Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Story of Evil Eye


The ‘evil eye’ is one of the main aspects of Turcic Shamanism since thousands of years.
The blue color stands for the blue skies, which was the goodfather, "Gök Tengri’ of ancient Turcic Shamanistic belief.

For the ancient Turcic tribes of Central Asia, the light blus color of the skies symbolized ‘life and navy blue, that is the night color, of the heavens, stood for ‘death’ that the two form of the same entity which were thw naturalistic view of the same perpetually changing reality.

The eye, symbolizing the element which has the capacity of sight, might has been interpreted as the human faculty which gives rise to the Enug and hatred of the onlooker who lacks the belongings and for the state of the observed entity. The eye symbol which is hung on objects and places since thousands of years, is thus, an atavistic symbol, believed to avet the envious evil eye of the spectator.

Extraordinary Places to see in Istanbul

  • Visit Archeological Museum Of Istanbul and its garden. Heavenly to keep a cup of Turkish tea or coffee in the midst of ancient civilizations.
  • Stop by Aslan Restaurant. Delicious, impeccable, Turkish kitchen to have lunch.Situated by the entrance to the ‘Grand Bazaar’. Not to be missed!
  • See Zincirli Han : An old inn, situated in the Grand Bazaar, with an old building and a patio, small shops with traditional artists, silversmiths, carpet repairs, and etc.
  • Visit Istanbul Modern museum and its cafe. Gazing and dreaming about the past overlooking to the St. Sophia and Topkapı palace.
  • Discover Rustem Pasha Mosque and its environs. Definitely a must. It is the busy, traditional and one of its kind spot that has the ‘real’ Istanbul energy.
  • A tour of Bosphorus with a zig-zag ferry. Few stops at some spots. Takes 3-4 hours. Scenery from past with awesome private homes-‘yalı’s, situated right by the water, with gardens and imperial feelings.
  • See Chora museum. Mosaics, mosaics, mosaics. Byzantion. Art. Architecture. Esotherics. Tasting and rejoicing ‘Ottoman kitchen’ at ‘Asitane’ restaurant situated adjacent to the museum.
  • Besiktas food market and a small ferry (like Venice vaporettos) ride between Besiktas and Uskudar, two old districs facing each other, and a sea ride from Europe to Asia, with the ‘Maiden tower’ in the middle of Bosphorus.
  • Stroll in Sedar-ı Ekrem’ street, with its small boutiques, hotels and cafes. An intimate symbol of ‘neighborhood’ feeling. A parallel street to ‘Istiklal’ street of ‘the glorious times’ also called ‘Pera’ with remarkable consulate buildings, shops, bookstores.

Friday, May 30, 2014

The Footsteps of St Paul in Turkey

In his day, Saint Paul travelled many miles, across more countries than present day Turkey. It took him years, compared to travel methods now when we can cross the world in just fifty hours in a commercial plane. He used methods of transport such as a horse or donkey to go from East to West spreading Christianity to the largely Jewish population.

The starting place for any tour should be the birthplace of Saint Paul. In history, the importance and size of Tarsus even outshone places like Alexandra and Athens. Attracting famous rulers and officials, Mark Anthony and Cleopatra had a romantic rendezvous in this city. Saint Pauls house and church has been renovated and opened for visitors.

Antakya is where Saint Paul helped establish the first church. Saint Pierre is a pilgrimage journey for many Catholics but there are also other churches in the region still in use. The mosaic museum in the city centre holds many artefacts from that era and it is eye opening to visit an old traditional house.

Near the cotton castle of Pamukkale is the ancient city of Hierapolis, another destination Saint Paul visited, so he could spread the word of Christianity. This city was also an ancient spa centre for healing Roman soldiers after battle, and a significant amount of it has been excavated. Lately, historians have uncovered “the gateway to hell”. In ancient times, anyone who went near it died so locals believed it was hell and sacrificed animals. Scientific explanations reveal that it was simply methane gas.

