Did you know Üsküdar is one of Istanbul’s oldest neighborhoods, alongside Sultanahmet and Galata? Although it ranks among the oldest parts of the city, Üsküdar is often overlooked by tourists. That’s a benefit if you prefer quieter streets and a more authentic local atmosphere—no long lines or selfie-stick crowds. If you want a calmer, genuine … Read more

Istanbul is one of the world’s most visited cities, prized for its mix of history, culture, lively food scene and diverse accommodation options. While luxury hotels draw affluent travellers, many visitors prefer affordable boutique hotels that combine character, location and personalized service. A number of well-run budget boutique properties around Sultanahmet give travellers the best … Read more

When I first began travel blogging I assumed it was just about writing. I soon learned it’s much more than that: great photography plays a central role. Today, most publications — big or small — expect high-resolution images to accompany a pitch, so improving my photography became as important as improving my prose. Over the … Read more

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is far more than a typical shopping center. Founded in the 15th century after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, the covered market has grown over centuries into the sprawling complex visitors see today. Construction was commissioned by Sultan Mehmet II, and rents from the shops historically supported the Hagia Sophia … Read more

Veske is a confident and experienced paragliding pilot based in Turkey. Paragliding isn’t a weekend hobby for him; it is his profession. He launches from mountainsides throughout the working week and has built a long career around the sport. Veske first jumped from an airplane with a parachute at 16 and later served as a … Read more

Uchisar in Cappadocia is best known for two main things: luxury cave hotels and the distinctive Uchisar Castle, the highest point in the region. On my first visit I couldn’t afford the upscale hotels, but I’d heard the castle is visible from miles away and offers spectacular panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and surrounding … Read more

When choosing the best places to visit in Turkey, be prepared for an abundance of options. Often described as a bridge between East and West, Turkey offers an extraordinary range of landscapes, history, and culture. Its popularity among international visitors is clear from tourist numbers that consistently place the country among the world’s top travel … Read more

Let’s be honest: Istanbul isn’t the first city most people picture for a traditional Christmas getaway. Technically, Istanbul doesn’t “celebrate Christmas” as a national holiday — December 25th is a normal working day, shops stay open, and the usual seasonal rituals like closing for the day don’t apply. You won’t find eggnog in most supermarkets … Read more

When planning a trip to Turkey, understanding the local currency and how to handle money will make your stay smoother and help you stick to your budget. Below is a clear, practical guide to using money in Turkey, covering currency, exchange options, ATMs, cards, transfers, customs rules, tax refunds and ways to save while you … Read more

The village of Uzumlu, southwest of Turkey near Fethiye, left a strong impression on me: it feels drained of energy. Many residents are elderly, houses are crumbling, and even the animals appear undernourished and tired. Where are the young people? Where is the optimism and the sense of a future full of possibility? My Thoughts … Read more