Turkey has exoticism to spare, with its covered bazaars, whirling dervishes, sultans' treasures, Greek and Roman ruins, historic mosques, rich cuisines, Turkish delights and Byzantine mosaics. And its natural beauty is abundant, with great stretches of sandy beaches, spectacular canyons and rock formations, ancient cave homes, rugged mountains over 12,000 ft/3,700 m, beautiful lakes and pine forests, and romantic rocky coves.
Travelers will find Turks to be exceptionally gracious hosts, which makes sense given the country's place as a crossroads between Europe and Asia. The country has an excellent tourist infrastructure, too.
This appealing mix does have a few drawbacks—increasing prices (though it's still an inexpensive place to travel), sprawling new development and growing crowds in major cities and coastal tourist destinations—but they're hardly enough to spoil a visit.
Take your time in discovering the country. It's best experienced in leisurely excursions to places of remarkable history and beauty, such as Cappadocia and Ephesus, and in extended visits to fascinating and energetic cities, such as Istanbul.
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