• About
  • Blog
  • Working together
  • Testimonials
  • Contact

Girl Gone Travel

Girl Gone Travel

Asia, Europe, Travel
/
February 1, 2017

Travel through Turkey in Photos

Enjoyed this post? Give it some love and share!
Share

I arrived to Istanbul with eyes wide open, eager to learn its history and hear the stories of those I met along the way. I found out almost immediately that the Turkish people are very aware of the preconceptions that they thought I, as an American, might have of them. They wanted to make sure that I walked away from every experience with a deeper understanding of their culture, religions, and people. This made me feel ashamed, and yet grateful for the opportunity they extended to me at every turn. What would follow then would be the welcoming of everyone I would meet, whether it was through the generosity of food or offering of cultural knowledge.

As I wondered around I found people fascinated by the fact that I was from America. I often found myself approached by teens and kids wanting to practice their English with me, locals curious about where I was from. I found this warm reception humbling. I also was embarrassed that we Americans rarely extend this kind of warmth to them in our own country.

The experience was a great reminder what we can learn about others through travel. By opening myself up to these encounters I walked away feeling la fuller person.

Where I stayed

The Renaissance Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel is located in the European side of Istanbul, and many of its rooms overlook the gorgeous Bosphorus Strait which serves as the border between the European and Asian sides of the country. Travel tip: Some of the best views of Istanbul are from the water, especially at sunset.

Fishermen waiting for a catch from the Bosphorus.


The New Mosque, built between 1660 and 1665.

The hotel’s location is perfect for this first-time visitor because of its proximity to many of the beautiful monuments and lively markets and bazaars, which were ideal for people-watch, shopping and and great food.

But aside from the city, I loved being able to venture out to tour the ruins of Ephesus in the coastal town of Kusadasi, a must if you are looking for a more laid-back experience in your trip.

These images give a glimpse of my travels through and around Istanbul. In a country so often caught up in conflict and from which so much fear is spread, especially in our country about religious groups and specific destinations around the world, it is important to move beyond the noise and see the truth of what so many, whom we have labeled as “other”, have to teach us. I hope my images give you an insight into this beautiful country and its inspiring culture and people.

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Otherwise known as the Blue Mosque for the beautiful tile work that adorns it, this functioning house of prayer and worship was built in 1616. Expect to see many in prayer when you visit. Conservative attire, with legs and shoulders covered (but no shoes inside), is a must.

Hagia Sophia

This museum originally was a Greek Orthodox Church before it was converted into a mosque after the a Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople in 1453. What’s so unique about this museum is that you see imagery and symbolism of both religions displayed throughout, a reminder of Turkey’s religious history and diversity.

The spice market

I loved everything about the spice market in Istanbul: the energy, the fast pace, the crowd, the smells, the colors. It definitely is worth a visit. I purchased a ridiculous amount of spices and the vendors, eager to make a sale, will happily tell you how to best make use of them. Don’t forget to stock up on Turkish sweets too!

The Grand Bazaar

Go to the Grand Bazaar with plenty of time to spare. Not only is there a lot to see (and shop for), but there also are many hidden alleyways and stairs; these are fun to explore because they lead into some pretty spectacular places. Be ready to negotiate for better prices!

House of the Virgin Mary

 

To explore more of Turkey’s diverse history, one must travel outside of Istanbul and up to Mt. Koressos, near Selçuk. There you will find the house of Mary, mother of Jesus, where she lived till her death. Many believe John finished writing the Bible here.
Mt. Koressos is glorious. I took a moment to enjoy some Turkish coffee and a light snack before exploring the ruins.

Turkish coffee

Speaking of coffee, some say Turkish coffee and Greek coffee are the same. They are similar in many ways except in how they are brewed. Pictured here is the traditional way in which Turkish coffee is prepared. Feeling tired? This will wake you right up!

Want to learn more about this fabulous, ancient drink? Check out my video!

Basilica of St. John

Located in Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John was constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century. It is believed that the burial site of John the Apostle is located here. The views of the valley and the village from here are outstanding.

