Lifestyle
‘Eagle’s nest’ Termessos offers rare mix of wildlife, ancient ruins
The ancient city of Termessos, set within the Güllük Mountain National Park in southern Türkiye’s Antalya, continues to attract visitors with its striking combination of nature, wildlife and well-preserved ruins.
Known as the only city whose walls Alexander the Great failed to breach during his eastern campaign, Termessos sits about 30 kilometers from the city center. Perched at an altitude of 1,050 to 1,200 meters, the site is often described as resembling an “eagle’s nest” due to its dramatic, mountainous terrain.
With endemic plants, roaming wildlife and centuries-old oak trees intertwining with stone structures, Termessos stands among Türkiye’s best-preserved ancient cities. Visitors exploring the ruins may spot squirrels, foxes, deer and the endemic Termessos crocus.
Mustafa Koçak, an associate professor at Antalya Bilim University and head of the Termessos excavation team, said the site is one of the largest ancient cities in the region.
He noted that the people of Termessos were known as fierce warriors with a strong sense of independence. “They protected their autonomy even during the Roman period. Coins from Termessos never featured an emperor’s portrait; they always depicted their own heroes and gods to emphasize their independence,” Koçak said.
Because the site lies within a national park, Koçak said visitors should first and foremost appreciate the natural environment. “There is wildlife here, so entrance closes at certain hours. Visitors should be sure to see the necropolises. The sarcophagi and tomb structures are all elaborately decorated with reliefs,” he said.
He also highlighted a rare water-source structure and listed the city’s major features, including its ancient theater, agora, massive cisterns, assembly building, temples, colonnaded street and tombs. “Termessos is a site that must be seen,” he added.
Koçak said the ancient city becomes especially captivating in October, November and December, when autumn colors spread across the mountains. “In Termessos, you can see every shade of nature among the historic remains. Visitors experience the joy of walking through thousands of years of history surrounded by natural beauty,” he said.
When most travelers think of Bosnia-Herzegovina, two iconic destinations immediately come to mind: the cosmopolitan capital of Sarajevo, rising from the ashes of war and the picturesque Mostar Bridge, draped like a jewel over the emerald Neretva River.
But in my view, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s true spirit isn’t confined to these famous spots. If you venture a little off the beaten path to the country’s western regions, you’ll discover a city just as magnificent, rich in history, culture and natural beauty. That city is Travnik, often called the “City of Viziers.”
Nestled in the heart of the Lasva Valley, Travnik offers the grandeur of Ottoman-era architecture and the generous embrace of nature. While it may lie in the shadow of Sarajevo and Mostar, it holds a central place in Bosnia-Herzegovina’s historical and cultural memory, a must-visit for any traveler seeking authenticity.
In this guide, I’ll take you through Travnik’s narrow streets, where the aroma of coffee competes with centuries of history, where Nobel laureate Ivo Andric left his mark, and where the soothing sound of flowing water never ceases. Let’s begin our journey.
City of Viziers
Travnik is approximately a 90-kilometer (55-mile) journey from Sarajevo and sits as one of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s most treasured gems. As you approach, the Travnik Fortress, locally also called the Stari Grad (“Old Town”) Fortress, greets you, standing proudly atop a hill. This medieval stronghold has witnessed centuries of turmoil, silently guarding the city below.
Travnik earned its nickname, the “City of Viziers,” because it served as the capital of the Bosnian Eyalet from 1699 to 1850. Remarkably, 77 Ottoman viziers were raised here, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s architecture and cultural identity.
Minarets and colorful mosque
The Ottoman legacy in Travnik is not limited to its viziers. At the city center, your eyes are immediately drawn to a breathtaking structure: the Šarena Mosque, also known as the Alaca Mosque, dating back to the 16th century. Renowned as one of the most beautiful and colorful mosques in the Balkans, its walls are adorned with delicate plant motifs in vibrant hues, earning it the nickname “Alaca.”
The mosque’s wooden doors are intricately carved, and beneath it, the shops that once formed a bustling bazaar hint at the city’s trading past. In the courtyard, the gentle sound of flowing water adds to the serene atmosphere, a perfect place to linger and soak in the harmony of history and nature.
Plava Voda (Blue Water)
At the city’s edge flows Plava Voda, or “Blue Water,” a spring whose vivid color gives it its name. It’s one of Travnik’s must-visit spots. Here, I recommend trying a traditional Bosnian coffee at Lutfine Kahva, set up beside the spring. The cool, flowing water and the rich, aromatic coffee create a moment you won’t forget.
