Travel Turkey

Een korte geschiedenis van de Euromast

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Fri, 8 Oct 2010 12:26:00 -0700

De Euromast in Rotterdam is de hoogste uitkijktoren in Nederland. Hij is in 1960 gebouwd voor de internationale tuinbouwtentoonstelling, de Floriade.Vanuit een hoogte van 104 meter was de stad en haven te zien.In 1970 werd de Space Tower op de Euromast geplaatst en is de Euromast 185 meter hoger geworden.

Fethiye and Oludeniz

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 01:57:00 -0700

295km (183 miles) southwest of Antalya; 170km (105 miles) southeast of Marmaris; 290km (180 miles) southeast of Pamukkale; 15km (9 1/3 miles) north of Ölüdeniz.

Fethiye is much more than just the Blue Lagoon, that spectacularly turquoise poster child of Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Fethiye is rocky cliffs, pine-clad mountain ranges, and offshore islets that speak of ancient civilizations. It's the quiet serenity of a sunset over the ghost village of Kayaköy. And it's the blissful solitude of a swim in one of the innumerable, unspoiled, crystalline coves, many inaccessible by land.

The combination is winning: The ample natural environment inspires physical activity as much as the sun-kissed coastline encourages sloth.

Scuba diving, paragliding off a mountain peak, hiking ancient mountain paths, or wading slowly through an ice-cold gorge are just a few of the activities possible in and around Fethiye.

As a starting point for a Blue Voyage, Fethiye is unbeatable, offering several options for day, weekend, or weeklong charters. And of course, there's the Blue Lagoon of Ölüdeniz, one of the most astonishing natural beauties in all of Turkey.

Active Pursuits
Exploring Butterfly Valley

A nature lover's paradise is located in Butterfly Valley, an untouched beachfront parcel named for the rare Tiger Butterfly which breaks from its cocoon in April and May and turns the skies bright red.

The colorful creatures are drawn to the smell of mint, jasmine, laurel, eucalyptus, and thyme emanating from the rich vegetation. A 45-minute hike away from the beach leads to a refreshing waterfall.

Taxi boats leave from Ölüdeniz three times a day in both directions (about 16YTL/$12 round-trip) -- an alternative for the adventurous and well-shod hiker is to follow the steep and rocky slope down from the upper rim of the valley, following the footpath from in front of "George House," on the road to Faralya/Kabak (gauge about 30 min.).

For those who miss the last boat out, the platform huts and tents of the on-site Butterfly Valley "pension" (tel. +90 522 818-8570) are your only alternatives.

One night with all meals is around 30YTL/$24, and the basic snack bar offers the usual sparse selection of cold drinks, meatballs, and tea.

Ephesus

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 01:46:00 -0700

A highlight of any visit to Turkey, Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities on the Mediterranean and a major player in the birth and evolution of Christianity. Allot at least a half-day for just an overview of the archaeological site and a full day for a comprehensive visit. In the heat of the summer, it's best to avoid the midday sun when the reflection off the stones becomes unbearable.

The ancient city of Ephesus extends beyond the confines of the museum gates, and heartier (and well-watered) types can be seen walking single-file along the road between the Main Gate and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers. Meryemana is about 7km (4 1/3 miles) up the hill from the Upper Gate, and therefore (at least for me) too far to walk.

Ephesus Attractions

The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana)

Admission to park and house 11YTL ($8). Site parking 8YTL ($6)

According to the oral tradition of local villagers of Sirince (or Kirkince, descendants of Christians at Ephesus), Mary finished out her days in this house after migrating to Asia Minor with John. The location was "discovered" in the 19th century by Sister Anna Catherina Emmerich, a German invalid who had never left home. The discovery was in the form of a dream, from which the nun awoke with a stigmata. The site was later found as described and was visited by Popes Paul VI and John Paul II, who both verified its authenticity. The validity of the site is also supported by the oral tradition of the villagers who inhabited the village in the 19th century, as they were descendants of the early Christian inhabitants.

The house is a church nowadays, with the main altar where the kitchen was situated; the right wing was the bedroom. The site, now a national park, is a requisite stop on the itineraries of Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike, and therefore always crowded. In fact, in their religious fervor, pilgrims won't think anything of elbowing you out of the way. If you get there by 7:15am you can participate in the morning Mass (10:30am on Sun); and every year on August 15 there is a Mass celebrating the Assumption.
The park is also home to healing springs said to cure all sorts of ailments. On the way back up the path, make sure to avail yourself of the free and clean WC.

The Archaeological Site of Ephesus (Efes)

Second only to Pompeii, a visit to Ephesus is as good an introduction as one can get to ancient Roman civilization. Almost as astonishing as the site itself is that only 20% of the ancient city has been excavated.

The visit begins inside the Upper Entrance and basically follows a straight trajectory through the ancient city. You can get a fairly decent overview of the site by following the main street, but with so much of interest located in toppled buildings lining the route, you will definitely want to scramble around a bit to get a closer look. Plan on at least 2 hours for the basic overview, and double that if you're planning to really absorb all of the main sites. Add another 30 to 45 minutes in the Terraced Houses, and still more time if you're dedicated enough to trample through every last weed to the "secondary" sites off the main street. If you're visiting during the heat of the summer, begin as early as the ticket gates will allow, and bring bottled water and perhaps a snack. There are no public toilets inside the museum, so avail yourself before entering, preferably in one of the on-site restaurants, rather than in one of the overpriced and underserviced public restrooms outside the site.

Inside the entrance immediately off to the right is the East Gymnasium and what's left of the Magnesia Gate, built by Emperor Vespasian. Rather than tap into your reserves this early in the game, head straight to the Upper Agora, specifically to the Odeon. To provide some context for your visit, the Upper Agora, also known as the State Agora, was the administrative center of the city and was constructed between the reigns of Augustus and Claudius. The foundations of an early temple dedicated to the goddess Isis indicate that the site was also used for religious ceremonies. Clustered around the State Agora were the Various Baths, attributed to Flavius Damianus. To the south of the Agora is a monumental Fountain, which was fed by the River Marnas (now, Dervent), via an aqueduct about 5km (3 miles) east of Ephesus.

The Odeon, also known as the Small Theatre, functioned as a bouleuterion (place for meetings of the boule, or council), although it's reasonable to believe that it served as a venue for concerts and theatrical performances as well. The structure was built in the 2nd century A.D. by Publius Vedius Antoninus, according to an inscription, and was probably covered. To the north are the remains of a covered arcade, converted, according to an inscription found on an architrave, into a Basilica during the reign of Augustus. Excavations beneath the basilica have revealed a single-aisle colonnade. The juxtaposition of the Basilica next to the Prytaneum and Odeon lead historians to believe that even the basilica, in addition to religious purposes, held some state function. Next to the Odeon are the ruins of the Prytaneum or Town Hall, constructed by Lysimachos along with the Altar of Hestia Boulaia, upon which burned an eternal sacred flame. The two famous statues of Artemis now on exhibit in the Ephesus Museum (in Selçuk) were found in this building. Part of the Prytaneum was scavenged in the 3rd century A.D. by a woman named Scholastikia, for building materials for her baths.

At the corner of Domitian Square is an edifice referred to by archaeologists as the Socle Structure, and whose function is unknown. Just to the right of this is the Pollio Fountain. The original structure was built in honor of C. Sextilius Pollio, architect of the Marnas Aqueduct; however, the fountain was actually added to the monument at a later date. Built in 97 B.C., the monument was ornamented with statues of the head of Zeus and the torso of Aphrodite, as well as the Polyphemos group of statues, narrating the story of Odysseus, now in the Ephesus Museum. At the far end of Domitian Street (below the southwest corner of the State Agora) is another fountain, built in A.D. 80 by Laecanius Bassus.