Ephesus ruins.

To the beach!

Ladies Beach is a popular beach located in the beach town of Kusadasi. This beach was once segregated for women only, and now is open to all. (It also is a favorite local hangout on weekends and during the summer months.) There’s nothing like bathing in the Aegean sea and hanging out with locals!

Unlike when in the busy city, I felt I could breathe in the coast of Turkey. So beautiful and peaceful. Arrive during off-season and it’s as if you have the entire sea to yourself.

Pamukkale

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is 14,000 years old! Visitors are welcomed to take off their shoes and walk over and into the hot springs and travertine. The name means “white castle,” which describes the layers of limestone walls that make up this spectacular destination.

The site is ancient and beautiful, and a wonderful reprieve from the often hot weather.

So many sights, so little time.

Turkey leaves your senses feeling overwhelmed with all its flavors and sounds and colors. So much to see and so much to do, I touched only but a bit of it all during my visit. Everything I tasted, whether from a street cart or a restaurant left me wanting more.

Chestnuts roasting as night falls over Istanbul.

Turkey remains one of the most excited places that I have ever visited because of all I learned from the people I met, a gift for which I am eternally grateful.

Related

Enjoyed this post? Give it some love and share!
Share
Pin this Post
Share this Post
Carol Cain

Brooklyn native Carol is happiest when on an adventure, whether close to home or farther away. She is a small business owner and travel writer. In addition to creating Girl Gone Travel, she is the Founder and Principal of Brave World Media, a social media marketing, communications, and branding agency. She's mom to three wonderful sons and wife to a handsome Irish/Scot. She lives, works, and plays in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of NY.

You May Also Like...

Christmas Tree Hunting in Long Island, NY

December 12, 2008

Fort Tryon Park, Washington Heights, NY

December 10, 2008

Winter afternoon in the Bronx Zoo, NY

December 16, 2008
2 Comments
  • Nnennaya
    March 22, 2017

    I have been to Turkey during my cruise ship adventure. I only got to spend a few hours there because we had to return to our ship. I plan to visit there someday soon to explore….it’s a beautiful land. I loved visiting the Ephesus ruins….magnificent!

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Nnennaya
      March 23, 2017

      I hope you make it out again! It\’s wonderful.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Previous Post
The year of road tripping
Next Post
The Story of an Iranian Refugee: My Sister

About me

Hi! I'm Carol! I am an award-winning travel blogger, a keynote speaker, and the Principal and owner of Brave World Media, a social media marketing, communications, and branding agency. I a wife to a handsome Irish/Scot and a mom to 3 sons and 2 puppies. Welcome to my blog where I share stories of my travels and professional public relations insights and advice. Thank you for reading and for your support!

Carol Cain

Categories

  • Asia5 Post(s)
  • Caribbean17 Post(s)
  • Central America4 Post(s)
  • Europe53 Post(s)
  • North America315 Post(s)
  • Oceana1 Post(s)

Contact

  • carol@girlgonetravel.com

Follow @girlgonetravel

Hubby and I recently went to check out office spac Hubby and I recently went to check out office spaces for our business. We (I) started getting caught up in the perceptions of what other people might think about our business, or rather, how successful or serious it was with us operating it from our home. So, in order to keep up with the Joneses, we went out and searched. And immediately were like, "Nope."

One, it was an additional expense that we were taking on to convince other people of whatever we (I) thought they needed to be convinced of. And two, it felt like....well, like working out of an office, something which I personally haven't done in over a decade (almost two now) and which my husband just escaped from!

And lastly, we like to go out into the communities that our clients serve, but also that we live in, and get to experience it all ourselves. It makes us a great agency.

I share all of this because I am slowly coming to accept that there will always be those who will make a determination of who we are as people, as professionals, as a business simply from what they think they know, not from actuality...and..we (I) am still working on breaking down the toxic traits of corporate / professional influence and narratives.

