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If Turkey isn’t on your travel bucket list, let me tell you why it should be—immediately. This country is a perfect fusion of history, culture, luxury, and adventure, offering experiences that are straight out of a fairytale. From floating above the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon to indulging in five-star luxury at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, Turkey exceeded every expectation.

Cappadocia: A Fairytale Land of Hot Air Balloons & Cave Hotels

Cappadocia has long been at the top of my travel list, and I can confidently say—it’s worth the hype. My journey began at the Rox Cappadocia, a stunning cave hotel that blends authenticity with modern comfort. Waking up early to sip Turkish coffee on the rooftop terrace while watching the sky fill with colorful hot air balloons was pure magic.

✨ Must-Do Experiences in Cappadocia:
📍 Hot Air Balloon Ride – Book via Get Your Guide for an unforgettable sunrise experience.
📍 Running Horse Video – A cinematic, Instagram-worthy moment you must try.
📍 Classic Car Photoshoot – Travel back in time with a vintage car and a stunning Cappadocia backdrop.
📍 Carpet Store Photoshoot – Forget overpriced spots—Sultan Carpet offers the same experience, traditional outfits included, for just €10.
📍 Keyif Cappadocia – Sip wine, smoke shisha, and soak in breathtaking views of the city.

Pro Tip: Stay at least three nights, and for an ultra-smooth itinerary, book a flight that lands in Cappadocia around 1:30 AM. This way, you can check in, freshen up, and go straight to your hot air balloon ride without wasting a full day!

Istanbul: Where Luxury Meets Culture

Did you know that Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents—Asia and Europe? This city is a perfect blend of modern luxury and rich history, and my stay at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski was nothing short of royal. This former Ottoman palace sits along the Bosphorus, offering unparalleled luxury, breathtaking views, and an onsite hookah lounge.

🥐 The Breakfast at Ciragan Palace? Easily the best meal I had in Turkey—because let’s be real, European food isn’t always the most flavorful.

✨ Must-Do Experiences in Istanbul:
🛁 Turkish Bath & Massage – Book through Get Your Guide for a next-level relaxation experience.
📷 Flying Bird Rooftop Photoshoot – Skip the €75 price at That Istanbul—head to Nova Sanity Café instead for just €30, with an optional dress rental for another €30.
🎨 Lokal Bond Experiences – Take cooking classes, street art tours, or traditional “paint on water” classes with welcoming locals.
⛴ Bosphorus Cruise (Open Bar Option) – The perfect way to end your trip—dinner, drinks, and live performances on the water.

Exploring both the Asia and Europe sides of Istanbul is a must. They offer completely different vibes, like visiting two separate cities in one trip.

Final Thoughts: Is Turkey Worth It?

Absolutely. From Cappadocia’s dreamy landscapes to Istanbul’s vibrant city life, Turkey is a destination I’ll definitely return to. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, an adventure seeker, or a cultural enthusiast, Turkey delivers an experience like no other.

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight—Turkey is calling! 🛫✨

 

Photo Credit: Alex Jackson