The Temple of Domitian, the first temple of Ephesus built in honor of an emperor (A.D. 81-96) is located next to the Domitian Square. Not much remains of the temple, and what little information is available comes from the ruins of the foundation. A colossal statue of Domitian, 5m (16 ft.) high in a seated position, 7m (23 ft.) if you include the base, was the altar centerpiece in a cella only 9m*21m (30 ft.*70 ft.). Remains of this statue can be seen in the Ephesus Museum, while the head is on display in the Izmir Archaeological Museum.

The Museum of Inscriptions takes up the underground substructure of the temple, and contains a collection of stone and marble tablets that provides a rich historical record of the official decrees, state rulings, bureaucratic matters, and civil punishments. The museum is closed more often than not, providing visitors with a good excuse to skip it altogether.

At the junction to the right stand the remains of the Monument of Memmius, built in the 1st century B.C. in honor of the grandson of the dictator Cornelius Sulla. The figures are those of Memmius, his father Caicus, and Sulla. Next to and opposite the Monument of Memmius are two fountains: One is semicircular with a long narrow rectangular pool; the one opposite was brought here from another part of the city in the 4th century. It is decorated with garlands and a winged Nike.

Leading away from the Upper Agora down a gently sloping street pockmarked by thousands of pounding hoofs is the famous Curettes Way. In mythology, Curettes were demigods, a name later used by the Ephesians to designate a class of priests at first dedicated to the cult of Artemis. In Roman times, the Curettes held a place in the Prytaneum. The main thoroughfare is paved with stone and marble remnants recycled from other parts of the city, added after a 4th-century earthquake; valuable architectural elements like Doric columns and ornamental capitals are now part of the city's foundations.

About halfway down Curettes Way and blocking access to the aristocratic reaches of the Upper Agora is the Gate of Hercules. Two of the columns show Hercules wrapped in lion skin.

Immediately on the right is the two-story Trajan's Fountain, the point at which the star-studded section of the tour begins. Many visitors peter out because they've already spent a good portion of their time and energy before arriving at this point, so if you're resigned to the fact that you can't see everything, this is where you should begin the serious part of your tour, after having had a peek at the Odeon. Trajan's Fountain was built in the emperor's honor at the beginning of the 2nd century. The ruins have been partially restored, although only the base and a fragment of the Trajan's foot have been recovered. The fountain was decorated with statues of Dionysus, a Satyr, Aphrodite, and others, now on exhibit in the Ephesus Museum.

Located after the Trajan Fountain and running perpendicular to Curettes Way past the Baths of Scholastikia is another street, paved in some places with marble slabs. The portion leading above the theater has been excavated.

The second sacred building dedicated to a ruling emperor was the Temple of Hadrian, one of the main attractions at Ephesus, marketed in tourist brochures almost as much as the Celsus Library. The Corinthian temple consists of a main chamber and a monumental porch; an inscription on the architrave of the porch facade indicates that the temple was dedicated to the emperor by somebody named P. Quintilius. Ornamenting the semicircular arch that rests on the two inner columns of the porch facade is a bust of the goddess Tych, protectress of the city. In the entablature over the main portal is a carving of a woman; some interpretations identify the figure as Medusa, symbolically keeping the evil spirits away. The temple was partially destroyed in A.D. 400, and it was during the course of restorations that the four decorative reliefs were added to the lintels of the interior of the porch. (The ones in place today are plaster casts of originals now on exhibit in the Ephesus Museum.) The first three panels from the left depict the mythological foundation of Ephesus, and show representations of Androklos chasing a boar, gods with Amazons, and Amazons in a procession. The fourth panel is unrelated and shows Athena, Apollo, Androklos, Heracles, Emperor Theodosius, Artemis Ephesia, and several other historical and mythological figures.

The bases in front of the porch facade are inscribed with the names of Galerius, Maximianus, Diocletianus, and Constantius Chlorus, indicating that at one time, the bases supported statues of these emperors.

Behind the Temple of Hadrian via a stone staircase are the remains of the Baths of Scholastikia, constructed at the end of the 1st century and named after a rich Ephesian woman who enlarged them in the 4th. There were two entrances to the baths leading into a large main hall with niches; in one of these niches is the restored statue of Scholastikia, in its original position. During the 4th-century renovations, the original mosaic floor was covered over with marble slabs; some of these can be seen beneath the level of the current floor.

The original building phase of the baths included the construction of the adjacent brothel and the public toilets, which allowed a bit of discreet philandering.

Bizarre in its utility, the Public Latrine provides more of a mental image into our humbler functions than one really needs. Men would sit side by side on these narrow stone benches above open troughs hidden under their robes and discuss current events as their waste washed away beneath them. A fountain occupies the center of the atrium, where running water would drown out the, well, sounds.
On the opposite side of Curettes Way is a colonnaded street flanked by a row of 12 shops and covered in mosaic floor decorated with geometric patterns. The colonnade dates to the 1st century A.D.; however, the mosaics only date to the 5th century A.D. Staircases in several of the shops indicate the existence of an upper floor, probably used as sleeping quarters for employees.

However you prioritize your time at the sight, don't miss the Terraced Houses. Set on the hillside of Bülbül Dagi above the shops are five multichambered peristyle houses that have been uncovered in ongoing excavations. Since excavations of the site are ongoing, access is not guaranteed, so try to coax the caretaker to walk you through, and remember to tip. A separate ticket for entry is required (15YTL/$11). (Note to visitors with physical limitations: As terraced housing, access is via large exterior or interior stairways, making a visit to this exhibit somewhat challenging.)

The houses were inhabited from the 1st to the 7th centuries by the richest members of society and frequently remodeled. All of the houses had running water, sophisticated heating systems, large colonnaded inner courtyards, and rich decor. One had a private basilica. Overwhelmingly they reveal the best craftsmanship the city had to offer, in monumental arched colonnades, well-preserved mosaics, and layer upon layer of frescoes. The course of tourist visits is sure to change in the coming months; but on your way through the marked passage, keep an eye out for the spectacular collection of in situ 2nd-century frescoes and mosaics.

As the poster child for Ephesus, the Library of Celsus, whose two-tiered facade reaches us in a remarkable state of preservation, is immediately recognizable. The library was built between A.D. 110 and 135 by the Consul Julius Aquila as a mausoleum for his father, Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, governor of the Asian Provinces, whose remains remain surprisingly intact under the apsidal wall.
Three levels of niches indicate that the building had three stories, the upper two levels accessible via a horseshoe-shaped gallery. Scrolls or books were stored in the rows of niches, and reading materials were dispensed by a librarian.

In the lower niches of the facade are copies of four statues personifying wisdom, knowledge, destiny, and intelligence, the originals having been taken to Vienna. The library was abandoned after a fire of unspecified date destroyed the reading room, and around A.D. 400 the courtyard below the exterior steps was converted into a pool. The facade collapsed in an earthquake in the 10th century, but was restored and re-erected by F. Hueber of the Austrian Archaeological Institute between 1970 and 1978.

Back at the top of the steps above the library begins the Marble Way, a 5th-century street paved entirely with -- you guessed it -- marble. Chariot traffic on the road was high, calling for a raised lateral platform to be built for pedestrians. Carved into the marble at about halfway down the road is the imprint of a footprint, a heart, and a portrait of a woman, accepted by historians as an advertisement for the brothel next door. According to the rumor mill, a large underground sewage system running beneath the street -- an example of how advanced city engineering was in those days -- doubled as a secret passage between the library and the brothel.

The imperial arched Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates to the right of the library was built in 4 or 3 B.C. by two emancipated slaves of Agrippa who, according to an inscription in both Latin and Greek, had the monument erected in honor of Emperor Augustus, his wife Livia, Agrippa, and Agrippa's daughter Julia. The gate, unsuccessfully named the Gate of Augustus, was designed to provide southeastern access to the Lower or Commercial Agora, a space of almost 120 sq. m (400 sq. ft.) of shops and colonnaded galleries on prime waterfront real estate that is lamentably off-limits indefinitely. The Agora dates to the 3rd century B.C., was expanded and altered by Augustus and Nero, and attained its final form during the reign of Caracalla. In ongoing excavations, the original foundation of the Agora was discovered about 6m (20 ft.) below current ground level. The middle of the Agora was studded with statues of Ephesian notables, and at the center, a horologion, or sundial.

