In this Destination Special episode, we head to Turkey or Türkiye as it’s now officially known - a country where continents, cultures and centuries collide. From the energy of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and from the beach clubs of Antalya to the hidden coves of the Turquoise C…In this Destination Special episode, we head to Turkey or Türkiye as it’s now officially known - a country where continents, cultures and centuries collide. From the energy of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and from the beach clubs of Antalya to the hidden coves of the Turquoise Coast, this is a journey through one of the world’s most diverse travel destinations.
Along the way, you’ll hear stories and recommendations from past Travel Diaries guests including Simon Reeve, Beverley Knight, Jamie Laing and Fiona Duncan, alongside expert insight from travel writer Annabelle Thorpe, who shares where to go, what not to miss, and her favourite hidden gems.
Whether you’re planning a multi-stop itinerary or dreaming of your next escape, this episode is packed with inspiration for exploring Turkey.
• Derinkuyu
• Kaymaklı
• Red Valley
• Argos in Cappadocia
Antalya & Surrounds
• Kaleiçi
• Lara
• Belek
Turquoise Coast / Southwest Coast
• Fethiye
• Hillside Beach Club
• Göcek
• Dalyan
• Marmaris Bay
• Marmaris
Kalkan & Kaş Area
• Kalkan
• Villa Mahal
• Merkez
• Kaş
• Kekova
• Meis
• Çıralı
Bozburun Peninsula
• Selimiye
• Orhaniye
• Bozburun
Datça Peninsula
• Datça
• Knidos
• D Maris Bay
Dalaman Area
• Ahama hotel
Eastern Turkey
• Gaziantep
• Mount Nemrut
With thanks to trip.com for their support of today’s episode. If you’re anything like me and tend to plan quite layered, multi-stop trips, trip.com is a really useful tool to have in your back pocket. What I love is being able to see everything in one place, whether that’s flights, hotels, trains or experiences, and to just map it all out properly. With trip.com I can book everything - perfect for exploring a destination as vast and diverse as Turkey.
If you’re enjoying The Travel Diaries, don’t forget to follow or subscribe on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
You can also follow me on Instagram @hollyrubenstein and on TikTok for more travel inspiration and behind the scenes.
Thanks again for listening, and see you next week!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.more
This Week on Drop A Pin we are coming to you from a hotel room in Istanbul with one of the baldstoolies, Jeremy Phelps, who you will see in Baldstool Season 2. Jeremy is from Boston so he is here to give us his thoughts on Istanbul and Cappadocia, and to overall give a sense of what's to come in Bal…This Week on Drop A Pin we are coming to you from a hotel room in Istanbul with one of the baldstoolies, Jeremy Phelps, who you will see in Baldstool Season 2. Jeremy is from Boston so he is here to give us his thoughts on Istanbul and Cappadocia, and to overall give a sense of what's to come in Baldstool Season 2.
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) - Show Start
(00:15:17) - Cappadocia
(00:30:19) - A Word From Our Sponsors
(00:38:03) - Istanbul Facts
(00:54:14) - Baldstool Season 2
Visit https://nobullproject.com and use code DROPAPIN for 35% off your entire FIRST order.
Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to https://Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code PIN
Become a Fora Advisor today at https://Foratravel.com/wonton
📍 Listen Now:
Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drop-a-pin/id1773703211
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31NNzfeA0tEfKE9LpqycFN?si=5dc8e774513e4458
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@DropAPinShow
Follow Drop A Pin!
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thedropapinshow/?hl=en
X: https://x.com/DropAPinShow
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedropapinshow
James and Chelsea are BACK from Turkey with plenty to report. From testing out Molly-Mae’s luxury hotel recommendation to sharing their best interrailing tips and honest takeaways.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Download SAILY in your app store and use our code PASSPO…James and Chelsea are BACK from Turkey with plenty to report. From testing out Molly-Mae’s luxury hotel recommendation to sharing their best interrailing tips and honest takeaways.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Download SAILY in your app store and use our code PASSPORTS at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase!
For further details go to https://saily.com/passportsplease
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.more
Today, Chelsea and James are joining you from Turkey! The pair are uncovering whether package holidays are worth the money in Winter, revealing what the fastest way to get around is in Turkey, and finally, they expose just how much it costs for a beloved Big Mac!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv…Today, Chelsea and James are joining you from Turkey! The pair are uncovering whether package holidays are worth the money in Winter, revealing what the fastest way to get around is in Turkey, and finally, they expose just how much it costs for a beloved Big Mac!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Download SAILY in your app store and use our code PASSPORTS at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase!
