Experience my epic travels through words and photos.
Author: John
I am an avid traveler. I enjoy adventure travel to explore places that I have read about, to learn about new cultures and to experience new cuisines. Travel is an exceptional teacher. I love to learn through the lens of an epic adventure.
During our trip to Thailand, we sought out experiences that were as unique as the country itself. One such adventure was our visit to the famous Maeklong Railway Market, commonly known as the Train Market. Nestled in the Samut Songkhram province, just a short drive from Bangkok, this market offered a fascinating blend of traditional Thai culture and heart-pounding excitement.
Train Market: A Market Like No Other
Thailand is famous for its bustling markets, from the floating markets to the night bazaars, but the Train Market stands out for one simple reason: it’s located directly on active railway tracks. Vendors set up their stalls right along the tracks, selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and souvenirs. At first glance, it looks like a typical Thai market, full of vibrant colors and the rich scent of street food. But then you notice the tracks running right through the middle of it.
The Thrill of the Train’s Arrival
The highlight of visiting the Train Market is witnessing what happens when a train approaches. Only, we were able to witness it from the train perspective. We purchased tickets to the train, boarding at Ban Kalong. As we neared the station, there was a noticeable buzz in the air. Vendors calmly started retracting their awnings and pulling their goods just inches away from the tracks. The whole process was impressively swift and coordinated, a testament to how often they go through this routine.
As we approached, the market transformed. What was moments before a bustling market scene became a narrow pathway just wide enough for the train to pass through. We watched in awe as the train slowly rolled by, with lookers inches away in the market below. The train moved at a slow pace, but the sheer proximity of it was thrilling.
Once the train came to a stop, the vendors quickly returned their stalls to their original positions, and within minutes, the market was back to normal as if nothing had happened. It was a surreal experience to witness this transformation, blending the everyday life of a Thai market with the extraordinary spectacle of a train passing right through it.
Exploring the Train Market: A Feast for the Senses
Beyond the excitement of the train, the market itself is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and smells. We spent the rest of our time browsing the stalls, sampling fresh fruits like durian and mango, and savoring local snacks. The seafood section was particularly impressive, with a wide array of freshly caught fish, squid, and prawns displayed on ice.
The market also offers a variety of street food options. We couldn’t resist trying some grilled skewers and sweet Thai desserts. The vendors were friendly and eager to share their culinary creations, making our visit as delicious as it was thrilling.
Tips for Visiting the Train Market
Check the Train Schedule: The trains don’t run frequently, so make sure to check the schedule in advance to time your visit around one of the train’s arrivals. Better yet, find a tour that allows you to arrive on the train as we did!
Arrive Early: The market can get crowded, especially around train times. Arriving early gives you time to explore before the crowds. Early trains are also less crowded, although they fill up with locals as you get close.
Stay Aware: While the market is generally safe, it’s important to stay alert when the train is approaching. Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of where you’re standing.
Combine with a Floating Market: Many tours offer a visit to the Train Market combined with a trip to a nearby floating market, making for a full day of exploring Thai market culture. We did the floating market as well.
Final Thoughts: A Must-See Experience
Visiting the Train Market was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip to Thailand. It’s a perfect example of how the country blends the old with the new, tradition with excitement. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or simply curious about unique cultural experiences, the Train Market is a must-see destination that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Thailand.
Traveling through Southeast Asia is an adventure filled with vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. During our recent trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, we relied heavily on Grab, the region’s most popular ride-sharing app, to navigate our way through these diverse countries. Here’s a rundown of our experiences using Grab in each location, highlighting its convenience, affordability, and local nuances.
Background
During our previous to trip to Vietnam, we used Uber to get around. When we discovered that Uber is no longer available in the region, I booked with a car service to pick us up at the airport in Vietnam. It was a complete fiasco. First of all, the price was outrageous for what we received. Secondly, our driver was not there to pick us up at our pickup point when we arrived. So we ended up with an unnecessary delay, a very low quality car and a very high price point. After arriving at our hotel, a colleague shared that he uses the Grab App, which I immediately downloaded. It was a good decision.
