by Emelie Sater
As I stepped foot on the sun-kissed land of Alanya, Antalya, Turkey, I knew I was about to embark on an adventure of a lifetime. The promise of enchanting landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality had lured me to this captivating Mediterranean destination. My heart brimming with excitement, I set out to explore the hidden gems of Alanya, eager to weave my story in the rich tapestry of this charming city.
From the moment I arrived, Alanya cast its spell upon me. The azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea gently lapped against the pristine shoreline, inviting me to delve into its refreshing embrace.
As the waves crashed against the ancient city walls, I found myself mesmerized by the breathtaking juxtaposition of history and nature.
I began my journey at Alanya Castle, perched high upon a rocky hill overlooking the town. The ancient walls told tales of a bygone era, transporting me back to the times of the Seljuk Sultanate. The panoramic views from the top were simply awe-inspiring, painting a vivid picture of the city’s transformation over the centuries.
Descending from the heights of the castle, I strolled through the narrow, winding streets of Alanya’s old town, known as Kaleici.
The labyrinthine alleys were brimming with colorful houses, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Every step seemed to reveal a new secret, and I gladly lost myself in the timeless charm of this historic district.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Red Tower, Alanya’s iconic landmark. Standing tall against the passage of time, this striking octagonal tower showcased the city’s maritime heritage. As I wandered inside, I could almost hear echoes of past sailors and traders who once sought refuge within its sturdy walls.
Eager to experience the city’s natural wonders, I ventured to the Damlataş Cave, renowned for its therapeutic air, said to aid respiratory ailments. The surreal stalactite formations adorned the cave like nature’s artwork, creating a surreal ambiance. Breathing in the pure air, I couldn’t help but feel rejuvenated, as if I were receiving a gift from the heart of Mother Nature herself.
But Alanya’s true beauty revealed itself when I set sail on a traditional Turkish gulet cruise along the Turquoise Coast. The endless horizon, dotted with secluded coves and pristine beaches, left me speechless. Each stop on our voyage unfolded a new paradise, offering ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and simply basking in the sun’s warm embrace.
Beyond its natural wonders, Alanya also delighted my taste buds with its diverse culinary offerings. I relished the authentic Turkish delights at local eateries, savoring traditional kebabs, baklava, and freshly baked pide. The welcoming smiles of the locals added an extra dash of flavor to every meal, making my dining experiences all the more memorable.
As my time in Alanya drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia creeping in. The city had charmed its way into my heart, leaving an indelible mark on my soul. Its blend of history, nature, and culture had created an unforgettable journey, one that I would forever cherish.
As I bid farewell to Alanya, I knew that my wanderlust would lead me back to its shores someday. But for now, I carried the essence of this Turkish delight with me, grateful for the experiences that had enriched my life and transformed me as a traveler.
In conclusion, my journey to Alanya, Antalya was a symphony of delights – a harmonious blend of ancient history, breathtaking nature, and warm hospitality. This enchanting Turkish destination had left an indelible mark on my soul, forever inspiring the wanderer in me to seek new adventures and embrace the beauty of the world with an open heart.
All photos by Emelie Sater
- An enchanting jewel in Alanya’s heart, beckoning with its vibrant blue door, a gateway to a world of charm and wonder in the bustling city center.
- A vibrant nocturnal marketplace buzzing with colorful stalls, enchanting lights, and a kaleidoscope of cultural delights. A haven for night owls seeking unique treasures and unforgettable experiences under the starry skies.
- Where history meets paradise – A breathtaking coastal gem, graced by golden sands, and turquoise waters
- A timeless sanctuary of beauty and legends, where Cleopatra’s footsteps once tread, embraced by stunning vistas, azure waters, and a mesmerizing aura of ancient allure.
Narrow streets are filled with trucks delivering fresh produce and there are food and wine shops to lure you in. Bright red tomatoes are available for sale from the back of the proud farmer’s pickup truck. We stop to sample some olives and bread dipped in cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil. Next door is a shop selling fresh lemons the size of cantaloupes and locally-made lemon products. A tiki-style bar offers wine-tasting, and next to it you can order a freshly made dish of moussaka and a traditional salad made from sun-ripened tomatoes, thick slices of cucumber, green pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Next comes a large salad made from sun-ripened tomatoes, thick slices of cucumber, green pepper, red onion, olives, and big chunks of fresh feta cheese. Vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper are available on the side. Although the salad can be served at any time during the meal, it is traditional to serve it as a starter.
About the author:
” and is now working on another volume in this series, “Where to Find Peace and Quiet in Paris” which is expected in 2020. Ms. von Pier lives in Hingham, MA.
About the author
’, I wanted to travel on that train. To indulge in the gilded luxury of the train itself, let the mysterious landscapes of the Balkans glide past my window and alight at the final destination: Istanbul, the city which straddles two continents. At the beginning of the 20th century, an infatuation with Istanbul and Turkey had taken hold of European society; actors, artists, writers, journalists and plain rich people, flocked to the Bosporus and their favorite means of transport was the Orient Express.
Composed of sleepers, a dining car and a baggage car, the train featured Lalique chandeliers, a piano and the finest crockery and cutlery. The maiden journey started on October 10th 1882 in Paris and reached Istanbul the next day. The menu consisted of no less than seven courses, oysters and turbot in green sauce included, not to mention fine wines and champagne. In 1977 the train ceased to have Istanbul as its final destination and in 2009 the Orient Express disappeared entirely from the time tables. Several other routes continue though and twice a year the historical trip is repeated, at a very stiff price!
The pink and white structure of the railway station is located in Eminönü on the shores of the Bosporus. Designed by German architect August Jachmund, it’s the best example of European Orientalism, combining elements of Ottoman architecture with modern amenities such as gas and later electric lighting and heating in winter.
It’s only one room, but the museum documents the history of the Orient Express and the train station in detail. Old log books are displayed as are conductors’ uniforms, the piano, a table laid with the original cutlery and crockery, tickets and many more memorabilia. Photographs adorn the walls and examples of the technology of the time are on display too. I loved the newspaper clipping of when the train got stuck in a snow storm in Bulgaria, very reminiscent of the plot of Agatha’s novel. Admission is free and you are allowed to take as many photographs as you want.
As affluent Europeans started to descend upon romantic Istanbul, using the Orient Express, they needed an equally elegant place to rest their heads. The city was decidedly short of such type of establishment and that’s how the Pera Palace was conceived. The first super luxury hotel of Istanbul, located in fashionable Beyoglu (then called Pera) opened its door with an inaugural ball in 1892.
Not carried by a sedan but using the tramway running up and down Istaklal Street, I made my way on foot to the Pear Palace. The hotel was closed for nearly four years, undergoing extensive renovations but is now open again. No better place to get a feel for how people traveled in the past than sitting in the Orient Bar, enjoying a cocktail.