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Welcome to Turkey, a land where the East meets the West, where ancient history intertwines with modern charm, and where every corner tells a story. As an Indian traveller, you're in for a treat as you explore this beautiful country. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you mesmerised. In this travel guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to <keyword id="21880343" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Turkey-in-2024" source="Orion">Turkey in 2024</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Visa Requirements" comment="subhead" text="Visa Requirements">Visa Requirements</cmsannotation> Before you go on your journey to Turkey, make sure to check the visa requirements. Indian citizens need to apply for an e-visa online before arriving in Turkey. The process is straightforward and can be done through the official website of the Turkish government. Make sure to apply for your visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Best Time to Visit Turkey" comment="subhead" text="Best Time to Visit Turkey"><keyword id="21880344" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Best-time-to-visit" source="keywords">Best Time to Visit</keyword> Turkey</cmsannotation> Turkey experiences a variety of climates due to its diverse geography. The best time to visit depends on the regions you plan to explore. For coastal areas like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum, the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. If you're planning to visit inland destinations like Cappadocia, the summer months (June to August) are ideal, although it can get quite hot. Winter (December to February) is the best time for skiing enthusiasts to visit the mountains in regions like Uludağ and Erciyes. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Must-Visit destinations in Turkey" comment="subhead" text="Must-Visit destinations in Turkey"><keyword id="20803892" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Must-visit-destinations" source="keywords">Must-Visit destinations</keyword> in Turkey</cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Istanbul" comment="subhead" text="Istanbul">Istanbul</cmsannotation> Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, straddles the Bosphorus Strait, blending two continents, Europe and Asia. This vibrant metropolis is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Start your journey at the Hagia Sophia, a monumental structure that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and intricate mosaics are awe-inspiring. Nearby, the Blue Mosque, with its six minarets and exquisite blue tiles, is a must-visit. Wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Don't miss a leisurely Bosphorus cruise to enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline, palaces, and fortresses. Istanbul's rich history, vibrant street life, and culinary delights make it an unforgettable destination. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Cappadocia" comment="subhead" text="Cappadocia">Cappadocia</cmsannotation> Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is famous for its unique landscapes that look like they've been plucked from a fairy tale. The region is characterised by its "fairy chimneys," tall, cone-shaped rock formations that are best viewed from a hot air balloon at sunrise. This surreal experience offers panoramic views of the valleys and villages below. Explore the ancient underground cities of Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu, which provided refuge to early Christians. These subterranean networks are fascinating, with their tunnels, living quarters, and churches. Another highlight is the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring rock-cut churches adorned with beautiful frescoes. Cappadocia's unique geology and historical significance make it a magical place to explore. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pamukkale" comment="subhead" text="Pamukkale">Pamukkale</cmsannotation> Pamukkale, meaning "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, is a natural wonder in southwestern Turkey. It is renowned for its stunning white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Visitors can walk barefoot on these terraces, soaking in the warm waters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. At the top of the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ruins of this Greco-Roman city, including a well-preserved theatre, ancient baths, and the Necropolis, the largest ancient cemetery in Turkey. Don't miss the Cleopatra Pool, a thermal pool where you can swim among submerged columns and ruins. Pamukkale's combination of natural beauty and ancient history offers a unique and relaxing experience. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ephesus" comment="subhead" text="Ephesus">Ephesus</cmsannotation> Ephesus, located near the modern town of Selçuk, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. This archaeological wonder provides a glimpse into life during the Roman Empire. Walk along Marble Street to the grand Library of Celsus, which once held thousands of scrolls and is a magnificent example of Roman architecture. The Great Theatre, with a seating capacity of 25,000, is another highlight and is still used for performances today. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though only a single column remains. The House of the Virgin Mary believed to be the final resting place of Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a pilgrimage site located nearby. Ephesus's historical significance and impressive ruins make it a must-see destination. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Antalya" comment="subhead" text="Antalya">Antalya</cmsannotation> Antalya, often referred to as the "Turkish Riviera," is a beautiful coastal city on the Mediterranean. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern amenities. Relax on the pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, such as Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach. Explore the old town of Kaleiçi, with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic Ottoman houses, and vibrant bazaars. Visit the Antalya Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artefacts from the region's rich history. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Perge and Termessos offer fascinating insights into the area's past. Perge is known for its impressive stadium and Roman baths, while Termessos, located in the Taurus Mountains, provides stunning views and a sense of ancient isolation. Antalya's scenic beauty, combined with its historical treasures, make it a captivating destination for any traveller. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Cultural Etiquette" comment="subhead" text="Cultural Etiquette">Cultural Etiquette</cmsannotation> Turks are known for their hospitality, so don't be surprised if you're invited for tea or coffee by locals. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. It's customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile. Remember to use your right hand for eating and greeting, as the left hand is considered unclean in Turkish culture. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Food and Cuisine" comment="subhead" text="Food and Cuisine">Food and Cuisine</cmsannotation> <keyword id="21880345" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Turkish-cuisine" source="keywords">Turkish cuisine</keyword> is a delightful fusion of flavours influenced by various cultures throughout history. Don't miss out on trying these delicious dishes: Kebabs: Whether it's Adana kebab, doner kebab, or shish kebab, you're in for a treat. Mezes: A variety of appetisers like hummus, baba ghanoush, and dolma. Baklava: Indulge in this sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup. Turkish Tea and Coffee: Enjoy a cup of strong Turkish coffee or fragrant tea served in traditional tulip-shaped glasses. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Safety Tips" comment="subhead" text="Safety Tips">Safety Tips</cmsannotation> Turkey is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always wise to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and be wary of pickpockets, especially in touristy areas. Respect local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Turkey offers an unforgettable experience for Indian travellers. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on pristine beaches, or wandering through vibrant bazaars, Turkey has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on this adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the enchanting land of Turkey.

