For years, many culturally minded people in Turkey have worried that the centuries-old craft of handmade Turkish carpets is fading, replaced by cheaper machine-made rugs sold at a fraction of the price. In response, carpet weavers’ associations have pooled resources, strengthened networks, and worked to educate the public about the traditional processes and value of … Read more

Many visitors are surprised to discover that Turkey is a wine-producing country. After a day of sightseeing, few pleasures rival sitting on a balcony with a glass of Turkish wine and reflecting on the fact that viticulture in this region dates back millennia. Despite a long winemaking history, some say Turkey finds it challenging to … Read more

Looking for a Greek island escape less than an hour from Türkiye? Or wondering how to travel between Bodrum and Kos? The Bodrum to Kos ferry is a convenient, popular option. In a short ride you can swap Turkish döner for Greek gyros, stroll bougainvillea-lined streets, and relax on sunlit beaches and historic sites. Whether … Read more

Demirkapi Plateau is one of the most surreal places I have visited in Turkey. Tucked high in the Kaçkar Mountains, we left Uzungöl early and followed the Haldizen road upward. The route wound through dense forest, twisted at every bend, and ran beside a fast-flowing mountain stream. Our purpose was to visit yayla houses: simple … Read more

My visit to Simena was brief, and it left me with a lingering sense of regret. After exploring the submerged ruins around Kekova, we arrived in the harbor and made our first stop at a crowded restaurant for cold drinks and homemade ice cream. Soon after, we were back on our way toward Ucagiz. Also … Read more

Did you know you can reach more than ten Greek islands directly from Türkiye? It’s true. If you’re tired of crowded Antalya beaches or the usual Mykonos–Santorini route, consider island hopping from Turkey to Greece for a fresher itinerary. There are many ferry routes between Türkiye and Greece, several lasting less than an hour, and … Read more

For vegetarians traveling the world, food concerns go beyond the ordinary: you want meals that are delicious, affordable, safe, and suited to your dietary needs. In some destinations that can be challenging, but in Istanbul you can relax—this vast, vibrant city offers a wealth of vegetarian-friendly dining options. Turkish cuisine is naturally accommodating to plant-based … Read more

If you visit Turkey’s Aegean coast, make time for the hilltop village of Sirince. Renowned throughout the country for its local wines and tastings, Sirince sits on a pleasant mountainside offering scenic views and a charming village atmosphere. Narrow streets are lined with shops where you can taste wines, sample regional products, and browse handmade … Read more

Update – July 2016 – If you are here seeking information after the July 15th coup attempt in Turkey, follow guidance from your government’s travel department. Insurance and other protections can be invalidated if you act contrary to official advice. As of July 18, the U.S. State Department updated its guidance: “In light of the … Read more

The Aegean coast of Turkey runs from the northern approaches near Istanbul down along the west coast to the Marmaris region. Once a chain of fishing villages, the small resorts that dot this shoreline are now popular holiday destinations offering a relaxed atmosphere, local character and plenty of options for independent travellers. Mass tourism is … Read more