The Temple of Serapis, located at the southwestern end of the Agora, is also closed off due to ongoing excavations. The temple was probably built by Egyptian traders, and used as a church during Christian times.

For thespians and laypeople alike, the Great Theatre is a dramatic spectacle to behold. Built into the slopes of Panayir Dagi (Mt. Pion), the 30m-high (100-ft.) theater (actually, 30m/100 ft. above the level of the orchestra) required 60 years of digging to clear out a space large enough to accommodate 25,000 people, estimated at only one-tenth of the city's population. The theater was begun during the Hellenistic times (some say during the reign of Lysimachos), and was later altered and enlarged by emperors Claudius, Nero, and Trajan. Even more monumentally, St. Paul delivered his sermon condemning pagan worship from the proscenium. Even if you think it'll take an additional 60 years to hoist yourself up the steps to the upper cavea, do so, or you will be missing one of the most stunning views around.

The Arcadian Way (or Harbor Rd., also closed for excavation) is the name for the triumphal marble road leading from the harbor to the base of the Great Theatre. At 600m (1,968 ft.), the promenade was flanked by two colonnaded streets paved with mosaics and lined with elegant shops that reflected the prestige of a city of the stature of Ephesus. In fact, in the ancient world, only the wealthiest cities were lit at night, a privilege enjoyed by Ephesus, as well as Rome and Antioch. The Theatre Gymnasium is opposite the Great Theatre, at the junction of the Arcadian Way and the Marble Road. Complete with a bathhouse, palestra (gymnasium), and classrooms, the Theatre Gymnasium is the largest of its type in Ephesus. You can cut through here to rejoin the path out of the site (this leads to the Lower Entrance); just before reaching the path, turn around to face the theater, and take advantage of one of the best photo ops in the region. If you've still got any blood sugar left in you (and if this portion of the site is open to visitors, which currently it is not), you can wander around the Verulanus Sports Arena, the Harbor Gymnasium and Baths, and the Church of the Virgin Mary, located between the path heading out of the site and the old harbor. The arena was built during the reign of Hadrian, and extends all the way to the Harbor Gymnasium, also built at this time.

The Harbor Gymnasium and Baths sits at the port end of the Arcadian Way and is the largest building complex in Ephesus. The building of the gymnasium is thought to have taken place during the reign of Domitian while the baths date to Constantine II. The complex has yet to be excavated.

Before exiting the Lower Entrance, follow a path and signs for the Church of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Kilisesi) to the left. Originally, the building was used as a Roman mercantile center, but was converted to a basilica in the 4th century. The church played an important role in the evolution of Christianity, as the first one to take Mary's name, and as the site of two important ecumenical councils in 431 and 449, in which the natures of Christ and of Mary were hotly disputed. It's a little out of the way, especially at this stage in the game, but worth the energy it'll take to trek over here (again, assuming it's not cordoned off).

A well-paved road heading east of the Vedius Gymnasium leads to The Cave of the Seven Sleepers, about .8km ( 1/2 mile) away. According to the legend, seven young local boys (and a dog, according to one interpretation), refusing to submit to the persecutions of Emperor Decius (A.D. 249-51), fled to these caves with a group of Roman guards in hot pursuit. In characteristic Roman fashion, the guards mercilessly sealed up the cave, putting an end to yet another heretical episode. When the boys were awakened by an earthquake that also broke the cave's seals, they wandered back into town to buy some bread only to find themselves in the 5th century and 200 years older. Evidently, times had changed and Christianity was now the state religion. After their deaths, the "sleepers" were re-interred in the cave, and it wasn't long before the site became a sacred destination for pilgrimages.

This site, one of the many caves used by Seven Sleepers throughout Anatolia (there are others, located in Akhisar, Manisa, Sardes, Tarsus, and Antakya, to name a few), is actually a grouping of small churches dating to the time of the persecutions, superimposed in the rock and containing crypts carved into the walls. The actual cave site has been fenced off, but remains a draw to die-hard pilgrims. (At the time of this writing, a hole in the fence provided access.)

No phone. Admission to archaeological site 15YTL ($11); admission to Terraced Houses 15YTL ($11) (currently under restoration). Summer daily 8am-6:30pm; winter daily 8am-4:30pm. Follow the road from Selçuk to Kusadasi, turn left following signs for the archaeological site; the official entrance (Lower Entrance) is immediately to the right; follow signs to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers and Meryemana for the Upper Entrance.

Cappadocia and the Interior

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 01:43:00 -0700

A stark lunar landscape. A mysterious open-air sculpture carved by Mother Nature's chisel. These common descriptions of Cappadocia really just tap dance around the subject. So let's just get this out of the way: Those fascinating "fairy chimneys" evoke nothing so much as anatomically correct erections -- and circumcised ones at that. Imagine what a field day American film censors would have had if George Lucas had succeeded in his original plan to shoot Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace in Cappadocia.

Nobody knows who the original inhabitants of the region were, or who first hollowed out shelters in the soft rock of these sheltered ravines and odd "chimneys." But as a largely barren and desolate area, central Cappadocia was bypassed by most expansionist armies, making it a perfect refuge for the early Christians following in the footsteps of St. Paul, who established the first Christian colonies here.

The natural land formations and huge expanses of silence are just a part of the mystery of the region. As an incubator for Christian philosophy, the monasteries, cave dwellings, and feats of underground engineering are a testament to human ingenuity. Cliff walls of the valleys are riddled with innocuous-looking cavities that on closer inspection turn out to be centuries-old dwellings or chapels decorated with colorful frescoes and biblical images.

Cappadocian soil is extremely fertile, and a general tour of the region will reveal numerous vineyards in and around the valleys. Famous for its local wines, Cappadocia is a major producer; you may want to veer off at a sign for Sarap Evi (wine house) for a leisurely tasting. The creatively named Sarap Evi, in Ürgüp, has wine tastings in the evenings, but it's just as fun to drive up to any local producer and fall into the dance of local hospitality.

Natural Happenings

The erosion that carves out this fascinating topography began over 60 million years ago and can be seen in various stages even today. As the devastating 1999 earthquakes illustrated, Turkey is caught between the insistent pressure exerted from the Asian and European continental plates. The Erciyes Mountain, Melendiz Mountain, and Hasandag -- all dormant or extinct volcanoes -- are the result of underground forces that thrust these landmasses above water level eons ago. Recurrent volcanic eruptions blanketed the area with boulders, ash, and lava, over time creating layers of sediment, with the underneath layers more solid than the newer, softer levels of sediment.

The formation of the fairy chimneys is just an example of wind and water erosion in an extreme state. The early stages of erosion are visible in the graceful channels and dunes of the valleys. But as the elements carve away at the channels, the mass of tufa splits from its supports and forms pillars or pyramids. And without the protection of those basalt boulders caught in the balance of gravity and time, the pillars slowly whittle down to nothing, and the crowning boulder comes crashing to the ground. The precarious nature of the tufa has earned Cappadocia a place on UNESCO's list of Natural World Heritage Properties so that it receives aid for restoration and preservation of its unique environment.

Attractions

In antiquity, Cappadocia included all of central Anatolia, stretching as far as Ankara in the north and Adana in the south. Today the region includes the area in and around a small triangle formed by Ürgüp, Avanos, and Nevsehir, where the canyons are the deepest and the pigments in the rock-cut churches are the richest.

If your time is limited, it's possible to visit the major sites of the area in 2 full days with either your own car or the assistance of a local tour operator. Doubtless, you'll wish you had stayed longer. Tours can be either tailor-made, and therefore more pricey, or selected from a stable of standard issues.