For further details go to https://saily.com/passportsplease
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.more
Hear about travel to Southeastern Turkey as the Amateur Traveler talks to Mark Michael from rambleswithmark.com about this region that is the home to people in the Bible like Paul and Abraham, ancient monasteries, and some of the oldest known megaliths.
Connection to Region
Read William Dalrymple’…Hear about travel to Southeastern Turkey as the Amateur Traveler talks to Mark Michael from rambleswithmark.com about this region that is the home to people in the Bible like Paul and Abraham, ancient monasteries, and some of the oldest known megaliths.
Connection to Region
Read William Dalrymple’s From the Holy Mountain in college, a journey through the region retracing the steps of John Moscos, a seventh-century monk
It’s hard to underestimate how ancient this part of the world feels. In Urfa, they have a few prized local delicacies: one is a meatball they say that Abraham invented, another is a dessert they call Noah’s pudding, and there’s a pancake covered in molasses that is supposed to derive from the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. I have made a lot of Christian pilgrimages, almost always to sites from the New Testament or the early church; many sites on this trip are associated with Muslim traditions about Old Testament figures, which are usually similar but different from those preserved by Jews and Christians. If you are interested in the history of the Ancient Near East, Turkey is by far the easiest place to travel: Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel are all barred or unsafe.
Turkey has good roads, helpful people, and relatively low costs (though inflation has climbed steeply in the past 2 years)
Area is changing quickly through massive investment in GAP Project (22 hydroelectric dams on the Euphrates, 19 power plants, with initiatives to develop agriculture and tourism in region that has been Turkey’s poorest), allowing for development of tourist infrastructure, but accelerating decline of traditional ways of life, if you go now, it will still seem timeless, and you will be ahead of the tourist rush
You feel like a traveler here, not a tourist. I only met one other native English speaker. People are curious and enthusiastic to show you their local treasures.
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-southeastern-turkey/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesmore
In this episode, we dive into eight reasons why Cappadocia deserves a spot on your travel bucket list—from its surreal landscapes and cave hotels to unforgettable experiences like hot air ballooning at sunrise. Let's explore the region's incredible food, unique spa and hamam traditions, underground …In this episode, we dive into eight reasons why Cappadocia deserves a spot on your travel bucket list—from its surreal landscapes and cave hotels to unforgettable experiences like hot air ballooning at sunrise. Let's explore the region's incredible food, unique spa and hamam traditions, underground cave cities, and outdoor adventures that make it such a magical destination. Whether you're planning a couples getaway or dreaming up your next big trip, this episode will leave you ready to book a flight to Turkey!more
Ever dream of packing five countries and a lifetime of memories into less than a month? Buckle up, Adventurer — this episode of Stacking Adventures takes you along for a whirlwind 26-day journey across Europe and beyond. Hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy sit down with globetrotter Jon to unpac…Ever dream of packing five countries and a lifetime of memories into less than a month? Buckle up, Adventurer — this episode of Stacking Adventures takes you along for a whirlwind 26-day journey across Europe and beyond. Hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy sit down with globetrotter Jon to unpack the highs, lows, and priceless lessons from his epic family sabbatical — a trip that covered Germany, England, France, Iceland, and Turkey in one unforgettable run.
From castles and cathedrals to kebabs and cold plunges, we explore how John made the most of every stop — and how he paid for it all with smart use of credit card points and travel hacking. You'll hear how he balanced logistics, teenage moods, and must-see sites, plus the reality of making tough choices when time is short. Along the way, Crystal and Joe share their own favorite moments (and mishaps) that prove the best travel stories come from the unexpected.
Whether you're planning a multi-country itinerary or just dreaming about one, this episode is packed with insights to help you make it happen. Because the world is too big — and too delicious — to see one country at a time.
What You'll Learn
• Points and perks: How Jon leveraged rewards programs to cut costs on flights, hotels, and transportation.
• Must-see stops: Insider tips on what to do (and skip) in places like Bath, Mont Saint-Michel, and Iceland's Golden Circle.
