In the center of old Urfa, beside the historic pool of Abraham, lies Ayni Zeliha Lake. Favored by locals, the gardens around the lake fill with people on weekends who sit and sip tea while watching the water. The lake is modest in size and not dramatic in appearance, but it draws visitors for a … Read more

In Turkey’s Rize province lies the Fırtına Valley, a landscape of dense green hills that feels a world away from Istanbul or the Aegean coastline. The area preserves a distinctly rural character: traditional Black Sea-style guesthouses, small villages, and customs that remain close to their roots. The valley is defined by the river that runs … Read more

Istanbul’s cuisine blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions with abundant fresh produce, making it a top destination for food lovers. From perfectly seasoned kebabs to rich, syrupy pastries, the city offers a wide variety of flavors and textures. Whether you plan a dedicated food tour or simply want to sample highlights while sightseeing, the following … Read more

Planning a trip to Turkey’s Aegean coast? You’re in the right place. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, savor fresh meze, or unwind by the sea, this Turkish Aegean travel guide will help you build a practical, enjoyable itinerary. Stretching roughly 2,800 km along Türkiye’s western shoreline, the Aegean region is beloved for its … Read more

Beypazarı is a favored weekend escape for many Turks, especially visitors from Ankara and Istanbul. Before my trip I had assumed I knew most of Turkey’s notable places, yet Beypazarı was new to me — a pleasant surprise given the town’s reputation for well-preserved traditional Ottoman houses. Ottoman Houses of Beypazarı I arrived at night, … Read more

As part of a monthly series on ways to support yourself financially while travelling or relocating to Turkey, one frequently recommended option is teaching English as a foreign language. Although I haven’t personally taught English in Turkey, many peers have chosen this route because it is among the most accessible legal work options for foreigners. … Read more

I spent three days in Trabzon, Turkey, and as a solo female traveler I felt safe and comfortable. The city is easy to navigate and the locals were warm and welcoming. While many people outside the region associate Trabzon primarily with its football team, Trabzonspor, the city has much more to offer than sports. About … Read more

Istanbul is a vast city filled with thousands of landmarks, many of which date back to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. While some sites are better known than others, each landmark contributes to the city’s distinctive skyline and history. Below are 14 postcard-worthy views of iconic places across Istanbul, presented with concise descriptions and images. … Read more

A stroll down the back streets of Beypazari revealed rows of shops where traditional trades continue to thrive—crafts that vanished long ago from many places. One of the craftsmen I met was Ahmet, a skilled coppersmith known locally as a bakirci or kalayci. His shop caught my eye because of a sign that showed his … Read more

I have always been lukewarm about the Aegean resort of Kuşadası. To me it can feel commercial and overly geared toward cruise passengers, with prices that spike when ships arrive and a visible focus on foreign tourists. That said, it remains a popular holiday destination—particularly for package deals and last-minute trips to the Turkish Riviera—and … Read more