Another World - Cappadocia!

Michelle’s thoughts:

We are back in Istanbul for four days. We had originally planned to do a 8 day cruise from Fethiye, but it was suggested to just do 4 days (which I am glad we did); thus, the extra days in Istanbul. We arrived on Saturday from Cappadocia. If there was one area that I would stay in Turkey, it would be in Cappadocia. I simply fell in love with the place. The terrain is so different from anything I’ve ever seen before, it‘s like being on another planet.

There were great hiking trails that consisted of climbs on unique rock formations, entering hidden tunnels and creeping under brush. All this lined with grapes and apples in abundance for eating. The valleys were breathtaking. There were times when Craig and I were full of emotion and in awe of our surroundings.

Along with hiking, we went on a Hot Air Balloon ride one morning and I think the whole time I was just giddy! There were 24 of us in the huge basket. 6 in each compartment. I was very lucky and I was able to be in the compartment with the pilot during the trip. I even got to control the flames for the balloon!! It was so exhilarating! At one point we were in the clouds! So awesome!! I highly recommend a Hot Air Balloon ride to see the fantastic views of Cappadocia.

On our first day we rented four-wheelers to see the valleys with a guide. It was a great way to get an understanding of the area and see where we wanted to hike on later dates.
Craig and I also rented a scooter from Silk Road and we drove around the area to see the sites away from our town, Goreme. I think the drive was just as wonderful as the sites we saw. As we drove by the small villages and farms, everyone waved back as I had a big smile and waved while sitting behind Craig on the scooter. It was so much fun! When we asked for directions, everyone wanted to help! The Turkish people are so friendly and warm!! We love them!

One of the sites we saw was the Underground city. Hundreds of tunnels and tunnels of rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, churches, animal shelters, etc. were dug in multiple levels under ground. It was freaky and a little unnerving to go from one room to the next through these long low height tunnels and some of the rooms are dark and have low ceilings. It’s not good for those who are claustrophobic because if there a lot of tourists, you can be stuck in a tunnel for a bit! We were lucky because Craig and I entered when most tour groups were having their buffet lunches, so we had the city mostly to ourselves. There were only two tour groups when we visited. Even then, sometimes we ran to get to the next level. We weren’t sure how long this city was and after a couple of levels, you felt you needed to see the sun. When we left, there were buses full of tourists coming. Craig and I looked at each other then and we shivered thinking about all these people in the tunnels! Whew, that was close!

We also visited an underground city that the tourists don’t go to. It was recommended by the guys in Silk Road where we rented the scooter. It’s in the small village of Miza and we had a private tour with Ishrid. We like doing stuff that’s off the beaten path. I am glad we went because it was a relaxing visit in the underground and we had a great conversation with a local guy.

When you see our pictures, you’ll see these formations called Fairy Chimneys. Lots and lots of them!! I won’t tell you what I really call them! Aren’t they really cool?!

Also, I would like to say thank you to Peter, Maneesha, Neil and Josie for putting up with us in Cappadocia!! We had wonderful meals with them and of course, had great laughs! You guys are the greatest!

Next month- Jordan!!!

Love,
Michelle