| |
Turkey, a country of utmost strategic
importance in the world with its
geopolitical location, is on the
intersection point of Asia, Europe and
Africa continents, which are referred to as
the "Lands of the Old World". This country,
with the generous divine gifts of all sorts
of scenic wonders, is a unique bridge
between Eastern and Western civilizations as
well as for inter-faith dialogue.
Turkey is in south-eastern Europe and
western Asia (that portion of Turkey in the
west of the Bosporus is geographically part
of Europe), bordering the Black Sea, between
Bulgaria and Georgia, and bordering the
Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea,
between Greece and Syria.
Linking Europe and the Middle East,
suspended between the new and the long-established,
Turkey retains a disconcerted balance of
both the east and the west, representing a
cultural mix with many discrepancies and
contradictions. Modern city boutiques and
exotic bazaars clamour for customers, the
weekly tolling of church bells interrupts
the daily call of the muezzin (sings the
call), and the Roman ruins at the beginning
of Christianity compete for attention with
the history of the Ottoman Empire and modern
secularity.
The different regions of Turkey offer an
assortment of landscapes, activities and
characters, and whether one is a history or
archaeology enthusiast, a sun-worshipper,
sailor, or city-lover keen on shopping,
there is something on offer for everyone.
Istanbul, with one part in Europe and the
other in Oriental Asia, is a fascinating
city with its frenzied market places,
imperial residences and minarets, and
sporting a lively ambience of contemporary
art and musical entertainment.
Cappadocia in Central Turkey offers an
astounding landscape of eroded volcanic rock
cones and fairy chimneys, remarkable
subterranean cities and rock-hewn houses
that merge harmoniously with the ochre-coloured
landscape; while further south the 'Turquoise
Coast' is a heaven for boat cruises. One can
enjoy a variety of water sports, sunbathing
on golden sands, or explore the wonderful
ancient cities of Troy and Ephesus on the
shores of the Aegean Sea.
And Western Turkey, with its picturesque
seaside resorts along the Aegean and
Mediterranean coasts, scenic and
recreational attractions, well-preserved
archaeological sites and fascinating museums
that bring its rich history to life.
Wherever one ventures in Turkey there is
certain to be a warm welcome and traditional
hospitality, making this a deeply satisfying
corner of the world in which to travel. |
About
Turkey
