Adventure, relaxation, or both? Whip up the perfect holiday mix this summer at any one of Turkey’s one-stop destinations. Which of these sounds like your perfect summer getaway?
Cappadocia: the land of ‘fairy chimneys’
A few reasons why Cappadocia should be on your radar: it is a geological anomaly dotted with towering honeycombed rock pinnacles dubbed ‘fairy chimneys’, it is home to an extensive network of underground cities and mysterious subterranean chambers, and its eroded volcanic terrain lends it a dreamy, lunar landscape. Whether you’re drawn in by the hiking potential of the place, by its troglodyte lifestyle or by its historic and cultural significance, Cappadocia serves up a one-of-a-kind experience. But it’s also home to luxurious hotels and resorts, set into cave-like structures, making it suited not just to thrill seekers but also those after some relaxation.
Izmir: the pearl of the Aegean
Garlanding the azure-blue Bay of Izmir, the coastal city is peppered with beach resorts, some of which are known to offer unrivalled windsurfing experiences. Izmir also makes for an ideal base from which to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Pergamum, as well as the calcium-terraced pools of Pamukkale. The city is of particular interest to repeat visitors to Turkey, looking to get away from popular tourist destinations but still enjoy a taste of Turkish shopping, cuisine and culture.
Trabzon: an unexplored gem
Turkey's green and lively Black Sea city, Trabzon draws more attention by the day thanks to its rich cultural and historical heritage, highlands painted in tones of green and varied cuisine. Most people come to Trabzon to visit the Hanging Monastery of Sumela — hewn into a rock face, it is one of Turkey’s most powerful sights — and the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon. But the city also makes for an ideal shore-side holiday, away from the bustle of tourist hotspots.
This royal building was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn. The exterior and interior of this building is an amalgamation of Thai and Western architectural styles. This particular king was one of the first Thai Royals to travel to Europe which is where the inspiration probably came from. As with the grand palace visitors are required to wear appropriate dress. Timings: Daily...
The American Museum of Natural History was founded in 1869, and first opened in 1877. Today’s iconic Neo-Romanesque building was constructed shortly after. The grounds are located in Theodore Roosevelt Park (named for the father of the former president), right across Eighth Avenue from Central Park. The museum has a collection of more than 32 million items, thanks in large part to the expeditio...
Originally proposed to be called The Kuwait Telecommunications Tower, the Liberation Tower was completed after the Gulf War, even though work had started before the invasion. It was inaugurated with the new name in order to celebrate the country’s freedom, and to symbolize Kuwait’s liberation from Iraq. It is one of the tallest telecommunications structures in the world and the tallest monument in...
This is a sprawling estate situated along the Moscow River. It is ideal for those who want a break from the fast paced city life of Moscow. It consists of luscious green gardens and orchards which are ideal picnicking spots where tourists can unwind. Visitors can go on boat rides along the river, or simply enjoy the fresh air against the backdrop of the beautiful Church of the Ascension built in t...