I went to Turkey and Greece for my honeymoon. Turkey surprised me! It turned out to be the best destination I've ever been to - the perfect mix of Asian culture, European lifestyle, magnificent historical sites, beautiful beaches, delicious food and the best nightlife I've seen yet! You name it and Turkey has it. Here are a few tips to help you as you you travel to Turkey: 1. Negotiate for everything! We found some fantastic hotels and were able to get lower prices when we asked. Once you negotiate, tell them you'll pay in cash and get the best price!
2. The best time to go is in September - or at least that's how it worked out for us! We happened to go around then accidentally, and it's the BEST time to be in Istanbul for a few reasons. The weather is pleasant - its between the end of a hot summer and the start of fall. You'll get the best prices and avoid the crazy crowds since its the tail end of tourist seasons. It's Ramadan, which means that when the sun sets, Istanbul bursts with activity. Sultanahmet is filled with vendors, local musicians. Families come out to eat together. It's fantastic! I was there during and after Ramadan - once Ramadan is over, Sultanahmet gets quiet once again. So different!
3. Go off the diet - Be prepared to eat the most amazing, delectable food. Walk around Sultanahmet and step into any of the pastry shops and try the backlava after dinner. It's big, gooey and warm - unbelievable!
4. Don't be afraid to drive in turkey. The roads around the country are amazing, as long as you can drive a stick shift. You get to see more of the country and the little towns which are hard to get to unless you drive.
5. Don't worry about the language - The Turks are so incredibly friendly.