Culinary delights
No trip to Bosnia-Herzegovina is complete without tasting its cuisine. While cevapi (grilled meat rolls) are popular across the country, Travnik has a particularly famous version. Enjoy them at a small local eatery, served with lepinja bread and a special sauce, perfect fuel for climbing the fortress later.
Also, don’t miss Vlasic cheese, produced in the nearby mountain villages. Its salty, firm texture reflects the rugged, unspoiled nature of the region.
Center of learning
Travnik is famous for its many Ottoman-era mosques. Legend says you can fit 40 mosques into a single photograph. But the city’s Ottoman heritage extends beyond places of worship. The Elci Ibrahim Pasha Madrassa, built in 1705 by the Bosnian governor of the same name, remains one of the Balkans’ most important educational centers.
Entering through its grand gates and walking through its spacious courtyard, you can almost hear the echoes of scholarly discussions that once filled these walls. Unlike many madrassas now serving as museums, this institution continues to educate, bridging the past and present in a living testament to history.
Literary legacy
Travnik also holds a special place in literature. The house of Ivo Andric, Nobel Prize-winning author, is now a museum displaying his study, library and documents related to his Nobel award.
While Andric is best known for “The Bridge on the Drina,” his work “Travnicka hronika” (“Travnik Chronicle”) vividly depicts the city, portraying it as a stage where East meets West, Napoleon’s politicians collide with Ottoman viziers and tension mingles with beauty. Reading Andric before visiting allows you to truly appreciate the city’s layers of history and culture.
As Andric wrote, “People build bridges; sometimes of stone, sometimes of words.” Travnik felt like one of those bridges, a place where history, literature and human stories meet.
As the sun sets behind the Vlasic Mountains, it’s time to climb the fortress. The stone steps may challenge your legs, but the view is worth every step. From above, red-tiled roofs, mosque minarets and the winding river create a picture-perfect panorama. As you walk the ramparts and visit the fortress museum, every step transports you centuries into the past.
After exploring Travnik, it’s clear: despite lying in the shadows of larger cities, it preserves Bosnia-Herzegovina’s spirit in its purest form. As Andric once said, “Life in Travnik is as natural as the flow of water, as deep as history itself.”
So, if your journey brings you to Bosnia-Herzegovina, wander the narrow streets of Travnik, dip your hand into Plava Voda, and salute the valley from the fortress as a vizier might have centuries ago.
Lake Hazar in the Sivrice district of Elazığ draws visitors during the winter months with its snow-covered landscapes.
Located in Eastern Türkiye, 25 kilometers (16 miles) from Elazığ city center along the Elazığ-Diyarbakır highway, Hazar Lake covers 81 square kilometers and features a 56-kilometer shoreline, with beaches, camping sites and recreational areas for visitors.
Renowned for its seasonal beauty, Hazar Lake stands out in winter with its surrounding snow-capped mountains, the vibrant blue of its waters, and its unique natural environment.
Tourism potential
Erol Altunbaş, chair of a local tour company, told Anadolu Agency (AA) that Lake Hazar is a significant natural asset for Elazığ. He emphasized the importance of protecting the lake and enhancing its surroundings for both residents and tourists.
Altunbaş also highlighted Hazarbaba Mountain, located next to the lake, which features a ski center and offers panoramic views of the water.
“Visitors come from neighboring provinces via car and plane tours to see Lake Hazar and Hazarbaba. The area is worth visiting with all its amenities, and the scenery is stunning. From Hazarbaba, the view of Lake Hazar is extraordinary. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is a perfect spot for photography and videography in winter, with its snowy backdrop and blue waters. Eating grilled sausage by the lakeshore in the cold and snow is especially enjoyable,” Altunbaş said.
Lake’s winter charm
Visitor Irfan Güzel said the lake transforms into a tranquil retreat when it snows, making it his go-to spot for stress relief.
“Summer is beautiful, but winter has its own charm. We enjoy the lake with friends under the winter scenery. Words cannot describe its beauty. Those who visit know. Visitors come from Diyarbakır, Mardin and Şanlıurfa,” Güzel said.
Tayfun Doğan, owner of a business along the lake, noted that Lake Hazar attracts visitors year-round, allowing his operations to remain active 365 days a year.
“Weekends are especially busy. People love walking along the shore and relaxing with the lake view,” Doğan said.