• Teen-tested strategies: How to plan a trip that keeps the whole family engaged without overloading the itinerary.
• One-bag travel secrets: Why packing light might be the smartest decision you make before you even leave home.
• Quick-hit destinations: Creative ways to maximize short stays in countries like Turkey and Iceland.
Questions to Explore
• If you had 26 days to see multiple countries, how would you prioritize your stops?
• What's the one travel splurge you'd never skip, even on a budget trip?
• Could you live out of a single bag for a month — or do you need that extra pair of shoes?
Find our awesome Gear of the Day picks recommended by our guests AND hosts: StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay
Join the fun and share YOUR story with us! StackingAdventures.com/MyStorymore
Expert tour guides share advice for exploring the ancient ruins and seaside villages along Turkey's Aegean coast, the Renaissance wonders of Florence, the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside, and charming Danish towns and islands easily reached on day trips from Copenhagen.
Step into the extraordinary world of Skip Horner, a veteran adventure guide whose 50-year career spans over 100 countries and countless epic expeditions. Skip Horner is a legendary American adventure guide, mountaineer, and expedition leader with a career spanning over five decades. He is renowned f…Step into the extraordinary world of Skip Horner, a veteran adventure guide whose 50-year career spans over 100 countries and countless epic expeditions. Skip Horner is a legendary American adventure guide, mountaineer, and expedition leader with a career spanning over five decades. He is renowned for being the first guide to lead clients to the summits of all Seven Summits—the highest peaks on each continent—including Mount Everest, where he became the 420th person to reach the top. His extensive guiding experience encompasses more than 100 countries, with expeditions in 62 of them, ranging from mountain treks to river descents and wildlife safaris.
Horner's adventurous spirit has led him to accomplish numerous firsts in the world of exploration. He has led first descents of 12 major rivers, including the Yangtze, Zambezi, and Indus, and has navigated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon 38 times. His mountaineering feats include 33 ascents of Kilimanjaro, eight of Mount Vinson in Antarctica, and six of Gunnbjørnsfjeld in the Arctic. Additionally, he has skied to the North Pole and participated in 11 expeditions to Antarctica.
Alongside his wife Elizabeth, Horner operates Skip Horner Worldwide, Inc., based in Victor, Montana. Together, they design and lead bespoke expeditions to some of the world's most remote and culturally rich destinations, including camel treks across the Sahara, Himalayan climbs, and Amazon rainforest explorations . Horner is a certified alpine guide by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and a Fellow Emeritus of the Explorers Club.
Show notes:
00:04:48 - Reflecting on 40 Years of Adventures
00:08:07 - Memorable Adventures in Burkina Faso
00:10:48 - Determining the Highest Arctic Peak
00:14:19 - Life's Journey Through Travel Chapters
00:16:39 - First Descent on the Çoru River
00:19:25 - Preparing for the River Challenge
00:21:57 - Preparing for Class Five Rapids
00:23:36 - First Descent of the Choroo River
00:25:35 - From Turkey to Antarctica Adventures
00:27:28 - First Ascent of Vinson
00:30:02 - Climbing Challenges at High Camp
00:32:27 - Facing Mistakes in Mountain Climbing
00:34:33 - Overcoming Failure on Mount Vinson
00:37:13 - Movement as a Key to Problem Solving
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.
In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I connect with Ben Clark, an adventure cyclist who is 18,000 kilometers into his 35,000-kilometer journey around the world.
Ben shares the challenges and highlights of his route, which has taken him through countries such as Turkey, Georgia, Uzbek…In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I connect with Ben Clark, an adventure cyclist who is 18,000 kilometers into his 35,000-kilometer journey around the world.
Ben shares the challenges and highlights of his route, which has taken him through countries such as Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, India, Nepal, and Vietnam. He offers insights into his experiences, from dealing with extreme weather and varied landscapes to navigating cultural norms and overcoming personal challenges like a serious bike crash in India.
Ben also discusses his gear choices, the importance of minimalism, and his strategy for supporting mental health charities like Andy’s Man Club. Tune in to hear about his future plans, including cycling through New Zealand, the US, and eventually reaching Boston, as part of his grand adventure from Wales around the world.
To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:
Join our Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures Club
Use these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.
Redshift Sports
Panorama Cycles
Find them at:
Instagram: Ben Clark (@worldbybike_uk)
Website: worldbybike – Ben Clark
Find me at…
WEBSITE
YOUTUBE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
ITUNES
Show Sponsors
Panorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures.
Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout.
Tailfin Cycling --> Tailfin Cycling is a technical bikepacking equipment company that really thinks outside the box when creating new bikepacking gear. They create long-lasting products that have been testing in every way imaginable.
RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.
Full Cycle Ottawa --> Full Cycle has been a staple in the Ottawa biking community since it opened its doors in 1994, back when mountain bikes were still rocking 26” wheels. Known for their passion for cycling, the team at Full Cycle isn’t just about selling bikes—they’re also avid riders themselves. They live by the motto "we ride what we sell and sell what we ride,".more
Actress Miranda Richardson shares her incredible travel secrets on this week’s episode.
Miranda reveals to Tanya Rose why Istanbul makes her feel better about being human, the most accessible cruise she’s been on (as someone who isn’t a fan of cruises!) and why you should never order food during a …Actress Miranda Richardson shares her incredible travel secrets on this week’s episode.
Miranda reveals to Tanya Rose why Istanbul makes her feel better about being human, the most accessible cruise she’s been on (as someone who isn’t a fan of cruises!) and why you should never order food during a full moon in Sri Lanka.
Don’t forget to follow @travelsecretsthepodcast and remember, you can watch all of our episodes on YouTube.
Places mentioned:
Istanbul, Turkey
Alaska
Italy
Naples
Tuscany
Portofino
Sri Lanka
Luxor, Egypt
Finland
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.more
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Oscar Newson-Smith, a visionary changemaker with an extraordinary story of purpose, resilience, and impact. Oscar is the founder of The Racso Project, a social enterprise dedicated to revitalizing Turkey's economy and infrastructure in the wake of three devastati…This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Oscar Newson-Smith, a visionary changemaker with an extraordinary story of purpose, resilience, and impact. Oscar is the founder of The Racso Project, a social enterprise dedicated to revitalizing Turkey's economy and infrastructure in the wake of three devastating earthquakes in 2023.
To amplify awareness and support for this critical mission, Oscar has undertaken an awe-inspiring journey: walking over 2,600 miles from London, England to Ankara, Turkey. His route spans 12 countries, weaving through forests, mountain ranges, bustling cities, and quiet towns, all fueled by a deep commitment to inspire hope and drive change.
Join us for a powerful conversation about courage, personal responsibility, and the boundless potential of one person’s determination to transform lives.
What makes Christmas in France so special? How does a young man's incredible journey from London to Turkey tie into the spirit of giving? In this episode, host Annie Sargent explores the festive traditions of France and shares a conversation with Oscar Newsome Smith, a passionate advocate for rebuil…What makes Christmas in France so special? How does a young man's incredible journey from London to Turkey tie into the spirit of giving? In this episode, host Annie Sargent explores the festive traditions of France and shares a conversation with Oscar Newsome Smith, a passionate advocate for rebuilding communities in southern Turkey after the devastating 2023 earthquakes.
Get the podcast ad-free
Annie begins by diving into the heart of Christmas in France. She paints a vivid picture of festive meals, family gatherings, and cherished customs like foie gras, bûche de Noël, and joyful caroling. Whether it's oysters and shrimp on Christmas Day or the warm glow of Christmas markets, Annie brings the magic of French holiday traditions to life.
The episode takes a thoughtful turn as Oscar Newsome Smith joins Annie to share his story. At just 27, Oscar embarked on a remarkable journey, walking from London to Turkey to raise awareness and funds for an eco-community in Samandağ, a region heavily affected by the earthquakes. Oscar talks about the challenges he's faced, the generosity of strangers, and his vision for a more sustainable future.
This episode is a heartwarming blend of holiday cheer and hope in action. Tune in to be inspired and reminded of the power of compassion, determination, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Table of Contents for this Episode
• Thank You, Patrons!
• Chapter 1. What I L ove about Christmas in France.
• Christmas with Family
• Christmas Markets in France
• Midnight Mass
• Food Traditions
• Chapter 2. Notre Dame
• Ile de la Cite tour rewriting, January 2025
• The Return of the Notre Dame Choir
• Introducing Oscar Newsom-Smith
• The Quest: Walking from London to Turkey
• What is an Eco Community?
• Why Turkey?
