Aurora Borealis

Notes from My Trip To Norway on September 24th 2015

I am dictating to one of those mobile voice applications at 2:43 am. The days been a little exhausting, and I don't really have the strength to enter anything by hand. Just about to head to bed when I saw a missed call from my friend Bianca. I'm a little worried. A call at midnight? In Norway? Something seemed off.


I called straight back, and all was fine - thankfully. Apparently, a photo on Facebook had alerted her to an impossible, if highly unlikely event: that there were northern lights dancing in the sky at that moment. Her Uncle (who resided in Norway) were standing in his garden taking it all in from his backgarden. I put on all my clothes as quickly as I could, and me and the rest of the group bolted outside. Four kilometers cycling in the Norwegian cold and lonely night. No more no less. 4000 meters we cycled, and not another and not a soul aside from ourselves. It was a little unerving. But the aurora borealis was worth it.

AURORA BOREALIS Early evening

              The night was starry, so bright and yet so dark. The Milky Way and its hundreds of constellations only accentuated its immensity. About Hanguren is a strange glow. Very whispy and strange, like it wanted to turn green without actually going green. There were arches of white lights across the whispish green, they grew in intensity before the descending fog clouded them  

AURORA BOREALIS 

Northern lights in Voss (Norway), September 8, 2015

I remembered the words of my friend Yves, arctic guide last winter, a northern lights experienced hunter. "People often are disappointed to see the Northern Lights," he would say. Retouched photo so impossible that create expectations that the does not always correspond with reality. At least not with the reality that the casual viewer expects.

AURORA BOREALIS Coming To Dawn

When the cold became intense, and in view of the Northern Lights did not appear to grow stronger, we decided to leave. No one in the streets, but a green glow from the rooftops. Pale, strange, new. 

Northern lights in Voss (Norway), September 8, 2015

Homecoming. Four kilometers north pedaling in the shadow of Lonahorgi (1411 meters) and under some rare drawings in heaven. They was a strange tone, white as tattered night wanting gently tear the dark. At one in the morning it was not the sunset, nor even twilight. And there she was again, the aurora borealis.

My first aurora borealis was different to my expectations, perhaps because it really wasn't expected. It came without warning, and went the same way. And while it did not film the sky with green and colours, I go to bed happy because I experienced something rare and beautiful. 

IF THIS you like, you'll like ...

VIDEO OF THE ERUPTION OF THE GREAT VOLCANO PITON DE LA FOURNAISE

 VOLCANO PITON DE LA FOURNAISE 

A while back I had the extraordinary experience of being in front of the erupting volcano on Reunion Island, the Piton de la Fournaise meaning (Peak of the Furnace) . Once I had a bit of time, I sorted the material I collected, and have added some images that I captured at the time. Alas, the video is not mine but a friends, it goes a long way to show how magnificent this volcano truly is. I recall the exciting walk through a panoramic view of volcanic clouds and over stones that brought us get the prize ahead, the show of molten lava that left us speechless for hours. 

 VOLCANO PITON DE LA FOURNAISE ERUPTING

Volcano Le Piton de la Fournaise (Reunion Island)

Attending a natural phenomenon like this is not something you do every day. Few things match the volcanic eruption in Reunion Island, and it has become one of the best moments I have experienced as a traveler. And I want to share it with you. So here it is!

         

TOWARDS LE Piton de la Fournaise: VIDEO

In August 24, 2015 a new eruption of the volcano Le Piton de la Fournaise happned, I could not even imagine it would continue in October, given the recent recorded history. But the trip to Reunion Island began and the volcano's activity remained fairly stable. An expedition with Kokapat Rando, a small local agency of Reunion working in the area, after an exchange of e-mails not just offered me the chance to accompany and witness for the first time in my life a volcanic eruption directly. And the end result here it is:



I have to say that days later I tried to return to the same point but because of the volcano clouds and could not see anything. But the remainder of the island had much more to offer, so I had no choice but to forget Le Piton de la Fournaise and focus on places like Cilaos, Mafate, Langevin or coral reefs Saint Gilles les Bains .

WHEN IN ROME

The return to Rome is always like coming here for the first time. It's overwhelming. You fall in love. And you are captivated under its spell once more. This is what happens to me every time I step into the Italian capital.

Each visit has been different in different circumstances and with different expectations. I've been alone for backpacking holiday. I have visited it working while travelling with a group of Argentine tourists. With friends. This last time, perhaps more relaxed, with my partner, we were able to enjoy Rome abstracting a little from the hectic pace. And emphasizing our inner time, and basic experiences.