Your ultimate travel guide to Turkey for Indian travellers in 2024

<keyword id="6372909" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="turkey" source="Orion">Turkey</keyword>'s Mediterranean coast is expected to see a large number of tourists flowing in this summer despite the devastating earthquakes in February, industry professionals have said. As temperatures rise, "<keyword id="14197732" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Turkish-Riviera" source="Orion">Turkish Riviera</keyword>", the southern part of the country famed for its Turquoise coast and ancient heritage sites, is entering the start of its peak <keyword id="20048" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tourism" source="Orion">tourism</keyword> season, Xinhua news agency reported. Sector representatives reported a decline in reservations following the deadly February 6 earthquakes in the southeastern parts of Turkey, but things soon returned to normal, they said. "Last year's favorable data on foreign arrivals and revenues have given us hope this year at the start of the summer season," Burhan Sili, chair of the Alanya Touristic Hoteliers Association, told the news agency in a recent interview. Turkey's tourism income in 2022 saw an all-time high, jumping to $46.3 billion with 51 million foreign visitors, the country's statistical authority announced in January. Sili said that demand dropped in the aftermath of the devastating tremors but then picked up in a couple of weeks, making a full recovery. Alanya, a main tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast, saw a 55-percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals in the first three months of this year compared to the same period last year, according to figures released by the local governorate in early April. Sili said the tourists from Russia and the European countries, especially Germany and Britain, will make up a large share of the arrivals. "Overall, we estimate that we will close the 2023 season with a better performance than 2022 in terms of the number of arrivals and revenues," Sili added. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said in January that foreign arrivals are expected to reach 60 million in 2023, before hitting $90 million in 2028, while the income will reach $56 billion this year and $100 billion in five years. The sharp depreciation of the Turkish currency against hard currencies since the start of 2022 has also made Türkiye an affordable destination for European nationals that are witnessing a rising cost of living. Kaan Sahinalp, the Turkey representative of German travel giant TUI, was also upbeat about the 2023 outlook, indicating that the country is in for a better year than 2022. Sahinalp pointed out that the weak lira generally favours foreign travelers on a budget and that Turkey is likely to be once again one of the top choices for many foreigners. The tourism sector plays an important part in the country's economy, which saw a widening current account deficit in recent years. The industry also provides the livelihood of over two million people in the country.

