Turkey - Early planning
Nov 13th, 2012, 10:01 AM
#1
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Turkey - Early planning
Howdy All,
So, I'm crossing my comfort level and stretching myself by planning a trip to Turkey.
Primary reason: I'm a huge history guy and Turkey is full of it! =-D
My only other trips abroad have been to Dublin (2010) and London (2011). Some questions to help get me started planning:
Language: how cumbersome is the language barrier?
Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
Most over-rated place that every guidebook says you must go
Most overlooked must-see or experience
Thanks all!
So, I'm crossing my comfort level and stretching myself by planning a trip to Turkey.
Primary reason: I'm a huge history guy and Turkey is full of it! =-D
My only other trips abroad have been to Dublin (2010) and London (2011). Some questions to help get me started planning:
Language: how cumbersome is the language barrier?
Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
Most over-rated place that every guidebook says you must go
Most overlooked must-see or experience
Thanks all!
Nov 13th, 2012, 10:21 AM
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Don't know about over rated anythings as we really enjoyed our pre cruise 3 days and 4 nights. Language was not a poroble in IST as many speak english. Toured (3 half days outings)with Backpackers, a bonified tour group with no backpacks!!!)..Saw much of the important sights without any line ups. Did an afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus and did the hop on hop off on our own. Also did Epehsus from the ship with a tour self arranged with Hello Epehsus. Excellent. Got to Mary's house, Theatre, and all of the Ephesus sites including the terrace houses which many tour groups don't include or charge extra for viewing. I'd do it again and the same way as often as I could. Stayed in a hotel, Tash Konak in Sultanhamet which had airport pick and an outstanding breakfast,congenialand helpful staff, discount for cash, very clean, and quiet. As I said again?? You bet!!!
Nov 13th, 2012, 10:27 AM
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Sorry I didn't answer your questions but as you can see i got/get carried away just thinking about going to Turkey. Pub. trans was ok as needed but the hoho did the job for us as did the tour guide (Deliet). Walking was very easy from where we stayed. Perhaps the huge market could be called over rated but still worth a look see. And everything we experienced ( all the tourist stops) was a must see for us.
Nov 13th, 2012, 01:57 PM
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"Primary reason: I'm a huge history guy and Turkey is full of it!"
Well, personally I'd leave Ephesus at the bottom of your list then.
What sort of history are you into? I guess pre-history isn't your gig (which I suppose would exclude Göbekli Tepe - http://www.gobeklitepe.info/ - Çatalhöyük - http://www.catalhoyuk.com/ - and Aşıklı Höyük - http://www.asiklihoyuk.org/AHeng.html ).
So when did "history" start in Turkey? Maybe with the Assyrians in the 3rd millennium BC? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%BCltepe
Or with the Hittites? http://www.hittitemonuments.com/
And so on. Take your pick, right through to the Hellenistic and Roman period, the Byzantines, and Seljuk Muslims, etc.
Well, personally I'd leave Ephesus at the bottom of your list then.
What sort of history are you into? I guess pre-history isn't your gig (which I suppose would exclude Göbekli Tepe - http://www.gobeklitepe.info/ - Çatalhöyük - http://www.catalhoyuk.com/ - and Aşıklı Höyük - http://www.asiklihoyuk.org/AHeng.html ).
So when did "history" start in Turkey? Maybe with the Assyrians in the 3rd millennium BC? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%BCltepe
Or with the Hittites? http://www.hittitemonuments.com/
And so on. Take your pick, right through to the Hellenistic and Roman period, the Byzantines, and Seljuk Muslims, etc.
Nov 13th, 2012, 02:07 PM
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Language: No problem - tourists have been visiting Turkey for a long time.
Transport: No problem - plenty of domestic airlines and one of the most efficient bus systems of any country.
Most overrated: Ephesus.
Most overlooked: Hattuşa, the Hittite capital, near Ankara.
Transport: No problem - plenty of domestic airlines and one of the most efficient bus systems of any country.
Most overrated: Ephesus.
Most overlooked: Hattuşa, the Hittite capital, near Ankara.
Nov 13th, 2012, 02:24 PM
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Greasefire11, go for it! Turkey is an amazing country with great sights, awesome food, and very nice people. I was there several years ago, visiting Istanbul and Cappadocia.
