Turkey – Magical seal that unites Europe and Asia

Experiences as tourist

As a tourist in this beautiful place, Turkey, I find myself enthralled by the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that define this land. I am a half-breed Turk, mixed with Indonesian and British blood, which makes me feel the beat of Turkey very strongly as a half mix Turk; it’s as if the rhythms of its colorful traditions resonate in my veins. I am busy writing a little bit about my experiences on my getaway holiday to Turkey, capturing the essence of this memorable journey.

It is the month of June, and summer has fully arrived in Turkey, bringing with it an intense heat that envelops the vibrant streets and bustling markets. I am using touristy transport to get around, not like a local, as it’s only my second time in Turkey; the first trip was solely spent in Istanbul, where I fell in love with the city’s energy and charm. Istanbul is a vibe—so busy and touristy, yet brimming with a unique allure. The energy keeps you on your feet, as there’s an endless array of walking, shopping, and activities that ensure you can never pause without encountering something remarkably new, adventurous, historical, amazing, and, quite often, unusually delightful. The flavors of street food, the sights of ancient architecture, and the sounds of lively bazaars weave together to create an unforgettable experience. Istanbul is a since ancient times, representing a crossroads of civilizations. Without a doubt, Istanbul is certainly one of the most beautiful places in the world, where every corner tells a story, and every moment feels like an adventure waiting to unfold.

My experiences

My second Time to Turkey starts now June 2025
My form of transport is basically using the Uber App to get around
Using ferry’s and underground
trains and trams
From my experience being here for some time I started to make use of local transport much cheaper and not as difficult to get around
My first stop in Turkey was Istanbul
Staying in Sultanahmet and celebrating Eid was quite different to what I am used to I was going to mosq at the most famous Blue Mosq and thats was very early in the morning and the rest of the day was quite normal like a holiday not a celebration like I am used to in Cape Town where you go to visit family friends eat and greet in a form of dressing up and buying so much food clothes and share with everyone you know
I was alone and had a normal day like any other day
I loved the idea of holiday and eating out at diff restaurants and that many Turks celebrate it in a diff way like holiday outings and family shopping and eating
After spending some days in Istanbul Sultanahmet Fatih district
I left to Bursa with a boat from Istanbul a beautiful peaceful place with much friendlier people and much to see

Bursa

Bursa holds the distinction of being the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, a legacy that still echoes through its mosques, tombs, and markets.
Traditionally, Bursa was famous for being the largest centre of silk trade in the Byzantine and later the Ottoman empires, during the period of the lucrative …
Bursa Its quite historical in a very beautiful city not a beach town but a country side town with much more islamic wear and people u notices to be muslim unlike Istanbul thats very modern busy and very modern with so much to do what ever u fancy from going to other places eating traveling sight seeing cultural modern mixes with european and asian
The mausoleums of the early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa, and the city’s main landmarks include numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period. Bursa also has thermal baths, old Ottoman mansions, palaces, and several museums.

The best way to explore the many landmarks from a local perspective is to take Bursa free walking tours. The Essential Bursa City Tour is the perfect starting point, taking you to some of the city’s most important landmarks such as the Green Mosque and Tomb, the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), and the Bursa Castle

Back in Istanbul

Place I went was to Blue Mosq for Eid
Hagia Sophia for Jumua
Pierre Lotti Hill for sight seeing up from above a hill and lots of muslim cemeteries
Princes Island – leaving with a boat and stopping at many islands before reaching the relaxing Island of Princes Island
The name of the islands comes from the Byzantine period, when royal princes and empresses were exiled there.
The Princes’ Islands (Turkish: Prens Adaları; the word “princes” is plural, because the name means “Islands of the Princes”

What is Pierre Loti Hill?

Pierre Loti Hill is a popular attraction located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is named after the French novelist and naval officer, Pierre Loti, who frequently visited the hill to find inspiration for his writings. Situated in the Eyüp district, the hill offers breathtaking views of the Golden Horn and the historic city skyline.
History of Pierre Loti Hill
Pierre Loti Hill holds a significant place in Istanbul’s history. It was a popular spot during the Ottoman Empire, known for its panoramic views and serene atmosphere. Visitors would climb to the top of the hill to enjoy the picturesque landscape and seek solace in nature. Today, it continues to attract locals and tourists alike.
Why is Pierre Loti Hill Important?
Pierre Loti Hill is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, allowing visitors to unwind and admire the beauty of Istanbul from a unique vantage point. Additionally, the hill serves as a reminder of Pierre Loti’s influence on Turkish literature and his love for Istanbul.
Things to Do & See at Pierre Loti Hill
Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill and enjoy the breathtaking views during the ascent.
Pierre Loti Café: Visit the famous Pierre Loti Café at the summit, where you can relax with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee while taking in the panoramic views of the city.
Exploration: Wander through the narrow streets surrounding the hill, lined with charming Ottoman-era houses and quaint shops.
Eyüp Sultan Mosque: Explore the nearby Eyüp Sultan Mosque, an important religious site for Muslims, and witness the peaceful atmosphere of this historic place of worship.
Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the Istanbul skyline, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus from various viewpoints on the hill.

What to do in Istanbul

Istanbul City
Walking – ferry trips
Walking – shopping
Eating sipping tea
Lots to do and never enuf time to do what you want to time goes to quick in this place
A Magical beautiful cultural with art and museums to visit.

One place I had to visit was the Basilica Cistern
The attraction of Basilica Cistern is known by different names due to its archaeological significance like the colonnade and the engravings upon them, the vaulted ceiling and the Corinthian columns. There are two columns with Medusa Heads engraved at the base one of which is placed sideways and the other is inverted.

Gülhane Park Istanbul
While it is the oldest and the most expensive public parks in Istanbul, it is also the best park in Istanbul
Located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, Gülhane Park is a lush green oasis—a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. This large public park offers something for everyone, from picnics and concerts to beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Marmara Sea.

Gülhane Park has been around since 1806, but it wasn’t opened to the public until 1912. The park was once part of Topkapi Palace grounds; however, it has since been transformed into a sprawling park that spreads across more than 200 acres (80 hectares). Gülhane Park is located within walking distance of many of Istanbul’s major attractions, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square. It is easily accessible by public transportation or walking if u staying in the Sultanahmet area

There is so much more to see In Turkey and places to visit and I will definitely go back to explore the wonders of Turkey
Pamukkale Thermal Pools: Take A Natural Sauna
Goreme National Park: Explore Limestone Formations
Cemberlitas Hamami: Enjoy A Turkish Bath
Dervish: Watch The Sacred Dance
Ruins Of Ephesus: Visit The Ruins
Nargile Bars: Try Turkish Tobacco
Archaeological Site of Troy: Take A Trip Back In Time
Kapali Carsisi: Collect Artifacts
Mount Nemrut: Go Hiking
The Bosphorus Ferry Ride: Behold The Views!
Ankara Castle: Revisit The History
Aqua Vega Aquarium: Witness The Turkish Marine Life
Dolmabahce Palace: Spectate The Architecture
Gobekli Tepe: Visit This Iconic Landmark
Hagia Sophia: Learn About Turkish History
Cappadocia: Behold The Beauty
Erimtan Museum: Soak In The Turkish Artistic Side
Hippodrome Of Constantinople: Embrace The Historic Importance
Lycian Rock Tombs: Take A Look At The Intriguing Past
Blue Mosque: Embrace The Tranquility
Clubs And Cafes: Taste The Local Raki
Galata Bridge: Grab A Fish Sandwich And Pickle Juice
Pigeon Valley: Fall In Love With Pigeons

What you waiting for ?
Turkey is waiting for you