Cappadocia/Kapadokya

Captivating Cappadocia

A trip to Cappadocia will spark your imagination and take you to a place of wonder. Cappadocia offers a genuinely spectacular experience with its bizarre landscapes, prehistoric cave dwellings, and the chance to view the area from above in a hot air balloon. Explore the underground cities, go on a stroll through enthralling valleys, and take in the local cuisine and culture as you immerse yourself in the fairytale-like splendor. Let Cappadocia's allure capture your heart and leave you with lifelong memories.

Either with its historical background or with its nature, Cappadocia is a unique natural wonder in the world. It covers a wide area including the fields near Aksaray (ihlara), Nevsehir (Derinkuyu, Uchisar, Urgup, Goreme, Pasabag, Zelve, Devrent, Cavusin, Avanos), Nigde, Kayseri and Kirsehir, in the center of Turkey. The formation of the structures is from the 1st and 2nd centuries as a result of the volcanic eruptions that occurred in the Erciyes, Hasan, and Gullu volcanic mountains. The region was formed a large tableland from the volcanic tufas, and together with the erosion of the Kizilirmak River and wind over ten thousand years the chimney rocks appeared.

                                

Valleys between Urgup and Goreme are called Goreme Valleys. The greatest part of Cappadocia is inside and around Goreme. Besides the city, another must-be-seen area is Goreme Open Air Museum (http://www.traveleurope360.com/goreme-open-air-museum-turkey.html) which is also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Museum is an exceptional site due to its compilation of rock-cut churches that are preserved very well from the medieval period.

Pasabag which contains the best mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys is 5 km away from Goreme while Urgup is 10 km.

Urgup is known as a town which is quite important in Byzantine times. The area was formed of numerous depressions covered by many lakes in late geologic times. During the formation of the Alpine Mountains, stress and tension within the Anatolian crust caused magmatic eruptions.

There are so many underground cities in the area but the biggest one is Derinkuyu Underground City.

                                            

Ihlara Valley: includes over a hundred churches, 16 monasteries many refectories hermit cells, and graveyards. In addition to these Christian monuments, there is a mausoleum built by the Seljuks in the XIII century in Selime village. Transportation in the valley is rather difficult since motor transportation is not possible. There are only a few passage points (simple bridges) on the Melendiz Stream. Motor vehicles can reach Ihlara from the western part of the valley.  For those who want to descend into the valley from above a rather steep stairway is on the opposite flank of the Bellisirma village.

                                        

Due to the existence of red clay in Avanos, the region is famous for pottery. In the region, you can find so many pottery demonstrations.

Unique Rock Formations and Fairy Chimneys

The spectacular rock formations and recognizable fairy chimneys that characterize the Cappadocia region are sure to astound you. These natural wonders, which include towering spires, bizarre formations, and underground cities, were created by volcanic eruptions and erosion. Go through the breathtaking valleys, such as Rose Valley and Love Valley, where fairy chimneys dot the horizon as you explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum, which is home to ancient cave churches decorated with elaborate murals.

Hot Air Balloon Ride 

A sunrise hot air balloon flight is one of Cappadocia's most memorable activities. Climb into the air to take in Cappadocia's otherworldly splendor from above. See the expansive views of the fantastical landscapes as you float through the clouds, with hundreds of multicolored balloons dotting the skyline. The spectacular vistas of the expansive Cappadocian plains, vineyards, and fairy chimneys will leave you with lifelong memories.

Due to the widespread structures, balloon tours are pretty popular. You have to make a reservation in advance for the balloon tours. Here you can find all of the balloon companies in the region:

http://www.turkeyballoons.com/index2.html

http://www.stonepark.com.tr/

                                                        

                                                  

Underground Cities

See the fascinating underground cities of Cappadocia to delve into its hidden depths. Explore the intricate networks of rooms, churches, and ventilation systems in the ancient underground passages of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, which were formerly used as havens and fortresses during times of conflict. These underground wonders offer a fascinating window into the area's past and inventiveness in a building.

Traditional Cave Dwellings and Cave Hotels

Visit traditional cave homes or stay in a cave hotel to truly experience Cappadocia's distinctive charm. These caverns, which were carved out of soft volcanic rock, provide a window into the rich cultural history of the area. Take in the warm atmosphere and enjoy the caves' coolness during the sweltering summer months. Several cave hotels offer contemporary conveniences while maintaining the authenticity and allure of conventional homes.