Typical day tours include:
1) a visit to the Open Air Museums of Zelve and Göreme, overviews of the valleys from Pasabag and Dervent, a climb up to the top of Üçhisar Fortress, and an optional pottery demonstration in Avanos, and
2) visits to the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu and a leisurely 4km (2 1/2-mile) hike through the monastery-rich gorge of Ihlara Valley.

Tours may also include horseback riding; more challenging sports such as mountain biking can be easily arranged, but these are generally not advertised.

Operating with the most experience in the region is Argeus, Istiklal Cad. 13, Ürgüp (tel. 0384/341-4688; fax 0384/341-4888; www.argeus.com.tr), which provides expert guidance on Cappadocia and Ankara, as well as destinations throughout Turkey. Regular group tours, including all museum entrance fees and lunch in a restaurant, cost 131YTL ($95) per person for groups of six or more; private tours cost 300TYL ($220) and get cheaper the more people you have. Argeus is also the local representative of Turkish Airlines.

For a more off-the-beaten track experience, contact Cappadocia Tours, Istiklal Cad. 19/9, Ürgüp (tel. 0384/341-7485; www.cappadociatours.com), which is the companion agency to Gamirasu Hotel. Led by Süleyman Çakir, tours and hotel stays will be assured the highest of quality; think visits to local village events and historical hikes lead by Süleyman or a professional archaeologist. Expect to pay 216YTL ($160) per day for between 2 and 10 passengers including the guide and driver. For an additional 34YTL ($25) per person, all entrance fees will be included (these do add up), as well as vehicle expenses and an a la carte lunch, including wine.

Aiming for the middle ground is Stone Park Tourism, Istiklal Cad. 19/E, Ürgüp (tel. 0384/341-8897; fax 0384/341-5348; www.stonepark.com.tr), at about 88YTL ($65) per person per day. As for budget outfitters, they come and go, and vie for your business around the bus station.

Adana city guide - Adana travel guide

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 8 Sep 2010 12:15:00 -0700

Adana was established on a land in Cukurova delta which is very abundant for agriculture area.

It is the fifth biggest city of Turkey after Istanbul , Izmir , Bursa and Ankara on a population based compare. It has the advantage of being the industrial and trade center of Mediterranean region. It has a big affect on the country economy as it has a very large of capital investment.

Being in a fertile land made this city a very important central location which goes back up to Hittites for hundred of years. Therefore there are quite big amount of historical,cultural and touristic sides, ruins and arts are the important tourism materials of the city.

Adana which has been land for various of civilizations in history is amazing with its natural beauties. There are plenty of places which are suitable for walking tours, vacations , nature photographing , mountain sports, camping and for hunting. Especially Lakes, Plato big green forests Camping area and the famous Toros mountains are hot spots for those nature lovers.

Places to visit;
The stone bridge (Tas kopru) is one of the oldest bridge in the world which is still being used. This bridge was built on 6. century by Justinian in Byzantine Empire period.

Great clock (Buyuk saat) this monument was built in 1882 by the governor of Adana, it was damaged during the French occopation, therefore it was restored in 1935. This clock is also a symbol of the city. There are thombs and graves of the old administrators around the clock.

Adana kettles market (Kazancilar carsisi) was built in about 1519 , the surrundrings of thie bazaar is very famous places such as, old markets , and the bazaar hamam (Turkish bath) and hotels with historical buildings.

Church of Babies (Bebekli kilise) This is an old church which was built ages ago in the city and located in Adana's center , there are very old and historic building around this church

Seyhan river
Numerous of thombs
Archeological museum, Ethnography museum, Ataturk museum and Adana museum

Historic ruins are listed as follows; Ayas Antique city, Sar ruins, Magarsos antique city, Misis antique city, Sirkeli mound, Anacarza antique city, Akoren ruins

Foods , dishes of Adana, Adana's kitchen (Yummy)
Besides these histroic and nature beauties and has a very large and rich kitcen in Turkey. Adana's local kitchen is very rich in variety and the color of the dishes that we can mainly list those; Adana kebap, biryan kebap, metaballs, deserts, salads and spicies specil for the city etc.

Adana's main counties / districts
Kozan, Seyhan, Pozanti, Feke, Ceyhan Aladag, Tufanbeyli , Yuregir, Karaisali,Yumartalik and Karatas.

Turkey in Aydın Travel Guide

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 8 Sep 2010 12:07:00 -0700

Aydin City.
The Climate, natural beauties, cultural and historical values, long beaches, holiday villages attracting many visitors to itself every year from all over the world, this beautiful and gorgeous city is is a tourism and holiday center of Aegean religion of Turkey.

The beaches that gets most visitors are especially in Didim and Kusadasi area are; Altinkum Beach, Women Sea Beach, Guvervinada Beach, Yavansu and Aslanburnu Beach, Pigale Sea Shore, Gevrek and Akbuk Beach, Guzelcamli Beach and Tavsanburnu Beach.

Being an important settling city for many civilizations from Hitities to Lydia Kingdom, from Byzantine to Ottoman Empire has witnessed hundreds of centuries since 7,000 B.C. Therefore there are many antique cities around the area.

Aydin is also a famous city which groed many philosopher , historians, artists, architects. We can mainly list them; Apollonius, Thales, Anthemius, Hekatais, Isidoros, Anaksimender, Hippodamus and Aneksimers are some of them.

The area is also rich in locally thermal spas,The geothermal sources around makes Aydin a potentially center. Camping, bicycle tours, nature walking tours, plateau tourism, nature photography are also some of the tourism types that attracts visitors to itself. National Parks, Having a forest richness with a various type of plant cover it is worth to see it's nature.

Local kitchen is very tasty and delicious, local cuisines with olive oils, grape wines, figs, rich fish types, citrus fruits products and local jams are in the list of must-taste.

Places to visit in Aydin
Aphrodisias antique city and museum, has a story goes back until 13th century B.C. Caria city and Museum of Sculptures are 12 km south-east of Karasu Province.

Didyma Apollo Temple, is a holly temple which is located in Yenisu.

Miletus Antique City and Museum is in 22 km away from Didyma in Balat Village.

Aydin Museum; The Msueum has a rich collection displaying the racheological materials from Prehistoric age till the present day.

Historical Ramazan Pasa Mosque, Tralles Antique City, Suleyman Pasa Mosque, Akara,Magnesia,Antiocheia, Priene,Alinda,Nysa and Alabanda Antiuque cities.

Plataea of Pasha, Madran and Karacasu Plataeas are potentialy tourism centers for relaxing and sports tourism.
Thermals and Spas; Salavatli Spas, Germencik Thermal,Alangullu Thermal,Gumuskoy Spas,Davutlar Thermals in Kusadasi, Kizildere Spas and Sultanhisar Thermals.

Besides its in must-see list to see the camel wrestling and Kusadasi Golden Pigeons competitions.

Provinces of Aydin.
Bozdogan, Yenipazar,Buharkent,Sultanhisar,Cine,Soke,Didyma (Didim),Nazilli, Incirliova, Kusadasi, Karacasu, Kuyucak,Karpuzlu,Kosk and Kocarli.

Aydın İn Pictures

Birla Mandir (Maharashtra)

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 23:44:00 -0700

A place of scenic beauty for tourists, Birla Mandir is located on the outskirts of Ulhasnagar in Thane District of Maharashtra. Ulhasnagar is about 15 km south-east of Kalyan.

This white marble temple of Lord Venkateshwara floats on the city skyline, on Kala Pahad. The idol in the temple is a replica of the one at Tirupati.