Thailand: A Seamless Grab App Experience in Bangkok and Beyond
Our journey began in Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, where traffic can be overwhelming, and navigating the city can be a challenge. We had side trips to Vietnam and Cambodia during our trip, but Bangkok was our base of operations during the trip. While we didn’t download Grab until we got to Vietnam our second day, it quickly became our go-to mode of transportation. The app was easy to use, and we appreciated the upfront pricing, which helped us avoid the haggling that can sometimes come with traditional taxis.
Pros:
Availability: Whether we were heading to a temple, a night market, or the airport, a Grab ride was always just minutes away. The drivers were friendly and often shared tips about the best local spots.
Pricing: We found Grab rides to be reasonably priced, especially when splitting the fare among a group. Compared to tuk-tuks or traditional taxis, Grab offered a more predictable and often cheaper option.
Variety of Options: In Bangkok, we had the option to choose from GrabCar, GrabBike, or even GrabTaxi, depending on our needs. GrabBike was particularly useful for zipping through the city’s notorious traffic.
Challenges:
Language Barrier: While most drivers were familiar with basic English, we occasionally encountered a language barrier.
Vietnam: A Reliable Grab App Companion in Ho Chi Minh City
Our first side trip from Bangkok was Vietnam. We downloaded the app after a bad experience with the shuttle service pre-arranged to take us from the airport. We used Grab extensively in Ho Chi Minh City. It was very inexpensive to get from our hotel to nearby restaurants or the market. All of our trips combined were less expensive than the one bad experience with the airport car service.
Pros:
Wide Availability: Grab rides were easy to find. The app’s popularity in Vietnam meant that we rarely had to wait more than a few minutes for a ride.
GrabBike: Similar to Thailand, GrabBike was a fantastic option. While we availed ourselves of this option in Bangkok, we did not in Vietnam.
Food Delivery: We did not use the food delivery option, either. But the app was very easy to use. Ordering food appeared to be very intuitive.
Challenges:
Traffic: While Grab offered a reliable way to get around, Vietnam’s traffic can be intense, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. This sometimes meant longer ride times.
Driver Communication: As in other countries, communication with drivers was sometimes a challenge.
Quality of Cars: The standard for cars in Vietnam was very low. They didn’t appear to be unsafe, but they were not up to typical ride-share standards. This may be part of the reason Uber pulled out of the region. I recall our Uber rides from our previous trip to Vietnam were in similar vehicles.
Cambodia: Grab App Convenience in Siem Reap
Our final side trip took us to Cambodia. Our experience was limited to Siem Reap and the airport. Cambodia’s ride-sharing scene is less developed than Thailand’s, but Grab still provided a convenient way to get around. We took plenty of tuk-tuk rides in Siem Reap.
Pros:
Ease of Use: In Siem Reap, we used Grab to explore the city’s outskirts and make our way to local restaurants. It was a reliable alternative to haggling with tuk-tuk drivers, especially in more touristy areas.
Cashless Payment: We appreciated the option to pay through the app, which was particularly useful in a country where carrying cash can sometimes be a hassle.
Inexpensive: The pricing in Cambodia, like Vietnam, was very reasonable. Particularly for the tuk-tuks.
Challenges:
Limited Availability: While Grab was available, it wasn’t as widespread as in Thailand. During peak times or in less touristy areas, we found that wait times could be longer.
Communication: Most of our rides in Siem Reap were silent due to the language barrier.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Southeast Asia with Grab
Overall, Grab was an essential tool during our travels through Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It offered a convenient, affordable, and often culturally immersive way to get around. Each country had its own unique Grab experience, but the app’s consistency and reliability made our journey smoother and more enjoyable.
For anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia, I highly recommend downloading Grab before you go. Whether you’re catching a ride to Angkor Wat at sunrise, zipping through Bangkok’s traffic on a motorbike, or having pho delivered to your doorstep in Hanoi, Grab is your ticket to a hassle-free adventure in this incredible region.