Turkey expects thriving tourism season despite earthquake

<ul class="summary-list"><li>In August, I flew from New York to <keyword id="6372909" type="LOCATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="turkey">Turkey</keyword>.</li><li>It's one of the few countries inviting American travelers, and its relatively strong <keyword id="1754604" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="coronavirus">coronavirus</keyword> response makes it an attractive destination.</li><li>The country offers cheap <keyword id="6354692" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Travel">travel</keyword> insurance to cover medical costs if you get the virus, businesses take precautions by wrapping everything in plastic, and there are hand-sanitizing stations everywhere you look.</li><li>The country's beauty and optimistic vibe stood in stark contrast with New York.</li></ul>In early August, I did something that many friends and family thought was completely crazy — I went to New York's JFK Airport, boarded a <keyword id="99419" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Turkish-Airlines">Turkish Airlines</keyword> flight, and made my way to Istanbul for a 12-day adventure in Turkey.Yes, I understood that we were in the middle of a global pandemic and, sure, I realized that travel — especially international travel — had become almost impossible for Americans. But Turkey was one of the few European holiday destinations still open to Yanks and I had a friend who knew the country well. All I had to do was show up.Part of the reason I went is because Turkey has, for the most part, <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2020/06/04/what-turkey-got-right-about-the-pandemic">handled COVID-19 with surprising success</a>. Its caseload <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/region/turkey">peaked in April</a>. And despite being far less wealthy — and far more populated — than traditional summer beach spots like Spain and Italy, Turkey's infection rate has <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/lifestyle/travel/1322064/coronavirus-greece-turkey-croatia-cases-infection-rate-quarantine/">mostly been lower than those better-known Mediterranean locations</a>. It's even <a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/greece-switzerland-risk-being-added-22570130">lower than Greece</a>, barely 30 minutes away from much of Turkey's southern coastline.True, some <keyword id="6355005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="news">news</keyword> organizations are suggesting that Turkey's infection and death rates <a href="https://www.pri.org/stories/2020-08-20/turkey-doctors-fear-coronavirus-numbers-are-higher-government-admits">may be higher</a> than reported. And locals who I met regularly spoke of an impending "second wave." But for now, at least, life in Turkey feels, yes, almost normal.Most appealing of all, Turkey launched a new program offering affordable, comprehensive <keyword id="6354750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="health">health</keyword> insurance for travelers to cover medical costs in case of COVID-19 infection. Launched by Turkey's <a href="https://travel.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/destination/international/turkey-to-introduce-covid-19-insurance-package-for-all-foreign-guests-from-july-1/76531932">Ministry of Tourism and Culture in June</a>, the plan provides between 3,000 and 7,000 euros worth of health coverage for a fee between 15 and 23 euros — about $25 per person. Although I already had solid travel insurance — and was confident I'd remain healthy — the program offered an added sense of security.<div type="image" title="istanbul" height="1134" width="1511" msid="77922347" hostid="261"></div>The insurance complements the ministry's larger <a href="https://www.tga.gov.tr/about-safe-tourism-program/">Safe Tourism Certification Program,</a> which established a series of strict parameters for hospitality operators nationwide."Early on we realized that corona was not going away anytime soon," Timuçin Güler, General Director of Promotion of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey, told Insider. "So we had to take actions that would ensure safety for everyone — foreign travelers and Turkish citizens."And those actions are extensive, explains Güler, who notes that tourism levels are less than half of a typical year right now. Hotels, restaurants, trains, taxis, <keyword id="6569650" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="airplanes">airplanes</keyword>, and airports must pass strict monthly sanitary inspections or face extensive fines — or closure. There are also robust testing, quarantine, and treatment plans in place for tourists, with most services offered in hotels.As a result of these measures, Turkey has managed to remain off of the British government's <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/08/24/countries-quarantine-list-uk-travel-rules-portugal/">mandatory 14-day quarantine list</a> for its citizens traveling abroad this summer. There's no corresponding policy from the US government — but if Turkey is safe enough for the Brits, it's safe enough for me. And I am not alone."The level of commitment demonstrated by both the Turkish government and the private sector to minimize the virus has been noticeable from airports to dining to hotels," Kuwaiti <a href="https://www.instagram.com/talal.alrashed/?hl=en">travel and lifestyle expert Talal Al Rashed</a>, who has regularly visited Turkey since 2005, told Insider. "You quickly begin to appreciate the seriousness of the government's efforts to help tourism get back on its feet."<h2>Everything is wrapped in plastic</h2>Still, while Turkey may be relatively safe, travel there remains far from normal.Take the flight, for instance. Turkish Airlines is <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-airlines-in-the-world-2018-skytrax-2018-7">often considered as among the best in the world</a> with elaborate in-flight meals and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/25-best-airlines-in-the-world-entertainment-2019-7">amenities</a> throughout the cabin.No more.While the actual seats — especially in Business Class — remain pure comfort, there is no longer any hot food, poured beverages, magazines, or newspapers. Instead, travelers are greeted with in-flight safety kits filled with hand wash and face masks, which they're told repeatedly must cover their mouths and noses from boarding to arrival. Temperatures are taken upon touch-down and flights are staggered so folks from multiple nations minimally mingle at immigration.Everything is tightly wrapped in plastic, which certainly feels sanitary, but also feels like travel from a far less eco-conscious era. One can only worry that if the coronavirus doesn't kill us, we will, instead, drown in a sea of plastic.