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travel guide Turkey

Getting from Istanbul to Antalya

Antalya is the largest city on the Turkish Mediterranean coast and the main gateway into the Turkish Riviera. From April to October it is crowded with tourists looking to soak up the sun. Although the city’s airport gets plenty of low cost flights from various cities in Europe, many travelers arrive in Antalya by way of Istanbul , Turkey’s largest travel hub and where most of the international flights land.

Quick summary

The cheapest option to get from Istanbul to Antalya is the bus. But the travel time is about 12 hours. If you want to travel faster, the flights are not that expensive (but you need to consider the time and money spent for the transfer to/from the airports).

Flights from Istanbul (airport code: SAW) to Antalya

Antalya Airport (AYT) is located about 13 km from the city center and is one of the three major airports serving the Turkish Riviera. It is hub for Freebird Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Sky Airlines, SunExpress and Turkish Airlines. The airport handles both domestic and international flights.

Istanbul is served by two airports:

  • Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST), located 20 km from the city center on the European side, is the main gateway into Turkey. It is Europe’s eighth busiest airport and a hub for the following airlines: Atlasjet, Onur Air and Turkish Airlines. Flights to/from Antalya are operated by AtlasJet, Onur Air, Sky Airlines and Turkish Airlines.
  • Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the second airport serving Istanbul, located on the Asian side, much further from the city center. It’s, however, where the low cost carriers usually fly. Flights to/from Antalya are operated by Pegasus Airlines, Sky Airlines, SunExpress and Turkish Airlines (AnadoluJet).

Flying from SAW into Antalya is slightly cheaper than flying from Ataturk. In mid April 2012, expect to pay from €22 one way on Pegasus from SAW and from €29 one way on Onur Air from Ataturk. The flight time is the same, though, regardless of which airport you fly out of.

By mid June 2012, the prices do increase and flying out of SAW remains cheaper (€30 one way on AnadoluJet vs €40 one way from Ataturk on AtlasJet).

You have to remember that flying on low cost airlines requires you to be quite attentive to the fares and how they fluctuate. Still, generally speaking, booking 4 to 8 weeks in advance means you get the best fares.

Read more about:
>>Cheap flights to Istanbul
>>Cheap flights to Antalya
>>Airports in Turkey

Buses from Istanbul to Antalya

Metro Turzim is one of the companies operating buses from Istanbul’s Büyük Otogar (main bus terminal) to Antalya’s bus terminal. There are seven departures per day, with the first being at 10 a.m. and the last at 11 p.m. The travel time is 12 h and the fare 55 Turkish Lira / €23.20 or 60 Turkish Lira / €25.30, depending on the type of ticket.

Has Turzim Bus also operates on this route but their website seems to be full of problems and it’s impossible to view the routes or prices*.

>>read more about Bus Travel in Turkey

Trains from Istanbul to Antalya

While there isn’t a direct train link from Istanbul to Antalya, there are two options to consider.

Option 1:

1) Istanbul to Izmir by train, with a stop in Eskisehir: Express trains depart Istanbul at 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and the total travel time is 19 hours. From Istanbul to Eskisehir the fare is 20 Turkish Lira (€8.40) and from Eskisehir to Izmir it’s another 21 Turkish Lira (€9).

2) Izmir to Antalya by bus: just show at the otogar and tell your destination. There are plenty of companies operating on this route but do remember that the fares depend on the company.

Option 2:

1) Istanbul to Izmir by train (see details above)

2) Izmir to Denizil by train: there are 3 departures per day from Izmir, the first being at 8:09 a.m. and the last at 3:30 p.m. The travel time is about 4 h 15min. You can check the timetable and fares here (requires a username/password).

3) Denizil to Antalya by bus: just show up at the otogar and tell your destination. You can choose among regular buses and mini buses (dolmus)

>>read more about Train Travel in Turkey

Driving from Istanbul to Antalya

You can rent a car in Istanbul and drive the 727 km to Antalya (via D650) in about 12 hours. Make sure to plan some stops along the way.

View Larger Map

Note:*at the time the article was written

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travel guide Vietnam

Things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital city and also the second largest city in the country. Having a Chinese influence and French design, the city blends the West and the East and offers visitors a variety of things to do.