Hiking and Exploring the Valleys

Cappadocia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and avid hikers. Lace-up your boots and venture into the scenic valleys that surround the region. Trek through the mesmerizing Red Valley, known for its striking rock formations and captivating hues. Discover the hidden churches, monasteries, and panoramic viewpoints as you traverse the stunning trails. Don't forget to witness the magical sunset over the valleys, painting the sky in vibrant colors.

Handicrafts and Local Cuisine 

Discover Cappadocia's local markets and craft stores to find one-of-a-kind gifts and authentic Turkish handicrafts. There is something for every art lover, from finely woven carpets and kilims to handcrafted ceramics and pottery. Experience Cappadocia's delights by indulging in regional food. Taste some local delicacies like testi kebab, manti (Turkish dumplings), and sweet sweets like baklava while sipping Turkish tea or wine made in the area.

Besides the famous delicious Turkish cuisine, the Cappadocia region is famous for its good quality wines and pottery kebabs (testi kebab). There are so many varieties, don’t miss especially blueberry and other fruit wines.

 Must be done:

- Visiting;

            Goreme Open Air Museum,

            Pasabag,

            Goreme, Urgup, and Uchisar,

            Panoramic Goreme,

            A Wine testing house.

 - Joining to;

            A Pottery demonstration,

            A balloon tour (if you are ready to wake up very early).

- Eating Pottery Kebab.

For the Charming History of Cappadocia: 

- http://www.cappadociaturkey.net/

- http://www.hitit.co.uk/tosee/cappy/history.html

Figueres, Roses, Cadaques

Figueres

Just 1.5 hours away from Barcelona the city of Dali Museum is waiting for you. As so many other people do, I also prefer to call the city "the museum city" :) since that is the attraction point of tourists. 

Figueres is situated on the train line between Barcelona and the French border after Girona.

If you are interested in surrealism or Dali's art you shouldn't miss the Museum. Depending on your train type, you can go to Figueres from Barcelona in 1.5/2 hours. Dali museum is amazing and definitely worth visiting. Besides the museum, you can walk around the city (but I wouldn't spend much time there, since instead, you have other great options :)). 

The city is the connection point to go to the Rosas and Cadaques which are the best-known cities of Costa Brava of Catalonia.

PS: I have a favorite cafeteria in Figueres. Whenever I pass from Figueres I stop by that place :) Pretty clean place, traditional foods are available, and kind ladies are the owners. Cafe Estrella (means star cafeteria  :)). Very close to the Museum. Open even on Sundays.

Rosas

Rosas is 1/2 hour away from this city with beautiful, lovely, charming beaches. Besides this, you can go to Cadaques from there. 

There are nice hotels, great beaches, great swimming pools and very close to Cadaques. Beside the seaside beauties, there is an ancient old historic city, the old name is Rhode. It is still possible to see the ruins in the ancient area. You won't forget the sunset and sundown of Rosas. It is a perfect small town to rest.

 Cadaques

Cadaques is known as the city of Dali. Dali was born in Figueres but he lived in Port Lligat, Cadaques.

 

In Cadaques, besides the natural beauty of the city,  there are so many other options to see:

• Passatge,
• La Sirena,
• Santa Maria Church,
• "Es Call" street,
• Es Passeig (the town main Square) and
• Port Lligat where the Salvador Dali's Museum/an Art Noveau house stands (it takes 30 minutes to walk however if it is the season you can take a boat too).

                                      

It is the right place for being in nature, tracking activities, doing sea activities, such as diving and surfing. From Cadaques, it is also possible to go by boat or bus to Portbau which is the border city of Spain with France.

Barcelona Guide - All About Barcelona

Hi there!

I lived in Barcelona for more than 6 years. As a traveler, I can say that this city is one of the most unique cities in the world. Since I am a foreigner, I have the observations of a tourist but at the same time, I have the experience of a resident. First I fell in love with this city, then I learned every tiny detail about it. Giving suggestions or guiding my visitors/friends, after a while I wanted to share that information with the others too. I started writing, as well. In this guide there are mainly 10 parts:

1) First Thing to do

2) One-day trips

3) Main Palaces / Houses

4) Where to eat, Where to buy

5) Festivals

6) Daily Spanish and a few words from Catalan

7) Parks

8) Museums

9) Modernism Architectures

                                    

First Things ToDo - Barcelona

 There are many things that can be done in Barcelona. Here is my first things-to-do list. 

