Expenses Might Be High:

Turkey isn't an ideal destination for budget travelers. Following a recent earthquake in the Kurdish regions, Turkey has increased its visa fee from 25 Omani rials to 76. Additionally, food and accommodation are on the expensive side. Given that Istanbul's economy heavily relies on tourism, there's no avoiding the high costs that tourists face.

After a 5-hour flight from Muscat, landing at Sabiha Gökçen Airport felt like stepping into a sea of people. It took over an hour in the immigration queue before we could exit. If you need a trolley for your luggage, you'll need local currency to pay. However, it's unlikely first-time visitors will have Turkish lira on hand. Once outside, things were smoother. The locals were incredibly hospitable and helpful. Contrary to what I’d heard, language wasn’t much of an issue. Even if not everyone speaks English, you’ll always find someone nearby who can offer some assistance.

The journey from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul’s city center, aside from the disciplined traffic and quality roads, reminded me of traveling through large towns in Kerala. As we approached Istanbul, traffic became even more congested.

Istanbul’s Sound Beyond the Bosphorus:

The Black Sea’s vast expanse divides Turkey into two—Europe and Asia. As we crossed the 1.5 km-long Bosphorus Hanging Bridge into Istanbul, the first thing that caught my eye was the sea of people, flowing down roads and sidewalks alike. I’ve never been to a busier city. Tram tracks crisscross all the major roads, with trams weaving their way through traffic, blending into the city’s pulse. The tram’s horn sounds just like the bell from a temple, and if you were to ask me what the sound of Istanbul is, I’d say it's the tram's bell. In a crowded city struggling with space like Istanbul, trams play a crucial role in moving tens of thousands of people swiftly and efficiently, avoiding traffic jams. Their biggest advantage is that they don’t require any extra space. Istanbul’s extensive public transport system—comprising trams, buses, metros, boats, and trains—is one of the city's defining features. You can use the same travel card across all public transport, recharging as needed. In Istanbul, public transport is the only thing that’s relatively affordable. From our hotel in the city center, there were two tram stations within walking distance. The famous Orient Express, which departed from Istanbul to Paris and inspired Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express," had its railway station in this very city center. The hotel where she stayed while writing the novel still stands on Istiklal Street.

Expenses Might Be High:

Turkey isn't an ideal destination for budget travelers. Following a recent earthquake in the Kurdish regions, Turkey has increased its visa fee from 25 Omani rials to 76. Additionally, food and accommodation are on the expensive side. Given that Istanbul's economy heavily relies on tourism, there's no avoiding the high costs that tourists face.

After a 5-hour flight from Muscat, landing at Sabiha Gökçen Airport felt like stepping into a sea of people. It took over an hour in the immigration queue before we could exit. If you need a trolley for your luggage, you'll need local currency to pay. However, it's unlikely first-time visitors will have Turkish lira on hand. Once outside, things were smoother. The locals were incredibly hospitable and helpful. Contrary to what I’d heard, language wasn’t much of an issue. Even if not everyone speaks English, you’ll always find someone nearby who can offer some assistance.

The journey from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul’s city center, aside from the disciplined traffic and quality roads, reminded me of traveling through large towns in Kerala. As we approached Istanbul, traffic became even more congested.

Istanbul’s Sound Beyond the Bosphorus:

The Black Sea’s vast expanse divides Turkey into two—Europe and Asia. As we crossed the 1.5 km-long Bosphorus Hanging Bridge into Istanbul, the first thing that caught my eye was the sea of people, flowing down roads and sidewalks alike. I’ve never been to a busier city. Tram tracks crisscross all the major roads, with trams weaving their way through traffic, blending into the city’s pulse. The tram’s horn sounds just like the bell from a temple, and if you were to ask me what the sound of Istanbul is, I’d say it's the tram's bell. In a crowded city struggling with space like Istanbul, trams play a crucial role in moving tens of thousands of people swiftly and efficiently, avoiding traffic jams. Their biggest advantage is that they don’t require any extra space. Istanbul’s extensive public transport system—comprising trams, buses, metros, boats, and trains—is one of the city's defining features. You can use the same travel card across all public transport, recharging as needed. In Istanbul, public transport is the only thing that’s relatively affordable. From our hotel in the city center, there were two tram stations within walking distance. The famous Orient Express, which departed from Istanbul to Paris and inspired Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express," had its railway station in this very city center. The hotel where she stayed while writing the novel still stands on Istiklal Street.

