The land of the Eternal Blue

The land of Constantine and Sultans, mesmerizing mosques and delicious cuisine, turquoise blue water and incensed market places. You’ve no doubt already conjured up images in your head of an Aladdin-like world. That’s just what this country is about. It is the land of the Eternal Blue – Turkey!

A vacation to Istanbul is a beautiful way to watch how different cultures have blended to form one that is entirely unique. It was once the seat of power for the Roman Empire and that of the Byzantine, Latin and Ottomans. It’s no wonder that Istanbul has the spirit and architecture that dates back thousands of years, gaining the place international recognition.A popular way to explore the remains of these cultures is from high up in a hot air balloon or cruising on the Bosphoros. You get a fantastic view of the astounding mosques and royal palaces. The Ottoman Palace is a stunning sight, located on the banks of the Bosphoros river, with church spires alongside on the horizon.

Realizing that Turkey is one of the most visually stunning countries in the world will take you all of two minutes. But apart from beauty, the city boasts of a hip nightlife culture, it’s a wonderful experience to witness upbeat music competing with the mosques call to prayer.The history that Turkey boasts of is one of the richest you can imagine. Imzir is the birthplace of Homer. And you can visit the gorgeous ruins of the majestic Ionian city of Ephesus, lying at the foot of Mount Pion. This archaeological wonder is one of the best preserved ruins in history.

But it’s not just ruins and monuments that this country boasts of. This land has been subject to millennia long volcanic activity and erosion which is the reason behind the unique Cappadocian landscape. This magical land is the film location shoot of Star Wars!Another thing that is a must-do in Turkey is to pay a visit to the restored Dark Church and marvel at the 11^th century frescos.So you’re probably wondering why Turkey is called the land of the eternal blue. It’s not because of the famous Blue Mosque. It’s because of the turquoise blue water that has people mesmerized since the time of Cleopatra. These waters are a swimming haven and the sea is bountifully blessed with a variety of marine life and shipwrecks.

No amount of pictures can do Turkey justice, and one needs to experience the spine tingling country up close and personal. Feel its history come alive, sample some baklava and experience a land like no other.