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TURKEY
Geography : Turkey's land mass is 814,578 sq.km. The European and Asian sides are divided by the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus), the Sea of Marmara, and the Canakkale Bogazi (Dardanelles). Anatolia is a high plateau region rising progressively towards the east, broken by the valleys of about 15 rivers, including the Dicle (Tigres) and the Firat (Euphrates). There are numerious lakes and some, such as Lake Van, are as large as inland seas.Turkey enjoys a variety of climates, changing from the temperate climate of the Back Sea region, to the continental climate of the interior, then, to the Mediterranean climate of the Aegean and Mediterranean costal regions. The coastline of Turkey's four seas is more then 8,333 km long.
You come as a foreigner, but will leave as a FRIEND.
History : "The cradle of civilizaton" by traveling through this historic land, tourists will discover exactly what is meant by this pharase. The world's first town, a neolithic city at Catalhoyuk, dates back to 6,500 B.C. The heir to many centuries of cultures makes Turkey a paradise of information and cultural wealth. Hattis, Hittitess, Phrygians, Urartians, Lycians, Lydians, Ionians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans have all made important contributions to Turkish history.
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk founded the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923. He led his country into peace and stability. Through decades of change and growth, Turkey till boasts this succes, living by its adopted motto of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World".
Population : According to a 2003 census, Turkey has 70 million inhabitants, 41% of whom live in the countryside. The major cities are: istanbul ( 13 mil ); Ankara,the capital( 4 mil .); izmir ( 2.7 mil ); Adana ( 1.9 mil ) ; Antalya ( 1.1 mil )and Bursa(1.6mil).
Language : Turkish is written in the Latin alphabet and is spoken by some 150 million people around the world
Religion : Although Turkey is 99% Moslem, it is a secular stale that guarantees complete freedom of worship to non-Moslems.
Economy : Tourism ,Agriculture ,Natural resources ,Industry
Political structure : The Turkish Republic is based on a secular democratic,pluralist and parilamentary system
ISTANBUL AND MARMARA INFO
Istanbul embraces two continents, one arm reaching out to Asia the other to Europe. In the city's heart, the Bosphorus strait, course the waters of the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. The former capital of three successive empires- Roman Byzantine and Ottoman-today istanbul honors and preserves the legacy of its past while loking forward to its modern future.
 As you recline on the shores of the Bosphorus at sunset contemplating the red evening light reflected in the windows on the opposite shore you understand, suddenly and profoundly, why so many centuries ago settlers chose to bulid on this remarkable site
PALACES IN ISTANBUL
Topkapı Palace
 On a spit of land at the confluence of the Bosphorus, the olden Horn and the Marmara Sea stands the Topkapi Palace, the maze of buildings at the center of the Ottoman Empire between the 15th and 19th centuries.In these opulent surroundings the sultans and their court lived and governed. A magnificent wooded garden fills the outer, or first, court. On the right of the second court, shaded by cypress and plane trees, stand the palace kitchens, now galleries exhibiting the imperial collection of crystal, silver and Chinese porcelain. To the left the Harem, the secluded quarters of the wives, concubines and children of the sultan, charms visitors with the echoes of the intrigue of centuries. Today the third court holds the Hall of Audience, the Library of AhmetIII, an exhibition of imperial costumes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the treasury and a priceless collection of miniatures from medieval manuscripts. In the center of this innermost sanctuary, the Pavilion of the Holy Mantle enshrines the relics of the Prophet Mohammed brought to Istanbul when the Ottomans assumed the caliphate of Islam.
Dolmabahçe Palace
 Built in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdul Mecit I , the facade of Dolmabahce Palace stretches for 600 meters along the European shore of the Bosphorus. The vast reception salon, with 56 columns, and a huge crystal chandelier weighing four and a half tons and lit by 750 lights never fails to astonish visitors. At one time, birds from all over the world were kept in the Bird Pavilion for the delight of the palace's privileged residents. Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic, died in Dolmabahge on the 10th November, 1938.
Beylerbeyi Palace
In the 19th century Sultan Abdul Aziz built the Beylerbeyi Palace, a fantasy in white marble amid magnolia filled gardens, on the Bosphorus's Asian shore. Used as the Sultan's summer residence and hunting lodge, it was offered to the most distinguished foreign dignitaries during their visits. Empress Eugenie of France was among its residents.