Turkey's Culinary Diversity:

Around 70% of the businesses lining Istanbul’s relatively narrow streets are various types of eateries. Most restaurants offer seating on the roadside, where you can enjoy flavorful food accompanied by music and live performances. Exploring Turkish cuisine is one of the main highlights of visiting this city. Menus, often extensive and detailed, are usually displayed outside for passersby to see—something that might make you wonder how they manage to have so many options. But the taste never disappoints. The only downside is that you won’t get a meal for less than 280-300 Turkish lira. As you leave Istanbul and venture into the interior regions of Turkey, prices for food and other essentials tend to drop.

One local specialty we tried near the Ortaköy area was the famous Ortaköy Kumpir. It’s a delightful dish made by baking an unusually large potato and then filling it with an assortment of ingredients like vegetables, sausages, cheese, yogurt, and olives. It was as delicious as it sounds!

Turkey's Culinary Diversity:

Around 70% of the businesses lining Istanbul’s relatively narrow streets are various types of eateries. Most restaurants offer seating on the roadside, where you can enjoy flavorful food accompanied by music and live performances. Exploring Turkish cuisine is one of the main highlights of visiting this city. Menus, often extensive and detailed, are usually displayed outside for passersby to see—something that might make you wonder how they manage to have so many options. But the taste never disappoints. The only downside is that you won’t get a meal for less than 280-300 Turkish lira. As you leave Istanbul and venture into the interior regions of Turkey, prices for food and other essentials tend to drop.

One local specialty we tried near the Ortaköy area was the famous Ortaköy Kumpir. It’s a delightful dish made by baking an unusually large potato and then filling it with an assortment of ingredients like vegetables, sausages, cheese, yogurt, and olives. It was as delicious as it sounds!

A City of Hidden Wonders:

Istanbul is full of hidden historical marvels, with some dating as far back as AD 500. One of the most awe-inspiring sights is the Basilica Cistern, an enormous underground reservoir built in 532 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian to store the city's drinking water. It's hard not to be amazed by this vast subterranean structure. Water was channeled from all the surrounding water sources to the cistern through underground pipes. The sheer scale of this engineering feat, accomplished in a time with limited technological advancements, left me in awe, wondering how such a massive construction was possible in that era.

A City of Hidden Wonders:

Istanbul is full of hidden historical marvels, with some dating as far back as AD 500. One of the most awe-inspiring sights is the Basilica Cistern, an enormous underground reservoir built in 532 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian to store the city's drinking water. It's hard not to be amazed by this vast subterranean structure. Water was channeled from all the surrounding water sources to the cistern through underground pipes. The sheer scale of this engineering feat, accomplished in a time with limited technological advancements, left me in awe, wondering how such a massive construction was possible in that era.

When Turkey became a republic, Ayasofya was transformed into a museum. However, in recent years, it has been reverted back into a mosque, sparking widespread discussion on social media at the time. Inside, the grandeur of the building is further elevated by the lush green carpets and enormous crystal chandeliers, enhancing the majesty of its stunning architecture. Ayasofya stands as a testament to the rich, layered history of Istanbul and continues to be a significant symbol of the city.

When Turkey became a republic, Ayasofya was transformed into a museum. However, in recent years, it has been reverted back into a mosque, sparking widespread discussion on social media at the time. Inside, the grandeur of the building is further elevated by the lush green carpets and enormous crystal chandeliers, enhancing the majesty of its stunning architecture. Ayasofya stands as a testament to the rich, layered history of Istanbul and continues to be a significant symbol of the city.