Take photos of and around Hoan Kiem Lake

This lake is referred to as the “Lake of the Restored Sword” and is located right in the city center. It’s the sight of many events and you can explore its banks on foot. Take a camera with you because there are loads of opportunities to take photos. The Jade Mountain Temple offers a lovely lookout point.

Visit the One Pillar Pagoda

This Buddhist temple dates from the 1049 and is one of the iconic tourist destinations in Vietnam. It’s made of timber and is perched on a single pillar stone. It is design to resemble a lotus blossom.

Learn about the Temple of Literature

Now it’s a Confucian temple, but it used to be the site of one of the oldest universities in Vietnam. It is one of the few examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture still standing in Hanoi.

Take a stroll in the French Quarter

You can side wide boulevards – just like in Paris – and the architecture also reminds you of France.

Pray at St Joseph’s Cathedral

The Catholic Cathedral was completed in 1887. It was closed in 1975, after the reunification of Vietnam and reopened in 1985. The building seems out of place in the bustling Hanoi, although it is located in the French Quarter.

Explore the Old Quarter

Old Hanoi is a world away from the quiet and relaxed French Quarter. In the Old Quarter the streets are narrow and bustling with activity. Shop for souvenirs and try the local food.

A stay at Hanoi Hilton , anyone?

Actually you wouldn’t want to experience a stay here…..Hanoi Hilton is the sarcastic nickname given by the American prisoners to Hỏa Lò Prison. One of the famous residents (for 5 ½ h) was John McCain, the first US ambassador to Vietnam. But the prison dates back from the French period, when it was called Maison Centrale.

A day trip to Halong Bay

Located just 170 km from Hanoi, Halong Bay is one of the most popular travel destinations in Vietnam. Although you can plan a day trip yourself, you’ll save the hassle if you book a day tour.

>>read more about Getting from Hanoi to Halong Bay

A weekend in Sapa

You can take the train to Lao Cai and then continue by bus to Sapa, a picturesque village in Northern Vietnam , appreciated for its culture and natural beauty.

>>read more about Getting from Hanoi to Sapa

A day trip to the Co Loa Citadel

Located just 16 km from Hanoi, Co Loa Citadel is the easiest day trip from the city. It dates back to the 3rd century BC. You can visit two pagodas and a temple while you are here.

The Am Mi Chau pagoda is now a museum which comprises the archeological findings from the area.

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh saw the liberation from the French rule but didn’t make it to the end of the Vietnam War. With the help from the Russians, his body was preserved and now can be seen in the mausoleum. Pictures of the body are not permitted.
When visiting the site, a respectful attitude is obligatory and be careful what you are wearing. And stop that giggling, too!

Of course, Ho Chi Minh didn’t want to be preserved for eternity. He requested his body to be cremated and the ashes spread in three areas in Vietnam.

Learn more about Ho Chi Minh at the Ho Chi Minh Museum

After passing to airport-like security to get in, you’ll see a photo history (with captions in English, French and Vietnamese) of Ho Chi Minh’s life. Then , you’ll find some exhibits which don’t exactly feel they belong in this museum: a human-powered funicular display or a tram line, for example. Opened in 1990, the museum requires serious knowledge in modern art to be properly understood.

Learn history at the Vietnam Military History Museum

If you are passionate about history, this is where you should come. The museum features exhibits starting with the Chinese colonization, continuing to the French period and, of course, going by the American war, as well.

See the panorama from an old viewing point

Near the Vietnam Military History Museum, there’s a 59 m high ancient flag tower, which marks what used to be the tallest place in Hanoi. The tower was once part of the Hanoi Citadel. Enjoy the views of the city.

Photo credits: Hoan Kiem Lake , One Pillar Pagoda , Temple of Literature , St Joseph’s Cathedral , Old Quarter , Hỏa Lò Prison , Halong Bay by Alex Popescu via Facebook, Sapa , Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum , Ho Chi Minh Museum , Vietnam Military History Museum

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travel guide Vietnam

Vietnam in December

December is definitely part of the high season in Vietnam, particularly due to those planning to get to an exotic destination for Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Plan your flight and accommodation ahead of them and avoid flying during the busiest days of the year. Head to the beach or visit the cities, but don’t forget to taste the local cuisine, too.

Weather

In December the weather is cooler in Hanoi and often cold in the north-west regions. So, no trekking in Sapa, as it’s too cold for that. The further south you go, the milder the weather will do. And on the coastlines you can enjoy the sun and get a lovely tan.

