Despite unrest, Turkey is a fantastic destination for travelers

For over a year now, I've been bringing you the best things to do in Pennsylvania in this weekly column. However, this week, I wanted to talk about something a little different.

Before I started traveling Pennsylvania back in 2013, I spent most of my time traveling outside of the country. All told, I've spent close to three years of my life working and traveling through other parts of the world and have visited more than 30 countries. In all that time, I have come across few places that were as wonderful and welcoming as Turkey.

Turkey has been in the news a lot in the last month -- first for a terrorist attack at their main airport in Istanbul and, more recently, for the coup that was quickly put down. Despite all of this negative attention, I can honestly say that I would go back to Turkey in a heartbeat.

My visit to Turkey a few years ago lasted for three weeks and took me from Trabzon, in Turkey's northeastern corner, across the country to the southwestern corner and finally to Istanbul. My travel was done independently and on local buses, giving me a great chance to see into the real Turkey during my brief stay.

Istanbul's Hagia Sophia is one of the most impressive religious structures in the world and is over 1,000 years old.Jim Cheney | Special to PennLive 

Istanbul is the country's largest city, and it both figuratively and literally spans the border between Europe and Asia. Walking along the city's streets, through its large markets, and past its beautiful mosques gives visitors a chance to see the many cultures that have influenced the city over the millennia.

Two of the most well-known sites in the city are the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Hagia Sophia was built in the 4th century and has served as both a church and a mosque, while the Blue Mosque is newer (16th century) and still functions as a mosque. Since these two religious structures sit opposite each other, they offer visitors the chance to see how artistic and architectural styles changed over the years.

Istanbul is also a city along the water, spanning the length of the Bosphorus between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Frequent ferries run along the Bosphorus, taking locals and visitors between the European and Asian sides of the city. These ferries also offer an inexpensive way to see the city from the water.

East of Istanbul, Turkey continues to offer a unique mix of culture, nature, and history to visitors. One of the most popular destinations in the country is the ruins of Ephesus. This ancient Greek city was occupied for over a millennia, starting in the 10th century B.C., and was mentioned on several occasions in the Bible.

The ruins of Ephesus.Jim Cheney | Special to PennLive 

The ruins here are some of the most impressive ancient ruins in the world and are worth the trip from Istanbul to see. While in the area, don't miss the single pillar remaining from the nearby Temple of Artemis, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Another fascinating destination in Turkey is the Cappadocia region. This area is known for its Fairy Chimneys, stone pillars which dot the landscape. Visitors can walk amongst these amazing natural formations, see ancient homes and churches carved into their walls, stay in cave hotels and even ride in a hot air balloon over the formations.

The Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia are some of the most unique geological features in the world.Jim Cheney | Special to PennLive 

Turkey is also known for its beaches and seaside resorts, especially along its Mediterranean coast. Visitors flock from all over the world to vacation at these seaside resorts in southern Turkey. Clear water, beautiful weather, and a myriad of small islands make this a perfect destination for beach lovers.

Another great reason to visit Turkey is the amazing food. This ancient culture is known for having some of the world's best food, and dishes such as baklava, Turkish delight, and kebabs can be found at various restaurants in the United States.

There's no question that Turkey is fraught with uncertainty right now. However, there are few more amazing destinations in the world and a trip to Turkey should be on every traveler's bucket list. Having spent several weeks exploring this fantastic place, I can't wait to go back and uncover even more of this beautiful country.

Jim Cheney is the writer behind UncoveringPA, Pennsylvania's most read travel blog. He has traveled to every county in Pennsylvania, and to many countries in North America, Europe, and Asia. He lives in Harrisburg, Pa.

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