Inside, the cool blue shade dominates the space, creating a serene atmosphere. The mosque's construction took seven years to complete, and it remains one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world with its impressive design and historic significance.

Inside, the cool blue shade dominates the space, creating a serene atmosphere. The mosque's construction took seven years to complete, and it remains one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world with its impressive design and historic significance.

Visitors can spend over two hours exploring the many treasures housed within the palace. Nearby, Gulhane Park provides a tranquil escape with its grand oak trees, rare plants, and sprawling lawns, as well as an abundance of birds. Spending time relaxing in this park is a peaceful experience, especially with its giant trees and blooming flowers that are uncommon in other regions. For those visiting in April and May, the park is particularly stunning, as it's adorned with beautiful tulip flowers, a visual treat for anyone lucky enough to visit during this time

Visitors can spend over two hours exploring the many treasures housed within the palace. Nearby, Gulhane Park provides a tranquil escape with its grand oak trees, rare plants, and sprawling lawns, as well as an abundance of birds. Spending time relaxing in this park is a peaceful experience, especially with its giant trees and blooming flowers that are uncommon in other regions. For those visiting in April and May, the park is particularly stunning, as it's adorned with beautiful tulip flowers, a visual treat for anyone lucky enough to visit during this time

Even the fountain at the entrance offers a glimpse of the splendor that awaits inside. The Dolmabahçe Palace’s ceremonial hall (Darbar Hall) is breathtaking, making it impossible not to express awe at its beauty and craftsmanship. The elegance and artistic mastery displayed here are truly remarkable. Unfortunately, photography and video shooting are not allowed inside the palace, which makes it all the more special as an experience preserved in memory alone.

Even the fountain at the entrance offers a glimpse of the splendor that awaits inside. The Dolmabahçe Palace’s ceremonial hall (Darbar Hall) is breathtaking, making it impossible not to express awe at its beauty and craftsmanship. The elegance and artistic mastery displayed here are truly remarkable. Unfortunately, photography and video shooting are not allowed inside the palace, which makes it all the more special as an experience preserved in memory alone.

Adjacent to the Grand Bazaar lies the Spice Bazaar, another equally vast, fully covered market. The Spice Bazaar is known for its vibrant colors and aromatic atmosphere, with shops selling an array of spices, sweets, and other delicacies that add a rich flavor to Istanbul's bustling market scene. Both bazaars are not just shopping destinations but cultural experiences that reflect the city’s historical and commercial significance.

Adjacent to the Grand Bazaar lies the Spice Bazaar, another equally vast, fully covered market. The Spice Bazaar is known for its vibrant colors and aromatic atmosphere, with shops selling an array of spices, sweets, and other delicacies that add a rich flavor to Istanbul's bustling market scene. Both bazaars are not just shopping destinations but cultural experiences that reflect the city’s historical and commercial significance.

One of the main attractions here is the red tram, which runs along Istiklal Street. Known as the Nostalgic Tram, it operates on the T2 line and is a popular sight in photos of Istanbul. This tram line, which started running in 1867 and continued until 1966, originally used horses and later switched to electricity. The tram now operates to preserve a sense of nostalgia for the old days, adding a charming and historic touch to the modern city. The sight of the red tram winding its way through the crowds on Istiklal Street is a quintessential image of Istanbul.

One of the main attractions here is the red tram, which runs along Istiklal Street. Known as the Nostalgic Tram, it operates on the T2 line and is a popular sight in photos of Istanbul. This tram line, which started running in 1867 and continued until 1966, originally used horses and later switched to electricity. The tram now operates to preserve a sense of nostalgia for the old days, adding a charming and historic touch to the modern city. The sight of the red tram winding its way through the crowds on Istiklal Street is a quintessential image of Istanbul.

The tower has 9 floors, and while there is a lift to reach the top, visitors must take the stairs to descend. Given the steepness and the effort required, many opt to skip the climb back down, especially if they're tired from the journey. Despite this, the view from the top of the tower is magnificent and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.