<div type="image" title="turkish airlines food coronavirus" height="1875" width="2500" msid="77922348" hostid="261"></div>The never-ending plastic continued throughout the trip, which felt at once surreal and completely ordinary. There are plastic barriers separating drivers from passengers in Turkish taxi cabs and hefty plastic panels between myself and staffers at the new <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/istjb-jw-marriott-istanbul-bosphorus/">JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus</a>. Opened just before lock-down in the hip Karaköy district — soon home to both a posh <a href="https://www.peninsula.com/en/istanbul">Peninsula Hotel</a> and a massive <a href="https://www.dailysabah.com/business/tourism/istanbuls-galataport-set-to-welcome-first-cruise-ship-in-april">new cruise ship terminal</a> — the JW Marriott inhabits century-old office buildings and is moments from the Bosphorus itself. Anchored by a soaring light-filled atrium, the hotel offers pristine views of the landmark mosques and towers that have lured travelers to Istanbul for centuries.Outside, the hotel fronts lively streets packed with face mask-wearing locals sitting in cute cafes or hanging at mezze or kebab joints. Inside, the feeling is decidedly less "normal." Buffets are banned at the rooftop restaurant, rooms are only cleaned upon request, there is hand sanitizer everywhere, and everything — robes, pens, face-masks — is wrapped in plastic.A similar standard was met at the equally new — and luxuriously resort-like — <a href="https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/kocatas-mansions-istanbul">Six Senses Kocatas Mansions</a> in Istanbul's upscale Sariyer district. Housed in a pair of meticulously restored Ottoman-era palaces dating to the late 19th century, the 43-room property features sprawling hillside gardens out back, the azure Bosphorus out front — where the water is clean enough to actually take a swim.<div type="image" title="Six Senses Kocatas Mansions" height="1665" width="2221" msid="77922349" hostid="261"></div>With its neighboring estates and a quaint nearby village, the hotel feels a world away from Istanbul's packed center 45 minutes to the south. But safety still reigns supreme here. Temperature checks, face masks, hand sanitizer, and a la carte menus at half-full restaurants are standard. Considering the Six Senses is new and not extremely busy, these protocols felt effortless.Clearly a more concerted effort was required five hours south in Izmir, where I stayed at the <a href="https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/izmir/">Swissotel Bukey Efes</a>, a massive waterfront resort with 457 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, and a giant swimming pool. The place was packed — mostly with vacation-desperate Turks, but also with Europeans in need of some summer sun. I'll concede, I missed the massive breakfast buffet — replaced by myriad servers shrouded behind plastic barriers. But it felt like a small sacrifice to be in a hotel — and city and nation — where it essentially felt like life had gone back to normal.<h2>Some Turkish-Americans were shopping for real estate</h2>I ended my trip in Bodrum, on Turkey's legendary "Aegean Riviera," which was hopping. Like in Izmir, most folks were Turks, enjoying elegant resorts and posh private villas. But there was <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2020/08/06/covid-19-travel-where-can-americans-vacation-internationally/5517408002/">also a strong contingent of Americans</a>, eager to escape the endless stateside quarantines and lockdowns — including many (particularly Turkish-Americans) shopping for real estate."We have seen a dramatic increase in inquiries from the States in the last three months, which is very encouraging," Mihane Miki Sadiku, owner and director of local real estate firm <a href="http://www.yalihaninternational.com/">Yalihan International</a>, told Insider. "Bodrum's housing stock is limited and it is getting harder to approve building permits, which is why we are seeing property values increasing."<div type="image" title="bodrum meal" height="1134" width="1511" msid="77922350" hostid="261"></div>Our time in Bodrum was spent at the five-room, family-owned, city-center hotel — <a href="https://www.instagram.com/halabodrum/">the Hala Bodrum</a> — which is set in a traditional Turkish stone house with a beautiful garden heaving with citrus trees. The owner, Ayca Aras, also runs <a href="https://www.instagram.com/polebodrum/?hl=en">Pole Bodrum,</a> a fun and fitness-minded pole dancing studio.At a moment of increasing Islamist conservatism across Turkey, everything about Bodrum felt refreshingly open and free. The bars and restaurants — Port and Old Town — were bustling with visitors, mostly covered in face masks and reasonably socially distanced. And folks who didn't follow the rules received a stern talking-to from local police.Back in New York, I was immediately struck by the contrast between lively Turkey and the grim vibe pulsing through post-lockdown Manhattan."Corona was really a game-changing scenario for us and we are already preparing and taking precautions for next year," Güler said. In the meantime, "we are open for business and still waiting for Americans to show up."

I traveled to Turkey, one of the few countries letting Americans in, and they offered me $25 insurance in case I got the coronavirus

You Searched For "Turkish Riviera" and got 3 results

Your ultimate travel guide to Turkey for Indian travellers in 2024

Ayush Mehrotra

Turkey expects thriving tourism season despite earthquake

IANS

I traveled to Turkey, one of the few countries letting Americans in, and they offered me $25 insurance in case I got the coronavirus

David Kaufman

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