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    The Essential Guide to
    Traveling in Turkey

    F1RST MAGAZINE

    On a recent trip to Turkey, F1S advisors visited Istanbul, Cappadocia and Bodrum—and are sharing their top places to stay, see, and experience in each.

    “Turkey is truly a feast for the senses,” says Wonnie Baik, F1S’s VP of Sales and Partnerships, who recently visited the country with a group of F1S advisors and team members. “It can be seen in every facet of life there—from the history to the food to the culture.”

    And it was this culture, and the kinship it inspires, that was on display, particularly in light of the devastating earthquakes that rocked the country back in February.

    “What struck me most on this visit to Turkey was the empathy and compassion of the people I met. Doing all that they can to support in various ways, whether it’s on a company level with putting a set amount of sales towards charitable organizations or individuals who are volunteering to foster children whose families didn’t survive the earthquake. The people share a bond and connection that you don’t see everywhere,”  says Wonnie. “And while the major tourist cities are unaffected and far from the earthquake sites, now is the time to travel and support Turkey more than ever.”

    And tourism in the country is thriving—something the F1S team saw first hand. In partnership with F1S preferred partners Turkish Airlines and ITEM Travel, an experienced destination management company that specializes in curating detailed, rich and engaging itineraries, the group explored three must-see spots: Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Bodrum. Here, they share some of their favorite places to stay, dine, and experience. Read on for inspiration:

    The Hagia Sophia mosque is a must-see in Istanbul.

    Istanbul

    Turkey’s largest city—the population hovers around 15 million—this hub is home to some of the most iconic places the country has to offer, from the Grand Bazaar to Hagia Sophia.

    Where to stay:

    The Peninsula Istanbul: Opened earlier this year, this 177-room hotel on the Bosporus Strait is located in a redeveloped area close to the Galataport cruise terminal, where you’ll find great shopping and the recently rebuilt Istanbul Modern museum. The hotel has a great breakfast in their lobby restaurant, as well as a rooftop spot set to debut this summer. “The service was excellent, and the rooms were incredible,” says F1S advisor Ashleigh O’Connor. “I loved looking out at the Bosporus at night, watching the boats pass by and looking at the mosques and buildings lit up.” She also had an amazing massage at the hotel’s huge spa, which features an incredible hammam treatment room.

    Vakko Hotel: Slightly further inland, in the shopping and fashion-centric Nişantaşi neighborhood is this new hotel, founded by Turkish fashion brand, Vakko. Find 31 apartment-style suites (even the smallest are upwards of 1,000-square-feet), lots of perks, like an in-room shopping experience, and the signature Vakko L’Atelier bistro. (Just note: The hotel is for kids 12+ only.)

    Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: Take in all that Old City has to offer at this Four Seasons location, which has 65 rooms, multiple dining options (Pro tip: the Süreyya Teras Lounge has stunning views of Hagia Sophia) and a gorgeous outdoor courtyard. There’s a spa on-site and guests can access the pool at their Bosporus location.

    The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

    The Peninsula Istanbul, which opened earlier this year.

    The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

    The Peninsula Istanbul, which opened earlier this year.

    Where to eat/drink:

    Ulus 29 Restaurant: Described as “one of the oldest restaurants” in the city, this Michelin-recommended spot serves up an innovative take on Turkish specialities alongside stunning water and city views.

    Turk Fatih Tutak: You can’t go wrong at this modern Turkish restaurant, which boasts two Michelin stars and centers on local ingredients. You can expect a different menu every day (multiple visits on one trip, perhaps?) and wine pairings are also available.

    Beşiktaş and Üsküdar markets: A food tour of Istanbul’s markets is a great way to sample much of the cuisine, beginning at breakfast. (Many restaurants serve the meal all day.) “We started with a typical Turkish Breakfast, which involves olives, cucumbers, warm bread with dips and sauces such as cheese and honey (mixed) and sliced cooked sausages,” says F1S advisor Jonathan Garcia.

    Enjoying lunch at another not-to-miss spot: Avlu Restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet.

     

     

    Enjoying lunch at another not-to-miss spot: Avlu Restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet.

     

     

    What to do:

    Visit the Grand Bazaar: The famous Grand Bazaar in Old City is not to be missed—and booking a private experience, which F1S can help with, makes it even more memorable. For Ashleigh, the VIP Rooftop Visit, an exclusive look behind-the-scenes and on the rooftops of the Grand Bazaar was her favorite activity of the trip. “The viewpoints of Istanbul were simply stunning from here! For James Bond fans, it was also cool to see where the incredible ‘chase scene’ was filmed in the movie Skyfall,” she says.