Although Saint Paul travelled to many other major cities including Pergamon, the prize jewel is Ephesus. Opposition to Christianity in this large seaside city was strong and many Christians prayed in secret. With Saint John though, Paul helped followers in their cause, despite Ephesus being the second largest city of the Roman Empire and the emperors being against Christianity in every form.

Christianity in Turkey

Turkey is a predominately-Muslim country yet many people are surprised to learn its history is steeped in Christianity, from the house of the Virgin Mary in Selcuk, near ancient Ephesus to the earliest known church in Antakya.

St Pierre Church
Biblical tours of Turkey are very popular with visitors from Christian countries, keen to learn more about how Christianity grew in this area to spread worldwide. Indeed, three saints of the Christian religion are called the Cappadocia fathers, due to their involvement in spreading the word even when faced with certain death.

Another Saint was Paul who was born in Tarsus, present day Mersin in the Southeast of the country. He was a Jew, and originally persecuted followers of Christ until in his own words; he experienced a miracle on the road to Damascus. From there, he vowed to spread the word. It is said that without people like the Cappadocia fathers, Saint Paul and John, Christianity would never have become as popular as it did. 

Looking for visiting Seven Churches of Asia Minor and Biblical Sites in Turkey? Then I would recommend you to check Turkey Tour Specialist company.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Is it safe to travel Turkey?


The Recent Terrorist Attacks in Turkey 2016

Unfortunately, Turkey is densely suffering from Syria problem during this period as well as PKK Kurdish Terrorists wants to control over the Southeast Region of Turkey. As a result of these, there were some recent bomb attacks in Istanbul and Ankara. Only one of them targeted tourists was in January 2016.

The other parts of Turkey remain safe so you can still consider travelling West and South of the country offers beautiful vacation deals for tourists.

As a Turkey travel specialist I would recommend you to keep an eye on the news and, closer to your departure date, talk to your travel provider for their latest advice. Additionally, leave organising your Turkey holiday money until closer to when you plan to travel to avoid any unnecessary exchange losses if you are unable to go.

If you would like to make a trip plan for alternative destinations you can contact Turkey Tour Specialists www.turkeytourspecialist.com and they will offer you some safe trip plans for Turkey.

How is general situation at the moment?

Being friendly and hospitable to visitors and guests is a part of Turkish Culture so don’t be surprised or think wrong when you see a Turkish reluctant to help you or welcome you in their house.

Of course, I am not talking about the guys hassle tourists walking around the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square. Be aware of them and do not accept any offers will end in a quasin’s shop!

However, we can still consider Turkey as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers.

Istanbul is the biggest city in Turkey with its over 20 million population. With the recent Syrian war, Turkey gets many refugees to the big cities. You must be careful about Street Crime, Pickpockets, bag-slashers, bag-snatchers, con artists. Always hold your bag in front and closed. Never carry so much cash and avoid displaying your valuables. Its simple and same as you would do in any other metropolis such as New York, London or Shanghai.

Mugging and Rape by force is rate but might be danger for alone travelers.

Any danger for female travelers?

Turkish guys can be very flirtatious, you must avoid turning a nice conversation to a date and then expect a long-term and trusty relation. As long as you observe the cultural norms and behave accordingly, you will have no problem or physical danger in Turkey. Thus, you can consider Turkey as one of the safest countries for female travelers.

What about street protests and political unrest?

Turkey has a young, developing country and people trying to establish democracy in the country. Its not easy to do it in a country ruled by “Sharia” (Islamic Religious Laws) over 600 years. Think about Europe and United States and how many wars made between countries, how many people died for it?


Although there is a cold war in the country, they are trying to find the mid-way with peaceful protests. These protests running mainly in Istanbul (Taksim Square), Ankara ( Kizilay Square) and Izmir (Konak Square) and not covers touristic areas of the cities. As a tourist you must stay around the touristic areas and do not participate any of the political or civil protests.

Istanbul Museum Pass Is it worth to buy?