Our half-day sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Bayon Temple was a breathtaking journey into the heart of Cambodia’s ancient history. The adventure began before dawn, as we made our way through the quiet, dark streets of Siem Reap, guided by the anticipation of witnessing the sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat. Our first stop was the ticket office to purchase our admission tickets to the ruins.
Exploring Angkor Wat
As we arrived at Angkor Wat, the air was cool, and the sky was just beginning to lighten. The silhouette of the temple against the gradually brightening sky was a sight to behold. We found a spot by the reflecting pool, and as the first rays of sunlight broke through, the temple’s majestic towers were bathed in a golden hue, mirrored perfectly in the still water. It was a serene moment, filled with the awe of standing before one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
After the sunrise, our guide led us through the intricate corridors and towering structures of Angkor Wat, sharing stories of its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. The detailed carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and Khmer history, were fascinating to explore up close.
The Many Faces of Angkor Thom
After stopping for breakfast, we ventured to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Entering through the grand South Gate, we were greeted by the massive stone faces that guard the entrance, a prelude to the incredible Bayon Temple within. Bayon, with its 54 towers adorned with 216 smiling faces, was an enigmatic marvel. Each face seemed to carry a different expression, watching over the once-great city with serene grace.
Tomb Raider Vibes at Ta Prohm
Our tour continued to Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider Temple” due to its appearance in the film. Unlike the other temples, Ta Prohm has been left largely as it was found, with massive trees growing out of the ruins, their roots intertwining with the ancient stone. The juxtaposition of nature and architecture was hauntingly beautiful, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Bayon Temple
As the morning drew to a close, we returned to Bayon Temple, where we spent our final moments marveling at the unique blend of spirituality and artistry. The intricate bas-reliefs, depicting everyday life in the Khmer Empire, added depth to our understanding of the culture that once thrived here.
Aside from the amazing architecture of these ancient temple complexes, we were also amused by the abundance of monkeys at the ruins. They were ubiquitous. At one point, I stopped to sit on the large stones outside the Bayon Temple. My wife started pointing to alert me. I turned to find a monkey directly behind me. The monkey was harmless, but I was careful not to make contact.
Final Thoughts on Angkor’s Ancient Temples
This half-day tour was an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and mystery of Cambodia’s ancient past. The combination of history, architecture, and the natural beauty of the sunrise made it a truly magical journey. For anyone visiting Siem Reap, this tour is a must, providing a deep connection to the ancient world that still resonates today.
Our stay at The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor in Siem Reap was a mixed experience. It was a combination of luxury, rich cultural heritage and poor customer service. We arrived early, so our room was not ready. We went out to explore downtown Siem Reap while we waited. The staff appeared a bit indifferent to us, and this attitude continued the following morning.
Located just a short drive from the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor provided a convenient base for our exploration. The check-in process was smooth once our room was ready. Our room was a haven of comfort, spacious and beautifully decorated with a mix of traditional Khmer elements and modern luxury.
Because we had a pre-dawn tour of Siem Reap planned, we were going to miss breakfast. The hotel staff said they would have a packed lunch waiting for us in the morning. They did not. When we arrived early in the morning, there was no staff around. When staff did arrive, and we inquired about breakfast, we were told that we didn’t request it. Although we did. There was no attempt at accommodating this request even with that in mind.
They also did not offer a late check out, meaning we had to leave our bags alongside the desk during our tour. Normally, bags would be locked in a room where only staff had access. Not only was this not the case, but when we were ready to depart in the morning, there were several bags sitting out, but no staff in sight. At least they tagged our bags, but it was a bit unsettling that they did not store them in a secure area.
The hotel was a bit off the beaten path, but my wife and I walked into downtown to explore when we were waiting for our room. The walk wasn’t horrible, although maybe a bit warm. We took at tuk-tuk back to the hotel to check-in. We also booked rides (both car and tuk-tuk) using the Grab app, which was convenient. The hotel itself was beautiful, but we didn’t enjoy any of the amenities due to the short duration of our trip.