• Challenges and Corruption in Turkish Construction
• Personal Motivation and Initial Response
• The Journey Through France
• Walking Solo
• Wild Encounters and Night Walks
• Family and Friends Support
• Raising Funds and Awareness
• Sustainable Construction and Eco Initiatives
• Challenges and Beautiful Moments More episodes about Christmas in Francemore
Old World traditions — fasting, feasting, incense, and song — make Bulgaria's Christmas season special, and tour guide Stefan Bozadzhiev invites us to imagine it with him. Then an Istanbul guide updates us on the latest big news in Turkey's cultural capital, and a culinary historian inspires us to p…Old World traditions — fasting, feasting, incense, and song — make Bulgaria's Christmas season special, and tour guide Stefan Bozadzhiev invites us to imagine it with him. Then an Istanbul guide updates us on the latest big news in Turkey's cultural capital, and a culinary historian inspires us to peruse our spice racks as she discusses the often surprising origins of the eight flavors that unite America's diverse cuisines.more
In this bonus episode, Tim and David continue their deep dive into Istanbul with two unique cultural experiences: dining at one of the city’s most famous restaurants and indulging in a traditional Turkish bath. Here’s what you can expect:
Episode Highlights:
• Ciya Sofrasi – A Culinary Gem: Tim sh…In this bonus episode, Tim and David continue their deep dive into Istanbul with two unique cultural experiences: dining at one of the city’s most famous restaurants and indulging in a traditional Turkish bath. Here’s what you can expect:
Episode Highlights:
• Ciya Sofrasi – A Culinary Gem: Tim shares his love for this iconic restaurant on Istanbul’s Anatolian side. Founded by Chef Moussa, Ciya Sofrasi is known for preserving nearly forgotten regional Turkish dishes. David recalls his experience dining there, noting the affordability and authenticity of the food, with meals costing as little as $15-20 CAD per person.
• Culinary Anthropology: Learn how Chef Moussa traveled across Turkey to revive disappearing recipes, becoming known as a "culinary anthropologist." With multiple restaurants within walking distance, this is a must-visit spot in Istanbul.
Turkish Bath (Haman) Experience:
• David’s Haman Recommendations: David discusses his experiences at two historic Turkish baths:
• Kadirga Hamami: A budget-friendly, traditional bath experience for just 25 euros.
• Cagaloglu Hamami: A luxurious experience frequented by celebrities, but be sure to book in advance. Treatments here range from 150 euros and up.
Tim’s Turkish Bath Tips: While Turkish baths can be a workout in themselves, Tim explains how they are a far cry from typical Western spa treatments. Expect a thorough scrub, stretching, and a cultural experience that’s centuries old.
Thinking of Visiting a Turkish Bath? Whether you’re after the historical authenticity of a traditional Haman or prefer a more spa-like version in one of Istanbul’s luxury hotels, Tim and David offer advice for first-timers and advice on the best Turkish bath in Istanbul.
If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul or Turkey, this episode gives you the inside scoop on two unmissable experiences that will elevate your journey.
🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📷 Instagram: @voyascapemedia
🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
You can find all of our travel podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
We discuss the pros and cons of airport lounges and hear more from Pat Yale on the delights of slow travel to Turkey, including the unexpected charms of Belgrade. With many thanks to Nicola, Amanda, Laura, Nick, Gordon Stone and Pat Yale (@patyale on X)
Writer Pat Yale joins us to talk about the pleasures of travelling
overland from the UK to Turkey as well as what it's been like to live in the country for the past twenty five years. Pat's new book, "Following Miss Bell: Travels around Turkey in the Footsteps of Gertrude Bell," has just been publis…Writer Pat Yale joins us to talk about the pleasures of travelling
overland from the UK to Turkey as well as what it's been like to live in the country for the past twenty five years. Pat's new book, "Following Miss Bell: Travels around Turkey in the Footsteps of Gertrude Bell," has just been published by Trailblazer Publications.more
Leon McCarron discusses his epic source-to-sea river journey through Turkey, Syria and Iraq. He unravels what deep history, beauty and ecological collapse really look like on the River Tigris.
The 87-year-old British photojournalist talks about the travels, writers and images that have given him respite from the brutality of war. He paints a vivid picture of India, Turkey, Greece, North Africa, Syria and the healing power of the Somerset Levels.