The tower has 9 floors, and while there is a lift to reach the top, visitors must take the stairs to descend. Given the steepness and the effort required, many opt to skip the climb back down, especially if they're tired from the journey. Despite this, the view from the top of the tower is magnificent and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.

There are other similar villages and districts around Istanbul that share the same vibrant charm, where the traditional architecture and vibrant colors tell stories of the city's past. Balat, in particular, has become a favorite for those looking to explore Istanbul's more authentic and lesser-known sides.

There are other similar villages and districts around Istanbul that share the same vibrant charm, where the traditional architecture and vibrant colors tell stories of the city's past. Balat, in particular, has become a favorite for those looking to explore Istanbul's more authentic and lesser-known sides.

However, the Ottomans eventually secured control by building two forts on either side of the Bosphorus, at its narrowest point (750 meters), laying the foundation for their dominance in the region. They also constructed secret land routes, using both human labor and camels to transport materials, while building warships and other military structures to break the Byzantine naval defense.

Today, the Bosphorus Strait is a popular destination for tourists, with hundreds of boats carrying visitors to explore its scenic beauty. Along the way, travelers can see historic Ottoman palaces, mosques, and mansions that reflect the grandeur of the era. The Bosphorus Cruise is one of the most cherished experiences for visitors to Istanbul, offering a view of both the European and Asian shores, with landmarks that tell stories of a bygone empire.

However, the Ottomans eventually secured control by building two forts on either side of the Bosphorus, at its narrowest point (750 meters), laying the foundation for their dominance in the region. They also constructed secret land routes, using both human labor and camels to transport materials, while building warships and other military structures to break the Byzantine naval defense.

Today, the Bosphorus Strait is a popular destination for tourists, with hundreds of boats carrying visitors to explore its scenic beauty. Along the way, travelers can see historic Ottoman palaces, mosques, and mansions that reflect the grandeur of the era. The Bosphorus Cruise is one of the most cherished experiences for visitors to Istanbul, offering a view of both the European and Asian shores, with landmarks that tell stories of a bygone empire.

The mosque, also known as the Grand Ortaköy Mosque, was built in the 18th century during the Ottoman Empire and is known for its Baroque-style design, which is quite unique compared to other mosques in Istanbul. The exterior of the mosque features intricate details, while the interior is equally stunning, with ornate decorations, chandeliers, and high ceilings that create a sense of grandeur despite its compact size.

Visitors are often captivated by its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque setting, with views of the Bosphorus and the modern city skyline in the distance. Whether from the outside or the inside, Ortaköy Mosque offers a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and nature, making it a must-visit spot for tourists exploring Istanbul.

The mosque, also known as the Grand Ortaköy Mosque, was built in the 18th century during the Ottoman Empire and is known for its Baroque-style design, which is quite unique compared to other mosques in Istanbul. The exterior of the mosque features intricate details, while the interior is equally stunning, with ornate decorations, chandeliers, and high ceilings that create a sense of grandeur despite its compact size.

Visitors are often captivated by its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque setting, with views of the Bosphorus and the modern city skyline in the distance. Whether from the outside or the inside, Ortaköy Mosque offers a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and nature, making it a must-visit spot for tourists exploring Istanbul.

Initially, we were slightly apprehensive about losing an extra day for this road trip in Turkey. However, those concerns quickly vanished as we left Istanbul's city limits and joined the express highway to Trabzon. The scenic beauty along the route instantly captivated us. The weather and the landscape changed dramatically as we progressed. Istanbul’s comparatively warm climate gave way to cooler weather, accompanied by rain and mist. At times, heavy rain and thick fog enveloped us, making the journey through the mountains, valleys, and tunnels an unforgettable experience.

Bright sunflower fields lined parts of the route, and we took some time to soak in the beauty of one such field. The journey was leisurely, with frequent stops for meals and breaks. The petrol stations along the expressway were massive, equipped with large shops and eateries, all impeccably clean. However, most restrooms reflected European standards—water and pipes were not always available, which might pose a slight inconvenience for us.

Darkness set in by 8:30 PM, and we decided to halt at the first city we encountered. The hotel we found was even better than the one we stayed at in Istanbul, offering a comfortable rest for the night.

