Amy’s Turkish Escape: A Destination That Has It All
Turkey is one of those destinations that has it all — fascinating culture, delicious food, breathtaking scenery, and deep history that spans thousands of years. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an adventurer, or simply someone looking for beautiful places to explore, Turkey will capture your heart.
Join me, Amy Bakko from Riverdale Travel, on a recap of my Turkish vacation! This past trip, I had the opportunity to explore three incredible regions: Istanbul, Ephesus, and Cappadocia.
Each destination offered something completely unique, and together, they showed me just how diverse and magical Turkey can be.
Istanbul: The Crossroads of the World
I began my journey in Istanbul, a city of over 20 million people that literally bridges Europe and Asia. Often called “The Crossroads of the World”, it’s easy to see why; walking through the streets feels like stepping through layers of time.
If you love history, food, and shopping, Istanbul will keep you endlessly entertained!
Here, I:
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Stood in awe inside magnificent mosques.
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Savored incredible food at every turn (I may have eaten my weight in kebabs and baklava!).
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Took a sunset cruise along the Bosporus — even though it rained the entire time, it was still magical.
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Explored lavish Ottoman-era palaces that whispered stories of centuries past.
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Shopped my way through the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, each bursting with color, scents, and treasures.
Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. The mosque, completed in 1557, is one of the most famous works of the Ottoman imperial architect Mimar Sinan. It stands on the Third Hill of Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn. The foreground with the red-tiled roofs is part of the Grand Bazaar area, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
Ephesus: Walking Through Ancient History
From Istanbul, I flew down to Izmir to visit Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. This was hands-down one of the highlights of my trip.
Ephesus boasts over 3,000 years of history and was even founded by the legendary Amazon warriors! My tour guide was an archaeologist who had personally worked on the site, and it was incredible to hear stories directly from someone who had uncovered its secrets with their own hands.
As I wandered among marble streets, impressive amphitheaters, and the ruins of intricate temples, I could almost hear the echoes of ancient life. Ephesus is not just a place you visit — it’s a place you feel.
Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey. This ancient Roman building was completed in the early 2nd century AD in honor of Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, a Roman senator and governor of the province of Asia, and once housed thousands of scrolls and served both as a monumental tomb for Celsus and as a public library.
Cappadocia: A Landscape Like No Other
The grand finale of my trip was Cappadocia, and oh my goodness, there is nothing else like it on Earth! Imagine the otherworldly rock formations of the Badlands, mix them with the warm hues of the American Southwest, and then make them even more unique and beautiful.
That’s Cappadocia.
Here’s what made it unforgettable:
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Fairy Chimneys: towering volcanic rock pillars shaped by time and nature.
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8th-century monasteries carved into the stone cliffs.
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Ancient underground cities with ingenious rock defense mechanisms straight out of an Indiana Jones film.
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Hiking trails winding through breathtaking national parks where human history stretches back 6,000 years.
One of the most charming touches of the region is its cave hotels. Staying in one felt like stepping into a different era, and it was one of the coolest accommodations I’ve ever experienced.
I also had the chance to visit a pottery workshop where artisans still make traditional wine vessels in the same style as their ancestors. Of course, I couldn’t resist bringing one home!
The Magic of the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons
If there’s one iconic experience in Cappadocia that’s an absolute must, it’s a hot air balloon ride!
My first attempt was canceled due to the weather, but thankfully, I got a second chance the next morning, and it was pure magic! Floating high above the unique landscape, surrounded by hundreds of other colorful balloons, was one of the most peaceful and surreal moments I’ve ever had while traveling.
It’s impossible to describe in words; it’s something you simply have to experience for yourself.
Final Thoughts
Turkey left me inspired, awed, and already planning my next visit. From the bustling streets and ancient wonders of Istanbul, to the timeless ruins of Ephesus, to the dreamlike landscapes of Cappadocia, every moment felt like a gift.
If Turkey has been on your travel list — or even if it hasn’t — I cannot recommend it enough. And if you’re ready to start planning your own Turkish adventure, I’d love to help you make it just as memorable as mine.
Let’s Start Planning Your Adventure!
I’ve always been passionate about traveling! I love to become immersed in new cultures and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences at every new destination. My favorite types of trips blend classic tourist spots and finding amazing places off the beaten path. Check out reviews from my happy clients!
When you’re ready to chat about your trip, feel free to send me an email or call Riverdale Travel at 763-323-3665 and request me (Amy Bakko) as your travel consultant.
Wherever you want to go, chances are I can give you personal insight into that destination!