It was built by the Birlas for the employees of Century Rayon Company. Major point of attraction is a beautiful temple, which is made of carved stones. Mini train ride, garden and musical fountain add to its charm. Shahad Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

FESTIVALS EVENTS - 2010 Local / International Culture Art Festivals in Turkey (Organizing Every Year)

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:07:00 -0700

JANUARY
Aydin Karacasu Afrodisias Culture and Art Festival
Tokat Culture and Art Festival
Ankara Wrestling Festival
Agri Bards Festival
Aydin International Camel Wrestling Festival
Izmir Camel Wrestling Festival

Japanese Films Festival, Istanbul

International 1001Documentary Film Festival

FEBRUARY

!f istanbul AFM International Independent Film Festival
Aydin Camel Wrestling Festival
Nigde Darbogaz Cherry Festival

Rotary Short Film Festival

International 2nd Hand Film Festival, Ankara

MARCH
Istanbul Turkish Theater Festival
Ankara Single Play Festival

APRIL

International Children Festival
Ankara International Music Festival
International Istanbul Film Festival
Izmir April 24 Menemen International Feast Festival
Istanbul International CRR Child's Festival
Kocaeli April 24 Children's Festival
Aydin 32th International Sultanhisar-Nysa Culture and Art Festival
Manisa Traditional Manisa Mesir Festival
Istanbul International Istanbul Film Festival
Ankara International 24 April Children Festivity
Ankara International Ankara Film Festival
Ankara International Ankara Music Festival

MAY

Youth and Sports Day (19 May 2010)
Mardin Cherry Festival
Burdur Tobacco Festival and Art Activities
Isparta Rose, Carpet, Culture and Tourism Festival
Usak Esme, Touristic Kilim, Culture and Art Festival
Usak Sivasli Strawberry Festival
Mardin Antep Hazelnut Trees Vaccination Festival
Ankara Tulip Festival
Bingol Culture Spring Festival (Hidirellez)
Aydin Strawberry, Agriculture, Culture and Art Festival
Ankara Sumer Festivals
Kayseri Sumer Festivals
Yozgat Sumer Festivals Culture Feast
Antalya Beymelek, Bahar (Spring) Festival
Eskisehir Yunus Emre Culture and Art Week
Izmir Strawberry Festival
Marmaris-Mugla Marmaris Yacht Festival Week
Sanliurfa Hermit ibis Festival
Ankara International Ankara Cartoon Festival
Mus Tulip Festival
Izmir Narlidere Youths and and Flower Festival
Istanbul International Istanbul Theatre Festival
Icel International Silifke Culture Week Music and Folklore Festival
Giresun International Aksu, (Black Sea) Festival
Kayseri Akkisla - Gomurgen Yogurt Festival
Artvin Murgul and Environs Traditional "Bullfight Festival
Izmir Cherry Festival

Flying Broom International Women’s Film Festival, Ankara

JUNE
Bolu Mengen, Traditional Cooks & Cookery and Tourism Festival
Ardahan Ardahan Honey Festival
Sivas - Gurun Trout Festival
Isparta Seyyid Veli Baba Sultan Bards Night and Rice Festival
Tokat Zile Cherry Festival
Ardahan Gole National Cheese Festival
Ankara Gudul Cherry Festival
Mugla Mentese Municipality Yerkupe, Bespinar Wrestling - Culture and Tourism Festival
Tekirdag Culture and Art Festival, Circumcision Feast.
Artvin Kafkasor Culture Tourism Art Festival
Antalya Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival
Ankara Bicycle Festival
Icel Mut, Apricot Festival
Rize Rize cay (Tea) and Tourism Festival
Izmir Cherry and Sapling Festival
Balikesir International Birdparadise Culture and Tourism Festival
Bartin Strawberry Festival and Culture Tourism Activities
Edirne Enez, Fish Festival
Eregli-International Blacksea Ottoman Strawberry Culture Festival
Istanbul International Istanbul Music Festival
Ankara Flying Broom Women Film Festival
Adana Sumer festivale
Cankiri Haci Murad-I Veli's Commemoration Week, Cherry Festival and Traditional Wrestling
Ankara Haymana International Spa and Culture Festival
Duzce - Bolu International Folk Dances and Tourism Festival
Bursa International Bursa Festival
Afyon Mermer (Marble)and Culture Festival
Ankara Bilkent International Theatre Meeting
Istanbul International Bogazici Festival
Izmir International Selcuk-Efes Culture Art and Tourism Festival
Izmir International Izmir Festival
Elaziğ Gezin Strawberry Festival
Malatya Yesilyurt Cherry Festival
Corum corum Hittite Fair and Festival
Isparta Traditional Wrestling and Cherry Festival
Cankiri Maruf Village Wrestling Festival
Ankara Picture Festival
Adana Cherry Festival
Ankara Kutludugun Pancake, Ayran, Culture and Art Festival
Adiyaman International (Nemrud) Commagene Festival
Ankara Egriova Highland (Yayla) Festival
Afyon Sandikli-Termal-Culture-Art-Sports and Tourism Festival
Kutahya Pazarlar Golden Cherry and Black Cherry Festival
Finike - Antalya Finike Festival
Kas - Antalya International Kas¸-Likya Culture and Art Festival

Izmir Alacati International Child and Youth Theatres Festival
Ordu Hazelnut Festival
Sivas Kangal Shepherd's Dog Sheep Culture and Art Festival
Mugla Dalyan Tourism Caretta Caretta Festival
Hopa - Artvin Hopa Culture and Art - Sea Festival
Kocaeli Zuhtu Muridog'lu Wooden Sculpture Symposium and Hazelnut, Culture Art Festival
Konya (Lake) Dudengolu Culture and Art Festival
Tunceli Cemisgezek Mulberry and Cheese Festival
Bitlis Tatvan East Anatolia Festival
Ayas - Ankara Traditional Ayas¸ Mulberry Festival
Dikili - Izmir Blue Sea Green Dikili Culture and Art Festival
Manisa Melon-Watermelon Festival
Yalova Golden Plane Tree Festival
Yalova International Folk Dances Festival and International Yalova Golden Carnation Folk Dances Competition

JULY
Buldan - Denizli Buldan Yenicekent Sultaniye Seedless Grape Festival
Ardahan cildir-cildir Lake Festival
Cide - Kastamonu Cide Rifat Ilgaz Culture and Art Festival
Rize Agriculture - Stockbreeding and Milk Festival
Konya Nasrettin Hodja Festivities
Hatay Iskenderun Culture and Tourism Festival
Afyon Cherry Festival
Edirne Traditional Kirkpinar Oil-Wrestling Festivities
Isparta Mulberry Grape Molasses Festival
Istanbul International Istanbul Jazz Festival
Karabuk Music and Wrestling Festival
Alucra - Giresun Alucra Ekin Festival
Afyon Black Cherry Festival
Izmir Plum and Okra Festival
Kars Apricot Festival
Yalvac - Isparta Antiocheia Culture, Tourism and Art Festival
Kutahya Kutahya International Culture and Tourism Festival
Duzce - Bolu International Akcakoca Tourism, Culture and Hazelnut Festival

Kuyucak - Tokat Kuyucak Culture and Handicrafts Festival
Aksaray Aksaray Ihlara Tourism and Culture Festival
Siirt Karakucak Wrestling Kebap and Entertainment Festival
Devrek - Zonguldak Devrek Walking Stick and Culture Festival
Denizli Yes, ilyuva Shoemakers and Friendship Festival
Samsun Culture - Art Festival
Adiyaman Mulberry Culture and Art Festival
Hatay Antakya Tourism and Culture Festival
Kayseri Sariz Kilim Festival
Fatsa - Ordu International Cinar Culture, Art - Music - Mt. Jeep Safari and Tourism Festival
Unye - Ordu unye Un festival
Arhavi - Artvin Arhavi Culture and Art Festival
Izmir candarli Kaleici Culture and Art Festival
Cesme - Izmir Cesme - Sea Festivity and International Song Contest.
Artvin Aros Festival
Amasya Kaba-Oguz Villages' Highland Festivals
Yozgat Kazankaya Canyon Culture and Tourism Festival
Elazig Baskil Apricot Festival
Artvin Highland (Yayla) Festival
Siirt Traditional Ayancik Culture - Art and Linen Festival
Balikesir Film Festival
Balikesir Altinova Golden Beach Blue Sea Clean Environment Festival
Ulubey - Ordu Ulubey Culture and Art Festival
Tunceli - Munzur Munzur Culture and Nature Festival
Canakkale Sardine Festival
Adana, Beyaz Yunus (White-Dolphin) Culture-Art-Music and Sports Festival
Aydin, International Milet - Apollon Science Festival
Balikesir, Kucukkoy- Sarimsakli Sand Festival
Aksaray, Saratli Culture and Art Festival