The next morning, we resumed our journey. Along the way, we saw numerous farms growing a variety of fruits, many with attached houses and small restaurants. We stopped at one such farm for lunch. The food was not only delicious but also much cheaper than in Istanbul. By evening, we reached the Black Sea coast, driving along its picturesque shores dotted with countless restaurants. Under the overcast sky, we sipped Turkish coffee while watching the waves crash against the shore.

By 9 PM, we finally arrived in Trabzon, having passed through over ten provinces in Turkey. The journey was as enriching as the destination itself, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and Turkish hospitality.

Initially, we were slightly apprehensive about losing an extra day for this road trip in Turkey. However, those concerns quickly vanished as we left Istanbul's city limits and joined the express highway to Trabzon. The scenic beauty along the route instantly captivated us. The weather and the landscape changed dramatically as we progressed. Istanbul’s comparatively warm climate gave way to cooler weather, accompanied by rain and mist. At times, heavy rain and thick fog enveloped us, making the journey through the mountains, valleys, and tunnels an unforgettable experience.

Bright sunflower fields lined parts of the route, and we took some time to soak in the beauty of one such field. The journey was leisurely, with frequent stops for meals and breaks. The petrol stations along the expressway were massive, equipped with large shops and eateries, all impeccably clean. However, most restrooms reflected European standards—water and pipes were not always available, which might pose a slight inconvenience for us.

Darkness set in by 8:30 PM, and we decided to halt at the first city we encountered. The hotel we found was even better than the one we stayed at in Istanbul, offering a comfortable rest for the night.

The next morning, we resumed our journey. Along the way, we saw numerous farms growing a variety of fruits, many with attached houses and small restaurants. We stopped at one such farm for lunch. The food was not only delicious but also much cheaper than in Istanbul. By evening, we reached the Black Sea coast, driving along its picturesque shores dotted with countless restaurants. Under the overcast sky, we sipped Turkish coffee while watching the waves crash against the shore.

By 9 PM, we finally arrived in Trabzon, having passed through over ten provinces in Turkey. The journey was as enriching as the destination itself, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and Turkish hospitality.

Trabzon is also a conservative region, reflecting the traditional values deeply rooted in Turkish culture. Its natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and cultural richness.

Trabzon is also a conservative region, reflecting the traditional values deeply rooted in Turkish culture. Its natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and cultural richness.

The path to Pokut follows the banks of the Firtina River, offering a scenic drive reminiscent of the journey along the Teesta River in West Bengal en route to Gangtok, Sikkim. Adventure seekers can enjoy rafting on the Firtina River, and zip lines are installed across the water at various points. The picturesque arch bridges over the river add to the charm, attracting visitors who often stop to capture photos from these spots.

The path to Pokut follows the banks of the Firtina River, offering a scenic drive reminiscent of the journey along the Teesta River in West Bengal en route to Gangtok, Sikkim. Adventure seekers can enjoy rafting on the Firtina River, and zip lines are installed across the water at various points. The picturesque arch bridges over the river add to the charm, attracting visitors who often stop to capture photos from these spots.

Pokut's Enchanting Atmosphere

The temperature at Pokut when we arrived was just 9 degrees. There were only a few houses and a couple of small restaurants catering to tourists. The landscape was charming with small wildflowers covering the hillsides, the forest trees growing upward, and heavy mist slowly covering and retreating from the mountain peaks, creating an incredibly picturesque atmosphere. To reach the restaurant at the top of the hill, we had to walk through some difficulty, but it was worth every step for the breathtaking experience.

A Delightful Meal at a Fish Farm

After spending two hours at the top, we headed back and stopped for lunch at a fish farm we came across on the way. The river water was diverted into small pools where fish were being farmed. Inside the farm, there was a small restaurant, and we had the option to enjoy the nature's beauty while eating outdoors. The fish was softly cooked with minimal spices and salt, making it delicious and flavorful.

