PLACES Bodrum: A Day Trip to the Turkish Riviera Posted on October 12, 2024October 12, 2024 We walked in and out of little shops along the long footpath near the water until we reached the inner part of the town. Glad to be shaded from the sun by a large undulated tarp of living plants above our heads. We found a little cafe and decided to have a snack which was delicious. The boys got henna tattoos and I bought a few pieces of jewelry. I bought a pendant with the Turkish eye to ward off against the evil eye. Read more
PLACES How to Spend 24 Hours in Istanbul: Exploring Markets, Mosques, and More Posted on October 2, 2024October 10, 2024 These are the Top 11 Istanbul Places to visit for the flavors, religion, sights and sounds. Straddling two continents, Istanbul, figuratively and literally, has roots in both Europe and Asia. Visit for its unique geographic distinction, heavy in Islamic influence. But fused with European culture, Istanbul is certainly unique because it’s truly where east meets west. Read more
PLACES The Best Shopping in Istanbul Turkey Posted on December 18, 2018October 31, 2024 Shopping for Turkish souvenirs in Istanbul, Turkey can be fun, cheap, historic, and delicious. Street vendors, shopping malls and centuries-old markets sell treasures that will remind you of your travels. Whether it’s something fun, edible or just pretty, shopping in Istanbul is an adventure you won’t soon forget. Read more
PLACES How to Get Your VAT Refund in Turkey Posted on November 14, 2018June 9, 2024 Every year, Turkey’s tourists leave behind millions of dollars of VAT refunds. On the surface, the process seems simple. Bring your passport along on your shopping trip. Complete the necessary documents at the retailer. Track down the right folks at the airport when you leave. Go home with some extra… Read more
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES Buying Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Souvenirs in Turkey Posted on October 11, 2018July 19, 2024 There’s long standing history with aromatherapy and essential oils in Turkey– the practice of using extracted natural oils from the flowers, stems, leaves and roots of plants. Their ability to affect well-being can be both psychological and physical. Therefore, it makes perfect “scents” Read more
PLACES Where to Find The Best Scenic Views in Istanbul Posted on October 9, 2018June 9, 2024 The Best views of Istanbul include the iconic cityscape– mosques, palaces, minarets, and the boats skipping across the waves of the Bosphorus. Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia on the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here, making it world-class for history lovers. Read more
PLACES Night Long Layover Night Tour in Istanbul from Turkish Airlines Posted on October 7, 2018June 9, 2024 We land at 4 pm— a half-hour past the free tour offered by Turkish Airlines. That sucks, I’ve taken one of those tours before, and they are pretty good. But we’re not out of luck. There is another night layover tour we’ll catch that’s not free. Watching Istanbul go from… Read more
PLACES Turkish Airlines Long Layover Posted on October 3, 2018June 9, 2024 Free City Tour of Istanbul I love long layovers if it allows me to explore a new city. And Turkish Airlines offers a great perk if you have a long layover Istanbul. They offer ticket holders a free Istanbul tour. It’s a great option if you have at least a… Read more