AUGUST

Mugla Datca Culture-Art Festival
Burdur Carrot-Agriculture and Culture Festival
Artvin - Sidere Festival
Kahramanmaras Red Pepper, Tarhana and Ice cream Festival
Tokat - Resadiye-Bereketli Golden Ram Festival
Kirikkale Delice Grape Festival
Izmir Mordogan Summer Festival
Kutahya Black Cherry and Cherry Festival
Tekirdag Wine Festival
Bursa International Folklor Festival
Mugla Yatagan Traditional Knife Festival
Mugla Kavaklidere Culture, Art and Sports Festival
Cankiri - Kizilirmak Melon Festival
Kirklareli - Babaeski Agriculture Festival
Icel - Tasucu Nature Festival
Artvin - Macahel Kafkas Bee and Honey Festival
Ankara - Bilkent International Anatolia Music Festival
Icel Culture, Tourism, Banana, Strawberry Festival
Nevsehir International Haci Bektas Veli Memorial Celebrations
Canakkale - Truva, (Troy) Festival
Rize - cayeli Culture and Art Festival
Ardesen - Rize - Ardesen Atmaca (Hawk) Festival
Balikesir - Erdemit - Akcay Oilland Festival
Erzincan Cheese, Honey, Tourism and Culture Festival
Rize cagirankaya Highland (Yayla) Festival
Rize - Pazar Culture Art and Sports Festival
Kilis Anniversary Celebrations of Mercidabik Victory Kilis Grape and Culture Festival
Istanbul - Kartal International Culture and Art Festival
Adiyaman Honey Culture and Art Festival
Sivas - Zara and Villages Honey and Culture Festival
Trabzon Yilantas¸ Culture Tourism and Art Activities Festival
Afyon Victory (Zafer) Festival
Balikesir Altinoluk Antandros Culture and Art Festival
Kocaeli Yogurt Circumcision-Bicycle Festival
Denizli - Acipayam Culture Festival
Cankiri - cerkes¸ Culture and Stockbreeding Festival

SEPTEMBER
Kocaeli Fair International Street Theater Festival
Diyarbakir International Watermelon and Culture Festival
Kirikkale Sulakyurt Melon-Watermelon Festival
Gumushane Kusburnu Pestil Tourism Festival
Ordu Golden Column Honey and Culture-Art Tourism Festival
Pamukkale - Denizli International Pamukkale Music and Culture Festival

Tokat - Turhal Culture Festival
Ankara Anatolian Days Festival
Kocaeli Yesil Ihsaniye Apple Festival
Bursa Fig Festival
Tunceli Pulumur Honey Festival
Ordu Gelinkaya Culture, Art and Tourism Festival
Giresun Tirebolu Hazelnut Festival
Manisa, Liberty Celebrations and Javeline Festival
Izmir Fair International Folk Dances Festival
Istanbul International Istanbul Biennial
Kahramanmaras Afsin District Karakucak Wrestling Festival
Zonguldak - Alapli Hazelnut, Culture, Art and Sports Festival
Sivas Traditional Akincilar Melon Festival
Mugla Turkbuku Culture and Art Festival
Denizli - Akalan Melon - Watermelon Festival
Denizli - Soke Festival
Edirne - Ipsala celtik (Rice) Festival
Manisa Alasehir's Independence day - Alasehir Congres Anniversary week, Grape Festival
Balikesir - Gonen Embroidery Festival
Aydin Traditional Golden Fig Festival
Nevsehir Avanos International Tourism and Handicrafts Festival
Izmir Liberty Celebrations and Fig Festival
Kayseri Grape Festival
Ankara Traditional Melon Festival and Culture Ceremonies
Siirt Hazelnut Pormotion Competition and Honey Festival
Izmir - Karsiyaka Festival
Erzurum Honey, Apple and Wrestling Festival
Isparta Miryakefalon Victory Fest and Apple Festival
Erzincan - Refahiye Culture and Honey Festival
Erzincan Oglanaga Grape Festival
Denizli - civril Culture and Apple Festival
Karabuk Golden Saffron Film Festival
Adiyaman Besni Education and Culture Festival
Kayseri Yemliha Aubergine Festival
Kahramanmaras Goksun District Karakucak Wrestling Festival
Nigde Ulukisla Grape and Culture Festival
Karaman - Konya Apple Festival
Corum Aycicegi (Sunflower) Festival
Yozgat-Aydincik Onion, Culture and Art Festival

Rock'n Coke

OCTOBER
Antalya 38th Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival
Kirsehir Kaman Walnut Festival
Bolu Koroglu Culture,Art and Tourism Festival
Kirikkale Hasandede Culture Festival
Sanliurfa International Ataturk Dam Water Sports Feast.
Alanya - Antalya, Alanya International Culture and Art Festival
Corum - Bayat, Culture and Walnut Festival
Corum, Oguzlar Culture Art And Walnut Festival
Kastamonu International Taskopru Culture and Garlic Festival
Bitlis Culture Feast and Walnut Festival
Eskisehir, International Eskisehir Festival
Nevsehir, Grape Harvest Festival
Corum, Demirseyh Traditional Cabbage Festival and Karakucak Wrestling

Izmir, Sirince Grape Harvest and Wine Festival
Sanliurfa, Sanliurfa International Culture and Art Week
Bilecik Pomegranate and Fig Festival
Kahramanmaras¸ Karakucak Wrestling Festival
Ardahan Goose Festival

NOVEMBER
Istanbul, International CRR (Cemal Resit Rey) Mystical Music Festival
Ankara, Ankara Theater Festival

DECEMBER
Istanbul, International CRR (Cemal Resit Rey) Piano Festival
Demre - Antalya, Demre International St. Nicholas Memorial Celebrations

Karabuk Hindi (turkey) Festival
Konya, Mevlana Memorial Celebrations
Aydin, Traditional Camel Wrestling Festival

''The Great Wall Of China'' - An Epitome Of Peace And Success

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:58:00 -0700

The Great Wall of China, world’s longest construction is far beyond a regular holiday destination or a tourist enchantment. It is really a wonderful creativity of man that boasts of the excellent craftsmanship of the creator. People generally correlate it with the

The Great Wall of China

Defensive stroke against the invading forces but it is not so. The Great Wall of China is a true symbol of world peace, harmony and humanity.

The magnificent view of this astonishing site is really impossible to define in words. The backdrops unveiling this spectacular wall are really breath-taking.

1. Historical Overview :-
The Great Wall of China was originally built more than 2000 years ago by the first Chinese emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi during the Qin Dynasty. The emperor linked and enlarged the existing four ancient fortification walls with North China after vanquishing and connecting China to the seven different Warring States. The armies were positioned to encounter the invading Hsiung Nu tribes. There were some signal fires that indicate probable attacks beforehand.

2. Architectural Details :-
All through the Ming Dynasty the wall was enlarged to 6,400 kilometers which actually means 4,000 miles. It was renovated for almost 200 years and the cannons and watch- towers were added to it. The Great Wall of China holds the credit of being the largest building construction assignment that is ever completed. It is around 25 feet tall and stretches around mountain ranges of northern China, meandering north and the northwest of Beijing.

