The Republic of Turkey
Updated: Jan 3
By: Jean-Paul Courville
As an American to hear the word Turkey in a school geography class followed with a giggle is quite typical. Why? Americans associate a turkey with Thanksgiving feast so the country of Turkey is learned about much later in world history and geography. The stories of Constantinople (prior to Istanbul) and the Ottoman Empire quickly were dismissed from my memories as a young man.
I made it to Turkey, exploring Istanbul from the Blue Mosque, the Grand bazaar, the Golden Horn, the Basilica Cisterna, and to the beauty of Cappadocia.
Blue Mosque Istanbul Golden Horn Istanbul Maidens Tower Istanbul by Bike Galata Tower Kunefe Istanbul The Grand Bazaar Istanbul Nights Hagia Sophia Basilica Cistern Istanbul The Golden Horn nights Basilica Cistern
Biking in Istanbul
The fairy-tale wonder of Cappadocia
Following a 90 minute flight Cappadocia appeared as though it truly was from a time long ago or a time in the future. Hot air balloons, hikes, biking, and touring the area will give you what you came searching for. My reservation for a hot air balloon ride was cancelled due to snowfall but, a blessing comes in disguise. I rented a mountain bike and rode into the snow covered Cappadocia for a blessed days experience.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia Turkey The wonder of Cappadocia Mushroom Valley Red Valley Cappadocia Cappadocia Cappadocia Mushroom Valley Cappadocia Cappadocia Ihlara Valley Cappadocia Cappadocia Seramik pottery Cappadocia Blue Eye Red Valley Cappadocia Red Valley Red Valley Welcome to Cappadocia
Biking in the snow
