Discovering the flavourful cuisine of Turkey
The true essence of Turkey lies in its vibrant local cuisine, making it essential for travellers to explore local delicacies, especially in smaller towns where authentic treats are not only delicious but also more affordable than their Western counterparts. By venturing beyond the familiar, you can uncover the delightful flavours that make Turkey a gastronomic […]
Koza Han: a glimpse into Bursa’s silk road legacy
Tucked away in the heart of Bursa’s bustling market district, Koza Han stands as a living testament to the city’s rich history and its vital role in the ancient silk trade. This beautifully restored han (caravanserai) is not only an architectural gem but also a vibrant social hub where locals and visitors alike pause from […]
Turkish coffee -“bir fıncan kahvenin kırk yıllık hatırı vardır”
Turkish coffee, recently recognized by the European Union as a “traditional product,” is gaining wider international attention, according to experts. The designation is viewed as an important step in showcasing Turkish coffee not only as a popular beverage but also as a meaningful part of cultural heritage. The regard given to coffee in Turkey is […]
Easter bread with Mahlepi; Paskalya Çöreği
A special Easter bread, Paskalya Çöreği, that you can find all year round in bakeries in Istanbul… Tsoureki is a Greek holiday bread that is made by Greeks during Easter, not only in Greece but also in other countries with Greek communities. The Turkish name for this bread is Paskalya Çöreği (Paskalya is the Turkish […]
Celebrating Nevruz, the festival that marks the arrival of spring
“Nauryz, Navruz, Nawrouz, Nevruz, Nooruz, Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowruz – this celebration of the arrival of spring is as rich in names as it is in traditions. No matter what name you call it by, this shared festivity has brought communities together across countries and regions for more than 3,000 years” ~ Audrey Azoulay UNESCO Director-General […]
Ramazan Bayramı – the sweetest holiday of all
This week marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. In Turkey, the festival is known as Ramazan Bayramı and is traditionally observed with three days of feasting and family gatherings. It is customary to wear new clothes for the occasion. On the way to the mosque, many […]
Turkey marks the 111th anniversary of the Çanakkale naval victory
Every year on 18 March, Turkey observes Çanakkale Victory and Martyrs’ Day, paying tribute to fallen soldiers and commemorating a pivotal World War I triumph. This year marks the 111th anniversary of Turkey’s naval victory on the Gallipoli Peninsula at the outset of the war. The occasion is honoured with a traditional ceremony at the […]
27th night of Ramadan – Kadir Gecesi (Laylat al-Qadr)
The 27th night of Ramadan is called Kadir Gecesi, the Night of Power. The greatest night of the Muslim year, this is the sanctified night when the history of Islam began, the night on which the first verses of the Koran are believed to have been revealed to Prophet Muhammed by Allah through the angel Gabriel […]
İncekum Beach: a hidden gem in Marmaris
Nestled in the picturesque Marmaris district of Muğla, İncekum Beach is rapidly becoming one of the most beloved destinations for local tourists, with its pristine golden sands and stunning turquoise waters attracting more visitors each year. Situated in the Çamlı neighborhood, approximately 27 kilometers from the town center, the beach’s name “İncekum” translates to “fine […]
Where Does the Name Fethiye Beşkaza Come From?
The people of Fethiye are known as “Beşkazalı,” and the name “Beşkaza” is used to refer to Fethiye and its surrounding area. However, despite its common usage, there is no specific settlement officially called Beşkaza. So, what does Beşkaza mean, and where does it come from? Historical Background The name “Beşkaza” dates back to the […]