Images and sounds from the crowds. Art and culture in our way. Fragrances and flavors, following our palate. And these past experiences I was able to extract some culinary tips from around Rome.

Trastevere

Start here because it is the place that we liked from the point of view of the restaurants and trattorias. Following the course of Tevere Tiber from the Vatican or to the south (about 15 minutes walk), or across central Rome from the Ponte Garibaldi right at the beginning of the Isola Tiberina, you will get to the heart of this neighborhood.

While tourism prevails, the essence lies in its architecture and character of its people. Choose any small trattoria, those who place 2 or 3 tables on the street. Flee the large terraces overlooking the river, which are made for the tourists.

One of those places you want in the streets of Trastevere, is La Scaletta. We arrived at this trattoria wandering around without any recommendations, and guided only by instinct (and a delicious sauce scent coming out of the kitchen). Now I see that also recommended in the gastronomic guide Housetrip (which you can download in PDF to take it with you to enjoy Rome).

My recommendation: artichokes in any of its versions, linguine al pomodoro e polpette (photo) or spaghetti alla carbonara di tonno.

Central Rome



It is true that you can find exceptions: in front of the Trevi Fountain, there is a very economical pizzeria selling huge portions at a great price. But next door there is an ice cream and gelatto as rich as uranium. 

Usually a few meters, "just around the corner" you'll find, economic and more authentic options.

For example: a few meters from Piazza Navona is fotografiadísima dei Coronari street (beautiful), and you will find the local Pasta Imperiali. A unique, cheap and curious place: pasta take away, fast food or pasta, but to your taste and fatto in casa. Choose pasta and sauce you want and you take your portion made at the time for very good price.

My recommendation: all'amatriciana typical Roman bucatini or spaghetti alla vongole.

Of course you will find all the options of "food stalls" portioned pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, hot dogs, hamburgers, and so on. But my recommendation is that you follow where your "nose" takes you.

Well we found a tiny trattoria near Lungo Argentina, I think it was calle dei Barbieri. You can not miss it: checkered tablecloths, 2 tables on the street, another 4 in front shelling, iron cartel and a fat and friendly waitress who carried in her apron the "decorations" of all sauces on the menu. Unforgettable abbachio (lamb) with sage and coda alla vaccinara which is a local version of oxtail.

Here are some recommendations for eating in Rome, following my own palate. I hope you serve for enjoying the Italian capital and its flavors.

ICELAND TRAVEL: MY LIST OF PLACES TO VISIT

Topping my "to do list" and hopefully soon become a reality is a trip to Iceland. Based on friends experiences, and a good deal of research, I have my list of places to visit when the time comes, which I am happy to share with you. I am attracted to Icelands nature and powerful, and a muted respect to the people who are able to live in the end of the world.




Tourism Natural Iceland
* Namaskard Geothermal Area: a place where the energy of the center of the earth touches the surface. Splashes of water and mud mix at a hundred degrees. Solfaratas that permeate the air with their scent. Fumaroles that reveal the geothermal activity. A show.


* The Godafoss (or waterfall of the Gods) waterfall is one of the most impressive jumps of water in Iceland. It is located in the north of the island, between the town of Akureyri and Lake Mí½vatn.

* The Skógafoss waterfall is 25 meters wide and falls from 60 meters high in the middle of a cliff, the neighboring village of Skógar.

* Skaftafell National Park is the country's and Europe's largest. The park, equivalent to more than 12% of the country, is a must see ...

* ... The Vatnají¶kull glacier is the largest in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. It has an area of ​​8,100 km2, and comes to have 1,000 meters thick. It is amazing to think that beneath the vast ice sheet, several volcanoes are hidden. This place is contained in the record books as it has been declared the most visible place in the world as can be seen from here the highest mountain in the Faroe Islands ... 550 km away!

* Pingvellir, close to the capital and only site that was declared a World Heritage Humanidadpor UNESCO in 2004. Its scenic value is enormous, but it is also a very important geological point because here two tectonic plates (the American bind and Eurasian) that separate each year 1 mm and whose encounter can be seen with the naked eye.




Tourism Iceland

* Reykjavik calls me to visit. I have read much of its colorful houses, its clear light, quiet streets, which I hope will soon walk it. I have pointed some things to learn about in the capital: the central cemetery (more public park than cemetery), the Catholic Church, its main street. I climb to the Hallgrímskirkja church and from there enjoy the panoramic views. I want to sit Tjí¶rn to see the lake and watch the birds in the center. I want to hang out in pools of natural hot springs at least once.