As once a full-time travel blogger, I experienced first hand what it is to be dismissed and not taken seriously. But, because of my travel blogging work, I have visit over 40 countries (and still counting) and have been published and spoken on stages around the world. That doesn't just happen.

All this to say, as I (we) move away from renting an office in order to be taken more seriously by the corporate world...and save ourselves some money in the process...we are reminded to work on ourselves and on being our own biggest cheerleaders and advocates. Sure, we seek out support and mentorship and always work on learning and refining our skill. But can't pay attention to what others might be thinking. It will never be an accurate portrayal.

And a lesson to never, ever spend more money than we have to just to convince others how serious we are in our commitment to our work. In the meantime, our current office spaces are working out just fine.

#entrepreneur #smallbusiness
A band of misfits on a beautiful Finger Lakes nigh A band of misfits on a beautiful Finger Lakes night.

Life is too short and time too precious, so make sure to spend it with people who bring you joy and make you laugh. Whether it’s one person or more…it’s not the number of people, but the quality and kindness of their hearts that counts.

Here are some of the kind, sweet friendships we’ve been so lucky to have cultivated in our new home. Kisses and hugs @haejones32, @sarahloublagg, @nevetsretlaw, and @jerakahheady.

Till our next gathering! 

#friends #fingerlakeslife #fingerlakes
My happy place: the farmers market. It’s the sea My happy place: the farmers market. It’s the season for all the fresh, local, delicious goodness of the Finger Lakes to take center stage.

The region has a lot more than fried and fast food to offer locals and visitors. The vast amount of organic and locally sourced food is something that is really celebrated here. Even more so the fact that it is accessible and not exclusive to the privileged.

From cider to cheese to meats and veggies…all local, all from a passionate farming community. 

Oh, then, the artisans. *swoon* So much handcrafted beauty. For example, this beautiful hat from @easylivinghats. I have been wanting one of her hats forever and finally got not one but two! And her team, seen here, is so sweet and helped me find the right fit. Support local, shop small, be happy in the process. 📸@ithacafarmersmarket. 

#fingerlakes #myflx #farmersmarket #shoplocal #shopsmall
Hey, wanna come to a cool event in one of the cool Hey, wanna come to a cool event in one of the coolest places I know in Ithaca? (Read on!)

Today I took a stroll into the pavilion of the @ithacafarmersmarket. There was no market today, and though still a lovely space when empty, nothing compares when the market is buzzing with food purveyors and food-lovers! It is exciting and a favorite pastime of ours. Even more fun is when there is a special event happening!

And with that, I want to let you all know about the upcoming @tasteoftheflx taking place on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at the Ithaca Farmers Market and offer you a discount code for your ticket! Use BRAVE20 for $20 off of either ticket tier.

The event will feature 50 + vendors, music in 3 acts, and a full evening of celebration! Taste of the Finger Lakes serves the dual purposes of showcasing the dynamic Finger Lakes food and beverage industry while raising funds for 3 non-profits doing the important work of improving access to healthy food across the region. Local, good food for a good cause...the best combination!

If you already have your ticket or plan to take advantage of this discount code to purchase it, let me know! I hope to see you there!

#fingerlakes #tasteofthefingerlakes #flxfood #flxeats #farmersmarket #ithacany
Cheers and Happy Pride to this beautiful, inspirin Cheers and Happy Pride
to this beautiful, inspiring, proud community full of people that I love so much.

To my LGTBQIA+ family and friends, know I adore you, would fight for, and support you always. You make my life and the world a more beautiful place. I celebrate you today, this month, and always. 

Thank you for being you. 🌈

#pridemonth #loveislove
What a stunning day to be on the lake with my fam. What a stunning day to be on the lake with my fam. We missed spending time with each other and it was time for us to slow down and bond. Even the surly teens eventually gave in to the fun and smiled a few times. Have I told y’all how much I love our new life here?

#lifeintheflx #fingerlakes #lifeinthecountry #soflx #thisissoflx #Lakelike #myflx #keukalife #winecountry

Copyright © 2022 Girl Gone Travel | Privacy Policy | Copyright Notice