Travel Diary: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid & Dr Farid Razali Explore The Wintertime Charms Of Turkey

The globetrotting pair dashed through a snow-capped version of Turkey, from the Instagram-famous Cappadocia, the ancient towns of Pamukkale and Selçuk, and finally, the lively Istanbul.

The show-stopping grand weddings pulled off by Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid and Dr Farid Razali proved to be a preview of the couple’s destiny as partners in life and travel. To celebrate the New Year, both doctors embarked on a trip through Turkey, their first ever experience of the country, for a winter holiday. The couple, who aim to travel at least twice a year, have already ticked England and the USA off their 2019 travel list at the time of writing. This leg of their travels start off in Cappadocia, then takes them to the ancient towns of Pamukkale and Selçuk, before capping it at the final destination, Istanbul. They share with us the best parts of their 8-day Turkish journey.

Above Valley in Cappadocia (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

First impressions of Turkey

My first impression was how gorgeous the views were. Pictures and videos cannot do justice to the majestic views we encountered.

Turkey: Winter Edition

We wanted to experience a hot air balloon ride in 1 of the most beautiful destinations in the world (like the ones you see on social media – oh so dreamy!). Our decision to go during winter was practically a dance with Lady Luck. Due to bad weather and poor visibility to fly, we didn’t get the chance to tick the hot air balloon off our bucket list, but we had an amazing time.

Above They may have missed the hot air balloon, but they got to catch Sunrise in Cappadocia (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Above Derinkuyu Underground City in Cappadocia. (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Creating their dream itinerary

Farid and I did independent sightseeing throughout the trip, except for a private guided tour in Ephesus because we read that the ancient city was a lot to take in. Basically, we shared a document which we constantly updated on places to visit, restaurants to try, reservation confirmation statuses, and so on. We even included the opening hours and prices of some tourist hot spots. We also allocated several Plan B’s in the event we couldn’t follow through with the original schedule.

Fun times

It’s tough to choose but driving to lookout points in several valleys with Farid to catch the sunrise and sunsets was definitely one of them. The views were simply incredible and in winter, the snow creates an even more breathtaking effect!

Above Traditional classic Turkish breakfast (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Food, glorious food

The food was delicious, without a fault. The Turkish definitely play their food game right. Ingredients were fresh and dishes were all bursting with flavours. One of my favourites was definitely the pottery kebab – basically meats and some vegetables cooked inside a small claypot or jug for quite some time, which they have to crack and serve. The meats then get super tender and juicy from the sauce it’s been marinating in.

Gracious hospitality

They are super friendly! Even the locals who aren't familiar with English would help you if you are lost. As for those who speak English comfortably, they go over and beyond to make you feel at home.

Above Tree adorned with evil eye charms, to ward off bad luck (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Lessons from the Turkish culture

Turkish culture is very diverse due to its influence from multiple civilisations, together with the assimilation of different religions. We were lucky enough to travel to different parts of Turkey and experience a variety of popular dishes. Even the handmade carpets have special patterns originating from different regions.

Surprising discoveries

Turkish baklavas with Turkish ice-cream are a match made in heaven. They somehow do not taste the same elsewhere!

Above Dr Farid outside the entrance of the Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul. (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Above Mosaic tile wall attraction in Istanbul's Topkapı Palace (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

Must-buy souvenirs

For foodies, you can’t go wrong with a box of baklavas and Turkish delights. People who can appreciate carpets may want to get those authentic, unique handmade ones. Not to forget, the little cup sets specially for Turkish coffee, as well as the iconic 'evil eye' that's said to work like a good luck charm.

Recommendations for first-time visitors

This may sound cliché, but it is crucial to hit the tourist hot spots for first-timers. Don’t miss the valleys in Cappadocia (get on a hot air balloon if you get the chance and aren’t afraid of heights). If ancient cities tickle your fancy, Ephesus is an amazing place to visit. In Istanbul, visit Dolmabahçe Palace, Topkapı Palace and the sites around Sultanahmet Square since they’re just a stone’s throw away from one another.

Above Visiting the library of Celsus in Ephesus, while in Selçuk (Photo credit: Dr Fazliana Abd Rashid)

An enriching destination for the wanderlust

It has encouraged us to travel more and explore new cities. And perhaps, to revisit the cities but during different seasons, because they will be a whole new experience!

Topics

Travel Diary Turkey Winter holiday Cappadocia

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