Sile (pronounced Shele) is approximately 70 km from Istanbul and the region dates from roughly 700BC, but it was only in 1859 that a lighthouse was built in the area. The lighthouse, known as Sile Feneri, is still operational, but as tourism opened up to the area, resorts, restaurants and bars were built around it. It is also famous for its cotton production and the tomb of Kum … [Read more...]
Black Sea Region of Turkey
Sitting in the Northeast, the Black sea region of Turkey is vastly different from other places in the country. With vibrant, fertile landscapes and a strong adherence to cultural mountain life, visitors are often delighted to have experienced this face of Turkey that is rarely featured in international travel guides.
The Green Mausoleum of Bursa
The city of Bursa is also called Green Bursa for the predominant green color from its teeming greeneries that are mostly contributed by numerous parks and gardens. Adding to its “green” character is the Green Mausoleum, which is the final resting place of Mehmet I. Mehmet I’s sarcophagus is considered to be an architecture wonder of the Turkish period. Its colorful and … [Read more...]
The Lush Green Ayder Plateau of Rize
Turkey is blessed with spectacular plateaus and one of those is the Ayder Plateau located in the town of Camlihemsin in the province of Rize. The Ayder Plateau is fondly referred to as “honey forest” because of its delicacy, the honey. It is a conglomeration of all shades of green with touches of gold and brown that reaches out to the skies. You will also find both hot and … [Read more...]
The Laz and Hemsin Cultures of Turkey
I could feel the chill in my bones. After a long day touring local attractions, I was trying to sleep and was dressed in pyjamas, T-shirt, and a sweater but still had to pull the blanket around my neck to keep warm. This is the moment that I fully appreciated the diversity of Turkey and ironically had to laugh because it was the middle of June. In previous years, I normally … [Read more...]
Trabzon : The City of Sultans
On the Northeast, coast of Turkey sits the city of Trabzon. Well known for its football team, I was lured to the region because of the many attractions that entice thousands of visitors every year. As a stopping point on the historical silk route, various cultures and traditions have also made their way into the history of the bustling metropolis. Due to its close proximately … [Read more...]