Sample temperatures

Hanoi avg high 21C /avg low 15C
Ho Chi Minh City avg high 30C / avg low 22C
Hue avg high 23C/avg low 18C

>>read more about Weather in Vietnam

Flights and accommodation

International flights to Vietnam skyrocket by Christmas , so you plan to be in Vietnam in December, plan ahead and try to get here before the holidays. Needless to say, accommodation is not on the cheap side either, so plan in advance.

Things to do

Hit the beaches as now it’s the best time to get a tan in Vietnam. Sure, it’s going to be crowded particularly around Christmas time, but it’s also nice and warm. Enjoy the beach activities or plan to snorkel.

The weather is cooler now in Vietnam but if you come from colder climates you’ll actually consider it mild and warm. Still, it can get colder so pack and extra sweater. But, cooler weather also means you can enjoy visiting the cities …so, head to
Ho Chi Minh City and its markets , historical sites and museums; or go to Da Nang, Hue and Hanoi and check out the sites.

>>read more about the Things to do in Hanoi

In Vietnam for the holidays? Meet up with the expat community and plan a different kind of Christmas. Turkey and mashed potatoes are kind of not the staple food for the holidays here. And speaking of food, enjoy the local cuisine and don’t forget to taste the noodles.

>>read about the 5 Popular Attractions in Vietnam

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travel guide Turkey

Getting from Istanbul to Bodrum

Bodrum is located on the south Aegean coast of Turkey and is now a very popular travel destination. In ancient time , it was the site of Halikarnassus, home to the famous Mausoleum of Halikarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ancient monument was destroyed by an earthquake in the Middle Ages, but remains of it can still be seen in London’s British Museum.

Currently, Bodrum is one of the centers of the Turkish tourism industry. The east half of the town is where the beaches, bars , restaurants and everything else relative to a resort town are located. The other half caters for the richer crowds, typically those arriving here by yachts.

Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey and also its transportation hub. Unless you manage to find a very good deal into the airports serving the Turkish Riviera, you are most likely going to land on one of the Istanbul’s airports. And from here, plan the rest of the journey in Turkey.

Quick summary

If you don’t mind paying for the transfer to/from the airports and spending some time getting from the hotel to/from the airports, then flying is an option to consider when traveling from Istanbul to Bodrum. Another cheap option, which takes you from city center to city center, is the bus. But it takes a lot longer.

Flights from Istanbul (airport code: IST) to Bodrum

Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) is located 35 km from the city of Bodrum and handles both domestic and international flights.

Istanbul is served by two airports:

  • Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) is located 20 km from the city center, on the European side, and is the main gateway into Turkey. It is Europe’s eighth busiest airport and a hub for: Atlasjet, Onur Air and Turkish Airlines. Flights to/from Bodrum are operated by Atlasjet, Onur Air, Pegasus Airlines and Turkish Airlines.
  • Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the second airport serving Istanbul, located on the Asian side and it’s where the low cost carriers usually fly. Flights to/from Bodrum are operated by Borajet and Pegasus Airlines.

In terms of finding the cheaper option, whether you fly from Istanbul Ataturk or SAW, the flight fare is about the same (€22 one way on Pegagus from SAW and €23 one way on AtlasJet from Ataturk, in early February 2012). The flight time is also similar (1h 5 min to 1h 10 min). However, you need to take into account the transfer to/from both airports you’ll be flying into/from.

The same fares are available for flights in early March 2012, but by early April the prices increase and it gets slightly more expensive to fly from Ataturk (€36 one way) than from SAW (€27 one way). But even during the high tourist season, the prices stay around €30-€40 one way regardless of which airport you fly from.

Read more about:

>>Cheap flights to Istanbul
>>Airports in Turkey

Buses from Istanbul to Bodrum

The otogar (bus terminal) in Bodrum is located right in the city center next to the municipal market. In Istanbul the buses stop at Istanbul Buyuk Otogar. Many companies operate on this route but your best bet is to grab a seat in a luxury bus. Different companies have different fares.

Metro Turzim is one of the companies operating on this route. The fare is 70 Turkish Lira / €29.50 or 75 Turkish Lira / €31.65, depending on the type of ticket. Buses depart Istanbul at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The travel time is 14 h.