The Istanbul Museum Pass is for tourists serious and eager to visit major landmarks left behind by the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. It gives discounted and free entrance fee to prominent, historical, and cultural sites of Istanbul, some of which date from over 9000 years ago. Landmarks and buildings free of charge with the Istanbul Museum Pass include…

• Mosaic Museum
• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
• Archaeological Museum
• Topkapi Palace and Harem 
• Hagia Sophia
• Galata Mevlevi House Museum
• Yıldız Palace
• Museum for the History of Science and Technology in Islam
• Chora Church

The card also gives substantial discounts in museum cafes and shops, GES bookshops and other popular attractions throughout the city.

Where to Buy it?

You can purchase the card from various stations within Istanbul or if you already live in Turkey, can purchase it online from the Muze Kart Official website.

Is it Worth it?


This will depend on how much time you plan to spend in Istanbul and if you intend to visit most of the sites included within the program. Some guided tours may provide discounted prices, no need to queue, advantage of pre-arranged transport, and the services of a professional, qualified guide to help bring the city alive by recounting the historical value and significance of the landmark buildings you will visit.

Monday, March 31, 2014

Extraordinary Places to Visit in Istanbul


Despite being one of the most visited places in the world, Istanbul still holds a number of small gems that rarely feature in international guidebooks. Visited mainly by locals and tourists who are eager to get off the beaten track, they include museums, green parks, and areas known for cuisine excellence. If you have time while on a city break, explore these hidden places and experience the different side of this cosmopolitan city.



Hidden Attractions in Istanbul

A small iron gate leads from a side street in Galata to the whirling dervish lodge. Although it is a small complex, it has now been converted into a museum to highlight the life of a Sunni follower. As well as the museum, this is also the place to see a whirling dervish ceremony.


Rustem Pasa mosque is near the spice market and unlike its larger counterpart the Blue Mosque; it is rarely crowded with tourists. It is most well-known for its ancient Iznik tiles adorning the walls and offset by the red prayer carpet.


The Turkish and Islamic art museum is in the Sultan Ahmet area and an impressive collection of modern and ancient art and textiles.


The Chora church is considered one of the most impressive examples of religious Byzantine architecture. Built as a church, converted into a mosque, and now standing as a museum, it displays ancient mosaics and frescoes.


Construction started on the Yildiz Palace and Park in the early 19th century and continued until the end of the Ottoman Empire. Formerly used by the royal sultans, it is especially popular with locals at the weekend.


The Military museum holds an extensive collection of war and army artefacts from the Ottoman Empire and the Turkish war of independence. Visit in the afternoon to see the musical show depicting soldiers from the Ottoman army.


The multi culture back streets of Ortakoy are a favourite jaunt for locals who love a vibrant nightlife. Whether it is hard-core nightclubs and bars or a delicious fresh fish meal sitting by the water’s edge.


It is worth allocating a whole day to explore the Kadikoy district. Although mostly known for its narrow streets, market, and live music bars, Turkish street food sold here is highly recommended by local guides. Other attractions include the cinema, toy museum, and large helium balloon.


The Contemporary Art Museum sits on the shore of the Bosphorus in the Tophane neighbourhood and it has received rave reviews regarding its collection from modern day Turkish artists.


Camlica hill is the best place to head for an amazing sunset view among the minarets of the city. It is the highest natural structure and often used by locals at the weekend for family picnics.


Setustu Tea Garden also provides a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Sit by the water’s edge and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea served in a traditional way


Haci Bekir has been open to the public since 1777 and has a worldwide reputation for delicious lokum, known by foreigners as sweet Turkish delight. This is the place to buy your holiday souvenirs!


Looking for visiting extraordinary places in Turkey? Then check this travel company Turkey Travel Specialist

Turkish Bath Experience in Istanbul


Beautiful marble sinks, brass fixtures and a gravity-defying dome deliver the right ambiance in a Turkish bath so indulge yourself in an old Ottoman tradition originally absorbed from the Romans. 


Recommended as something to be done on the first day of your holiday, the process leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed while your posture relaxes.
Visitors first sweat it out in a sauna room and then are asked to lie on the marble stone in the centre. There, a masseur will cover your body in soapsuds followed by a good, long, hard scrub with a loofer. Optional extras after are to finish with an olive oil massage.