Ending the Trip at Fertina River

Before it got dark, we stopped at a shallower part of the Fertina River, where the flow and depth were lower. We allowed the children to play in the water for a while before wrapping up the trip for the day.

Pokut's Enchanting Atmosphere

The temperature at Pokut when we arrived was just 9 degrees. There were only a few houses and a couple of small restaurants catering to tourists. The landscape was charming with small wildflowers covering the hillsides, the forest trees growing upward, and heavy mist slowly covering and retreating from the mountain peaks, creating an incredibly picturesque atmosphere. To reach the restaurant at the top of the hill, we had to walk through some difficulty, but it was worth every step for the breathtaking experience.

A Delightful Meal at a Fish Farm

After spending two hours at the top, we headed back and stopped for lunch at a fish farm we came across on the way. The river water was diverted into small pools where fish were being farmed. Inside the farm, there was a small restaurant, and we had the option to enjoy the nature's beauty while eating outdoors. The fish was softly cooked with minimal spices and salt, making it delicious and flavorful.

Ending the Trip at Fertina River

Before it got dark, we stopped at a shallower part of the Fertina River, where the flow and depth were lower. We allowed the children to play in the water for a while before wrapping up the trip for the day.

While it's possible to drive up to the base of Sumela, only experienced drivers in Ford vans are allowed to ascend the narrow pass further. Once at the top, you must walk a bit to reach the monastery. As you climb the steep slope, you can see mountain water flowing down the sides like a waterfall. If you're in your own vehicle, you might be tempted to stop and take in the views.

I had expected Sumela to be a magnificent monastery, similar to the vibrant, grand ones I had seen in Sikkim and Hong Kong. The Google images of the monastery outside further heightened my expectations. However, when we arrived, our hopes were dashed due to heavy snowfall. We couldn't even get a clear view of the monastery. Despite hoping for many good photos, I never even took my camera out of the bag. The monastery, built in the 13th century, has not been modified much since then. It consists of a few narrow rooms, corridors, and some open spaces built along the mountain's side. If there were no visitors, it would be a perfect place for solitude and meditation.

If you don't judge the journey solely by its final destination, the trip to Sumela itself is a heartwarming experience.

While it's possible to drive up to the base of Sumela, only experienced drivers in Ford vans are allowed to ascend the narrow pass further. Once at the top, you must walk a bit to reach the monastery. As you climb the steep slope, you can see mountain water flowing down the sides like a waterfall. If you're in your own vehicle, you might be tempted to stop and take in the views.

I had expected Sumela to be a magnificent monastery, similar to the vibrant, grand ones I had seen in Sikkim and Hong Kong. The Google images of the monastery outside further heightened my expectations. However, when we arrived, our hopes were dashed due to heavy snowfall. We couldn't even get a clear view of the monastery. Despite hoping for many good photos, I never even took my camera out of the bag. The monastery, built in the 13th century, has not been modified much since then. It consists of a few narrow rooms, corridors, and some open spaces built along the mountain's side. If there were no visitors, it would be a perfect place for solitude and meditation.

If you don't judge the journey solely by its final destination, the trip to Sumela itself is a heartwarming experience.

The Trabzon region is home to numerous tunnels built through the mountains, designed for roadways. The largest of these in Turkey, and the second largest in the world, is the tunnel leading to Sigana Pass. Stretching 14.47 km, it consists of two tunnels for each side of the road. Started in 2019, it was completed in 2023—a feat that would surely amaze us Keralites. It's not just any tunnel; it's designed with modern facilities and thoughtful planning. There are special parking areas along the route where vehicles can stop if necessary. The tunnel is monitored 24/7. When we attempted to take a photo while parked at a designated stop, we heard a voice in Turkish from above. Our guide later explained that stopping there was unsafe and advised us to leave the area swiftly. Whether the guide was trying to lighten the mood or genuinely protecting us, we're not sure! ??