Overall, our stay at The Privilege Floor by Borei Angkor was mediocre. It felt luxurious, but the service left a lot to be desired. We paid just under one hundred dollars for one night, which is at the higher end for this area. The three highest rated hotels on TripAdvisor currently have lower rates than we paid, as a comparison. For our price point, I definitely expected more. In the end, this visit was very disappointing. I would definitely consider an alternative should I ever return to Siem Reap.
Our Chao Phraya River dinner cruise became a memorable experience, blending Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry with the serene beauty of the river at night. As we boarded the luxurious boat, the city bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, gradually faded into the background. The gentle hum of the boat harmonized with the tranquil sounds of the river, creating a peaceful atmosphere. We quickly realized that the cruise offered a unique vantage point of the city. Bangkok’s old and new architecture coexisted in a mesmerizing display of lights.
Dining on the Chao Phraya River
The dining experience aboard the cruise presented a feast for both the eyes and the palate. A lavish buffet greeted us, featuring an impressive selection of Thai and international dishes. The culinary options included an array of appetizers, including fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and traditional Thai delicacies. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Thailand.
Illuminated Landmarks Along The Chao Phraya River
As the evening progressed, the true magic of the Chao Phraya River cruise unfolded. The boat slowly made its way past some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, each one illuminated against the night sky. The sight of Wat Arun, with its intricately designed spires glowing softly in the dark, took our breath away. The Grand Palace, resplendent with its golden rooftops, stood as a testament to Thailand’s regal history. The Rama VIII Bridge, with its graceful, modern lines, provided a striking contrast to the ancient temples.
Final Thoughts
We sipped on wine and enjoyed a selection of decadent sweets, as a gentle breeze drifted across the deck, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the evening. The trip on the river culminated in a dazzling display of fireworks on the river. This cruise offered a perfect blend of cultural immersion, culinary delight, and serene relaxation, making it an evening we will cherish for years to come.
Our dinner at Celadon, located within the luxurious Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok, presented an atmosphere nothing short of exceptional. Known for its authentic Thai cuisine, Celadon offers a dining experience that is both elegant and deeply rooted in tradition. The restaurant itself is a serene oasis, with its setting in a beautiful garden pavilion that immediately sets a tranquil tone for the evening. In part, we chose Celadon because it is a Michelin rated restaurant.
As we were seated, we couldn’t help but admire the attention to detail in the decor—delicate lotus flowers, soft lighting, and traditional Thai elements that enhanced the atmosphere. The service was somewhat less impressive than the atmosphere. The staff made us feel welcome, but were not particularly attentive at times.
The menu at Celadon is a tribute to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, featuring a wide array of dishes that highlight the diversity and complexity of Thai flavors. We started with a node to Thai street food, chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. Fried chicken is a staple at the street stalls in Bangkok. Celadon’s iteration is embellished with leaves, wrapped to form at pocket for the chicken. It is served with three dipping sauces. The chicken was delicious.
For our main dishes my wife opted for the pad thai, while I chose the green curry. I specifically asked if it was possible to order the green curry without fish, shrimp paste, fish sauce or anything related to seafood. I was assured that this was the case, so I proceeded with the green curry, which looked amazing. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her pad thai, but my green curry was not good. I am fairly certain it actually had fish sauce in it. Luckily, I am not allergic. But I didn’t eat my meal.
When the waitress inquired, she seemed confused by my concern. However, she also did not seem inclined to offer a replacement. Nor was a manager called over to assist. I didn’t press the issue, deciding instead to chalk it up to experience and find something light from a street stall later.
Dessert was an improved end to our otherwise unsatisfying meal. The rice-wrapped banana and coconut ice cream was tasty and refreshing. The presentation (as with all of the dishes) was as exquisite as the taste. If the attentiveness at Celadon were as impeccable as the presentation, this would have been an unforgettable experience.
Dining at Celadon left me with mixed feelings. The atmosphere and decor were amazing. The food presentation was impeccable. However, the service did not match the other facets of this experience. That was disappointing to say the least. At the price point for this meal, I definitely would have expected more.
