Names of travellers Suhaifa Naidoo and Jacques Millard
Destination Turkey
Dates 29 March – 13 April 2012

Your reason for visiting this destination Turkey is full of culture and history. Being a couple from different backgrounds, this country offered us something new to explore, like spices, cultures and religions.

OUR LITTLE BLACK BOOK 

The best hotel My Dora Hotel is located in Kadikoy, the Asian side of Turkey. Our room was whimsical and charming, and definitely something that I won’t forget. The prices are reasonable compared to the European side of Turkey. The food was very standard as the Turkish are not big on breakfast in their hotels. We took a ferry across to Europe everyday and it cost us less than R10 a trip.

The best place for dinner Honestly the best places were the kebaab sidewalk cafes. They are all over Istanbul and extremely well priced and the lamb kebaabs are amazing! Eating in a restaurant every day in Istanbul is difficult as there really aren’t that many and they can be pricey.

The best place for lunch We had an amazing meal at a little place called Dibek in Cappadocia. The food was so full of flavour and the prices were reasonable. All the food is cooked in these traditional stone pots similar to a South African potjie but so much tastier. TIP: If you don’t like sitting on the floor while eating, don’t go here!

The best place for a drink 360! There is amazing place called 360 and literally offers you views of all sides of Istanbul. There isn’t much food here so do not come here hungry! Definitely ask for a window seat.

The first thing travellers should do upon reaching this destination Buy a map. The city is huge. You need to know in which direction you are heading, at all times.

The best place to shop The Grand Bazaar. You will find incredible bargains! There is everything from textiles to food to art. The bazaar is so big, so you may want to make a few trips there.

The best way to get around Walking or taking the train.

If you want to feel like a local you should… Spend some time on the ferry between Asia and Europe and don’t forget to try the coffee and roasted chestnuts. You should also make a visit to a Turkish hammam (Turkish baths).

Watch out for…People trying to sell you counterfeit goods.

Don’t leave without… Buying something from the Grand Bazaar, such a spices or a painted plate….and eating baklava!

Insider tip: Bargain – you will be amazed at the discounts you can receive.

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