The Trabzon region is home to numerous tunnels built through the mountains, designed for roadways. The largest of these in Turkey, and the second largest in the world, is the tunnel leading to Sigana Pass. Stretching 14.47 km, it consists of two tunnels for each side of the road. Started in 2019, it was completed in 2023—a feat that would surely amaze us Keralites. It's not just any tunnel; it's designed with modern facilities and thoughtful planning. There are special parking areas along the route where vehicles can stop if necessary. The tunnel is monitored 24/7. When we attempted to take a photo while parked at a designated stop, we heard a voice in Turkish from above. Our guide later explained that stopping there was unsafe and advised us to leave the area swiftly. Whether the guide was trying to lighten the mood or genuinely protecting us, we're not sure! ??

I first heard of Trabzon through a Facebook ad by Salam Air. One of the most prominent photos that appears when searching for Trabzon online is of Uzungöl Lake, surrounded by mountains, with a small mosque by its side. This image marked the way I envisioned Trabzon in my mind. Standing in front of that little mosque by the lake, which I had seen countless times on Google and Facebook, brought me a sense of unique joy—perhaps the happiest moment of my trip to Turkey.

Uzungöl Lake: A Peaceful Retreat

Uzungöl Lake is truly a breathtaking sight, well-maintained and preserved in its pristine beauty. The absence of boat rides on the lake ensures that its natural charm remains undisturbed, adding to its tranquility. A large park has been developed right next to the lake, providing a perfect space to relax and appreciate the surroundings.

For a panoramic view of the lake, a narrow path behind the mosque leads to higher ground. From there, one can capture the iconic views of Uzungöl Lake that often appear in Google images. The area around the lake also features several hotels, where visitors can enjoy not only the stunning scenery but also delicious meals. It’s the perfect place to unwind, savoring good food while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The Final Moments of a Memorable Trip

Our Turkey trip ended with the breathtaking view of Uzungöl Lake. After spending some time resting at the hotel, we prepared for our flight back to Muscat, scheduled for 1:30 AM. The airport was just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and with multiple flights departing to Kuwait, Jordan, and other countries around the same time, the airport was quite busy. Despite the small size of the airport, the number of passengers seemed overwhelming.

The flight counters and immigration were limited, and there was a large crowd in the main hall. It was hard to even spot the queue for the counters. While it felt like the flight might be delayed due to the rush, everything proceeded on schedule, and we took off on time. Our Turkey trip came to a close, leaving us with countless cherished memories, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

I first heard of Trabzon through a Facebook ad by Salam Air. One of the most prominent photos that appears when searching for Trabzon online is of Uzungöl Lake, surrounded by mountains, with a small mosque by its side. This image marked the way I envisioned Trabzon in my mind. Standing in front of that little mosque by the lake, which I had seen countless times on Google and Facebook, brought me a sense of unique joy—perhaps the happiest moment of my trip to Turkey.

Uzungöl Lake: A Peaceful Retreat

Uzungöl Lake is truly a breathtaking sight, well-maintained and preserved in its pristine beauty. The absence of boat rides on the lake ensures that its natural charm remains undisturbed, adding to its tranquility. A large park has been developed right next to the lake, providing a perfect space to relax and appreciate the surroundings.

For a panoramic view of the lake, a narrow path behind the mosque leads to higher ground. From there, one can capture the iconic views of Uzungöl Lake that often appear in Google images. The area around the lake also features several hotels, where visitors can enjoy not only the stunning scenery but also delicious meals. It’s the perfect place to unwind, savoring good food while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The Final Moments of a Memorable Trip

Our Turkey trip ended with the breathtaking view of Uzungöl Lake. After spending some time resting at the hotel, we prepared for our flight back to Muscat, scheduled for 1:30 AM. The airport was just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and with multiple flights departing to Kuwait, Jordan, and other countries around the same time, the airport was quite busy. Despite the small size of the airport, the number of passengers seemed overwhelming.

The flight counters and immigration were limited, and there was a large crowd in the main hall. It was hard to even spot the queue for the counters. While it felt like the flight might be delayed due to the rush, everything proceeded on schedule, and we took off on time. Our Turkey trip came to a close, leaving us with countless cherished memories, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.