Our stay at the Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel was an experience of luxury and elegance, perfectly nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This hotel provided a seamless blend of modern amenities and Vietnamese charm, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant culture and history of the city. It also served as a great host to meetings I attended at the hotel.
Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel First Impressions
Upon arrival, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a smooth check-in process. The grand lobby, with its sophisticated design and attention to detail, set the tone for what was to come. The hotel’s prime location, near iconic landmarks such as the Saigon Opera House, made it convenient for us to immerse ourselves in the city’s bustling energy. We also downloaded the Grab ride-share app for quick, inexpensive transportation to nearby attractions.
One of the highlights of our stay was the dining options available at the Sheraton Saigon. While we didn’t dine at the hotel restaurant, the options available at the concierge lounge were amazing. One of the most amazing hospitality suites I have visited as a Marriott Platinum Elite member. We particularly enjoyed the breakfast, which featured a range of options from traditional Vietnamese dishes to Western favorites.
The rooftop bar, with its panoramic views of the city, was the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail after a day of sightseeing. Endless options for dining were also available within walking distance or a short Grab ride away. Because we love Vietnamese street food, we availed ourselves of this opportunity to explore amazing banh mi sandwiches and a Michelin rated banh xeo restaurant a mile or so away.
Amenities and Services
The hotel’s amenities were equally impressive. We didn’t take advantage of the fitness center, but it was well-equipped for a workout. They also have an outdoor pool, and conference facilities. The conference facility was excellent, providing ample space for several business meetings during my visit. The concierge service was exceptional, offering helpful recommendations. This includes the restaurants indicated earlier.
Final Thoughts on Sheraton Grand Opera Hotel
Our stay at the Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of luxury accommodations, excellent service, and a prime location made our visit to Ho Chi Minh City truly memorable. Whether you’re in the city for business or leisure, this hotel offers an experience that balances the excitement of Saigon with the comforts of a high-end retreat. We left feeling refreshed and well taken care of, with fond memories of our time in this vibrant city. One of the best Marriott properties I have stayed at.
Our culinary adventure in Ho Chi Minh City led us to a place that’s not just a restaurant but a living piece of Vietnamese culture—Banh Xeo 46A. This unassuming eatery, nestled in a bustling neighborhood, serves some of the city’s best banh xeo. It didn’t disappoint. Guests filled several outdoor metal tables at the restaurant.
First Impressions of Banh Xeo 46A
As we walked up, the sizzle of batter hitting hot pans filled the air. The sizzling mingled with the rich aroma of fresh herbs and pork. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists alike gathered around small tables, eagerly anticipating the next savory bite. We followed an employee to an empty table where we sat down in anticipation.
About Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo, often described as a Vietnamese savory pancake or crepe, is the star of the menu here. Made from rice flour, water, and turmeric, the crepe is cooked to a crispy perfection. I ordered my crepes stuffed with a generous mix of pork and bean sprouts, leaving out the shrimp. The real magic happens when you wrap a piece of the banh xeo in fresh lettuce or rice paper, add herbs like mint and cilantro, and dip it into the tangy nuoc cham (dipping sauce). The combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, savory, fresh, and slightly tangy—creates a culinary experience that’s quintessentially Vietnamese.
Banh Xeo 46A Has Great Atmosphere
Our meal wasn’t just about the food; it was about the experience. Watching the skilled cooks deftly maneuver their woks over open flames, flipping the delicate crepes with ease, added an element of theater to our dinner. The staff were friendly and efficient, quickly serving up plates of banh xeo with a side of warm smiles, despite the restaurant’s constant buzz of activity. I also ordered a bowl of bun, which I doctored up with a dab of peanut sauce.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Banh Xeo 46A gave us a deeper appreciation for the simplicity and richness of Vietnamese street food. The restaurant seemed humble, but the care and tradition poured into each dish made it extraordinary. How extraordinary? Banh Xeo 46A is a Michelin Rated Restaurant. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City and looking to experience authentic Vietnamese flavors in a vibrant setting, a visit to Banh Xeo 46A is an absolute must.