Yıldız Palace
In addition to the State Pavilions at the Yildiz Palace, the compound includes a series of pavilions and a mosque. It was completed by Abdul Hamit II at the end of the 19th century. The Sale, the largest and most exquisite of the buildings, reveals the luxury in which the sultans lived and entertained. Set in a very large park of flowers, plants and trees, gathered from every part of the world, the palace grounds offer one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Because of restoration work, only the Sale and park are open to the public.
The Goksu Palace
The Goksu Palace, also known as Kucuksu. takes its name from the fresh water streams which debouch into the Bosphorus near the tiny palace. Built by Abdul Mecit I in the middle of the 19th century, it was used as a summer residence.
Aynalı Kavak Pavillion
Originally built in the 18th century and later restored by various sultans, the Aynali Kavak Summer Pavilion assumed its name, Mirrored Poplar, when its famed mirrors were installed in 1718. A gift of the Venetians, this palace on the Golden Horn is one of the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish architecture.
IZMIR (SMYRNA) AND AGEAN REGION
 Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and its port is second only to Istanbul. A cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy during the International Arts Festival (June/July) and the International Fair (August/Sept). The original city was established in the third millennium B.C. (at present day Bayrakli).
MUSEUMS IN IZMIR( just to mention few )
The Archeological Museum, near Konak Square, houses a superb collection of antiquities including the statues of Poseidon and Demeter which, in ancient times, stood in the Agora.
Next to the Archeology Museum, the Ethnography Museum contains folkloric artifacts, which include a fine collection of Bergama and Gordes carpets, traditional costumes and camel bridles.The Fine Arts Museum, located in Konak, displays the works of famous Turkish painters The Selcuk Yasar Art Museum is a private museum on Cumhuriyet Bulvari with a collection of 20th-century Turkish art.
 KUŞADASI(Ancient Tralles)
Back along the coast, Kusadasi, or Bird Island, is a lovely port built along the shores of a glittering bay. The terraced town overlooks the most beautiful inlet of the Aegean and seems to have been createct purely for the delight of the holiday-maker.
Be sure to visit the famous and popular Kusadasi shopping center in the Kaleici quarter, where there is nightlong entertainment. A large, modern marina facilitates life for visiting yachties.
  Gullubahce(Priene) was one of the most active ports of the Ionian Federation. The gridlike system of streets introduced in the fourth century B.C. by Hippodamos of Miletos is a superb and early example of town planning.
 Milet (Miletos), like Priene, was a great Ionian port and the birthplace of several philosophers and sages. The theater justifies a visit, and be sure to see the well-preserved ruins of the Faustina baths and the Archaeciogical Museum.
 Didim (Didyma):
 Although Didim (Didyma) can only boast of a single monument, it is nevertheless a marvelous site. The Temple of Apollo was one of antiquity's most sacred places. Many times looted and burned, the sanctuary still impresses with its elegant beauty.
 EPHESUS
The extensive ruins including the theatre, library or gymnasium create the special atmosphere of Ephesus, and appeal to every visitors. Once a trade center of the ancient world , a religious center of the early Christianity.History :There is as yet no definite knowledge about the exact date of the foundation of Ephesus, In the year of 10 BC, Androclos, the son of King of Athens-Kodros was known the first buillder of the city . When Androclos died in the wars with Carians, a mausoleum was built to the memory of the first king of Ephesus.
Ephesus was ruled by the Lydian king, Kreisos, in the mid 6BC.Later, Ephesus was dominated by Persians. As Ephesians did not join the "Ionian Rebellion" against Persians, the city was saved from destruction. The rebellion resulted in the loss of Persian. Alexander the Great won Persians and the Ionian cities got their independence in the year of 334. Ephesus was in great prosperity during the times of Alexander the Great Until the arrival of Alexander the Great, Ephesus was consisted of two governing systems, democratic and oligarchic. The Temple of Artemision was fired and destroyed by the supporters of oligarchy in 356BC.
