Turkey’s Black Sea region a hidden jewel
TURKEY remains one of the most captivating destinations to discover centuries old civilisations – it is a melting pot of Asian European cultures and rich in natural landscapes and beautiful sceneries.
From bustling old Istanbul to the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, from the pristine pools of Pamukkale to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Turkey boasts an array of fantastic attractions and is truly a value-formoney holiday.
However, the long travelling distances pose a problem, as lamented by those whom have made such trips.
Not many can handle a six- to 10-hour road journey on most days of the conventional routing that travel agencies offer in the market.
To tackle this, PST Travel Services’ SignatourWorld’s 10 days/7 nights Timeless Turkey – where East meets West will include two domestic flights to reduce road journeys by a massive 18 hours.
Needless to mention, feedback gathered so far has been positive.
For next year, PST Travel Services have stepped up even more by showcasing a beautiful, sublime hidden jewel of Turkey – the Black Sea Region.
Check out the 12 days/9 nights Ultimate Turkish Temptations that introduces the Black Sea Region with a new itinerary that has been planned to cover the best of this fascinating region, including Amasya, Trabzon, Rize, Uzungol Lake and the mesmerising Ayder Plateau as well. Amasya
In this beautiful city, you can find artefacts belonging to a time span of thousands of years, authentic historical buildings and cultural legacy that have survived to this day.
View a line of beautiful old Ottoman-style wooden houses along the Yesilirmak (Green River). Behind it, tall cliffs loom up precipitously, with impressive rock tombs of the Pontus Kings carved on its rocky faces.
Another intriguing attraction in Amasya is the Archaeological Museum with a collection of real life mummies of the Ilhan rulers of Amasya.
A stroll through the modern part of the city across the river will lead you to the statue of Amasya’s favourite son, the famous geographer Strabon and the Ottoman Prince Selfie Statue.
Sumela Monastery
The Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary, better known as Sumela Monastery, is one of the Black Sea’s highlights, clinging improbably to a sheer cliff, high above evergreen Macka forests.
An epic photography session awaits in this incredible architectural feat of ancient times and the glorious surrounding landscapes.
A short climb to the entrance of the monastery is worth the effort to see the frescoes and chambers.
Uzungol Lake
Located 1,100m above sea level and surrounded by high-rising mountains with a large lake in the centre, Uzungol epitomises the sheer beauty of the Black Sea Region.
The fog, which frequently envelops the area, only makes this picturesque village more spectacular and shrouded with mystical beauty.
Take a stroll by the lake with a beautiful mosque and head up to a higher plateau to enjoy a breathtaking view of panoramic Uzungol.
Ayder Plateau, Rize
Fresh mountain air, fabulous views of the green meadows, ravines and waterfalls, and an entirely different cultural lifestyle to the rest of Turkey have led some travel writers to compare Ayder Plateau to the Swiss Alps.
All houses are built from woods at the surrounding forest. Spending a night in a comfortable hotel lodge on this mountain resort 1,350m above sea level brings about an entirely new dimension to what Turkey is all about.
PST Travel Services believe it has put together a most unforgettable itinerary for travellers who prefer a more comprehensive programme of amazing discoveries and yet travel as comfortable as possible.
■ Drop by the dedicated SignatourWorld booths of PST Travel Services, Pearl Holiday in Hall 1 and Malaysian Harmony in Hall 2.
Alternatively log on to signatourworld.com for details.