If you're into history, then Istanbul is your place for layers upon layers of it. Must-sees include Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. I really enjoyed the Basilica Cistern, which is only a couple of blocks from the Hagia Sophia, but it not on everyone's tourist itinerary. You go underground to what was once a reservoir and appearing before you are rows upon rows of columns seemingly floating in a pool of water. If you manage to find a spot away from the other tourists, you could feel as though you have the whole place to yourself. Depending on how much time you have and the weather, you may want to take a cruise on the Bosphorus and see some of the sights along the way; I especially liked walking among the ruins of the Rumeli Fortress.
Cappadocia is about a two hour flight from Istanbul, but feels like another world. I could spend days and weeks hiking among the fairy chimneys visiting the little villages nestled among the landscape and the old rock churches that are found throughout the area. A must see, IMO, if you find yourself in Turkey.
If you're into history, then Istanbul is your place for layers upon layers of it. Must-sees include Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. I really enjoyed the Basilica Cistern, which is only a couple of blocks from the Hagia Sophia, but it not on everyone's tourist itinerary. You go underground to what was once a reservoir and appearing before you are rows upon rows of columns seemingly floating in a pool of water. If you manage to find a spot away from the other tourists, you could feel as though you have the whole place to yourself. Depending on how much time you have and the weather, you may want to take a cruise on the Bosphorus and see some of the sights along the way; I especially liked walking among the ruins of the Rumeli Fortress.
Cappadocia is about a two hour flight from Istanbul, but feels like another world. I could spend days and weeks hiking among the fairy chimneys visiting the little villages nestled among the landscape and the old rock churches that are found throughout the area. A must see, IMO, if you find yourself in Turkey.
Nov 13th, 2012, 02:50 PM
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I'd leave Istanbul for last. First fly to Ankara, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, do a day trip to Hattuşa. Bus down to Cappadocia for a few days. Fly from Kayseri to Izmir for some of the Hellenistic/Roman sites over there and then fly back to Istanbul for the remainder of your stay.
This is a well-travelled standard triangle for tourists and is very easy to do.
If you've got, say, 3 weeks instead of the normal 2, I'd recommend taking in the Lycian coast as well - http://www.lycianturkey.com/
This is a well-travelled standard triangle for tourists and is very easy to do.
If you've got, say, 3 weeks instead of the normal 2, I'd recommend taking in the Lycian coast as well - http://www.lycianturkey.com/
Nov 13th, 2012, 02:58 PM
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We just got back from Turkey and really enjoyed ourselves.
Here are my answers to your questions
Language: In Istanbul and Ephesus, no problem. We also visited Antakya and Reyhanli (out on the Syrian border, it's a long story) and there was definitely a language barrier. We struggled to speak, but not really to communicate, if you get my meaning. Everyone was incredibly kind and made excellent use of sign language and gestures!
Public Transport: We didn't take any. We're lazy and just used taxis from the airport to our hotels and walked everywhere else.
Third City: Well, we only added Antakya and it's definitely off the tourist path so I wouldn't really recommend it for site seeing. I guess Cappadocia?
Most Over rated: Grand Bazaar, but I don't see how you could really skip it. I'd still go, just with appropriate expectations.
Most Over looked: Basillica Cistern, but mostly because we roll with a seven year old boy. Anything underground, in the dark, with Medusa heads scores points with us!
P.S -- We liked Ephesus. We hired a private guide to take our little family around. He explained everything to one of us while the other one chased my son around. We took turns listening and chasing!
Here are my answers to your questions
Language: In Istanbul and Ephesus, no problem. We also visited Antakya and Reyhanli (out on the Syrian border, it's a long story) and there was definitely a language barrier. We struggled to speak, but not really to communicate, if you get my meaning. Everyone was incredibly kind and made excellent use of sign language and gestures!
Public Transport: We didn't take any. We're lazy and just used taxis from the airport to our hotels and walked everywhere else.
Third City: Well, we only added Antakya and it's definitely off the tourist path so I wouldn't really recommend it for site seeing. I guess Cappadocia?
Most Over rated: Grand Bazaar, but I don't see how you could really skip it. I'd still go, just with appropriate expectations.
Most Over looked: Basillica Cistern, but mostly because we roll with a seven year old boy. Anything underground, in the dark, with Medusa heads scores points with us!
