Did you know that * 150 archeological excavations go on in Turkey each year. * Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents--Europe and Asia. * Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus--two of the seven wonders of the ancient world--are in Western Turkey. * Homer, King Midas, Heredotus (the father of history) and St. Paul the Apostle were all born in Anatolia. * the Amazons orginiated in Turkey's northeastern region. * Turks introduced coffeee to Europe. * Anatolia was producing wine as early as 4000 B.C. * Anatolia is the location of Seven Churches of Asia. * Turkey is a long-time member of NATO (since 1952). * The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul has a 550-year old covered shopping mall of 64 streets, 4000 shops, 22 entrances and 25,000 workers. * Anatolia i the location of the first known beauty contest, judged by Paris, with Aphrodite, Hea, and Athena as leading participants. * The first Ecumenical Council was held in Iznik. * Mark Anthony gave part of southwestern Turkey to Cleopatra as a wedding gift. If you have not discovered the cradle of civilizations, you are missing something. Turkey is among the top six least expensives countries to visit. The Turkish government has high expectations and tough requirements on issuing licenses to guides. Most are colledge graduates with history degrees. For first-time travelers, going on a guided tour is highly recommended. Istanbul and the Aegean Coast are the most popular destinations. However, Antalya on the Mediterranean attracts thousands of tourists because if its mild temperatures and southern-California like vegetation. In central Anatolia, Cappadocia, also known as the land of Ferry Chimneys, is a favorite for Euroopean and American tourists. Its underground cities, hundreds of hidden chapels in caves--dating back to early Christianity -- and its speciality balloon rides offer visitors an unusual experience. The Blue Voyage along the Turkish Riviera is relaxing as it combines hiking, swimming, snorkeling and sailing. For more information write to selyackley@yahoo.com or visit www.selyackley.com |