Ladies and Gentlemen
As a rule, no self-respecting Turkish woman would let a man scrub her. So if a woman finds herself in a situation where a man was going to do the scrubbing she would be well within her rights to ask for a woman. (Sorry men, your washer will always be a man!)



Recommended Turkish Baths in Istanbul

Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami
Restored and re-opened this year, the building and interior are exquisite: white marble with golden faucets and very clean.
Address: Cankurtaran Mah. Bab-ı Humayun Caddesi No:1 Sultanahmet
Tel: 212 517 3535
Opening hours 9:00am to 12.00am


Cagaloglu Hamami
You get points if you can pronounce this tongue twister of a name! It is a wonderful Hamam with atmosphere, personality, and celebrity status! Scenes from the movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom were filmed here due to its exotic and glamorous setting. There are separate men and women’s sections.
Address: Yerebatan Caddesi 34, Cagaloglu
Tel: 212 522 2424
Opening Hours 8am-10pm


Cemberlitas Hamami
Where else can you relax under a 500-year-old marble dome built by Mimar Sinan - Chief Ottoman Architect to the Sultans? This bath is stunning and the lady masseurs are known to break into song while they scrub!
Address: Vezir Hani Caddesi 8, Cemberlitas
Tel: 212 522 7974
Opening Hours 6am-12am

Friday, February 21, 2014

How to find correct travel agent for Turkey?

Of course, you may check the travel agents in your country but why not to consider choosing a travel agent online? By this way you can reach a local agency in Turkey.


Due to time difference, language, safety concerns, it might be easier to communicate with the travel agent in your country but a local agent is a great resource for information and can provide you with an entire range of services, which will make your trip run smoothly, as well as save you time, problems, and money.

So how to find your correct agent?

First, you should make a list of the things you will need such as date, place, and price range of your trip,questions...

A good quality travel agent will ask you to outline your trip. They will ask where you’re going and why, how you would wish to travel, how long you plan to stay, and what your travel budget is. Be open and honest with your answers. A good agent will gladly put together a sample tours that describe transportation, accommodations, and estimated costs.

A good travel agent will always take your needs into consideration. However, while an agent will typically ask questions to get this type of information from you (and you should take it as a bad sign if the agent does not), you will also need to do your part by speaking your mind.

Once you have your choices, call around to ask questions. You should ask most of these questions to person :

-         If they are member of TURSAB (Association of Turkish Travel Agents). These are professionally trained travel agents who offer financial protection for a large number of travel purchases, they are highly trained and traveled and look after you when things go wrong.
-         If you are living in the USA, ask the agency if they are also member of  ASTA (the American Society of Travel Agents). By this way, you may learn if they are used to have American travelers.
-         If they will have a direct contact in Istanbul or in the cities you are going to visit because its important to have a local contact during your travel.
-         If their tour guides and transportation are licensed.  

Do I really need a travel agent for Turkey? I like to do it on my own.

Me too!! I like to do my travel arrangements on my own when I am travelling to Paris, London, Rome, Dubai, New York or DC where I can communicate with people, find transportation and hotel easily. But Turkey is different from those.


Turkey is a big country with different geographical regions, traditions and culture. Although its considered as a part of Europe, and candidate to European Union, its still a developing country.

Without a travel agent you will be really alone in Turkey! As a foreigner, your biggest problem will be communication because only %5 -%10 of the country speak foreign language. French and German were popular languages spoken in the country till 80s and then English became popular. Until 90s, there was no foreign language education in the schools.

If you would like to have stress free holiday in Turkey, you should find a travel agent which is familiar with transportation, lodging, costs and also able to guide you.

How to get E-visa for Turkey?

For the moment, Turkish visa can be obtained on arrival (if you are eligible), from the Turkish missions or over the e-Visa Application system (if you are eligible). Please note that visa on arrival will no longer be available as of 10 April 2014.

E-visa is the easiest way to obtain your visa for Turkey if you are allowed to use it. 