>>read more about Bus Travel in Turkey

Trains from Istanbul to Bodrum

There isn’t a direct connection between Istanbul and Bodrum but you can catch a train from Istanbul to Izmir and then a bus to Bodrum. There is also the option to take the ferry train but going only by train is faster.

Express trains depart Istanbul at 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. You’ll stay about 4 hours in Eskisehir. In total, the travel time is 19 hours. From Istanbul to Eskisehir the fare is 20 Turkish Lira (€8.40) and from Eskisehir to Izmir it’s another 21 Turkish Lira (€9).

From Izmir, catch a bus for another 4 h to Bodrum. The bus to Bodrum costs another 20 Turkish Lira (€8.40).

>>read more about Train Travel in Turkey

Driving from Istanbul to Bodrum

You can rent a car in Istanbul and drive the 790 km to Bodrum. The total travel time is about 11 h but make sure to plan some stops along the way. Bursa and Izmir are on the way (if you take D565), so you can stop there for some hours or even stay overnight.

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travel guide Turkey

Turkey in October

Autumn is another wonderful time to enjoy Turkey but it’s also a very popular time to visit the country, especially for those planning an independent vacation. So, expect crowds and high prices. On the plus side, the weather is still warm and you can sunbathe and swim on the coast. And if you plan to enjoy some sightseeing, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the weather

Weather

The weather is still warm and sunny in early October but by the end of the month the autumn rains might ruin your plans. In Central Anatolia it’s already possible to snow. On the coastal regions, it’s still possible to enjoy sunbathing and swimming.

Some sample temperatures

Ankara avg high 18C / avg low 3C
Antalya avg high 26C / avg low 12C
Bursa avg high 21C / avg low 10C
Denizli avg high 22C /avg low 10C
Istanbul avg high 19C / avg low 12C
Izmir avg high 23C / avg low 12C

>>read more about Weather in Turkey

Flights and accommodation

October is another high season for Independent travelers heading to Turkey. Although the days are shorter , the hotels in Istanbul and Cappadocia fill up quickly with those coming here for sightseeing. So, book your flight and the accommodation in advance.

Things to do

Kurban Bayramı, a major Turkish religious holiday, takes place in October and practically shuts down the country for about a week.

Republic Day falls on October 29 and is the most patriotic day in Turkey. It commemorates the proclamation of the Turkish Republic by Atatürk in 1923. Enjoy the parades but take note that some of the streets will be closed on this day and October 28 is a half-day holiday as well.

If you plan to spend more days in Istanbul, make sure to enjoy some of the things to do in Istanbul such as shopping in the Bazaars, visiting the mosques and churches, and enjoying the Turkish food and sweets.

If you plan to explore the ancient city of Ephesus or the hot springs of Pamukkale , then Izmir is a good base for such trips. Kusadasi is a good option, too, but it’s further away. Still, it’s closer to the beaches so if you plan to soak up the sun, you can still do that in October.

Or you can explore the region of Cappadocia , famous for the cave dwellings and great wines. Kayseri is a good base in the area but make sure to book the accommodation in advance.

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travel guide Vietnam

Vietnam in November

November is one of the best times to visit Vietnam. But along with cooler and drier weather come the tourist. So, shop around for airfare and accommodation and book the tickets in advance. On the plus side, there are plenty of things to enjoy whether you plan to stay within the city or spend time in the outdoors.

Weather

In the north of the country it’s getting cooler but in the south the weather is still warm. November is the perfect time to explore Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. The rains draw to an end in Hanoi and Hue, but there might still be rainy days during the month. So, it’s getting cooler and drier.

Sample temperatures

Hanoi avg high 24C /avg low 18C
Ho Chi Minh City avg high 30C /avg low 23C
Hue avg high 26C/avg low 20C

>>read more about Weather in Vietnam

Flights and accommodation

November, along with October, is one of the best months to visit Vietnam. If you prefer to book a vacation package, then look for the extras that agencies tend to include now in their offers. While the airfare is not cheap, shop around to get the best deals. Book your hotel room ahead of time and if that seems to expensive, look for beds in hostels .

Things to do

Sure, the beaches are at their best between December and March but the weather allows you to work on your tan year round. So, plan to visit some of the beaches while here.

Ho Chi Minh City is best visited in November. Plan to explore the city, visit the museums and spend time in the markets haggling for souvenirs or trying the excellent cuisine.