Ephesus was controlled by the Romans in 190 BC. The city was given to the Bergamian kings for a time. With the death of King Attalos 3 in 133BC, the city was re-ruled by the Romans. Ephesus has played significant roles during the date, in the early Christianity, as well. St Jean and Virgin Mary visited Ephesus and Virgin Mary settled down the Mount Bulbul, located close to Ephesus, around the years of 431 AD. Ephesus became a state of Seljukian in the year of 1090, for a time was held by Byzantine
BODRUM
 Bodrum has gained the reputation as the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. This community has encouraged an informal day-time life styie and a nighttime of excitement. The evening in Bodrum are for sitting idly in one of the many restaurants, dining on fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties. Afterwards night clubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn
 Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, was the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of King Mausolus's Tomb (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbor, the Bodrum Castle, or the medieval castle of St.Peter, is a fine example of 15th cenfury Crusader architecture, and has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, with remains dating as far back as the Bronze Age.
  MARMARIS
Ancient Marmaris ,Phsyskos,was an importat stage on the Anatolia –Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Suleyman the magnificent had a citadel built on a hill, the remains of which can still be seen today. You can take a yacht tour or hire a boat from Bodrum for a two, three or seven day tour of the gulf.
![]() DATÇA
Datça is a pleasant sleepy spot but still has a large number of bars and restaurants near the harbor which can play music until the early hours .A wander around the shops or the ruins just north of the willage may be of interest.
History of the Datça ; The Datça peninsula at that time comprised of four city states. The first Knidos on the site of the Burgaz ruins between the town and Kızlar ovası. By bassos near Emecik village northeast of Datça. Acantos in Kargı bay south of Datça.Triopium in Palamut Buku .
FETHİYE
 The popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of Marmaris, boasts an important marina at  the head of a beautiful bay strewn with islands. Above the town, (called Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs,reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. Swimmers head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometers west of town, or to Sovalye Island, opposite the harbor, which blazes with flowers in the spring.
KÖYCEĞİZ DALYAN AND GÖCEK
  The town of Koycegiz lies at the northern end of a lake of the same name and is joined to the Mediterranean by a natural channel. A road shaded with aromatic frankincense trees eads to the tiny village of Dalyan on the inland waterway. High on the cliff face, at a bend in the river,above the fascinating ancient harbor city of Caunos, magnificent tombs were carved into the rock. The Dalyan Delta, with a long, golden sandy beach at its mouth,is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) and blue crabs.
The ruins of ‘’ Caunos ‘’ are some of the most interesting a long the coast
A fishing Boat takes you along the maze of channels : an area prohibited by large boats
( We organize your Fishing – boat prior arrival )
This excursion is a “must “ : We recommend to book a professional guide prior to arrival
  ANTALYA
In Antalya, the pine-clad Toros (Taurus) Mountains sweep down to the sparkling clear sea forming an irregular coastline of rocky headlands and secluded coves
 KAŞ
Continuing west out of Kekova, you come to Kas, a lovely spot surrounded on three sides mountains. The friendly local fishermen are happy to run a water taxi service to take you to a favorite bay, cove or beach along the coast. The swimming and diving are excellent in the clear cool water around Kas.
Of ancient Antiphellos,as Kas was once known, only the Lycian rock cut tombs and sarcophagi are left. But the charm of the town remains, and it is a pleasure to
 wander through the streests, stopping after shopping stroll along the flower-lined Akdeniz Promenade or relax under the shade of a palm tree. Kas's bars and restaurants offer plenty of night life. The energetic may want to attempt the highest peak in the area, Mt. Kizlar Sivrisi( 3,086 meters ), or the second highest, Mt. Akdag( 3,030 meters ). Along the scenic Kalkan road, Kapitas has a beautiful beach, at one end of which is the Turquoise Grotto.
ÇAVUŞ BAY AND KEKOVA
 South of Olympos, tranquil waters and sandy beaches line the Bay of Cavus. Here you can waterski on calm waters, discover the colorful marine life or explore the incredible sea caves on the northern shore
An entry port west of Olympos, Finike is surrounded by citrus trees and gardens. A sandy beach stretches to the east, and to the west are rocky bays and coves.
Limyra, an ancient Lycian city, is 10 km inland from Finike, via Turuncova. Farther on this road is the Lycian city of Arikanda.Set high on the mountain overlooking one of Turkey's most beautiful vaileys, the extensive ruins include the agora theater, stadium bouleuterion, water system, gymnasium, baths and scattered sarcophagi.
