Istanbul
Wherever you are staying in Turkey, a trip to Istanbul is a must for the Blue Mosque, the Cathedral Aya Sofia and the palace Istanbul is where east meets west, making Istanbul an exciting blend of sophistication and the souk. Haggle for bargains in leather, lace and pottery and sample delicious food and pastries.
Most tour companies offer a full day to Istanbul, or if you make your own way you can take a full day or half-day tour round the city with a tour company. If you stay overnight, you can also enjoy an Istanbul By Night cruise along the Bosphorus, or sample some of the finest restaurants serving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food. It is also easy to get to ancient sites such as Troy from Istanbul – as well as Gallipoli.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
Ephesus
The ancient Roman city of Ephesus is usually a half-day tour from holiday resorts and in the afternoon tourists usually visit the home of the Virgin Mary – legend says that after the death of Christ, St Paul smuggled Mary to the hills above Ephesus where she lived in a secluded house. Visitors can draw water from a well in the garden to take home as a souvenir.
Ephesus itself is one of the most impressive Roman sites, as the city was once the capital of Asia Minor and boasts the Temples of Hadrian and Trajan. You can also see the reputed tomb of Cleopatra’s younger sister Princess Arsinoe, who led a revolt against her sister but was captured and murdered by Cleopatra’s troops. Ephesus also boasts an impressive set of ancient Roman public lavatories – great for that photo opportunity.
Bodrum
If you are not staying in Bodrum, a day trip is essential – either by boat or an organised day’s coach excursion. Bodrum is known as the Turkish Riviera and has more than a touch of the south of France about it, with a spectacular marina and some fabulous shops. This is an excellent centre for designer goods and picking up souvenirs.
Turkey has a French influence so you can take tea in a French patisserie in the afternoon – or opt for a traditional tea house in a cool side street. There is also a castle to visit to keep the children and him indoors happy. When looking for bargains in stylish Bodrum, go for leather jackets and lace or pottery.
Bodrum, Turkey
Pamukkale
Pamukkale (“Cotton Fortress”) is the ancient spa city of Hieropolis where the remains of the Temple to Apollo are still in evidence. The main attraction is, however, the warm spa waters of Pamukkale, which are said to have special properties thanks to the calcium content.
The waters stream down the rocks leaving a snowy white deposit of calcium to form travertines and then settle in pools. Pamukkale is usually taken as a full or half-day trip – remember to take a bathing suit if you want to enjoy the waters of the Sacred Pool, for which you have to pay a small fee.
Suffering sickness in Turkey can be distressing, especially when it wasn’t your fault. If you do suffer sickness ensure you complain to your holiday rep and ensure they make a note of your complaint. This can be used as evidence if you decide to make a compensation claim.