Tuesday, March 22, 2011

3 Cultural Experiences You Cant Miss In Turkey

Every year, many tourists decide to explore the cultural delights of Turkey. Walks are a fantastic way to see all that the country has to offer, taking you through ancient ruins and bustling towns and along spectacular coastlines. Wherever your walk takes you, there are a few cultural experiences that you simply cannot help but encounter during your time in the country.

Here are three of the best, which will provide you with experiences youll be recounting to your friends back home for weeks to come.

Turkish Baths (Hamams)

Turkish baths, or hamams as they are known locally, are found all over Turkey. Walks are a great way to see the country, but they can leave you tired and in need of some rejuvenation. So what better way to get over your stiff joints than by a trip to a Turkish bath?

In the hamam you can relax in the warm, steamy rooms and you can even experience a number of different massages. These can include a foam massage, an exfoliating massage and a luxurious oil massage. Hamams are part of the daily routine for many locals, and you may well find you get quite fond of them as well.

Dont miss out on visiting a hamam when on a walking holiday in Turkey. Walks may be the best way to see the country, but its just as important to treat yourself to a bit of luxury every once in a while.

Turkish Kebabs

Turkey is, for some, the home of kebabs and not the kind of kebabs that you are likely to find in some late-night joint in a town centre in England. Turkish kebabs are of the highest quality, and will provide you with a culinary treat to remember long after your trip to Turkey. Walks that lead through any town or city are certain to take you past a restaurant or bar serving kebabs. And even if you dont spot them, just follow your nose; the wonderful spicy aroma wafting out into the street will lead you straight to them.

Kebabs are different all over the country, with most regions having their own specific style. Whether a Si_ (shish) kebab, Adana kebab or the well-known (but entirely different) Doner kebab, you are going to give your taste buds a treat when you try any kebab in Turkey.

Turkish Coffee House

In Turkey, walks will allow you to experience both the countryside and the bustling cities alike. But wherever you decide to go, you will never find yourself far from a coffee house selling strong Turkish coffee.

Coffee is an important part of daily life for Turkish people. It still plays a role in many rituals involving prayer and marriage, although not as much as it once did. It is made from a fine powder and the resulting drink is much stronger than you may be used to. Cardamom is sometimes added, and the distinctive taste is something you wont forget in a hurry.

When you head to Turkey, walks of any type will lead you past one of these coffee houses sooner or later. And if you feel yourself getting tired during your walk, there is no better remedy than a shot of hot strong Turkish coffee to restore your energy levels.

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