Visitor Şeyda Nur Ural added that she comes to Lake Hazar on weekends to escape city stress. “Lake Hazar has beautiful nature. It’s a family-friendly place to enjoy in all seasons, a spot where we find peace,” she said.
Ayşe Hira Görgöz said she makes it a point to visit Lake Hazar every winter.
The cities of Samarkand and Tashkent have long been central to science, culture and religion in Uzbekistan. Samarkand, historically a hub of learning and art and Tashkent, the country’s capital since independence in 1991, continue to attract scholars, students and tourists alike.
Uzbekistan, with a population of over 37 million, has a rich history marked by both invasions and thriving dynasties. Its 12 provinces are predominantly Muslim, and its economy relies heavily on cotton, natural gas and gold.
Tashkent: Old and new
Tashkent is divided into old and new districts. The city’s historic core, now known as Old Tashkent, was largely destroyed in a massive 8.0 magnitude earthquake on April 26, 1966, leaving only 10% of the city intact. Among the surviving landmarks is the Barak Khan Madrassa in the Hazrati Imam Complex, a striking reminder of the city’s scholarly past.
Madrassa buildings, once centers of learning with low doors to encourage humility, now house local crafts, traditional clothing and souvenirs. Nearby, the tomb of Abu Bakr Muhammad Kaffal al-Shashi honors the scholar known for introducing Islam to nomadic tribes. Little is known about al-Shashi’s life, but his studies in Baghdad on Islam, astronomy and mathematics continue to influence religious institutions across Muslim countries.
Craftsmanship, architecture
Woodcarving remains a key art form in Uzbekistan. The Hazrat Imam Mosque, built in 2007, features intricately carved wooden columns and two 16th-century-style minarets. The 14th-century Suzuk-Ota Mosque boasts the largest dome in Tashkent, designed to carry sound throughout the building before microphones existed. Historical and modern techniques are combined, with brick domes alongside metal-supported structures.
The Museum of Applied Art of Uzbekistan in Tashkent highlights over 7,000 works of traditional folk art, spanning from the early 19th century to the present. Its architecture echoes historic mosques and late-19th-century aristocratic homes, with decorative motifs reflecting Uzbekistan’s cotton and silk industries.
Capital of science, culture, art
Located along the Silk Road, Samarkand flourished under Emir Timur and his descendants, becoming a center of science, culture and art. The city, meaning “rich city,” is divided into old and new areas. UNESCO restrictions prevent high-rise construction in the modern district to preserve its historic character.
The old city, Afrasiyab, was destroyed by Genghis Khan in the 13th century and rebuilt by Timur in the 14th century. Today, visitors are drawn to its famous Registan Square, home to three historic madrassas: Ulugh Beg, Tilya Kori and Sher‑Dor. Seismic activity and soft ground cause the buildings to gradually sink into the sand, adding to their unique charm.
Ulugh Beg Madrassah, functioning as a university, was founded in the 15th century by Timur’s grandson, Ulugh Beg, who also taught students. Mathematics, philosophy, geography, music and religious studies were part of the curriculum, cementing Samarkand’s reputation as a center of learning. Tilla-Kari Madrassa, also known as the “Gold-Plated Madrassa,” served as both a school and mosque, while Shir-Dor Madrassa focused on religious education.
Visitors admire the low doorways of the madrasas, designed to instill respect for knowledge and the city’s culture of deference is reflected even in tea-serving ceremonies.
Religious, historical sites
Uzbekistan is home to many tombs and mosques. The mausoleum of Islam Karimov in Tashkent, built in 2016-2017 under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, honors the nation’s first president, Islam Karimov. Hazrat Khizr Mosque, dating back to pre-Islamic Zoroastrian times, is considered the first Muslim mosque in the region.
Bibi Khanum Mosque, commissioned by Timur and completed with his wife Bibi Khanum’s oversight, bears her name. Timur’s family tombs, including many of his descendants, are in Samarkand. Imam Bukhari, a prominent Islamic scholar born in Bukhara and buried in Samarkand, draws Muslim pilgrims from across the world.
Samarkand’s legacy of knowledge, artistry and religious devotion continues to shape Uzbekistan’s identity, preserving the grandeur of its past for generations to come.
Some cities are like unexpected treasures: we don’t hear their names often, we add them to our plans at the last minute, yet when it’s time to say goodbye, a piece of our heart stays behind. Just half an hour away from Amsterdam’s famous crowds lies a world that is calmer, deeper and undoubtedly more romantic.
