The coronavirus pandemic is not easy for anyone. The virtually world-wide quarantine is hard for all, we need to learn to live in a new reality.
This trip abroad had one goal: training, rest and being in the present, here and now, without rushing to think about what will happen when I return home. Despite all the adversities, we decided to go to Turkey.
During the trip we achieved our goals.
Antalya is located along the beautiful coast of the Turkish Riviera on the Mediterranean Sea, surrounded on three sides by the picturesque plateau of the Taurus Mountains.On the one hand, it is now a metropolis with over a million inhabitants, and on the other - an increasingly popular tourist destination, with beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels
The city offers something for everyone, from swimming and sailing, to mountain climbing, to sightseeing and family fun. It is said that the sun shines in the city for over 300 days a year!The heart of the city could be said is the oldest part, the Kaleiçi district, situated above the historic port that dates back to the Roman period. Kaleiçi has two faces. One, touristy, crowded and noisy: full of souvenir shops, squeezed juice kiosks and restaurants offering seafood for indecent money. And the second, quiet and modest, devoid of shops and pubs, and thus tourists.
The symbol of the city is undoubtedly the Yivli Minaret. It measures nearly 38 meters and is one of the oldest Islamic monuments in Antalya. Further north rises the Mevlevi Tekke (monastery of whirling dervishes) from the 13th century. Next to it, you can admire two tombs: Zincirkîran Mehmed Pasha (1377) and Nigar Hatun. From the main square there is a great view of Kaleici, the bay and the Bey Mountains in the distance.
In fact, here you can delve into the labyrinth of narrow, picturesque streets that make up Kaleiçi.
While in Antalya, you cannot forget about the historic Hadrian's Gate. The gate is probably the most important monument on the list of places to see by every tourist. I will not exaggerate if I say that everyone wants to take a picture with the gate in the background at any time of the day.Turkey tempts not only with the sun
Turkish cuisine is one of a kind because it combines the influences of culinary traditions from Europe, Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. The basic ingredients are lamb and mutton, vegetables, especially eggplant, as well as fruit and aromatic spices, among which cinnamon is the dominant.Turkish kebab. The amount of different kebabs in Turkey is intimidating at first. It is extremely difficult to decide which one to choose.
Turkish street food. On the street, depending on the time of day, you can buy various snacks: baked chestnuts, fresh orange or pomegranate juices. Corn is popular in various forms.
Turkish sweets. Everyone knows baklava and halva - necessarily sweetened with honey. Try ice cream, served in a traditionally fun way. It is also worth ordering Turkish coffee or tea.
Do you know that!
1. In Turkey, there is Mount Ararat on which, according to the Bible, Noah's ark settled.
2. Most public buildings have a black arrow on the ceiling that points towards Mecca.
3. Istanbul is situated on two continents - Europe and Asia.
4. Drunk drivers are taken 30 km outside the city, from where they have to go home on foot.
5. The movie "Star Wars" was filmed in the city of Antolia.
6. The word "turquoise" comes from the word "Turk"
7. The oldest temple in the world is Göbekli Tepe in Turkey.
8. Dutch tulips come from Turkey
9. Turkey supplies 70% of the world's hazelnuts.
WHERE YOU TRAIN DOES NOT REALLY MATTER
It was difficult to travel during Covid period. Karate is not only about training and tournaments, but also amazing opportunity to meet new positive people from many different countries. Every abroad competition gives as new experience and can teach us a lesson about culture and history of another country. Memories are priceless.
There are so many lovely places to see...
I’m looking forward to going to Turkey.