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Guide to Ephesus Turkey and its Surroundings
Ephesus Turkey offers a captivating window into Greco-Roman civilization. Once a thriving metropolis, Ephesus was an important center for culture and trade during its heyday. Today, the ancient city on Turkey’s western coast stands as one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Walking through its marble-paved streets—past towering columns and the iconic Library of Celsus—transports you back to a time when Ephesus was not only a center of learning and trade, but also an important place in early Christian history. The Ephesus Archaeological Site If you tend…
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Visiting Pamukkale in Turkey
Imagine glistening, chalk-white terraces cascading down a hillside. Pools of ice-blue water that reflect the Anatolian sunset. Ancient ruins overlooking thermal waters that have been used for centuries. These are the travertines of Pamukkale, Turkey—one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Middle East. You’ve likely seen pictures of these natural wonders: a breathtaking blend of nature’s beauty and human ingenuity. But, as with every destination that skyrockets in popularity, discussions have now turned to Pamukkale being overrated and overhyped. Are the glistening travertines as beautiful as social media…
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Konya Turkey: City of the Whirling Dervishes
At first glance, Konya doesn’t appear to be one of Turkey’s major heavy-hitting tourist destinations. Travelers often overlook the conservative university town in favor of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus. Most of those who step foot in Konya are either pilgrims flocking to Rumi’s tomb, or tourists crossing central Turkey overland. But if you’re interested in the cultural aspects of Turkey—in particular sufism and the mystical side of Islam—Konya is the place to be. Konya Turkey: An Overview Konya is a place that I would have loved to explore more…
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3 Days in Cappadocia Turkey: An Itinerary
Cappadocia Turkey is a whimsical fairytale destination like no other. The outstanding region sprawls out over the stark Anatolian plains. It is a one-of-a-kind open air museum that features weather-eroded valleys, lush river canyons, rock-hewn dwellings, underground cities, and painted churches. With its otherworldly geology and deep-rooted history, the area contains all the elements of a compelling travel destination. Things to Do in Cappadocia in 3 Days Cappadocia’s Unesco-recognized landscape is incredibly popular with tourists. The area reminded me of a mix between Santorini and Matera—with its hoards of…
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Incredible Things to Do in Istanbul Turkey
Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities. Historically known as Byzantium and then Constantinople, Istanbul straddles two continents and embraces multiple worlds—both geographically and culturally. The city is vibrant and cosmopolitan, and teeming with humanity. Minarets stud the sky, crowning Istanbul’s hilltops. Boats glide gently down the Bosphorus, while pigeons flock overhead. Exotic spice markets burst with color. Neighborhoods hold traces of the different empires that once laid claim to the Golden Horn. It’s the kind of place where the push and pull of modernity and tradition collide. The…
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Tel Aviv Layover
I first visited Israel and the Palestinian Territories in the Spring of 2011, during my semester abroad in Amman, Jordan. Though I didn’t spend long in the Holy Land, my three day stay was both rewarding and memorable. I remember being at once struck by the incredible history of the country and saddened by the palpable tensions that I witnessed firsthand. I remember feeling a sense of wonder as I visited some of the holiest sites in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. And I remember the lack of words I could muster…
