist radar. It was a peaceful retreat, known mainly to locals, expats and the occasional traveler who discovered it through blogs and forums. The area offered a handful of beaches, a few simple restaurants and a relaxed … Read more

If you ask any of my friends what my favorite drink is, they might guess Red Bull or beer. The surprise is that it’s actually Ayran, a simple Turkish yogurt-based drink enjoyed by millions every day. Ayran is often offered to soothe an upset stomach in Turkey; its cool, slightly salty flavor can be surprisingly … Read more

Turkey is a favourite holiday destination for British travellers and offers something for every taste: long sandy beaches, lively resort towns, ancient ruins, excellent cuisine and potent local spirits. With diverse landscapes and distinct seasons, Turkey can be enjoyed year-round. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do and see — … Read more

My trip to Turkey’s northeastern Black Sea region remains vivid in my memory. Away from the coastal cities of Trabzon and Rize, the landscape becomes a patchwork of green hills, tea plantations and a cool, damp climate that feels unlike much of the rest of the country. Village life there is simple and rooted in … Read more

Hot air balloons over Cappadocia, tulips blooming across Istanbul in April, snow-capped peaks in Erzurum, and golden sunsets on the Aegean coast — Turkey truly offers attractions year-round. With so much to see and do, a common question is: When is the best time to visit Turkey? Most visitors and locals agree that spring is … Read more

Visit the Mediterranean resorts of Kas and Kalkan, and you’ll quickly notice that most local travel agents offer boat trips to the sunken ruins of Kekova. Situated opposite the historic village of Simena (Kalekoy), these submerged remains receive little attention in mainstream guidebooks, yet during the busy summer months hundreds of visitors pass by daily. … Read more

Kemer is typical of many coastal resorts in Turkey: it caters to tourists with crowded beaches, a cluster of five-star hotels and plenty of shops ready to empty your wallet. Yet beneath the polished facade I wanted to find a different side of Kemer — one that wasn’t constantly driven by commerce. The town is … Read more