    Stroll through Old City: A private guide led our advisors on a walking tour of Old City, where they hit all the major highlights, including the Harem area of Topkapi Palace, previously home to Ottoman sultans and the famous mosque, Hagia Sophia. Booking a tour like this is a great way to see the sights, plus get more insight into the city’s history.

    Bike along the Bosporus: For another way to see the area, hop on a bike—F1S can help set you up with a rental or a tour—where your view can go from urban to country in one day. Pro tip: Leave room for lunch or dinner at one of the many local seafood restaurants along the Bosporus.

    The Atik Pasha suite at the Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosporus, which can feature up to three bedrooms. Guests of the Four Seasons Istanbul at the Sultanahmet also have access to the pool at this location.

    The Grand Bazaar

    Trying some of the many delicious foods and desserts in Istanbul was a highlight.

    Cappadocia

    History abounds in this city in central Turkey—and it’s evident in everything from the architecture (the stonework and cave dwellings alone are sights to behold!) to activities, like pottery making and wine tasting.

    Where to stay:

    Argos in Cappadocia: The 51 rooms and suites at this hotel are impressive, utilizing the natural stone landscape and views to its advantage, along with great amenities, like private pools, private Turkish baths and fireplaces, depending on which you choose. The hotel has its own vineyard and their spa treatment room is housed in one of the city’s signature caves. Bonus: Pets are welcome.

    Museum Hotel: If you’re looking to see Cappadocia’s history and architecture up close, look no further than this 34-room Relais & Châteaux hotel. As they explain, the hotel is the “first ‘living museum’ concept hotel,” with everything from the rooms (including cave rooms) to the cave tunnels serving as examples of “priceless historical monuments from the Hittite, Roman, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, all registered with Nevşehir Museum.”

    Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge: With a variety of suites to choose from—including cave suites as well as duplex options with private decks and fireplaces—this pretty property in the Uchisar Valley also has a restaurant and outdoor terrace from which to take in the stunning valley views beyond.

    A view from the terrace of one of the Splendid suites at Argos in Cappadocia.

    Where to eat/drink:

    Seten Restaurant: Head to the rooftop bar at this local spot for a drink and jaw-dropping views of the area—then order up one of their traditional dishes or opt for favorites like pastas and salads.

    Nahita: Located in the Argos hotel, this restaurant serves Anatolian cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients. Along with their own vineyard, the hotel is home to ancient wine cellars and event spaces, which can be rented for private dinners and wine pairings, like the one our advisors took part in.

    A picnic in Wish Valley: While we love a great restaurant, we also love the opportunity to take in gorgeous scenery, nature and delicious food from a different vantage point, like having a picnic in Cappadocia’s intimate (not many tourists here!) Wish Valley, which our advisors did on their trip—and they can help arrange when you visit.

    A picnic in Wish Valley is a great way to enjoy amazing food—and stunning views.

    The private space at Argos in Cappadocia is ideal for hosting a special event.

    F1S advisors and team members raved about the food throughout their trip.

    What to do:

    Take a hot air balloon ride: All those photos you’ve seen of colorful balloons flying over Cappadocia? The experience lives up to the hype. But just note: As our advisors experienced, this activity is very weather-dependent, so keep in mind that it’s not a guarantee. This is also why it’s smart to work with an expert: They can offer alternatives or options to sign up for a second day in case the first doesn’t pan out.

    Tour the underground cities: One of the marvels of Cappadocia are the over 30 underground cities, typically built by early Christians. Today, many, like Kaymakli Underground City, which our advisors visited, are open—and you can explore the various rooms and floors. (Pro tip: Be ready to be agile and nimble, since there are some tight spaces to navigate here.)

    See the rock formations and try cultural activities: The architecture in Cappadocia—in particular the cave dwellings and the rock formations known as “fairy chimneys”—are truly breathtaking, with the Devrent Valley and Pasabagi areas offering great examples of both. Also not to miss: Taking part in some of the local cultural activities, like pottery making workshops, which your advisor can arrange for you.

    Touring the underground cities in Cappadocia brings history to life.

    Touring the underground cities in Cappadocia brings history to life.

    On their trip, the group explored Ephesus, including The Library of Celsus, shown here.