P.S -- We liked Ephesus. We hired a private guide to take our little family around. He explained everything to one of us while the other one chased my son around. We took turns listening and chasing!
Nov 13th, 2012, 03:44 PM
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I've been to Istanbul twice and throughout Turkey this past August/September.
Language: No problem in the tourist cities such as Istanbul, Ephesus and parts of the Turquoise Riviera. Definite problem in more remote cities like Trabzon (which you would stay in to visit the Sumela Monastery).
Public Transport: Great in Istanbul. You can catch the Metro at the airport, then transfer to the Light Rail/Tram 6 stops away which will take you to both the Old and New Cities. I also used Turkish Airlines several times to fly between locations. Remember that Turkey is a very large country and taking buses between locations will chew up much of your precious travel time.
3rd City: I did not visit Ankara so can't comment, other than most guidebooks don't speak that highly of it. You have to visit Istanbul, of course (4 days minimum. 6 better). Cappadocia is a must--including a hot air balloon ride over the valleys. DON'T YOU DARE SKIP EPHESUS! It's absolutely incredible and the Library of Celsus is one of the most amazing things I have seen on this planet. Plus, there are many other cool sites within an hour's drive, including the Virgin Mary's House, St. John's Basilica, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis-one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. (albeit one column). I also spent 4 days on the Turquoise Coast which was a great respite for both beach and Lycian ruins activities.
Most overrated: Agree...the Grand Bazaar. Been there twice. Hated it twice. But you CAN'T go to Istanbul and not visit it. Just spend an hour there and get the heck out.
Most underrated: Perhaps the Chora Church in Istanbul. It's a ways out of the center part of the Old City. Requires a taxi, bus, or Golder Horn ferry trip. But absolutely amazing, well-preserved mosaics and frescoes showing both Old and New Testament scenes. Going to Istanbul and not visiting the Chora Church would be a crime.
When are you planning to go? And why do you consider visiting Turkey "crossing your comfort level"?
Language: No problem in the tourist cities such as Istanbul, Ephesus and parts of the Turquoise Riviera. Definite problem in more remote cities like Trabzon (which you would stay in to visit the Sumela Monastery).
Public Transport: Great in Istanbul. You can catch the Metro at the airport, then transfer to the Light Rail/Tram 6 stops away which will take you to both the Old and New Cities. I also used Turkish Airlines several times to fly between locations. Remember that Turkey is a very large country and taking buses between locations will chew up much of your precious travel time.
3rd City: I did not visit Ankara so can't comment, other than most guidebooks don't speak that highly of it. You have to visit Istanbul, of course (4 days minimum. 6 better). Cappadocia is a must--including a hot air balloon ride over the valleys. DON'T YOU DARE SKIP EPHESUS! It's absolutely incredible and the Library of Celsus is one of the most amazing things I have seen on this planet. Plus, there are many other cool sites within an hour's drive, including the Virgin Mary's House, St. John's Basilica, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis-one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. (albeit one column). I also spent 4 days on the Turquoise Coast which was a great respite for both beach and Lycian ruins activities.
Most overrated: Agree...the Grand Bazaar. Been there twice. Hated it twice. But you CAN'T go to Istanbul and not visit it. Just spend an hour there and get the heck out.
Most underrated: Perhaps the Chora Church in Istanbul. It's a ways out of the center part of the Old City. Requires a taxi, bus, or Golder Horn ferry trip. But absolutely amazing, well-preserved mosaics and frescoes showing both Old and New Testament scenes. Going to Istanbul and not visiting the Chora Church would be a crime.
When are you planning to go? And why do you consider visiting Turkey "crossing your comfort level"?
Nov 13th, 2012, 05:12 PM
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> So, I'm crossing my comfort level and stretching myself by planning a trip to Turkey.
Why is Turkey outside your comfort zone? I found the people incredibly helpful and hospitable and thought it very easy to travel there. You might find my trip report helpful - just click on my name to find it.
> Language: how cumbersome is the language barrier?
I traveled extensively in western Turkey, and didn't experience much of a language barrier. English shouldn't be a problem in major tourist destinations; the more you veer from the major tourist routes, the less English you'll encounter. That said, a few words of Turkish will serve you well (a few words of the local language are always a help).
> Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
I thought Istanbul's public transport excellent. I had a rental car for most of the rest of my trip.
> Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
As others suggested, that depends on how much time you have and what parts of history most interest you. Turkey provides a wealth of wonderful options!
Enjoy!
Why is Turkey outside your comfort zone? I found the people incredibly helpful and hospitable and thought it very easy to travel there. You might find my trip report helpful - just click on my name to find it.
> Language: how cumbersome is the language barrier?
I traveled extensively in western Turkey, and didn't experience much of a language barrier. English shouldn't be a problem in major tourist destinations; the more you veer from the major tourist routes, the less English you'll encounter. That said, a few words of Turkish will serve you well (a few words of the local language are always a help).
> Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
I thought Istanbul's public transport excellent. I had a rental car for most of the rest of my trip.
> Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
As others suggested, that depends on how much time you have and what parts of history most interest you. Turkey provides a wealth of wonderful options!
Enjoy!
Nov 13th, 2012, 05:28 PM
#11
>Language: how cumbersome is the language barrier?
As above. In major centers - no problem. In smaller areas - sign language & calculators solve many things but learn some basic phrases. Hello. Thank you. Please. Bathroom. etc
>Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
We flew & rented cars but all of the backpackers we talked with claimed it was easy. Tediously slow but easy. Flights are cheap . . .
>Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
For history, skip Ankara & go to Izmir. Rent a car & go. Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus etc etc etc
And yes to Cappadocia. It is unique & you will be glad you went. And DO take a balloon ride.
>Most over-rated place that every guidebook says you must go
As above - the Grand Bazaar
>Most overlooked must-see or experience
Off the beaten path. Do some exploring.
Ian
As above. In major centers - no problem. In smaller areas - sign language & calculators solve many things but learn some basic phrases. Hello. Thank you. Please. Bathroom. etc
>Public transport: fairy easy to navigate?
We flew & rented cars but all of the backpackers we talked with claimed it was easy. Tediously slow but easy. Flights are cheap . . .
>Add a third city to this list: Istanbul, Ankara, ...
For history, skip Ankara & go to Izmir. Rent a car & go. Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus etc etc etc
And yes to Cappadocia. It is unique & you will be glad you went. And DO take a balloon ride.
>Most over-rated place that every guidebook says you must go
As above - the Grand Bazaar
>Most overlooked must-see or experience
Off the beaten path. Do some exploring.
Ian
Nov 15th, 2012, 02:06 PM
#13
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Thanks for the fantastic advice so far!!
To answer the most common question: this is stretching myself because it's my first trip to a non-English speaking country. And that's making me nervous. =-)
I'm currently debating a DIY trip (like my Dublin and London trips) vs some sort of tour.
To answer the most common question: this is stretching myself because it's my first trip to a non-English speaking country. And that's making me nervous. =-)
I'm currently debating a DIY trip (like my Dublin and London trips) vs some sort of tour.
Nov 15th, 2012, 02:14 PM
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I remember the first time I traveled to a non-English speaking country. I was quite nervous! And very pleasantly surprised by how easy it turned out to be.
Turkey is definitely a place you can visit on your own. No need to join a tour unless that's your preference.
Turkey is definitely a place you can visit on your own. No need to join a tour unless that's your preference.
Nov 15th, 2012, 05:55 PM
#15
DIY. We found Turkey to be the friendliest European country that we have visited. Even the rug sellers in Istanbul were fun to joke with. I self-booked everything through research here & TA etc. And after all, planning the trip is a big chunk of the fun.
Ian
Ian
Nov 16th, 2012, 07:18 AM
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Turkey is a very easy country to do DYI-especially Istanbul. As I didn't want to deal with renting a car, the only tours I did were my two days in Cappadocia and my day tour (from Istanbul) to Ephesus. Otherwise, for Istanbul, Trabzon/Sumela Monastery and the Turquoise Coast, I did everything DYI and loved it that way. Of course more than anything, it comes down to how you personally prefer to travel.
Nov 16th, 2012, 03:43 PM
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There are trains, but not in all areas, and for many connections, buses will likely serve you better. For good information about train and bus connections between various destinations in Turkey, check the Rough Guides.
Nov 16th, 2012, 04:10 PM
#20
