I saw my first picture of Cappadocia over a decade ago. It was presented to me without explanation. In response I asked my friend where she got this most unique picture of the moon. All she could do was laugh. The image was taken just before the now ubiquitous cell phone photography exploded on the scene.

“It’s not the moon dummy (the clean version), it’s in Turkey,” she explained as I stood mesmerized by what I held in my hand. I made a promise to myself right then and there I would visit Cappadocia soon. Unfortunately, life got in the way and soon never came, at least up until now. For now I’ll experience Cappadocia vicariously through this interview.

Geological exploration is right in my wheel house. I love this stuff more than any of you will ever know. I was the only student in my college class in geology who earned an “A” without grading on a curve. I believe the more scientific name for the study of landforms is Geomorphology, but who cares what you call it, this is fascination personified for me.

Fast forward to early March 2021, and a guest on our TripCast360 podcast, Samia Jay (listen to her episode about Portugal) mentioned her love for Cappadocia and how she looked forward to returning post COVID-19. “What do you mean returning,” I exclaimed, and why would you go back. She mentioned how magical the place was and how it spoke to her, hence this interview.

Cappadocia lies in central Turkey, about 325 km (201 mi) southeast of Ankara. The large, cone-shaped formations that I mistakenly thought was the moon, were formed over centuries by erosion of the soft volcanic ash that surrounds them.

Past cultures created castles, like Uchisar. There are a series of underground cities like Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. These underground dwellings were used as hiding places for the early Christians. All are available to explore.

Michael: You been to Cappadocia before, what makes you want to go back?

Samia: Cappadocia is a village full of mystery and incredible places. I love the cuisine so much and the people are genuine. They all know each other and they welcome and respect tourists. This time I want to go in the winter. I’ve seen pictures of Cappadocia with snow and it was just spectacular. It might be a little cold, but well worth the experience.

Michael: One of the big draws to Cappadocia is seeing the views from hot air balloons. Have you gone up in one yet?

Samia: The hot air balloon experience is a must. I was scared at first, but watching the sunrise over the valleys and mountains was magical. If you book through a travel agency, most offer transfers from the hot balloon area, plus welcoming coffee and a snack. We were treated to champagne after landing. You need to wake up pretty early in the morning. They need to pick people up from their hotels around 4 am. In the summer time the price for one person was around $400 Euros ($476 US). Because of the pandemic prices are closer to $90 Euros ($107 US). If you can travel to Turkey now its well worth it. (Turkey was one of the places that never closed it borders during the pandemic)

Michael: Do you have any special suggestions on how best to enjoy Cappadocia that doesn’t involve a hot air balloon?

Samia: Horseback riding is cool for exploring underground cities and the Goreme Open Air Museum. We hired a photographer. He was super nice and made us explore Cappadocia for some great shots. He recommended Cappadocia Cave Restaurants to explore by night with music, dance and local foods. I’m Italian, so food, for me is the only way to make me fall in love with a country.

Michael: How easy is it to get to Cappadocia?

Samia: Visitors will probably fly into Istanbul, then take an internal flight to Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport. I would suggest minimal luggage for the journey to Cappadocia, even if that means leaving some of your luggage in a locker at the Istanbul Airport. Your ticket to Cappadocia should show you the luggage weight restrictions. You will be charge for the extra weight. Once you land at Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport, make certain you’ve arranged for the shuttle bus, either through your hotel or travel agent. It’s a two hour bus ride to Cappadocia.

Michael: What time of year did you go on your previous trip and would you recommend any other time of year?

Samia: I went in July. Summer has a cool vibe. You can swim at the hotel pool and enjoy more of the city and nightlife. Like I mentioned before, I still want to go back in the winter. Those snow covered images were awe-inspiring.

Michael: I noticed some of your pictures appear to be taken from a rooftop or ledge. What are local accommodations like? Any place you would recommend?

Samia: Those images were take at the Mithra Cave Hotel. I think it’s one of the best. As you can see, the views are magnificent. People line up early in the morning to take pictures as the balloons slowly rise over the horizon, while fake enjoying a delicious breakfast. (I say fake because the hotel arranges a beautiful breakfast so tourist can take pictures, but you’re not allowed to touch it, that food is just for the pictures.) So I would go for cave hotels, they are small and really charming.

Michael: Lastly, is there anything I forgot to ask that you think a visitor would need to know?

Samia: I thank you for this opportunity. Cappadocia has a special place in my heart. My advice, get yourself a local photographer and make sure you provide a handsome tip. They will show you the most amazing places. I would also suggest you try the kunefe. This is one of those heavenly Turkish desserts made with syrup. It is mostly served at kebab restaurants after the main course in downtown. It is made with cheese and shredded Kadayif noodles soaked in sweet syrup. Be careful what you wish for, it’s not for the faint of heart.

For a closer look at Turkey and what it has to offer has a vacation destination head to GoTurkeyTourism.com.

Featured Photo by Dmitriy Frantsev on Unsplash