* And of course I want to experience the flavors of Iceland. The "gravlax € ?? (Raw salmon with fennel, mustard sauce, honey and cream), lamb raised outdoors and absolutely natural. I do not know if I will encourage the œhákarl € € ?? (Rotten shark meat usually remains buried up to six months before being consumed) or "hrútspungur € ?? (Made from ram's testicles pickled in whey). However, I would love to test the seal meat or whale, that's normal for these latitudes. And I would not leave the island without trying the Icelandic Pilsur: nothing more than a hot dog, but something you must have because its quite famous here.

Anyway, if I had a to-do list when traveling to Iceland it would be neverending. There's so much to see, and all so different.
I'm probably leaving out many interesting things, but I hope that only leaves room for my discoveries when I finally set foot on that glacial space at the end of the world. 

ROAD TO NORTH CAPE: THE DRYING OF FISH

A few minutes ago I remembered the trip to the North Cape I had last year. When reviewing the images I had of that trip in my Flickr gallery, I stopped at a series of photos where there were fish drying outdoors.

Leaving Honningsvåg, we hit the coast and one of the revolts of the route appeared one of the many triangular wooden structures that would set outside. Fish were hung there to dry in the air, straight out of the sea, and just gutted. They are cut in two and hung separately: the head in "clusters" and the body and tail individually.

The fish remain three months drying in the sun and then the process is finished indoors. In those first months, the fish (mainly cod but also other species), loses 80% of water, nutrients and flavors are concentrated giving pieces of the highest quality. 

Once off the bus, we saw these extended "stairs" on a small hill near the water. In that corner some fishing boats, small pier, a reservoir for the final drying, a minimum clustered office. Quite a production unit for one of the most famous products of Norway stockfish or dried fish. We walked between the structures, we went down to see the fish well. No expected strong smell, we were just accompanied by the gentle breeze and the sound of birds in the sky.

The pieces laid for drying are aimed at two distinct markets: the European and American.

ROADMAP TO VISITING MALAGA CULTURE

Malaga, known as the "capital of the Costa del Sol", runs the risk of being typecast as a purely seaside resort. But Malaga is much more: it is history, nature, gastronomy and, of course, culture at the highest international level.

More and more visitors are left captivated by the many attributes of this beautiful city. From the Citadel and its Arab remains, the Roman amphitheater at his feet, its museums, its tapas route, his contagious joy in the streets.

There is sun and good weather throughout the year, so you can visit at any time. Much more if it is on special dates (Carnival, Easter, the fair in August, when it gets cold in Northern Europe). 


Hotel Ibis Malaga Avenida Velazquez

Because I know the service of the Ibis hotels by having stayed in them in Girona, in The Hague and on a couple of occasions in one of those offered in Madrid, I decided this would be ideal for me.

Also, I chose the one that is in the Avenida Velazquez, one of the entrances to the city and the closest to Malaga airport. This is the closest to the Heat , the Automobile Museum and the recently opened Russian Museum. It is also located within walking distance of Congress Center so it is ideal for those who come to participate in meetings; direct access to the shopping area for those who come to Malaga for leisure.

And of course, because being 10 minutes from Pablo Picasso International Airport, it is the perfect alternative for those in connection or who have to take a very early flight or very late (in addition to a minimum fee you have the option of a late checkout until departure time of your flight).



La Térmica


La Térmica is a center of contemporary cultural creation and production, a nursery of talent and a meeting point for artists. It's a great space gained to history where they work and expose all representations of art. A space for creation, learning and entertainment spaces featuring unique approach where the most varied art forms, enjoy live music, shows, conferences and a wide range of activities covering all areas of culture.



The building of la Termica construction began in 1906 in order to house the House of Mercy but even before opening its doors, it suffered many changes to its structure and purpose. They are over 100 years of history in a building that has managed to be recycled and given new life without losing the charm of its tiled corridors and high windows.

Malaga Car Museum

Automobile Museum
With five years of existence this museum has gained an important place in the cultural offer of Málaga. There you can take a tour through the history of the various means of mechanized transport. With truly amazing painting copies from the beginning to current trends: great classic cars from the late nineteenth century to current examples of tuning of ancient specimens.

In this space there is more, since there is also a collection that reflects the fashion at different times, meeting rooms, banquets and exhibitions.




Russian museum malaga

Russian Museum
This building complex has a long history in Malaga and which hosted for decades the tobacco factory so it is popularly known as La Tabacalera.

This museum has been possible thanks to an agreement with the prestigious Museum of St. Petersburg who gives part of his collection to be exhibited in Malaga, the first based in Western Europe of the Russian State Museum.

The State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg, opened in 1895 by decree of the last Tsar Nicholas II and located in the city of the same name, is home to the largest collection of Russian art in the world. Driven by the czars from the s. XVIII, the collection includes over 400,000 works that illustrate each of the periods, trends and genres of Russian art.