Utrecht: A hidden gem
In some travels, certain stops surprise us – or even make us wonder whether we should have visited at all – yet their charm lingers in our memory. Utrecht is one of those cities. I hope one day your path will cross with this delightful city, which I am eager to share with you.
Here’s a fact that might surprise you: Utrecht, often called “Little Amsterdam,” is actually the fourth largest city in the Netherlands. Following Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague, Utrecht stands as one of the oldest cities in the country. Centrally located, it is about 40 kilometers (24.86 miles) southeast of Amsterdam and 60 kilometers northeast of Rotterdam, making it a must-visit on any Dutch itinerary.
Despite being the fourth largest city, Utrecht does not share the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. Perhaps this is why many visitors, including myself, feel an immediate connection to the city. Its traditional Dutch buildings, charming canal-side cafes and serene atmosphere make it perfect for slow walks, photography and simply savoring the moment. Utrecht is romantic, calm and timeless.
Canals: Heartbeat of Utrecht
The best way to understand Utrecht is through its canals. Unlike those in Amsterdam, Utrecht’s canals exude a unique charm and feel like the city’s lifeblood.
The famous werfkelder, or wharf cellars, give the city a two-level layout. Descending the moss-covered stone steps from street level, you leave the city’s rush behind and enter a tranquil world. Historic cellar doors now open into boutique cafés adorned with colorful flowers, dimly lit jazz spots, or creative art studios.
One of the city’s greatest joys is the feeling of life moving more slowly here. Even as a large city, Utrecht allows you to savor quiet moments. You’ll find yourself taking endless photos on flower-laden canal bridges and wishing your coffee by the water would never end.
Utrecht’s majestic landmark
Dom Square (Domplein) is an ideal starting point for exploring the city. Its centerpiece, the Dom Tower, warmly welcomes visitors with its striking presence.
Built in the 11th century, the Dom Tower is one of Europe’s tallest church towers, standing 112 meters high. Once part of the Utrecht Cathedral, it remains a symbol of the city. The Gothic-style cathedral next to it adds to the historic skyline. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of Utrecht.
Discover history beneath Dom Tower
Did you know the magic of Dom Square continues underground?
Dom Under Utrecht offers a unique journey into 2,000 years of history. This underground museum showcases excavations and Roman-era ruins, revealing the city’s evolution from its earliest days. Archaeology enthusiasts can even witness ongoing excavations during their visit, making it a captivating experience for anyone interested in history and discovery.
St. Martin’s Cathedral
Another medieval gem in Utrecht is St. Martin’s Church, a symbol of the city that has stood the test of time. Hidden within the church is Pandhof Garden, a historic cloister garden adorned with plants, flowers and sculptures. Here, visitors experience a serene blend of history and nature, perfect for reflection and photography.
Rietveld Schröder House
Utrecht is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Rietveld Schröder House, designed by Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld. A global icon of modern architecture, the house features remarkable design innovations:
Movable partitions transform the interior from one large open space into multiple rooms.
The kitchen, living and dining areas can be reconfigured based on need.
The corner window frames the outside view perfectly, with unobstructed sightlines that make the scenery feel like a painting.
The house is one of the most creative examples of functional modern architecture you can visit.
Museum Catharijneconvent
Named after a medieval monastery, Museum Catharijneconvent displays religious art and artifacts, exploring the Netherlands’ spiritual history. Alongside its impressive collections, the museum offers insights into traditions, rituals, and religious life, providing a unique and immersive experience.
Castle De Haar
Just outside Utrecht lies De Haar Castle, one of the most beautiful and grand castles in the Netherlands, ranked among the 22 most beautiful castles in the world. Situated between Utrecht and Amsterdam, it is a testament to history and luxury, transporting visitors into a magical fairytale.
Miffy Museum
The Nijntje Museum, dedicated to the beloved Dutch children’s character Miffy (created by Dick Bruna), offers an educational and entertaining experience for children. Families can explore the colorful world of Miffy and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Sonnenborgh Observatory
Located in the northeast of the city, Sonnenborgh Observatory also functions as an astronomy museum. Housed within a historic fort, the observatory was acquired by Utrecht University in 1853 for astronomical research. Public observation events are occasionally held, guided by professional astronomers, making it a fascinating stop for science enthusiasts.
Tourists hoping to get close to the Trevi Fountain have to pay 2 euros ($2.35) starting Monday as the city of Rome inaugurated a new fee structure to help raise money and control crowds at one of the world’s most celebrated waterworks.
