Explore the country that builds on old and rich history, at the same time is a member of modern world. Explore the country that represents a cultural mixture, a synthesis of east and west, while it geographically bridges Europe and Asia. Explore the country that combines natural beauties with its 10,000-year-old heritage. Thus giving today's travelers a unique opportunity to learn and enjoy the life and culture in this geography called Asia Minor
Turkey is a land of vast open spaces, massive mountain ranges, fertile valleys and rugged coastline, fast-growing cities and sleepy villages, bustling neon-lit seaside resorts and unfrequented beaches.
A rich history has left an indelible mark and Turkey, and the country overflows with historic sites and archaeological wonders set in a varied and beautiful landscape. The Mediterranean coastline is punctuated with well-preserved Greco-Roman cities such as Pergamom and Ephesus, while the austere and rugged Anatolian plateau has cave churches hidden away in the improbable fairytale landscape of Cappadocia. Istanbul, still very much the pulse of the nation, has even more to offer, with Roman aqueducts, Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques and palaces.
But however deep its past, Turkey is now a thrusting and dynamic society that embraces cultural, economic and political change while consciously seeking to retain the best of its multicultural heritage and time-honoured traditions of hospitality.
Places to stay in Turkey range from purpose-built villa and apartment complexes and mid-range hotels in seaside resorts to luxury city hotels aimed at business travellers, budget hostels, simple pensions (guesthouses) and an ever-increasing number of stylish small boutique hotels in coastal and rural villages.
Grading: Hotels registered with the Ministry of Tourism are graded from 1 star (1 yildizli) to 5 stars (5 yildizli). There are also unclassified hotels that have no stars, which can range from poor to acceptable. Classification is based on the standard of service and facilities. Motels and holiday villas are first class (1 sinif) or second class (2 sinif). There are other establishments registered with local authorities, and these too correspond to a certain standard in regard to facilities and services. There is also a national hotel association, TUROB.