Traveling to Turkey

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  Dec 21, 2013 3:16 AM GMT

  I'm in the very early stages of planning a 6 week or so trip to Turkey beginning in early May after I graduate from grad school. Was wondering if anybody's been there and could share their experiences, particularly about where to go OUTSIDE of Istanbul. It's a big country and there's a lot to see, I'd just like to hear what people recommend. I like a mix of history/culture, eating/drinking, activities/hiking, relaxing/beaches, clubs/partying, etc.
  
  Also, what's the scoop on the gay scene? I heard that if you know where to go, it can be quite lively and scandalous. Any truth to that?

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  Dec 21, 2013 8:26 PM GMT

  If you've seen Istanbul and want something a little different (which I like as well or better) you might consider Bodrum. The best place to stay (IMO) is the Mamara Bodrum. You can fly from Istanbul to Bodrum. I like this hotel because of all there is to do there - including the views of the Aegean. There are pools (one is Olympic size), tennis courts, a gym, sailing. When I'm there, I almost don't want to leave.

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• sonomacountyg...
  
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  Dec 28, 2013 6:29 AM GMT

  If you go to Bodrum then take a side trip to Ephesus. It is the ruins of an amazing biblical city with 5000 years of history. I have been there twice and walked the marble street from the harbor and have been in the market place where Mark Anthony met Cleopatra. Take a tour and learn the history of this city and visit the house of the Virgin Mary on the hill. Only less than a fraction of the city has been escavated but it is well worth the visit.

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• GWriter
  
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  Dec 28, 2013 12:55 PM GMT

  I'm going there on vacation in March. We are flying into and out of Instanbul, but in between we are going to Urfa and then renting a car and driving to Cappidocia. There, we are staying in a "cave hotel" and taking a ride in a hot air balloon.
  Can't wait!

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• TBird
  
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  Jan 04, 2014 1:26 AM GMT

  I spent 3 weeks in Turkey this past September and loved every second of it! Istanbul is an amazing city, easy to get around via the trams, very inexpensive, and the gay scene in the Taksim area is fantastic! The Taksim area really is a cool area in genera. I stayed in the old city but getting to Taksim was easy.
  
  As far as outside Istanbul your first stop should be Cappadocia region. If you like outdoor activity Cappadocia is the place to go. Skip the capital of Ankara unless you want to break up your trip to Cappadocia, otherwise you're on a bus for 12 hours from Istanbul unless you plan on flying.
  
  For the beach, that's easy, the Anatalya area, Ok...gay scene. Fact is outside of Istanbul the gay scene is sparse. If you want a real low key chill seaside town check out Kas..two days max. Anatalya is def worth spending some time in, the entire coast line is amazing.
  
  A general suggestion when you visit the historical sites, visit them late late afternoon. That's what I did and the crowds are minimal and you get to take your time and see everything.
  
  Feel free to message me if you want to know more. btw..fly Turkish Comfort Class. All the luxury of first class for coach prices, well worth it.

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