3. Some Interesting Facts :-
It is not only an architectural showpiece but it is a historical monument, an amazing tourist attraction, a religious site and a source of earning livelihood for the people engaged in local tourism business. One incredible fact associated with it says that it is quite visible with the human eyes from the moon. Another belief states that it is also visible from the low earth orbit. However these are the debatable topics.

4. Notable Characteristics :-
Previously the stones, rammed earth and wood were used to build this wall until the bricks do not come in existence. At the time of Ming Dynasty bricks, stones, lime and tiles were used in bulk. The rectangular shaped stones were used to build the gateways and inner as well as outer brims of the great wall.

So, finally if you are planning to witness the epitome of historical architecture and a symbol of attribute to the people who have sacrifice their life to save the devastating spirit of China. It is a must visit place to acknowledge the superiority of human creativity.

Red Fort - Delhi ( In Heart of INDIA ) Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 04:11:00 -0700

Red Fort, Delhi was laid on the banks of the Yamuna River in the 17th century. The Red Fort also known as Lal Qil'ah or Lal Qila was the made by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. This is known as the shajha’s new capital, Shahjahanabad, the seventh Muslim city in the Delhi. The Great... emperor of Mughal Shajahan had built it with the desire of spreading the Mughal power of success between 1638 and 1648. This is not right to say Monument for it, it is more like a small city of mughals. The fort is contentment example of one’s brilliant minds imagination.

The fort has two main entrances – one is a Delhi Gate and another is a Lahore Gate. The entrance of Delhi Gate leads to Delhi's most famous and crowded place, Chandni Chowk. The shajha had created this small city when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red Fort gets its name from the hefty wall of huge red sandstone that tells us its four sides. The red fort stands at the eastern edge of Shahjahanabad.

The fort lies along the Yamuna River, which fed the fosse that surround most of the wall. The design and esthetics of the Red Fort represent the elevation of Mughal imaginativeness, originality and zeal of power which prevailed during kingdomship of Shah Jahan. Inside the fort there are many small museums which include artifacts related to the independence as well the Mughal period.

The Red Fort was originally known as "Qila-i-Mubarak" which means “the blessed fort”, because it was the residence of the royal family.

The Fort has the Diwan-i-Am or the Hall for Public Audiences, where the Emperor would sit to hear the complaints and problem of the common people. There is another place as Diwan-i-Khas which is the hall of Private Audiences, where the Emperor held private meetings. The Rang Mahal or the 'Palace of Colours' was the house of the Emperor's wives and mistresses and holds a spectacular Lotus shaped fountain, made out of a single piece of marble. The palace was embellish with excellent paintings, gold bordered projections, variegation of mirrors and the ceiling was made with gold and silver which reflected in a central pool and gives an elegant look.

It took almost took nine years to build this indomitable bastion and it got accomplished on 16th April 1648. It is said that it got an expenditure of about one crore rupees, an enormous sum in those days, its construction. Half of this total squander was spent to build only the exotic palaces within the fort. In short if we describe the Red Fort then it is an perfect paradigm of intelligence of our kings and the Indian rich heritage.

Bars and Clubs İn Antalya

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 03:51:00 -0700

Bars & Clubs Address and Phone

Opera Cafe & Bistro
Pop, Rock, Blues, Latin, Reggae

Phone +90 (537) 632 32 09
Address : Şekerhane Mahallesi Müftüler Cad. No:20 Alanya Antalya

Mr Blues Pub
Caz, Blues

Phone +90 (242) 248 45 00
Address : Kılınçarslan Mahallesi Hıdırlık Sok. No:12/b Kaleiçi Antalya

King Bar
Rock, Alternatif Rock, Caz, Blues, Elektronik

Phone +90 (537) 268 40 48
Address : Kaleiçi Yatlimanı Old Harbour No:11 Kaleiçi Antalya

James Dean Bar
Rap-Hiphop, Soul-R&B, house

Phone +90 (535) 337 32 42
Address :İskele Caddesi Alanya Antalya

Club Inferno
Rock, Underground-Techno, Elektronik, Soul-R&B,

Phone +90 (242) 814 53 32
Address : Deniz Cad. No: 1 Kemer Antalya

Akdeniz Çiçek Pasajı
Türkish music

Phone +90 (242) 243 43 03
Address : Uzun Çarşı Sokak No: 24/26 Kaleiçi Antalya

Garden Bar

Phone +90 (242) 316 16 00
Address : Lara Yolu Dedeman Otel Antalya

GREENFIELDS

Phone +90 (242) 238 55 55
Address : 100.Yıl Bulvarı Sheraton Otel Antalya

Piano Bar

Phone +90 (242) 248 68 00
Address : Talya Oteli Antalya

Antalya Museum Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 03:44:00 -0700

Museums in Antalya

Antalya (Archeological) Museum

Kaleiçi Museum

Alanya Museum and the Ruins

Side Museum

Perge Theatre "Skene"

Antalya Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 03:35:00 -0700

Antalya is the most famous Turkish city on the Mediterranean, as the capital of the fertile coastal plain to the south of Asia Minor, who since ancient times as Pamphylia “. But even as the “Turkish Riviera”, this area today. Antalya lies above a cliff and is on three sides surrounded by imposing mountains. In the center of the city bordering the famous Konyaalti – beach to the major seaport in the south of the city. The port and associated with the existing free trade zone will ensure that the city is a true shopper’s paradise for everyone.

Antalya Travel
A landmark of the city is the Hadrianstor at the Ataturk Caddesi, which is the only remaining entrance to the ancient city of Antalya and the port. The gate was in honor of the visit by Hadrian in 130 AD and is built on four pedestals have been built, with three archways and pillars decorated with ornaments complete the goal. Antalya is surrounded by interesting places around you. Thus, the possibility of short trips to these places to organize how to Cappadocia, where the impressive tuff mountains with underground cities and churches, or a trip to the beautiful bays of Kemer and / or Belek.
The long sandy beaches, bathing, swimming, surfing or diving ideal, fascinated the visitors in Antalya. Above all, Antalya for its clean beaches, clear water, long summer and mild winter. The city is one of the few major cities throughout the Mediterranean, mainly to the cleanliness of the beaches very large value. The number of beaches provided with the “Blue Flag” as a symbol of high standards of bathing water quality, is in Antalya and around very high.

This bustling metropolis million (1 million summer / winter 0.5 million) has made a remarkable recovery behind them, not least the result of tourism. The ideal situation in the Gulf of Antalya on the Mediterranean and the year-round mild climate provide the best conditions of the city.
Incidentally, the region countless culturally interesting sites, whose visit to the compulsory programme of each visitor counts.
The powerful airport, which recently for a further expanded terminal, is the hub of the entire coastline.In the south-west of Antalya extends to the mountains to the city up. The miles of public beach of Konyaalti is a great contrast to the nearby steep mountains. Even with daily trips by bike, it is possible heights of 2000 meters to reach mind of “zero” …..
In the Antalya region are tours from 1 to 6 (7)

Relevant bike tours for ANTALYA 1 to 6 (7):

Short plug Brief:
(Tour 1) round with a city tour of the Old Town and an impressive waterfall as a target.
(Tour 1, 2, 3) Cultural and ancient monuments as targets.
(Tour 1, 2) Two asphalt tours, including one to the ancient theatre of Termessos to over 1000 meters above sea level.
(Tour 5, 6) Two smaller tours, including one on a 600 m high mountain lookout with a restaurant and magnificent views over the bay of Antalya.
(Tour 4) A “marathon”, the bikers until well into the hinterland with a beautiful landscape of over 2000 meters above sea level brings!.
(Tour 7) A marathon region of Kemer, in the 1800 m high Saricinar, with magnificent views can also be operated from Antalya
No single trails.