    Bodrum

    For a taste of Mediterranean living, head to this coastal city on the Aegean Sea, with its busy port and stylish beach clubs. “Bodrum is situated on the Aegean Sea, and much like the offerings of their Greek neighbors, they have the option of visiting a beach club for the day, or enjoying a catamaran or yacht charter,” explains Ashleigh. And you can even do a ferry trip to Greece itself—the closest island is only a 30-minute ride away.

    Where to stay:

    Mandarin Oriental Bodrum: “The entrance and the view of the Aegean Sea from the hotel was breathtaking,” says Jonathan of this beachfront hotel, which features multiple dining options (both fine dining and casual spots are well-represented), a dual-level spa and a variety of accommodations options, from apartments to rooms with sea views.

    Maçakizi: About 12 miles from Bodrum, this hotel makes the most of its location on Turkbuku Bay, with sundecks, firepits and a Turkish hammam, along with the opportunity to charter their private boat. Many rooms and suites, including their duplex villa, offer views of the water—not to mention their stand-alone villa, about a 10-minute boat ride away, if you’re looking for a more private experience. Overall, there’s an authentic feel and you’ll spot lots of sophisticated locals hanging out at the property.

    Amanruya: If you’re looking for something a little more out-of-the-way, this Aman property is an ideal spot. Featuring gorgeous, stand-alone pavilion rooms, which include their own private pools and terraces, the hotel also has a private beach, spa, and dining options, including special events, like the six-course wine pairing dinners happening early this summer.

    The pavilion of the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum’s dual-level spa.

    The Blue Beach Club & Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum.

    The pavilion of the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum’s dual-level spa.

    The Blue Beach Club & Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum.

    “Turkey is a beautiful country with so much to offer. The historical aspect was the coolest part of the trip for me."
    Michelle Gross

    Where to eat/drink:

    Hakkasan: Located at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum Hotel, you can tuck into modern Chinese dishes at this restaurant, which is open seasonally from April through October, and overlooks the water.

    Bizim Ev Hanimeli Restaurant: While visiting the ancient city in Ephesus, don’t miss this “open-buffet,” featuring a variety of Turkish classics.

    Mimoza: The pretty hanging dried gourd lanterns set the scene at this waterfront restaurant in Gümüşlük, where you can enjoy fresh fish and a number of other Turkish specialties.

    What to do:

    Charter a private gulet: These traditional wooden Turkish boats are the ideal way to sail in one of the many famous bays in Bodrum—and since they typically fit upwards of just 12 people, it is a great private experience to have while there.

    Explore Ancient Ephesus: “Turkey is a beautiful country with so much to offer. The historical aspect was the coolest part of the trip for me,” says F1S advisor Michelle Gross. See history up-close while exploring Ephesus, an 11th century BC archaeological site in Bodrum, which includes the home of the Virgin Mary and the library where over 12,000 ancient scrolls were once housed.

    Visit Bodrum Castle: Also known as St. Peter’s Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where you can check out both the cool shipwreck-centered Museum of Underwater Archeology and The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Once you’ve had your fill, check out the rest of the harbor and old town area by foot.

    The group in Bodrum.

    F1S’s Wonnie Baik making history fun.

    The group in Bodrum.

    F1S’s Wonnie Baik making history fun.

    Who Should Visit Turkey?

    One thing our advisors noted most often: The sheer variety and breadth of experiences mean that a visit to Turkey can suit a variety of styles and interests. “I think this is a great destination for families and group travel because it has something for everyone,” says Michelle. “Shopping, an amazing food and wine scene, fun bars and restaurants, history and culture, beautiful mosques, amazing beaches, and great hospitality.” We also love it for:

    Couples: “Cappadocia gives off some major ‘romance vibes’, with respect to the scenic mountain tops, hot air balloon rides, and their romantic and cozy cave hotels,” says Ashleigh, who specializes in the honeymoon market. Her recommended itinerary: Istanbul for 3 to 4 nights, followed by two nights in Cappadocia and wrapping up with some beach and relaxation time in Bodrum.

    Multi-Gen Travelers: “Sometimes with multi-generational trips, it can be hard because everyone wants to do something different—but that’s where Turkey shines,” says Wonnie. In Bodrum, for instance, history and museum buffs can explore while parents with little kids can hang by the beach.

    Foodies: “If you are a foodie, Turkey is the perfect place for you,” says Jonathan, who was a big fan of exploring the food in the markets of Istanbul. As he advises, “Lunch in the corniche is also a must in Bodrum.”

    No matter who you’re traveling with, thanks to our first-hand knowledge and experienced  partners, we can help plan your perfect Turkey itinerary. Reach out to us to get started.