The first tourists to pass through the new ticket check seemed unfazed by the tariff, noting it was a small price to pay for quality access to a fountain made famous by Federico Fellini’s movie “La Dolce Vita.”
“Before, there were problems accessing the fountain. There were a lot of people. Now, it’s very easy,” said Ilhan Musbah, a tourist from Morocco. “You can take photos, you feel good, you’re comfortable, and on top of that, 2 euros is not much.”
The tourist fee was rolled out in conjunction with a new 5-euro tourist ticket fee for some city museums. In both cases, Rome residents are exempt from the fees and the extra revenue will actually expand the number of city-run museums that are free for registered Roman residents.
It’s all part of the Eternal City’s efforts to manage tourist flows in a particularly congested part of town, improve the experience and offset the maintenance costs of preserving all of Rome’s cultural heritage. Officials estimate it could net the city 6.5 million euros extra a year.
The city decided to impose the Trevi Fountain fee after seeing positive results already from a yearlong experiment to stagger and limit the number of visitors who can reach the front edge of the basin by imposing lines and pathways for entrance and exit.
“I think tourists were shocked by the fact that the city of Rome is only asking for 2 euros for a site of this level,” Alessandro Onorato, Rome’s assessor of tourism, said Monday. “I believe that if the Trevi Fountain were in New York, they would have charged at least $100.”
The fee follows a similar ticketing system at Rome’s Pantheon monument and the more complicated tourist day-tripper tax that the lagoon city of Venice imposed last year in a bid to ease overtourism and make the city more livable for residents. The Italian fees still pale in comparison to the 45% price hike that French authorities announced for the Louvre Museum for most non-European visitors, where tickets can now run to 32 euros from 22 euros.
The Trevi fee, which can be paid in advance online, enables tourists to get close to the fountain during prime-time daylight hours. The view for those admiring the late Baroque masterpiece from the piazza above remains free, as it is up close after hours.
The towering fountain features the Titan god Oceanus flanked by falls cascading down the travertine rocks into a shallow turquoise pool, where Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg famously took their nighttime dip in “La Dolce Vita.”
While bathing is prohibited nowadays, legend has it that visitors who toss a coin over their shoulders and make a wish will return to Rome.
The Göreme Open-Air Museum in Nevşehir, one of Türkiye’s most visited museums, welcomed 1,187,016 domestic and international visitors last year.
Known for its rock-cut churches, monasteries, chapels and colorful frescoes, the museum attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. It ranks among the top three most visited museums in Türkiye under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, drawing visitors from around the world.
According to data from the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, visitor numbers at the museum were as follows: 55,180 in January, 41,404 in February, 70,516 in March, 129,533 in April, 152,122 in May, 110,234 in June, 93,232 in July, 115,702 in August, 126,265 in September, 148,775 in October, 96,555 in November and 47,498 in December.
For comparison, the museum welcomed 1,133,858 visitors in 2024.
One of the most visited museums
Tour guide Yunus Kervan, who introduces visitors to the site, told Anadolu Agency (AA) that the Göreme Open-Air Museum is a central tourism hub in the heart of Cappadocia.
“The museum draws visitors from all over the world due to its historical sites,” Kervan said. “The original frescoes in the country’s first monasteries and churches date back to the 11th and 12th centuries, making this place particularly significant. There are about 12 churches here, but we typically tour six: St. Basil, Barbara, Apple, Snake and Dark Churches. The most important is the Dark Church. Its name comes from the fact that sunlight rarely enters, which has preserved the paintings exceptionally well. Last year, 1,187,000 tourists visited. Most are from China and South Korea, but visitors also come from Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Europe and Latin America. This is one of the most visited museums in Türkiye.”
Tour guide Mustafa Soner Menekşe highlighted the museum’s unique structures, carved into volcanic tuff centuries ago.
“Göreme Open-Air Museum is historically significant. It is located within a national park that features artifacts from the Byzantine, Roman, Seljuk and Ottoman periods. Visitors can see how people of different faiths – Christian and Muslim – once lived together. We explain this in detail and visitors begin to appreciate and love the site as they explore it,” Menekşe said.
Argentine tourist Dario Adler, visiting Cappadocia for the first time, described the museum as a powerful experience.
“There is a very strong feeling here,” Adler said. “The story is so compelling that it makes you reflect on history. I highly recommend that everyone visit this museum.”
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