The Antalya region offers a wide range of tours. From the pure flat land route with sightseeing, on the half-day mall or Einrollrunde to stamina very demanding 120 km wide round with 2750 metres altitude, everything is offered. Historical sites are also catered to, as well as scenic highlights.

Especially close to the big city to make this region all-round destination. Sea and mountains, town and country is a fascinating contrast to that of his peers looking for: the modern metropolis and a few hundred meters in the hinterland of the original country with the lovely small villages. And not far behind, isolated and pristine nature.

A stay of one week with bike program for each day is possible. Since alone the many attractions in the city itself and the many historical and ancient sites in the immediate surrounding area and other interested parties for a whole week already complete, it is entirely possible not only a week or only once on this wonderful city. You do not necessarily on Konyaalti beach district. Many small hotels offer, even in the midst of the old town Kaleici, cheap and very noble night opportunities. The expected particularly for guests to the beach without the urge of great interest.

PRIVACY and CONDITIONS

Ankara Anıtkabir Travel Foto

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:38:00 -0700

Ankara, Anıtkabir Travel, Ankara Anıtkabir Travel , Ankara Travel Guide, Ankara Wallpaper, Anıtkabir,
ATATÜRK wallpaper

İstanbul Pictures Travel Guide

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:27:00 -0700

İstanbul , İstanbul Travel, İstanbul Gezisi, İstanbul Foto,İstanbul Wallpaper

The last day before the fun begins... Ramadan Kareem

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 02:00:00 -0700

The first day of th Ramadan actually depends on how you see the moon; for exemple, people in Lybia has started the fasting yesterday, while in Turkey, Ramadan started today. Morocco might start tomorrow or the day after.

It is a interesting concept to follow the lunar calendar for holly days. For 30 days most of my colleagues at work will not eat in between Sahur and Iftar, which are the morning call and the evening one. I am waiting for the drummer to wake me up at five in the morning for breakfast, but that did not happen. Probably to many unholly stuff the night before.

I am amazed how people are practicing a religion sometime, or how they speak about it or even, what they do behind their own faith's back.

I saw people in cafe this morning on my way to work, I told myself, they are certainly not muslims. Well, actually they are, they are just bad muslims, I mean not really good at it. Or they just do what ever they want, which I prefer.

Ramadan is a holly month for compassion, kindness and it is an opportunity to spend time with

...

the loved ones. This is very fine, but what about the 11 remaining months; are they unholly months? Time when you can robb, steal, get drunk, cheat on your partner just for the good reason that it is not holly month so everything is permitted? If I don't believe in god can I do that too? Is god fighting against anarchy?

I'd like people to be kind every day of every month. I don't want them to knock at my door asking if everything is alright, just a bit less of individualism. Can I call for a prayer me too? I will sing like the Muezin: Come out of your bubble! Lift your head and smile at this new day! Take your dog out and stop being grampy, say hi to your neighbour, come back to the simple things of life and learn to enjoy them again.

I think we can be muslim, jew, christian, orthodox, or else, or not believing in any gods, but we do need to open our eyes on the world and pop our heads next door, just to enquire something like: are you alright today?

Something simple we forget to do.

Ramadan Nostalgia in YOUTH PARK - Ankara Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:44:00 -0700

Ramadan, during the Youth Park will be held at the events of the famous artists will give concerts, as well as poetry, literature and ideas chats, Theatre Games, also military concerts, Karagöz-Hacivat, Aşuk-Beloved, Middle Game, Meddah traditional temaşa crafts, gifts competitions demonstrations will be organized and colorful.

The park will be established in the market that booksellers, shoemakers, dry yemişçi, clothing-fig, textiles, gifts and handicrafts will stand alongside, Ramadan nostalgia will experience macuncu, cotton candy and, kestaneci the mısırcı as peddlers also to be found.

Meanwhile, citizens, Ramadan entertainment in the park in the 360-degree, three-dimensional planetarium (home planet), with special effects in the sphere of space, looking to capture opportunities.

Ramadan for the people of London during the Youth Park every day from different points of the city's free shuttle bus service will be held

The highlands of the Black Sea Tour

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 01:54:00 -0700

Eastern Black Sea course insatiable landscapes will find the Black Sea highlands tour our gorgeous tea and kiwi fruit orchard scenes unexplored Nut waterfall stream of Georgian border stones by the side, a UNESCO world biosphere reserve area as agreed Machael (Camili) valley, steep rocky Coruh canyon pass through there going great natural beauty, Şavşat highland their Borcka and Şavşat'ın fabulous lakes Karagöl'ü historic stone arch bridges Storm Valley, waterfalls, hot springs and the passage does not give forests Kaçkar in the foothills of Ayder the emerald-green forests surrounded Uzungöl historic Silk Road komar and decorated with flowers on Zifin Zigana highlands and to see a parade
    In Trabzon, collards and corn soup, omelet, stuffed cabbage, meatballs Akcaabat, kuymak, pickles, roasted meat and rice pudding for Hamsiköy,, Uzungöl trout, and the famous nail in Rize, beans, walnuts Machael 's Georgian cuisine, made from fresh beans malahto , pastry will taste silor, fiddle, accompanied by bags and bars playing horon, to sip tea in the Botanic Park, Machael 's going to make a beautiful walk to the waterfall Maran living will discover the nature of the Black Sea ...
    Moreover, the whole Black Sea region culture and nature knows a professional, experienced, licensed and friendly guides and drivers accompanied by our 17-person VIP means maximum comfort for 14 guests, air conditioning, refrigerator, LCD TV and Pullman seats equipped with the tools ... in Trabzon Thalassa tours built with the assurance of our agents ...

Bitlis Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:37:00 -0700

Bitlis, Nemrut, Mount Nemrut Crater Lake, Ahlat Vaults, Tobacco Production, Suphan Mountain, Adilcevaz Castle, İhlasiye Madrasa, El-Aman Kervansaray, Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery, Five Minarets (Goodwill, Kalealtı, Ulu, Meydan and Gökmeydan Mosques)

Erzurum Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:37:00 -0700

ERZURUM Palandoken Ski Center, Double Minaret Madrasah, Tortum Falls, jet, Aziziye redoubt, Three Vaults the Ages Kebab Tray Minaret (Clock Tower), Erzurum Castle, Rustem Pasa Bazaar, Çobandede Bridge, Narman chimneys

Trabzon Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:36:00 -0700

TRABZON: Sumela Monastery, Mansion, Uzungöl, Zağanos Bridge, Hamsiköy rice pudding, the galley Plateau, Trabzon bracelet, Akcaabat Ball, Boztepe, Concrete Halva and Vakfıkebir Wood Bread, St. Sophia Museum, Horon, Kisarna (Bengisu) Mineral Water, Sultan Murat Plateau, Girls monastery

Konya Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:36:00 -0700

KONYAMevlana Mausoleum, Alaeddin Hill and Mosque, the Karatay Medrese, the ancient city of Çatalhöyük, Akşehir Nasrettin Hoca Festivals, Balatini Cave Springs Ilgın

Corum Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:35:00 -0700

CORUMYazılıkaya, Hattusas, Alacahoyuk Ruins, Corum and the Clock Tower Chickpeas

Bolu Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:35:00 -0700

BOLU Seven Lakes, Abant, Golcuk, Sunnah Lakes, Mudurnu and Göynük Historical Wooden Houses, Water Windsurfing Winter Sports Center, Mengen's Cook the Akkaya travertine, Seben Rock Houses, Seben Diamond, Aladag Highlands, Sarot and dad Springs

Ankara Travel

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 5 Aug 2010 07:34:00 -0700

ANKARAAnkara Castle, the mausoleum, Angora Goat (Angora goat), Haci Bayram Veli Tomb, August Temple, Roman Baths, Gordion (Phrygian capital), Atakule, Karum Business Centre, Kizilcahamam-Ayas Springs, Beypazarı Homes

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Ramadan Nostalgia in YOUTH PARK - Ankara Travel

The highlands of the Black Sea Tour

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