A person should learn to add a bit of spice to their life, like adding it to food. These are the words from the film A Pinch of Pepper, which tells the history of Turkey and Istanbul, “the city of cities”. Perhaps it is Turkey that will become the spice adding some exceptional taste to life.
This eastern fairy tale becomes reality for everyone who comes here. Located between the Black, Aegean and Mediterranean seas, the country has a mild sunny climate without dispiriting heat. Situated on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait in the Golden Horn, Istanbul is especially magnificent. Part of Turkey is occupied by mountainous areas, and their climate is closer to the continental climate to which Russians are more accustomed; thus everyone can choose “weather to their taste”.
Turkey has long been located at the crossroads of cultural and trade routes. This can be seen everywhere: in loyalty to guests and visitors, in the variety of cultures, the richness and high quality of goods. Here, on the shores of three seas, life is simpler and more generous. The best coffee is undoubtedly Turkish: they make it here like nowhere else in the world. Turkish teas are not only delicious, but good for the health as well. As for the food, every gastronomer will be delighted with the tastiest fruits and vegetables, fresh juices and local world-renowned sweets.
Tourism is one of the fastest developing and promising industries in Turkey. The favorable climate, abundance of sights and antiquities, beauty and convenience of the sea coasts all contribute to the growing popularity of the country. Agriculture is advancing together with the tourist business: Turkey is totally “self-sufficient” in food products, which means that only fresh, natural food is available in stores.
Turkey is penetrated with highways and railroads and is connected to every part of Europe. Where it’s impossible to travel on dry land, sea ferries and tourist cruise liners run. A flight from Moscow to the Bosphorus takes five hours.
But Russia is not only connected with Turkey geographically. Diplomatic relations with this country go back hundreds of years (a Russian Embassy has existed here since 1701). Today, a simplified visa regime for admission is in effect for Russian citizens. Moreover, negotiations on including Turkey in the European Union are being held and, perhaps, this progressive country will be part of the Schengen zone in the near future. The country’s education, healthcare, service and industries comply with the European standards.
Still, it’s not only future Europe, but also the mysterious East. Every city in Turkey is like a pearl. Kemer has a Mediterranean character, sea air and ideal conditions for beach or outdoor activities. Ephesus on the coast of the Aegean Sea keeps the centuries-old mysteries of the Ancient Greek civilization. Subtropical Antalya has become famous as a tourist center offering not only the cleanest sea and beaches, but an abundance of discos, nightclubs and shopping opportunities as well. And Palandoken is a paradise for skiers. Everyone will find in this array a spicy supplement to life.