Our visit to Elephants World Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi was a heartwarming and enlightening experience. It offered us a rare opportunity to connect with magnificent creatures in a setting dedicated to their well-being. Located in the lush, green landscapes of western Thailand, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries, where they often endure harsh conditions. We booked at bangkokelephanttour.com.
Hotel Pick-up
At the break of dawn, we left our hotel in Bangkok for a three-hour ride to Kanchanaburi. Upon arriving at Elephants World Sanctuary, the staff warmly welcomed us and briefed us on the sanctuary’s mission and the importance of ethical elephant tourism. The sanctuary’s commitment to prioritizing the elephants’ needs was refreshing. We engaged intimately with these gentle giants, who are not forced to perform or carry tourists.
Getting Intimate at Elephants World Sanctuary
Our day began with a hands-on experience feeding the elephants. We provided them with small watermelons the size of cantaloupe. The elephants gathered along the rail of a covered lodge where they ate the melons as quickly as we could hand them out. It was incredible to see their personalities shine through, from the playful young elephants to the more reserved older ones.
After an appetizer of watermelons, we walked down closer to the river to learn more about these amazing creatures. Some of the animals bore scars of their former mistreatment, which included circus performances and logging. The elephants snacked on sugar cane while we learned more about the sanctuary.
Feeding the Elephants World Sanctuary Matriarch
One of the elephants, a female, was into her 60s. Because she can’t chew the watermelons or sugarcane, we made rice-balls for her. We chopped squash and boiled it down in a massive pot with rice. After allowing the mixture to cool a bit, we formed rice balls to feed the aging matriarch. It was a sticky mess, but also a fun and very interactive experience.
Enjoying a Mud Bath
After the rice balls, we accompanied the elephants to a nearby mud hole, where visitors were invited to cover the elephants in mud. I was a bit apprehensive, but my wife jumped right in. I was thinking more about the content of the mud in the small pond. It was probably fine, but knowing an elephant is going to add to the mud in the pond wasn’t appealing to me.
Washing in the River
After the mud hole, we headed to the river for their daily bath. This was perhaps the most memorable part of the day, as we got into the water alongside the elephants, helping them scrub off the dust and mud. The joy and relaxation they exhibited during their bath were infectious, and it was clear that they were truly at ease in this environment.
Elephants World Sanctuary Visit Included Lunch
Our visit finished with an excellent buffet style lunch in the open air lodge. The chicken was excellent, as were the papaya salad and array of other treats. The meal was almost an afterthought in the greater scheme of things. But it was included in the price of our visit, so worth mentioning.
Ethical Tourism
Throughout the visit, the sanctuary’s guides provided valuable insights into the elephants’ lives, their history, and the challenges they face in Thailand. They also emphasized the importance of supporting sanctuaries like this one to ensure that elephants can live out their lives in peace and dignity.
Final Thoughts
We left with a deep appreciation for the sanctuary’s work and the majestic animals they care for. It was a day filled with learning, connection, and a sense of hope for the future of these incredible creatures. For anyone visiting Thailand, a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary is not to be missed. It’s an experience that not only enriches your understanding of these animals but also contributes to a cause that truly makes a difference.
While our visit to the elephant sanctuary included a larger group, our transportation was private. On our way back to Bangkok, our driver stopped at the River Kwai for us to explore a bit before we loaded back up to finish our trek back to our hotel. Overall, an amazing, memorable day.
Late last year, my wife and I shared an exciting adventure through the heart of Turkey. We booked an organized tour that included options with or without airfare. I booked the airfare myself on Delta, flying KLM over through Amsterdam and Delta on the return trip through Paris. We arrived late in the evening, but didn’t have any problem finding a taxi to take us to our hotel.
