Turkey is not only a beach holiday, but also the most fascinating excursions
For some reason, a vacation in Turkey has recently become associated exclusively with beach holidays in inexpensive all-inclusive hotels. But we must not forget that its territory was part of the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman empires, so in terms of the number of attractions, the state is not inferior to Italy or Greece. Therefore, every self-respecting traveler across countries and continents will set off in search of Troy in Hisarlik, visit the Temple of Diana in Ephesus, and also take a sea trip to the island of Kekova, where a sunken city is visible underwater. The dazzling white columns of Greek temples, Roman aqueducts, majestic mosques and Orthodox churches coexist wonderfully under the cloudless blue sky of Turkey. The mixture of cultures and religions attracts and beckons wanderers to unravel all the mysteries of this unique and distinctive country.
This country is full of ancient legends. In Patara, they say, Apollo was born, in Latuna lived his mother – the goddess of oblivion Leto, in Yantrashe the hero Bellerophon, having mounted the winged Pegasus, defeated the monstrous Chimera.
It is hard to decide where to go first. Maybe look at the ancient castle of Kaleköy? Or the underwater city on the island of Kekova? Sailing past flooded buildings and the ancient port, through the blue thickness of water you can make out Lycian sarcophagi.
And how impressive are the tombs of the ancient nobility in Myra! They look like fairytale palaces. Or the stone-carved statues of gods on Mount Nemrut, near the small town of Adıyaman in the east of the country. Ten-meter statues have been adorning the height of two thousand meters for two and a half thousand years. Scientists are still guessing how they managed to lift them to such a height without modern technology.
However, there are plenty of natural phenomena in Turkey as well. Some of them you will see if you go on a tour to Pamukkale. The name of this place translates as 'Cotton Castle', because the surroundings near the nearby city resemble giant structures made of cotton. In fact, these are calcium deposits that the local hot springs are rich in. Take a swim in one of them, and then go to the favorite city of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra – Hierapolis. They say the secret of her unfading beauty lies in the wonderful water of the pool in which she loved to bask. And to this day there is a belief that whoever bathes in this magical spring will become ten years younger.
Besides, have you never suddenly had a desire to follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great? If so, then go to Turkey and head straight to see the ruins of Phaselis – the great commander loved to rest there in winter. And if you decide to arrange a holiday in Marmaris, be sure to try the local honey. Particularly famous is 'virgin honey' – a variety that has a delicate and mild taste.
Are you delighted by the market hustle and bustle and the aromas of eastern spices? Then head north of Bodrum to the city of Izmir, known for its numerous markets. And the beautiful and mesmerizing dances of graceful and passionate Turkish women performing the magical belly dance will not only ignite a fire in everyone, but also make you love this special country forever.