Istanbul: Exploring Its Surroundings with Kyung Suk Oh

Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Join travel enthusiast Kyung Suk Oh as he takes us on a journey exploring the captivating city of Istanbul and its magnificent surroundings. From the bustling streets of the ancient metropolis to the tranquil beauty of its natural landscapes, Istanbul truly has it all.

A Glimpse into the Melting Pot of Cultures

Istanbul, the only city in the world spanning two continents, serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia. It is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. As you step foot in Istanbul, you'll instantly be captivated by its vibrant atmosphere and the blend of architectural styles that reflect its diverse heritage.

Istanbul & Its Surroundings

by Kyung Suk Oh (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1987 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	196 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Start your adventure by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Marvel at the impressive Islamic architecture of the Blue Mosque, and don't forget to make a wish at the ancient Basilica Cistern. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, where you can find anything from traditional handicrafts to delicious street food.

Unveiling the Treasures of Istanbul's Surroundings

While Istanbul itself is a treasure trove of history and culture, its surroundings hold equally mesmerizing beauty. Join Kyung Suk Oh as he takes you on a journey to explore the hidden gems just a stone's throw away from the city.

Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys and Hot Air Balloons

A must-visit destination near Istanbul is the magical region of Cappadocia. Famous for its unique rock formations called "fairy chimneys," Cappadocia offers a surreal landscape that feels like stepping into another world.

Embark on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise and witness the breathtaking sight of hundreds of colorful balloons dotting the sky above the fairy chimneys. Explore the ancient cave dwellings and underground cities, which were once home to early Christian communities. Experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality as you savor traditional cuisine and enjoy an enchanting Turkish folklore performance.

Pamukkale: The Cotton Castle

Another gem near Istanbul is Pamukkale, known as the "Cotton Castle." This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning terraces of white mineral-rich water, formed over centuries by calcium deposits.

Take a dip in the thermal pools, believed to have healing properties, and let the natural beauty of Pamukkale rejuvenate your body and soul. Explore the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, with its well-preserved ruins, theaters, and necropolis. Don't forget to capture some stunning photographs while walking along the terraces, creating a memory that will last a lifetime.

Troy: Unraveling Mythology

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the ancient city of Troy is a must. Famous for the Trojan War, immortalized in Homer's epic poem, "The Iliad," Troy offers a glimpse into the mythical world of gods and heroes.

Explore the archaeological site and discover the layers of history that have shaped this iconic location. Stand before the remains of the ancient city walls and the reconstructed wooden horse, a symbol of the legendary deception that led to the fall of Troy. Feel the weight of history as you walk in the footsteps of the ancient civilizations that once thrived on these grounds.

: Istanbul's Charms Await

From the enchanting streets of Istanbul to the captivating beauty of its surroundings, this journey with Kyung Suk Oh has given us a taste of the wonders that await in this ancient metropolis. Istanbul truly offers a unique blend of cultures, history, and natural landscapes that will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let Istanbul and its surroundings with Kyung Suk Oh mesmerize you with their timeless charm.

Istanbul & Its Surroundings

by Kyung Suk Oh (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1987 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	196 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The second you land in Istanbul two things hit you: how vast it is and how chaotic. The cauldron of noise builds in the morning with the first call to prayer. As the city springs to life, ferries and tankers weave their way across the Bosphorus Strait from Asia to Europe and traffic chokes the streets. Hundreds of fishermen line the Galata Bridge in search of their daily catch to sell in cafés nestled below, while seagulls swoop and squall. At the end of the bridge, locals crush into the dark passageways at Eminönü's spice market and along the warrens of the Grand Bazaar for another day of haggling.

Turkey is so diverse it could almost be described as a continent rather than a country. In the west, mountains and pine forests frame a staggeringly beautiful coastline. The central steppe has the peculiar rock churches and underground cities of Cappadocia and the cosmopolitan capital of Ankara. In the east, there are biblical rivers, a fabled mountain and haunting cities and palaces. Then, there is the magnetism of Istanbul. Turkey s location straddles Asia and Europe. The three great Empires that ruled the country for thousands of years left a legacy of enchanting cultures and more ancient sites than even Italy or Greece can boast. Major areas dealt with in the guide include Istanbul, Thrace and Marmara, the Aegean Coast, the Mediterranean Coast, Central Anatolia, Cappadocia, the Black Sea Coast. Covered in detail for each area are where to stay, where to eat, shopping, sightseeing and adventures, both cultural and physical from walking in the footsteps of St. Paul to joining in the local festivals, from yoga and Turkish baths to art classes and cooking courses. This guide combines in-depth text information with color maps & photos on almost every page. Existing guides are largely text-only or mostly graphics and lacking the practical details travelers need.

"Excellent guide. If, like me, you are a bit tired of the ethnocentric social commentary that seems to come with certain well known guidebooks then you could do worse than try this one. Simple to use, well written and accurate, I found it invaluable and couldn't fault any of its recommendations nor descriptions." -- Yurt (Amazon reviewer)

Trade has, for the past 2,500 years, been the lifeblood of Istanbul. The city's location made it a prominent trading route and its inhabitants cling to that tradition. In Istanbul, it seems everyone is trying to sell you something, from the street peddlers offering fake perfume and shoe shines to markets with their elaborate displays of fish, nuts and Turkish sweets.

The history and geography of Istanbul promise a taste of the exotic. Every corner throws up a relic of the Byzantium or Ottoman empires and as much as modern Istanbul tries to shake it off, the flavor of the East is everywhere.

Istanbul is almost drowning from the weight of its archeological treasures. But it is so much more than just a history lesson. Its waterways, music, parks, food and people create an exhilarating piece of theatre. It is no surprise that Istanbul has been chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2010.

This guide includes the extensive introductory section on Turkey as a whole from our complete Adventure Guide to Turkey (644 pages in print), as well as the the chapters on Istanbul and the surrounding area.