Arrival In Turkey
Our journey began with two nights at the Millennium Istanbul Golden Horn Hotel. I realized going through my photos that I did not take any photos of the hotel. However, the location was a bit far from most of the attractions in Istanbul, but the hotel itself was excellent. My wife and I had dinner at the hotel on our second night. I recall that it was both affordable and delicious, as well as a nice presentation (I did take a photo of our meal). My only complaint was that smoking was allowed, and I recall that the smell annoyed me while we dined.
Our First Full Day – Exploring Istanbul
We met for a briefing on our first night, which is good, because we got an early start the next day. I like fast-paced tours, and this one did not disappoint. We spent our first full day in Istanbul exploring several of the prominent attractions. We started at the Hippodrome, exploring a large obelisk on the plaza. There wasn’t a lot to see, but the history was interesting. This was followed by a visit to the neighboring Blue Mosque. We rounded out the morning with a visit to the Hagia Sophia. There line for the Hagia Sophia was long, but well worth the wait for this historic early Christian church turned mosque.
We paused for lunch before reconvening for an afternoon visit to Topkapi Palace. There was a light rain starting to fall on an otherwise cool day. I think the highlight of Topkapi Palace were some of the religious icons they claim to house. The provenance of many of the items seemed questionable, at best. But it was amazing to see such a diverse collection of religious items from the three Abrahamic traditions. After exploring the palace, we returned to our hotel for dinner. We also packed out for an early start the next morning.
From Istanbul to Canakkale
The following morning, we left our suitcases out for the bus while enjoying breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, we stopped at the iconic “Istanbul” sign for a photograph before spending an hour in the ancient Spice Bazaar. We purchased some amazing roasted hazelnuts to enjoy on our bus ride toward Canakkale.
On our way to Canakkale, we stopped for lunch at a fish restaurant at Gelibolu Barik in Gallipoli. It was a chilly morning, making it a good day to travel. After lunch, we braved the chill and rain to visit the Troy Ruins in Canakkale. After walking through the many layers of civilization, we headed to Kolin Hotel, where we spent a single night. We had dinner and breakfast at the hotel, packing out after dinner for another early morning start.
Canakkale to Kusadasi
After an early morning breakfast at Kolin Hotel, we headed to Pergamum, where we stopped to visit the Asclepieion of Pergamon. We continued on to Kusadasi, which is believed to be the birthplace of Homer. We arrived at Korumar Hotel mid-afternoon, allowing us time to get settled and enjoy the amazing view of the Aegean from our hotel room balcony. We watched an amazing sunset over the Aegean before enjoying a great dinner and settling in for the night.
We spent the following day exploring nearby Ephesus and Selcuk. We started the morning off early, with a visit to Virgin Mary’s House. It was cold and rainy, but the weather didn’t dampen an awesome experience. While the provenance of Mary’s House is weak, at best, the visit was still amazing. The structure was definitely an ancient Christian Church with remnants dating to the first century. This was followed by an even more amazing visit to nearby Ancient Ephesus. Walking where the Apostle Paul and early church leader Timothy once walked was unforgettable. The experience was head and shoulders above the rest of the trip…which is saying a lot. We saw many amazing sights on this trip.
The weather was nice while we visited Ephesus. It was still chilly, but the rain relented. But we did work up an appetite for a good, hot, home-cooked meal. This was accomplished by visiting Bizim Ev Hanimeli Restaurant in Selcuk. The family cooks an amazing spread of Turkish traditional dishes, and we gorged ourselves on the food. It energized us for an afternoon spent visiting Ephesus Museum before returning to the hotel. At the hotel, it was back to packing out for another move further into the heart of Turkey.
From Kusadasi to Pumakkale
An early morning breakfast preceded our bus trip toward Pumakkale. We spent most of the day exploring the Hierapolis Ruins. There is a lot to see here from the iconic hot springs, ancient arena, necropolis, and variety of historic religious sites. Among the ruins was one that particularly stood out. We accidentally stumbled upon the Martyrium of Saint Philip, which wasn’t included as part of our itinerary. We ventured into the wilderness to find this amazing tomb and church, which we had to ourselves. In reading the provenance of this location, there are quite a few indicators that suggest it is accurate. While there may be embellished accounts regarding the events that occurred at this location, the provenance dates to the first century.
