Here we are on board Singapore Air flight Istanbul to Singapore. It's nippy enough for the blanket on the plane but won't be when we get there in six hours time! We have really had a varied and interesting time in Turkey. Such a country of contrasts, history and exotica. Have just finished a three day visit to another world...that is Cappodoccia. Unique and very difficult to describe. It's a cross between a moonscape, a fantasy land and troglodyte's movie set. We stayed in Goreme, one of the little towns there and took day trips from there. Cute little town with lovely hotels built to fit the setting, nestling in between weird rock formations shaped by time and weather. We stayed in Stone Cave Hotel which was just lovely, created in the image of one of the many caves in the region. The town is touristy but low key. The place would not be sustained without tourism. However in such an arid area it is surprising to find small crops growing like potatoes, onions and pumpkins which lie around in the fields. It has relied on tourism and trade for centuries and I was surprised to learn that it was situated on the old Silk Road. The highlight, in more ways than one, was a balloon flight over the valleys of fairy pinnacles, mushroom shaped natural structures (which you may describe otherwise when you see the photos) and cliffs with holes for pigeons and bigger holes which are/were windows for cave dwellers. Saw sunrise from up there which was pretty spectacular. Sunset brings a pinkish glow to the terrain.
We have taken a couple of flights lately. It's a big country to see in three weeks. Went from Antalya to Kayseri in Cappadoccia and then back from Nevsehir to Istanbul for an overnight and a last dash to buy Turkish delight; more flavours to choose from than at an ice cream parlour! A plug for Turkish Airlines. Nice planes, all went well. A big plug too for Turkey Travel Centre which organised this jigsaw of regional tours and independent experiences for us. Worked like clockwork and we met people everywhere who had nothing but praise.
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