  Kekova is an island an hour from Dalyanagzi by sea as well as the name of a whole ensemble of picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient cities. These bays provide natural harbors in all seasons, and yachtsmen particularly enjoy exploring the unspoilt landscape. Along the northern shore of Kekova Island at Apollonia,earthquakes have disturbed the land causing some of the ancient houses to sink under the clear water, creating a sunken city. Kalekoy Castle (Simena) offers a bird's-eye view of the bays, inlets, islands and colorful yachts sailing peacefully on the glassy water. A little distance to the west is Kalkan, a lovely small hilltop town that overlooks a tiny bay. Its quaint, traditional, white-washed houses, shuttered windows and balconies garlanded with brilliant flowers that cascade to the streets below, make it the ultimate in a peaceful The ancient Lycian capital of Xanthos, today in the Turkish village Kinik,lies 18 km north of Patara. The theater, Tomb of the Harpies, Nereid Monument, agora, and Inscribed Pillar, among a mixture of ruins from Lycian, Roman and Byzantine times, create the special atmosphere of this site. At the holy Lycian center of Letoon, six km farther, three temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar gods of mythology, await the exploring tourist. holiday town. Narrow winding streets lined with souvenir shops lead down to the charming marina. Every morning boats busily take tourists to one of the nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets it is Kalkan style to meet on the roof terraces for a drink before dinner and enjoy the comings and goings of the yachts, the business of the marina and the panoramic view.
 A principal harbor of ancient Lycia, Patara is reached by following a winding mountain road before descending to the site. Here, according to mythology, Apollo was born. More concrete history reveals that this town was the birthplace of St. Nicholas. The ruins are, of course, numerous and interesting. But Patara is also a place for beach lovers. Its 22 km of pure white sand stretches as far as the eye can see, making it a natural choice for all types of beach sports. The remoteness of this undiscovered corner makes it feel like your own private getaway.The ancient Lycian capital of Xanthos, today in the Turkish village Kinik ,lies 18 km north of Patara . The theater, Tomb of the Harpies ,Nereid Monument , agora and Inscribed Pillar,among a mixture of ruins from Lycian ,Roman and Byzantine times , create the special atmosphere of this site . At the holy Lycian center of Letoon , six km farther , three temples dedicated to Leto , Apollo and Artemis , familiar gods of mythology , await the exploring tourist.
ÖLÜDENİZ AND SAKLIKENT
 The road to Belcegiz Bay takes you through the mountains where cozy guest houses cater to those seeking mountain scenery. Ocakkoy is the mountain village that is a must see, stay in one of the lovely guest houses, and enjoy the numerous trekking possibilities. Hisaronu, also in the mountains, has very nice hotels. 4 km from Hisaronu, Kayakoy is a picturesque ghost town of old houses and churches all empty. Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon,
 Olu Deniz, where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the world to do absolutely nothing except soak up the sun amid stunning natural surroundings. At Mt.Baba( 1,969 m ), you can paraglide into the Blue Lagoon. For those who prefer accomodation facilities, Belcegiz beach is recommended.
 A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. 36 km south of Fethiye, Yakakoy (Tlos) is the oldest city in the Lycian region. The home of the Lycian Hero Bellerophon, visitors can see the remains of a castle, agora, necropolis, theatre,Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley. 2 km east of the villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picknicking.
Intoxicating scenery surrounds Kidirak's beach and shady park. On Gemiler Island (St. Nicholas's Island), Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines. South of Kidirak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat. Beyond the idyllic beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley (kelebekler vadisi means butterfly valley ) filled with hundreds of varieties of butterflies await the explorer. High in the mountains above Fethiye a rushing torrents cuts a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating Saklikent (Hidden City). Pinara, 49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city; it is ideal for trekking and visitors can see the remains of a theatre, agora, rock tomb, baths and ancient brothels About 65 km from Fethiye,to the southeast, near Kinik,are the ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a splendid natural setting. Letoon, nearby was formerly an important religious cult center where three temples dedicated to leto, Artemis and Apollo stood in ancient times. |