We finished the afternoon driving through the necropolis in a rain that was steadily falling. We stopped near the exit from the ruins to snap a few quick photos in the rain. From there, we headed to the nearby Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel. Because of the rain and chilly weather, we spent the evening indoors. We enjoyed a hot coffee at the hotel bar before an excellent dinner. This was an overnight stop, so we once again packed out for another early morning start.
Pumakkale to Konya
Konya is known as the “land of the Whirling Dervishes.” It is here that the Islamic poet and scholar Rumi settled. One of the iconic elements of Rumi’s religious expression was through dance. These dancers, called Whirling Dervishes” still perform. We stopped at the Mevlana Museum, where Rumi’s tomb and many religious artifacts reside. From the museum, we headed to the Dedeman Konya Hotel, where we spent one night. The drill was routine…dinner and pack out for another early morning departure.
Konya to Cappadocia
We departed early the next morning, stopping en route to Konya at Sultanhan Caravanserai. The Caravanserai served as an ancient roadside inn along the silk road. We continued on to Guzelyurt, where we enjoyed an amazing home-hosted meal. After lunch, we stopped at a local school to visit with the school children. We also brought them gifts (school supplies). It was another great opportunity for cultural enrichment before heading on to Dinler Hotel. While some members of our tour group attended a Whirling Dervish performance, my wife and I opted to explore Urgup. We retired early, in preparation for a very early wake-up call for an incredible fun-filled day.
We arose at the crack of dawn and met in the hotel lobby for our pre-sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride. We traveled by van to a nearby staging area where balloons and gondolas were strewn around like confetti. We arrived our balloon, operated by Kapadokya Balloons. We spent an amazing hour soaring over the fairy chimney’s and cave dwellings before landing in a distant field. We watched the sunrise from the balloon, creating an amazing morning experience with a full day yet ahead!
From our balloon ride, we reconvened for a visit to Ozkonak Underground City. This amazing city, which could house 60,000 people in ten levels of underground rooms and tunnels was built more than a thousand years ago. It was occupied mostly by Christians experiencing persecution. It was fascinating to see the three levels we were permitted to visit. From the underground city, we proceeded to Goreme Open Air Museum. There were actually two phases to this visit, stopping first to see the famous fairy chimney’s created from eons of erosion. From there, we visited ancient Christian churches and dwellings cut into the volcanic rock. It was an amazing day, to say the least.
Cappadocia to Ankara
The next morning, our routine continued. Breakfast and more driving. Our journey today would take us from the heart of Turkey to the capital, Ankara. We stopped at the Tomb of Attaturk, where we saw the precision changing of the guard. We then stopped at the Anatolian Civilizations Museum before heading to our hotel, Divan Ankara Hotel. My wife and I went to a nearby restaurant for dinner before settling in for the night. Ankara was really just an overnight on our journey back to Istanbul to complete our tour.
Ankara to Istanbul
Our final full day in Istanbul was spent traveling from Ankara to Istanbul. We drove in a steady rain. We arrived in Istanbul at the boat docks on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. From here, we boarded a boat to enjoy a Bosphorus River Cruise before heading to the Legacy Ottoman Hotel to check in. After checking in to the hotel, we spent the evening exploring the Grand Bazaar before returning to the hotel to prepare for our early morning departure.
Heading Home
After an amazing, thorough, two-week adventure through the heart of Turkey, we were ready to return home. The Legacy Ottoman Hotel helped us arrange for an early morning transfer to the airport. Our trip home was mostly uneventful, other than an unanticipated extended delay in Paris. This trip was booked through Gate 1 Travel. The price point was just over $1000 (without airfare). Gate 1 runs deals throughout the year, but the current listed price for this trip is $1499 without airfare, $2299 with airfare (depending on travel dates). I do not receive any compensation for mentioning Gate 1, but have been happy with them as an affordable tour operator that delivers great value for the money.
