Cappadocia, Then Back to Istanbul

We spent another day touring around the Cappadocia region. There are five cities in the region and all have amazing formations, cave dwellings and underground cities. The area didn’t “get discovered” by the masses until the 1980’s. Tourism has grown exponentially! Owners of the dwellings have become rich by transforming them into hotels and restaurants.

The Turkish government took control of large areas of formations and caves for viewing and museums.

Tourism is the main source of income for this area. In the late 80’s hot air balloon rides really took off. (Pun intended)

After a full day of magical and enchanting sites we flew back to Istanbul.

The last was a walking tour of the Old City. We got up close and personal with the Blue Mosque and its six Minarets.

The Hagia Sophia was right down the street.

This beautiful building started out as a Christian church. When the Muslim’s arrived they added the minarets.

There are soooo many beautiful sights in this small geographic area and looking down some of the narrow old city streets provides sweet views of the Bosphorus Strait.

I like the yogurt drink that is popular…it tasted like buttermilk.

The foods is tasty and I love the round sesame rolls — the roasted chestnut were my favorite. Balloon bread came at every lunch with yummy tomato dip.

I ended my walk early for another Hamas experience…..a rose oil massage. It was great with special attention to head, back and feet.

Afterwards, I was treated to a Turkish coffee on the roof terrace.

Goodbye Turkey…you surprised with your beauty, history and amazing sights!