>>read more about Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Da Nang, Hue and Hanoi also offer plenty of things to do and places to visit. Plus, the weather is cooler and drier now so there’s less chance to get caught in a shower.

You can also visit the Mekong Delta or plan a trip to Ha Long Bay. Mekong Delta is an easy day trip from Ho Chi Minh City , while Ha Long Bay can be visited during a day trip from Hanoi.

>>read about the 5 Popular Attractions in Vietnam and about the Things to do in Hanoi

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travel guide Vietnam

Vietnam in August

August is rainy and it’s not as hot as in June or July. With the locals generally planning a holiday now and the international fares still high, it takes a bit of effort to plan an affordable holiday in Vietnam in August. However, you can go jungle trekking, hit the beaches or visit the cities.

Weather

August is the month when it’s no longer too hot in Vietnam. However, it’s the peak month for rain in the north part of the country. It’s rainy in the center and south as well , but the rain seems to back off a little. Highland areas are the coldest.

Sample temperatures

Hanoi avg high 31C /avg low 26C
Ho Chi Minh City avg high 31C / avg low 25C
Hue avg high 34C / avg low 24C

>>read more about Weather in Vietnam

Flights and accommodation

Many locals plan their domestic vacations in August but it’s not as crowded as in June or July. Still, the international airfares remain high and if you are look for a budget vacation, plan your flight in early September.

Still, look for flights in advance and keep your eyes on the sales available. Also, don’t forget about booking the accommodation .

Things to do

While the best time to visit the beaches is between December and May, the temperatures allow for sunbathing pretty much year round. However, if it rains, you are left with spending your time indoors…maybe book a spa appointment?

But August is the best time to explore Sapa and plan a jungle trekking experience.

If you plan to spend most of your time in the cities, Da Nang, Hue, Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City , and Nha Trang are all good options and each offer something interesting. You can easily plan indoor activities – such as visiting a museum or going to the opera – if the weather is rainy and you cannot spend much time outside. Or you can take a day trip to Ha Long Bay.

>>read about getting from Hanoi to Hue

Don’t forget about the local cuisine. Try the bowl of noodles or search for more bizarre options in the outdoor markets .

Read more about:
>>5 Popular Attractions in Vietnam
>>Things to do in Hanoi
>>Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

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travel guide Turkey

Turkey in May

May is already par of the high tourist season so expect high prices and crowds. You can head to the beaches and enjoy the sun or you can indulge in some sightseeing. And yes, the sights are also crowded.

Weather

Although still part of spring, May brings almost perfect weather in Turkey. The days are long and sunny and there’s almost no rainfall.

By mid-May the beach tourist season is in full swing on the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Coasts, so expect lovely weather and sunbathing temperatures.

Some sample temperatures

Ankara avg high 20C / avg low 6C
Antalya avg high 25C / avg low 14C
Bursa avg high 22C / avg low 11C
Denizli avg high 25C /avg low 12C
Istanbul avg high 20C / avg low 12C
Izmir avg high 25C / avg low 13C

>>read more about Weather in Turkey

Flights and accommodation

May is probably the most popular month for traveling to Turkey is you are an Independent traveler. So be prepared for crowds and high prices. Make sure to book both your flight and accommodation in advance.

Anticipate crowds if you are heading to the beach resorts, as well. By mid-May the tourist season is in full swing.

What to do

Hıdrellez Festival takes place in early May in Istanbul and celebrates the first day of the “early summer”. It takes place in the Ahırkapı Park where you can enjoy traditional foods and drinks, as well as live performances.

And if you are in Istanbul, don’t miss the sound and lights show that takes place at the Blue Mosque.

Atatürk Remembrance and Youth & Sports Day falls on May 19 and is a national holiday. It commemorates Atatürk’s birthday (1881) and the arrival in Samsun to begin the War of Independence.

Istanbul Conquest Day falls on May 29 and recalls the conquest of the city by the Ottomans from the Byzantines in 1453.

And while you are in Istanbul, make sure to enjoy some of the things to do in Istanbul such as shopping in the Bazaars, visiting the mosques and churches, taking a ferry across the Bosporus and enjoying the Turkish food and sweets.

You can choose Izmir for a longer stay and take the time to visit the near-by ancient city of Ephesus , the hot springs of Pamukkale and plenty other Roman ruins in the area.

