Our trip to Turkey in mid-May was a wonderful introduction to that fascinating and beautiful country. We made the most of every minute, certainly, visiting key sites of religious and cultural history in Istanbul , Ephesus , Antalya , Konya , and Cappadocia . We were struck at how much of the history we've learned about actually took place in Turkey , and it was amazing to stand on the very stones of ancient cities. The most lasting memories, however, will be of the people that we met. The hospitality that we were shown was extraordinary, and a fair description of it would sound like an exaggeration.   In homes, in schools, in places of business, in mosques, we were welcomed as honored guests and new friends. We learned through these new friends of the strides that Turkey is making in education, in taking its place in the regional and global economy, and in integrating politically both with its eastern and western neighbors. We were welcomed into the warm faith of the people we met, an open and expansive faith for which generosity and hospitality are surely religious practices in and of themselves.

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Twixt here and there, I thought, upon my arrival in Turkey . An ancient land with feet buried deep in time and arms stretching high into the future, I found myself struggling to place the nation and its people. Turkey 's rich history and culture were introduced through short site visits, informal demonstrations (such as the Mevlevi dancers and music performed ad hoc by our hosts) and guided tours of the gems of Turkey like the beautiful Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, and strange and wonderful Cappadocia .

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The trip was an opportunity to be introduced to some of the rich variety that makes up that fabulous country.Although we were only gone ten days, we were able to experience Turkey from many different angles. We spent time in cities, at historical sites, along the seacoasts and waterways, and within the rural areas. We visited houses of worship, markets, ancient ruins, beaches, holy places, architectural wonders, underground waterways and cities, geological formations, businesses, museums, waterfalls, historic buildings, artisans' shops, and scenic areas. All of these added a vivid texture to our impressions of this lovely,lively country.

As we remember the phenomenal ten days we spent in Turkey , we continue to be overwhelmed by the lavish generosity and warm conviviality of the hospitality extended toward us. We were truly treated like royalty. We could not have been more pleased with the lovely hotel accommodations, which were all extremely luxurious. Each evening we felt pampered and very comfortable. Meals were truly sumptuous. We were treated to an astonishing array of delicious foods provided in amazing abundance and with such warm welcome and hospitality that we could not help but thoroughly relish our dining experiences.

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Traveling to Turkey was a tremendous opportunity. While it is not possible to describe everything the trip included, perhaps this summary can convey in some small way the lavish Turkish hospitality we enjoyed and the rich variety of people, places, and opportunities we experienced.

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First, let me tell everyone my trip was WONDERFUL!Turkey is truly, as one of the professor friend said, THE BEST KEPT TRAVEL SECRET IN THE WORLD.The landscape of Turkey is beautiful and extremely varied.

THE FOOD WAS SPECTACULAR !

OF THE MANY COUNTRIES THAT I HAVE VISITED (ON 6 CONTINENTS), I CAN STATE THE TURKISH PEOPLE ARE THE FRIENDLIEST PEOPLE I HAVE EVER MET.

We were made to feel welcomed and as honored guests immediately upon arrival with the presentation of roses to each of us.

Whereever we went , we were showered with Turkish Hospitality.IT is not just an expression,I believe it is a way of life.

Not only we were given much delicious food, our hosts consistently demonstrated Turkish generosity with the lavishing of gifts-some very extravagant,some less so; all the gifts given with a warm,open,and generous heart.

I look forward to my return to a beautiful,fascinating,and kind country.

 

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