Travel Guide Turkey with travel tips for Turkey
The country of Turkey is a secular republic that sits astride the continents of both Europe and Asia. The cultures of both continents have heavily influenced the people, arts and identity of this nation. While Turkey is a predominantly Islamic country, the government has taken great pains to remain secular and this nation is sincerely tolerant to religious practice. The streets of the largest city, Istanbul, display this freedom of expression wholly in the western dress of the younger generations.
History
Turkey, which lies predominantly on the Anatolian Peninsula, has been continuously inhabited since the beginning of recorded time. The earliest known residents were the Hitites who lived here from the 18th to the 13th Century B.C. Since that time, the Greeks and Romans, amongst others have laid claim to this important gateway to the east. Roman Emperor Constantine chose Byzantium to be the capital of the Roman Empire, renaming it new Rome. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Ottomans took over the region and ruled for over 600 years. The Turkish Republic, headed by the president Ataturk, was established in 1923 and Ankara was named the capital.
Culture and Sightseeing
The cultural and tourist sights in Turkey are extensive. A trip here should begin with the former capital of the Byzantine Empire, Istanbul. This fascinating city on the Bosphorus, is home to the Hagia Sophia, one of the oldest and largest cathedrals in the world, the iconic Blue Mosque and any number of Ottoman palaces and buildings. The ancient town of Cappadocia lures travelers from all over the world with her fairy tale landscape and tufa homes. The Turkish Riviera is filled with pristine beaches, affordable resorts and crystal blue waters. Ankara, the present day capital and former home of the Hitites, is an exciting blend of the ancient and modern worlds, and this melange is represented in the architecture and arts of the people.
Eat & Drink
The food and drink of Turkey is an interesting mix of the European and Asian cultures that contributed to its formation. The Ottomans that ruled here for centuries probably had the greatest influence on the diet of the modern day Turk, and yogurt, kabobs, fish in olive oil, and stuffed vegetables are all very prevalent. The desserts are delicious pastries made from syrupy filo dough.
Due to its rich culture and historical importance, Turkey should be on every world traveler's must-see list.