While traveling to Europe is an expensive proposition, travel in Turkey is a good value for the money. It offers a view into the ancient cultures of the Hittites, Greeks, Byzantines, Phrygians, Crusaders, Ottomans, Mongols and Romans, among others, through architecture, ruins and artwork. Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir offer city buzz, the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are dotted with beaches and restaurants serving seafood delicacies. Those seeking exotic locales can sleep in hotels carved into caves, explore ancient battlefields, traverse national parks filled with untamed wilderness, or enter the land of Argonauts on the Black Sea coast.

Turkey offers many different attractions. The most popular are the Byzantine Haghia Sophia Museum, the Ottoman Empire’s Blue Mosque, Pamukkale’s therapeutic springs, the ancient city of Ephesus (which houses the Temple of Artemis), the geological wonders and rock-cut churches of the Cappadocia Region, the historic cities of Pergamon and Sardis, the aqueducts and Roman theater of Aspendus, Mt. Nemrut’s Commagene Kingdom with its colossal head statues of the gods, and the beaches and war memorials of Gallipoli.

Learn a little Turkish before going, particularly pleasantries and survival phrases. Bargaining is not the norm, but can be done in the more touristy spots. Before stepping into a taxi, ask for an estimate of the fare. Drink bottled water and, of course, Raki, the national drink that is 45 percent alcohol. Buy tokens, called “jetson,” or cards for the public telephones. When shopping, be aware that the hard sell is customary here; so don’t feel beholden to buy something you don’t really want.

Whilst partaking of the diverse historic attractions, monuments and natural wonders Turkey has to offer, you should also familiarize yourself with its beach resorts. One favorite is Bodrum, in the southwest of Turkey. Sunbathing, sailing, dining, sightseeing and nightlife are its attractions. Marmaris boasts a yacht marina and a coastline framed by pine-covered mountains. Oludeniz is Turkey’s most famous beach, consisting of a vivid blue lagoon and a crescent moon-shaped shoreline. Near the Temple of Apollo is Altinkum or “Golden Beach.” Dalyan has a river and sulfur mud baths.

Foodies traveling in Turkey have many options. Breakfasts might include feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, cucumber, jam, fresh bread and apple tea. To try a little of everything, ask for a meze platter, which may come with boreks (savory pastries), stuffed grape leaves, and dishes with chickpeas and eggplant. Try kebabs, grilled meats on skewers, sometimes served with tomato and yogurt sauce. Karniyarik is eggplant stuffed with ground lamb, tomatoes, onions and spices. Spicy meatballs are known as kofte. Soups may contain rice, lentils, bulgur, hot pepper, lemon juice, mint or tomato paste. Favorite desserts are baklava and baked rice pudding.

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