Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul is the city’s busiest pedestrian thoroughfare and one of Turkey’s most vibrant streets. Commonly called Istiklal Caddesi in Turkish and located near Taksim Square, this 1.4-kilometre avenue is a must-see for visitors. Lively from morning until late at night, Istiklal combines spotless pedestrian routes and restored façades with a rich Ottoman … Read more

Walking the sacred path of Miletus was a surprisingly demanding experience. I completed the route despite a severe hangover from the previous night, and the trail itself is a challenging 14-kilometer stretch of uneven grass and stone that winds up and down through open countryside and low hills. My walking companion, whom I met for … Read more

The House of the Virgin Mary near Selçuk sits close to the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey’s İzmir province. Despite its popularity, many visitors to Ephesus skip the short detour up the mountain to see the modest stone house believed by some to be where Mary, mother of Jesus, lived out her final years. … Read more

Planning to visit Yildiz Palace in Istanbul? As one of the city’s most underrated attractions, it remains a delightful hidden gem. This guide covers everything you need to know. Yıldız Palace is often skipped in favor of better-known Ottoman sites like Topkapı or Dolmabahçe, but it is equally compelling and steeped in history and intrigue. … Read more

My excitement about visiting the Blue Cave was likely amplified because, as I set out on the path that led me there, I had never heard of the cave and had no idea of the natural beauty I was about to witness. My story begins with a trip to the Greek island of Meis and … Read more

With Turkey increasingly regarded as an attractive destination for expats, many people want clear, practical information about living in Turkey permanently. It’s understandable—the country offers a compelling lifestyle—but it’s not without challenges. For me, relocating from the UK improved my quality of life. I didn’t own property at home and found work quickly in the … Read more

Expats often compare crime in Turkey with crime in the UK. I have heard variations of the same comments many times: “The Turkish police would not put up with that nonsense.” “I can tell you now that the Turkish police would beat the s*** out of them.” It would be wrong to assume crime doesn’t … Read more

Most domestic travel in Turkey has traditionally relied on an extensive intercity bus network, but an increasing number of travelers are choosing domestic flights for speed and convenience. Airfares are not always cheaper than bus tickets, yet sometimes the additional cost can be as little as about $20. For many travelers, saving hours on the … Read more

On your first visit to Istanbul, Turkey, I do not recommend venturing too far off the beaten path. While adventurous travel can be rewarding, steering clear of the city’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks risks missing the very sites that define Istanbul. Highlights such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet, the Grand … Read more

Bodrum, on Turkey’s Aegean coast, draws an eclectic mix of visitors: celebrities and wealthy travelers, budget holidaymakers, solo explorers and white-collar residents from big cities. Its broad appeal is reflected in Bodrum’s reputation as one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. Part of that popularity comes from the wide range of accommodation and services, from … Read more