See the list for the countries eligible for e-visa. You can get it online without waiting in the queue at the Turkish embassies or consulates or at the border crossing and enter into Turkey.

As of April 17, 2013, electronic visa (e-Visa) replaces “sticker visa” which was issued at the border crossings.  Applicants just need to log on to www.evisa.gov.tr , provide the requested information, (after the application is approved) make online payment and download their e-Visa.

Please note that e-visa is only valid when the purpose of travel is tourism or commerce. Other purposes, such as work and study, require regular visa given by Embassies or Consulates.

To be able to get e-visa you need a minimum 6-month-valid passport, flight (or any other possible means of transportation) reservation and a credit card (Master or Visa).

You must also know :

-      If you do not enter Turkey within the period of the validity of the e-Visa, you must apply for a new e-Visa.
-       If you obtained an e-Visa and did not enter Turkey, you will not be refunded your payment.
-      Each traveler must have his or her own e-Visa.
-      You must enter Turkey with the same passport with which you applied for an e-Visa. Otherwise, your e-Visa will be invalid.
-      You should apply for your e-Visa at least 24 hours before your departure. However, its beterr to do it one week before your departure.

What I need for Turkish Visa?

If you are one of those countries need visa then you should have :

- A Passport should be valid at least six months longer than the expiry date of the requested visa.
- Cash money ( US$ or EURO) as they do not accept credit card, travelers cheque or local currencies! Be sure you have the exact amount with you.
- Click here to learn how much you need to pay or check the short list below
Visa fees on arrival and E-visa
* Information can change please check www.mfa.gov.tr for most recent one.

How to get Visa For Turkey?

Whether you are coming from China or America, you need visa for Turkey. 


Don’t be offended as you may never know how many papers I had to present to US Embassy to be able to get my tourist visa plus paid over 100 USD, hours at the security controls, interviews, questions and questions “ Why you wanna go to America?”

For many countries, Turkey does not ask you why you want to go to Turkey. Because they want you to come and spend your money. This is the secret of being alive while many other  countries effected by financial crisis.  

See below the list of countries who need visa for Turkey ;

United States of America & Canada : Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. They can get three month-multiple entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad and also via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Australia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad and also via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapure, Japan, South Korea : Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. 

Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay, Paraguay, Peru : Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. 

Costa Rika: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Venezuela: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days in each six-month period. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. 

South Africa: Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain one month multiple entry visas at the Turkish border gates and three-month period multiple entryn visas from Turkish representations abroad or via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Dominican Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Mexico: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary, Service and Special passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary, Service and Special passport holders, with a valid Schengen, UK, Canada, Japan or US visas or residing in these countries, may get their three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. 

India: Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days. Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders with a valid Schengen or OECD member's visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions. 

Indonesia: Indonesian nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have visa. These passport holders can obtain their one month period entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

This is what you get at the end:
Sticker Visa
The information above was copied from www.mfa.gov.tr for most accurate information you must consult the nearest Turkish consulate to you or check the website.

Friday, January 17, 2014

Explore Black Sea Region of Turkey

On the route of the historical and exotic Silk Road, Trabzon is one of the pearls of the Black Sea region of Turkey. Situated on the Northeast coast, this large city has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history.

Woman in Traditional Black Sea Clothing in Tea Farm
Many Turks have nicknamed it the city of sultans, mainly because the notable sultan Suleiman the magnificent was born there. Without a doubt, the main attraction is the historical Sumela Monastery clinging to the side of a cliff face.

Sumela Monastery 
It is said the reason for its location was a statue of the black Madonna was found in a cave by two priests and they assumed it was a sign from the angels.

Although it is no longer in use, the frescoes adorning the ceiling are marvellously well preserved. The monastery can be reached within a half hour drive from Trabzon city centre.

What to see in Trabzon?

Gulbahar (mother of Yavuz, the Ottoman sultan) Mosque is a monumental landmark for the city. Built in 1510, it displays innovative Ottoman architecture from that time.

The Hagia Sophia is not as large as its counterpart in Istanbul but this ancient church / mosque has wonderful frescoes depicting scenes from the bible.