Or you can explore the region of Cappadocia , with its famous cave dwellings and great wines. Kayseri is a good base in the area.

Head to the beaches located on the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Coasts. By now , the weather is lovely to allow for sunbathing and swimming. But do expect crowds.

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travel guide Turkey

Turkey in April

Spring is definitely one of the best times to visit Turkey. The climate is perfect for sightseeing in Istanbul and on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Aside from the mountains, where it’s still cold, you can enjoy a lovely vacation in any part of Turkey in April.

Weather

Spring in Turkey means the weather is quite unpredictable. You may experience lovely warm days with sunshine, but you might also experience rain fall. Or a combination of the two. But regardless of the weather, the scenery is magnificent, with wild flowers and cherry blossoms in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Central Anatolian regions.

It’s almost possible to swim in the waters of the Aegean and the Mediterranean and by the end of the month you’ll be able to enjoy sun bathing and swimming, for sure. If you head to the mountains, it’s still cold there, while the southeast is quite pleasant now.

Some sample temperatures

Ankara avg high 15C / avg low 3C
Antalya avg high 21C / avg low 10C
Bursa avg high 18C / avg low 7C
Denizli avg high 20C /avg low 8C
Istanbul avg high 15C / avg low 8C
Izmir avg high 20C / avg low 10C

>>read more about Weather in Turkey

Flights and accommodation

With the exception of Istanbul, Turkey doesn’t have a winter tourist season per se. But most accommodation on the shores is closed until late April.

If you plan to head to the resorts on the Aegean or Mediterranean shores, now it’s a lovely time to do so because the flights are cheap and the accommodation is affordable too.

Should you plan to visit Istanbul, the accommodation prices are higher due to the Tulip Festival. Book the hostel bed or hotel room in advance.

What to do

Head to Istanbul for the Tulip Festival. Three million tulips and a variety of colors provide plenty of ideas for taking photos and enjoying nature at its best. But, be aware that the hostels and hotels are fully booked and the prices are at their highest.

And while you are in Istanbul, make sure to enjoy some sightseeing. Some of the things to do in Istanbul include: shopping in the Bazaars, visiting the mosques , taking a ferry across the Bosporus and enjoying the Turkish food.

National Sovereignty Day is on April 23 and is an important holiday in Turkey. It also marks Children’s Day and an international children’s festival takes place in Ankara.

ANZAC Day is on April 25 and remembers the 500,000 men who died or were wounded here during World War I. Services take place in Gallipoli.

April is a good choice for a vacation on the shores of the Aegean or Mediterranean. By the end of the month it’s possible to swim. And thankfully, the resorts aren’t crowded yet.

You can set your base in Izmir, which is served by an airport handling both domestic and international flights, and visit the ancient city of Ephesus , the hot springs of Pamukkale and plenty other Roman ruins in the area.

Or you can set your base in Kayseri, also served by an airport, and explore the region of Cappadocia , with its famous cave dwellings and great wines.

Photo credit : Antalya beach in April , Istanbul Tulip Festival

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Germany

Why You Should Add Berlin to Your RTW Trip

Planning a round the world trip is no small endeavor. There are so many things a traveler has to think about and consider when he or she decides to take a trip around the world. One of the first things that must be considered is where to go. What regions, countries, and cities should be included in a RTW trip itinerary?

If you are planning a long-term trip but don’t have a ton of international travel experience, starting in a region like Europe is a smart idea. Adding Berlin to your RTW trip itinerary would be a great place to start. It won’t overwhelm you with culture shock, but it will provide plenty of differences and seem foreign enough to get your adventure started off right.

Berlin is a city steeped in history, both good and bad, and they embrace that history. Seeing a city that just 2 short decades ago was split in two is a powerful experience. Though Berlin was practically toppled during and after WWII, the transformation of the city is amazing. There’s still some great architecture, and German officials have done a tremendous job making this city a beautiful one.

If adding Berlin to a longer trip, you’ll be glad you have the extra time as the city is huge and has lots to offer. Plenty of museums, art galleries, and parks are waiting to be explored. The night life is among the best in Europe if that’s what you’re into. Sports are huge, especially football (soccer for you Yanks), and eating out is surprisingly cheap, especially compared to cities the same size in western Europe.

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