- Sagrada Família by Antonio Gaudí 

This impressive church is pretty unusual. You don't have to enter it. It really takes time and energy, the charming part is outside of the church.

  

- Park Güell 

If the weather is sunny it is a perfect place to be. An artistic, unusual, and joyful park. You will always remember the time that you spent in Park Guell. 

- La Pedrera - Casa Mila by Antonio Gaudí 

Another remarkable structure by Gaudi. If the weather is good it is worth visiting the top of the building.

- Casa Batllo by Gaudi 

Seeing the outside of this exceptional building is worthy. If you are not so much into buildings it is not worth seeing the inside of the building. In addition, due to the queues, it takes time to enter the building. 

- Las Ramblas

Barcelona's most famous street takes around 2 km between Placa Catalonia and the Statue of Colomb. There are many attractions around the street. Close to the famous Gothic part, as well. The charming market "La Boqueria" is also beside the street.

                                                           

- Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

Gothic quarter offers many interesting and historic streets and buildings from the 14th century. Among them, Barcelona Cathedral, Place Angel, and Plaça Reial have their own spirit. King's Palace, and churches like Santa María del Mar, Santa María del Pí, the town hall, and Cases del Canonges are must be seen structures. 

- Delicious Food

There are many restaurants in the city my suggestion will be "Les Quinze Nits" in Placa Reial presents optimum price/taste option. The restaurants around the beach which are touristic are pretty expensive and not worthy in terms of taste. Go local! Eat cheaper and more delicious food. 

- Magic Fountain & MNAC

There are several attractive places around the National Museum of Art of Catalunya MNAC. The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc show happens here. It is mainly a mix of spectacular displays of color, light, motion, music, and water acrobatics.  You should ask the day and time of the show from a tourist information kiosk since it changes depending on the month. It is an impressive show. 

The Montjuic Castle, Olympic area and stadium,  Barcelona Pavilion by famous German architect Mies van der Rohe can be visited in this area. 

- Arc de Triomf and  Parc de la Ciutadella

Arch de Triomf is the gate of a peaceful area. It is the place of many local celebrations. At weekends you can see many young people and children on their roller coasters in the area. If you follow the road you will see the famous Parc de la Ciutadella. The park is at the center of the old town. It is a usual stop for locals, especially on weekends. 

- Beaches

There are great beaches around Barcelona at Costa Brava and Costa Daurada. However, if you don't have time to visit them the closest beach is Barceloneta. From the Forum area to Barceloneta there are so many beaches at the coast of Barcelona. Port Olympic is more touristic and worthy.   

- Passeig de Gracia

Walking through Passeig de Gracia -a famous street in Barcelona - can be a good experience. The street itself is called Open Air Museum. It includes outstanding buildings. If you are interested in buildings, monuments, and palaces you can find the lists of them in the link. 

- Camp Nou

If you are interested in sports Barcelona FC Museum and Camp Nou can be an option. you can buy gifts from the Barca gift shops at Camp Nou, as well. 

                                            

- Museums

There are many lovely museums in Barcelona. Especially if the weather is cold the best place to in are museums. MNAC, Pedralbes, Dali, Picasso, and Miro are the first museums that come to my mind. 

Picasso museum is a nice place but it really takes time. You may spend several hours in the queue. Instead, the Miro museum can be an interesting alternative. If museums take your attention, here you will find more about museums of Barcelona. 

- Visiting other cities

If you have time to visit the famous cities of Spain. The country has great cities, depending on the weather, your time and budget you can decide: San Sebastian, Madrid, Sitges, Mallorca or Ibiza (famous islands takes 30-40 minutes from Barcelona by airway), Valencia, Granada are the first ones that come to my mind. Sitges is pretty close to Barcelona by train it takes around 40 minutes. It is a gay-friendly small city with beautiful beaches and a nice old downtown. Peaceful in the daytime and famous for its nightlife.  There are many other close small cities as well such as Girona, Figueres, Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar, Vic, etc. You can see a more detailed one-day trip guide from the link.  

If you have limited time to visit Barcelona. There are hop-on-hop-off tourist buses that can help you to visit Barcelona. 

PS: I adore all around Spain and visited almost %90 of the country. However, I should warn you about one thing: The amount of tourists is pretty high. As a result, as in many famous touristic places, Spain is famous for mostly immigrant professional pickpockets. Just be aware. 

Enjoy your trip! & Suerte!