If theirs one word I would use to describe Cappadocia is magic. The town is nestled within mountains, lacks that big-city charm but still packs an unexpected punch.
I booked a great flight on Turkish Airways to Cappadocia. I was impressed with the airline. The airline's service was impeccable, and the video's showcasing other places in Turkey are a marvelous idea. Hands down, I will fly Turkish any day of the week.
After arriving in Cappadocia, I secured transportation on the outside and made the one-hour trip into Goreme. The bus stopped at a few hotels but for 10 Euro it wasn't so bad. I stayed at the Ottoman Cave hotel but, no matter which hotel you stay at you are assured of views of the hot air balloons in the morning. I was very unprepared for this trip so I did most of my bookings at the front desk.
I ventured around the city and tried to find all the hidden gems. It's a lot bigger than it seems. There are mostly tour guides offering different tours in the city. I just wanted dinner so I went to the Istasyon Restaurant. I had a great meal and spent the evening passing between wine and hookah bars. I eventually called it early as the pick-up for the hot air balloon was roughly 4 AM.
The next day I got picked up by a shuttle that took me to the launching site for the hot air balloons. It was an amazing experience and one I would definitely recommend if in Cappadocia.
I got dropped off at the hotel a little before 8 am for my next tour. This tour explored the Open Air Museum, and the towns of Goreme and Uchisar. You spend the day in small quarters and underground caves wondering what life was like back in the day.
At night the city comes alive with steak houses and wine bars. It's not a super packed environment but it's enough to have a good time. They also have an interesting tourism market. There are many photographers who take you around and take picturesque photos of you and a loved one. There is even a dress rental market for elaborate dresses. And don't forget everyone's favorite spot, the carpet store.
All in all, I had a great time in Cappadocia. I got to cross off a bucket list destination and would happily return in the future, just not on a solo trip. (It's like lovers' paradise)
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