Destination Overview
Time difference: GMT +2 hours
Capital: Ankara
Currency: Turkish Lira
Flight time: 4 hours
Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey is an eclectic blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rules leaving indelible marks on a country of famously friendly people and atmospheric ruins. Its hospitality is legendary: nowhere else will you find people more curious of your culture, willing to share their stories, offer nuggets of knowledge and titbits of history. From a kindly offering of homemade baklava to the willing and frequent smiles of market holders, restaurateurs, hotel staff… You’ll always feel welcome in the vibrant centres, dreamy coasts and otherworldly landscapes that Turkey offers.
From the great city of Istanbul to the gloriously colourful coasts of myriad shades of turquoise, the topography of Turkey lends itself to great adventure. Look out over Istanbul’s ragged rooftops from a secret bar as you watch the sunset, take a hot air balloon ride across the Swiss-cheese landscape of Cappadocia or hire a traditional gulet to cruise the aquamarine waters of the Aegean. Along the way you can take yourself on a culinary exploration of Turkish cuisine, from herby kebabs to shakshuka (baked eggs in tomato sauce) and flavoursome vegetables smothered in locally-derived olive oil. An adventure for body, mind and taste buds.