When most people hear of a European getaway or a Mediterranean beach vacation, they always assume they’ll have to sell their house, car, and a kidney to afford a decent week-long trip.
But what if I told you there’s a place that offers all that and more on a surprisingly low budget?
That’s right, Turkey (or Türkiye) is still one of Europe’s best-value gems, and that’s exactly why the head of TUI Group Germany, Stefan Baumert, recently revealed that the country is expected to be the continent’s trendiest travel destination this fall.
And considering just how stiff the regional competition is, it’s time to discover why so many people can’t seem to get enough of the Mediterranean (well, at least partly) gem.
Unbeatable Prices
Any local will tell you that prices across Turkey have increased quite a bit these past few years, but just because the country’s not as cheap as it used to be, it doesn’t mean it’s not one of the region’s best-value destinations.
Now, flights might be a bit expensive since you’re basically traveling to the other side of the world.
The good news is that October is actually the cheapest time of the year to fly from the U.S. to Turkey (according to Skyscanner), with round-trip tickets starting at just $757 – not too shabby.
Where you’ll get to really get to save, though, is accommodation and day-to-day expenses.
Most hotels in Istanbul, for example (easily the country’s biggest tourist hub) charge anywhere between $20 and $60 a night, and these are great-quality, highly reviewed places in amazing locations.
The last time I went I stayed at Erten Konak Hotel – with classic Turkish design style, comfortable rooms, excellent placement (a 10-minute walk away from the Blue Mosque), and a $30-$70 a night price range, you’re guaranteed a good time here.
Here’s what you can expect to pay in most tourist hotspots in Turkey for other travel-related expenses:
- Quick (full) meal for one – $8
- Small bottle of water – $0.4
- Bus Ticket – $0.6
- Average Taxi Ride (within a city) – $5 – $7
- Entry to a popular tourist attraction – $15 – $30
The Place Where You’ll Find Everything From Dreamy Beach Getaways To Unforgettable City Breaks
When someone asks me to recommend a destination, I always default to places like Turkey, Italy, France, or Greece.
Why?
Because they’re all so versatile, it’s impossible not to find at least one place that offers exactly what you’re looking for.
Want a classic city break? Istanbul and Ankara should be on top of your bucket list.
Looking for a sunny beach vacation instead? Bodrum, Antalya, and Fethiye are calling your name.
What about if you’re looking to take in the country’s more unique, historical side? You can’t go wrong with Ephesus or, an all-time favorite of mine, Cappadocia.
It’s Never Been This Easy To Fly In And Out Of Turkey
Flying to Turkey hasn’t always been easy.
Finding a comfy yet good-value airline that takes you through the entire ~13-hour journey with no stops has historically been challenging, but not anymore.
Carriers are promptly answering to the ever-increasing demand.
Just this past June, Turkish Airlines announced a massive expansion with over 20 new U.S. routes.
After Denver got its link to Istanbul, Orlando, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Minneapolis, and many, many other major cities will be getting their very own direct routes to Turkey, so keep your eyes peeled for updates.
A Foodie’s Paradise
If there’s one thing I’ll never not take the time to enjoy in Turkey, it’s the food.
Hearty, cheap, and scrumptious – that’s what I’d describe almost every single meal I’ve eaten here.
You’ll always want to start your day with “kahvaltı,” which is what locals call their most common breakfast spread comprising bread, olives, cheeses, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and jam – of course, you’ll want to have all that alongside a cup of that iconic Turkish tea.
Dolmas, kebabs, balık ekmeks are all must-tries too.
Don’t get too full, though, you’ll always want to leave some room for a slice of freshly made baklava or a piece of lokum
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