mediterranean
Our Southeastern Anatolia journey officially began on October 26, 2018, at 23:00, departing from Ankara by bus.
Although the route was named after Southeastern Anatolia, our first stop was Kahramanmaraş — a Mediterranean city that quietly set the emotional tone of the entire trip.
After a night journey, we arrived at Kahramanmaraş and had breakfast at Ramada Hotel outside the city center.
In the heart of the city, we tasted legendary ice cream at Yaşar Dondurma (MADO’s roots), then I spent my free time alone wandering through the Bedesten bazaar, which carried a calm, timeless atmosphere.
I passed through the courtyard of the Grand Mosque, walked around the statues of Sütçü İmam and Atatürk, and returned to the bus feeling that the city had spoken softly — but clearly.
The journey later ended in Adana, another Mediterranean capital of flavor and heritage.
We visited the Atatürk House Museum, the Cinema Museum, and stood on the iconic Stone Bridge, before returning to Ankara.
Adana & Hatay — September 2019
In September 2019, I returned to the Mediterranean for the Adana Taste Festival.
Stone Bridge, the Great Clock Tower, and the rhythm of the old city once again pulled me in.
From Adana, I traveled to Hatay, where history feels layered, not preserved.
I visited the Hatay Archaeology Museum, St. Pierre Church, the Fish Market district, and ate pöç at Pöç Kasap & Restaurant in the Uzun Çarşı.
I walked through Habib-i Neccar Mosque, stayed at a beautiful historic inn (later destroyed in the earthquake), and tasted the famous pink, jelly-like Künefe with pomegranate syrup — “Sürk” style dessert at Affan Coffee.
Dinner at Müzeyyen, the Vespasian–Titus Tunnel, the Beşikli Cave Tombs, the legendary Moses Tree, tea in Vakıflı Village, and the peaceful Harbiye Waterfalls completed a region that felt emotionally heavy — and unforgettable.
Antalya — Alanya Route, October 2020
In October 2020, the Mediterranean welcomed me again — this time in Alanya.
I explored Alanya Castle, descended into Dim Cave, walked through the ruins of Side Ancient City, and stood before Manavgat Waterfall.
The winding Taurus Mountain roads were as memorable as the destinations themselves — quiet, vast, and strangely healing.
