Travel

Turkey

Forming a bridge between Europe and Asia, Turkey offers travellers a unique blend of eastern and western cultures that have arisen from an unparalleled history. The empires of the Ottomans, Hittites and Ancient Greeks have all called Turkey their own, leaving behind a vast assortment of bewildering monuments and archaeological wonders. Modern Turkey also offers expansive (though not expensive) shopping opportunities within the many exotic bazaars and city boutiques, especially in Istanbul, the capital city. With its picturesque resorts on an expansive coastline, Turkey also offers tourists the ability to relax and soak in the sun, as well as the culture and history.

Straddling two continents, Asian Turkey is separated from European Turkey by the Bosporus, the Sea of Marmara, and the Dardanelles. In all, Turkey's area covers over 780,000 square kilometres, of which 97% lies in Asia and roughly 3% in Europe. Turkey is bordered by the Aegean Sea to the west, the Black Sea to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south and also borders the countries of Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq and Syria.

Turkey's coastal regions experience very hot and dry summers and wet, mild winters. Winter in Istanbul and Cappadocia can be very cold with a dusting of snow. The peak tourist season is during high summer, roughly between July and September. From June the mosquitoes can be a problem. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as the climate is still hot, but not unbearable. Eastern Turkey should be visited during summer as roads and mountain passes may close due to winter ice and snow.

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