I just loved Turkey. I have been fortunate to have travelled extensively through Europe and Asia. Turkey is <BR> the best. The country is beautiful and the history incredible. It is the people that make the difference. The <BR> people are for the most part so warm, hospitable, well mannered, humble, polite and modest. I loved the <BR> East meets West. What a pleasant surprise to see rice cookers in the marketplace! The Turks eat rice, drink <BR> tea - chai, take off their shoes before entering a home and are very Asian in their sensibilities. I felt very at <BR> home there. <BR> <BR> One man originally from Uzbekistan stopped me in the street in Istanbul to ask where I was from. He said <BR> we could be related as he was very Asian looking. He then wished me well and went on his way. At first I <BR> was surprised to hear that Japanese women married Turkish men, but the more time I spent there the more <BR> I could see why. Turkey is also very popular with Japanese tourists. <BR> <BR> The people were also very endeared that I showed them respect and learned enough Turkish to be polite. <BR> This one man in the marketplace in Istanbul even gave me his 75th Anniversary pin when I asked him in <BR> Turkish how much it cost and where could I get one. He refused to accept any money or fruit so I thanked <BR> him profusely. He just nodded before saying good bye. In the countryside, I got into trouble as I would say <BR> merhaba and the people would be surprised and start talking to me! <BR> <BR> While I don't want Turkey too over run by too many tourists, I do wish more people would visit. Everyone <BR> hears about Greece, but Turkey is right next door. The Turkish people also consider Americans good <BR> friends. If you go, just remember you will need $45 US for a visa. <BR>USA

Do you fell it is safe to go there now? I have heard there have been some bombings and the State Department has issued a cautionary warning. We were thinking about going in Sept.

Do you fell it is safe to go there now? I have heard there have been some bombings and the State Department has issued a cautionary warning. We were thinking about going in Sept.

I went a few years ago shortly after there was a bomb explosion in Istanbul. The State Department issued similar warning, but I had paid for the trip. <BR>SOOOOO glad I went.. and amazing country. Just remember, you are probably safer there than in any US major city. <BR>

I spend 2 weeks in September last driving down the west coast. I could not agree with Carolina more, it was the most interesting country with very friendly people, who seem only too happy to help the tourist. This includes the carpet men, only too happy to help!!!!!! My favourite spot on the west coast was Assos where Aristotle taught for some years. The view, the hotels the harbour, the old city, the current village - just superb. Oh, yes, the food,....mmmmmmmm..... What about the Turkish Delight..... <BR>Denise

My Dutch friend and I purchased a ticket for Istanbul before Ocallan was captured. We are watching daily and will make a last minute decision as to go or not. I am American and she is Dutch. Question: Do I have to have a Visa before I leave USA or can I buy one when entering Turkey. Is it at the airport and relatively simple to do? Thanks. <BR>

Not a problem. Simply pay $45 US (cash only)upon arrival at the airport. They then put a thing like a postage stamp into your passport.

Carolina, <BR>After reading what you had to say re Turkey I am again revved up for our 3 weeks there starting April 1st (only 3 sleeps!!). After the recent trouble, we were feeling a bit down and considering changing our plans, however we have decided to land in Istanbul, ring the Australian Embassy to see what they recommend as to whether we should stay the planned 3-4 days in Istanbul or not before heading down south, and simply take it from there. Your positive words were just what we needed at this stage, thank you.

Have a great time Trish and Brendan. Enjoy and let us hear about it when you return. Denise - Brisbane. <BR>