The House of Ataturk is a musuem with many artefacts from the 1920s. It was given to the founder of Turkey as a present by the citizens of Trabzon. It has a marvelous view over the coastline. 

Monday, January 13, 2014

Beehive Houses of Harran

On our second day in Sanliurfa, we travel to the outskirts of Urfa to see the beehive houses of Harran. 


Harran Houses
After an hour drive by car we reached to Harran village and met by our local guide Ahmet who helped us to visit first settlement of the village. 


Ruins of Harran University
First inhabitants of Harran worshiped to the sun and planets. Thus it became the center of astronomy and they found the world famous university which dates back to antiquity. A number of luminaries including Sabit Bin Kurra, Battani, Cabir bin Hayyam and Ibn-i Teymiyye had educated in this university. 

Resim yazısı ekle
Not surprised to see camels in the village as Harran more influenced by Arabic and Kurdish culture. Most of the people speak Arabic or Kurdish in their houses rather than Turkish.
The cheapest material to built the houses is mud and people live in these beehive houses during winter and summer. The temperature inside the houses are around 18 C summer and winter thus they do not need air-co.

Harran Family
Syrian war negatively effected their life as their main incomes are tourism and farming. Ahmet says the number of tourist decreased slightly after the war started. Although we were also worried by the war, we wouldn't remember it till we have seen the boards of refugee camps.

Some pictures ..

 
 


Friday, January 10, 2014

Visiting Gobeklitepe

Our main purpose to travel Urfa was visiting the oldest settlement of Gobeklitepe which is a pre-historic site, built, roughly twelve thousand years ago, circa 10,000 BC. 

Mysterious Stones of Gobeklitepe
With no settlement or society to speak of, with farming still a far cry away, in a world of only roaming hunter-gatherers, the complexity and developed blueprints of these temples represented another enigma for archaeologists. 


The site had been used for agriculture before the archaeological work started. Only numerous flint artefacts had been visible at the surface, but no architectural structures. All the monumental buildings, visible mainly in the excavation area at the southern slope, had been unveiled during the excavations.


The main features are the T-shaped megalithic pillars. Sometimes arms and hands are depicted on the pillars, which can be recognized as stylized anthropomorphic beings. There are always two in the centre of an enclosure. Important are the reliefs of the two central pillars depicting a net made of snakes above a ram and a vertical row of a bull,a fox and crane.


Archaeological and geophysical surveying could prove that the complete mound consists of similar stone age buildings, dating to 10th and 9th millennium BC.

Absolutely an amazing place which forces your imagination and destroys historical knowledge as you can not figure out how people done these structures thousands years before and what was the reason?

There are daily tours from Istanbul to visit Gobeklitepe , if you would like to see that amazing place you can check out www.turkeytourspecialist.com 

Visit to Sanliurfa " The Land of Prophets"

Although the negative effect of Syrian war, Southeastern Turkey is still charming for explorers. With recently discovered Gobeklitepe and its history Sanliurfa is an amazing place needs to be visited once in life time.

Sacred Pool and Halil'ul Rahman Mosque
We took 1,5 hour flight from Istanbul. Pegasus and Turkish Airlines have daily flights to Sanliurfa (GAP Airport). Upon arrival, we met by our local host. It was my second visit to Sanliurfa after 10 years. I could see changed a lot but still preserves its authenticity. Many new hotels including a Garden Inn by Hilton as well as authentic boutique hotel such as Manici Hotel. We preferred to stay in Hilton due to my epicurean travel partner. The prices are amazing comparing the hotels in big cities.

Spice Market in Urfa the best spices and herbs ever
People, places, food and bazaars...Everything is genuine, natural and friendly. So cheap comparing to other touristic places. Try traditional Urfa cuisine mostly meat and kebabs.Upps really spicy...

Local Kebap Shop
Sanliurfa has strong connections to Abraham who features in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.Take a walk around Balikli Gol, the place where Nimrod is suspected to have thrown Abraham into the fire, is the main reason to visit but there is also the castle to see.

Feeding Fishes in Sacred Pool