Malaga subsidiary has a permanent collection of Russian authors from different times and temporary exhibitions. Also it has 3 auditoriums, art workshops for adults and children and a broad agenda of cultural outreach activities.

Information on the best time to visit the Russian Museum in Malaga. On Sunday afternoon, starting at 16:00, admission is free.

Centre Pompidou next trip malaga

Pompidou Centre Malaga
Another major cultural spaces offered Malaga is the subsidiary of the Pompidou Centre. Located at the start of Pier One, leisure center located outdoors at the Port of Malaga and just 300 meters from the beginning of Calle Larios, this cultural center is set to become the scene of major events with art in the city.

The "Cube" is the visible sign of the museum, below street level are 6,300 square meters of exhibition. The basic background starts with more than 80 works by artists such as Pablo Ruiz Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Rene Magritte and Alberto Giacometti. From May arrive temporary exhibitions including one on the work of Joan Miró and dance are announced.

Information: Centre Pompidou Malaga. On Sunday afternoon, starting at 16:00, admission is free.

These options, we must add many other spaces and museums internationally Malaga to visit. Among them, I want to highlight some that I have visited personally and consider essential to include a cultural visit to Malaga.

* Carmen Thyssen Museum
* Picasso Museum
* Pablo Picasso's Birthplace
* CAC - Center for Contemporary Art in Malaga
* National Museum of Airports and Air Transport.

There are also many other smaller museums that add to the heritage of the city: Music Museum, doll house, the Bullfighting Museum, Interpretation Centre Gibralfaro, etc.

A wide offer worth considering to complete a visit to the most cultural side of Malaga.

THE GREAT FOOD ON THE ROAD TO RHONE-ALPES

In 2013 I was fortunate to travel a little known French region: Rhone-Alpes. This relatively little known treasure has a variety of attractions, so should not be missed. One of them, most certainly is the cuisine is one of them, no doubt. 

Browse the landscapes and towns of the French region of Rhône-Alpes is close to the most traditional flavors, this brings you back to home cooking with innovative touches using regional products.

The experience begins with the arrival in Lyon, your gateway and one of the main cities of France. It is also a city renowned for its haute cuisine, world famous seat of chef Paul Bocuse and where their awards are given each year.

The meadows, planted with vines, result in a fine, delicate wine, fruity in any of its versions: red and white ... and a pink. Ideal to accompany a picnic near the vineyards, such as those offered at the Domaine Rocheville winery that produces wines and olive oil.

Ardeche near Queen chestnut. Here you'll find all kinds of preparations chestnuts from sauces to accompany delicious meats, to sweets, creams and exquisite marrons.

The châtaigne d'Ardeche has its own appellation since 2006 and applies to fresh chestnut and its 5 types: dry, chopped, chestnut flour, whole peeled and mashed chestnuts. Each year, 5,500 tons are produced here (50% of national production).


Among the appellations of origin of Rhône-Alpes we can not forget the black olives of Nyons. Base exquisite tapenade or "tapenade" that accompanies the table every day. Its large olive, black and rough skin, tasty meat, also give a fragrant extra virgin olive oil. In the town of Nyons Vignolis you can also take a trip to the Oil Museum.

In the La Drôme we find a variety of fruits such as apricots and plums or apples and cherries. And a separate chapter for its truffles, the best in Europe and that flavor many regional dishes.

If the landscape of Rhone-Alpes is dyed with lavender, so is your table. Lavender is also present in the gastronomy and it is not unusual for perfumed drinks and dishes to be served here. We recommend you to visit the Distillery Bleu Provence, also in Nyons, where lavender, thyme and other herbs are processed to produce essential oils and products for the pharmaceutical, perfumery and food.
There is much to be tasted in Rhône-Alpes: sweets, fruit, typical drinks, dishes with history. Back through this area, halfway between the Riviera and Paris, Provencal is just crying out to be discovered and relished. This is a peaceful atmosphere in a relaxing trip through France.

I leave here the detail of the restaurants we visited on this trip to Rhone-Alpes, France, to have them in mind when you organize your next trip.

* In the charming village of Labeaume: Le Bec Figue, right on the church square.
* In Pont d'Arc on the Ardeche river and facing a beautiful beach: Restaurant Ardeche
* Dinner at the Hotel Digoine, Bourg-Saint-Andeol
* In Valence, the restaurant Les Negociants
* The restaurant La Charette, a classic in Romans.

WELLNESS GETAWAY TO TENERIFE

I had the opportunity to take a few days off and decided to follow what "my body asked me" and take some much need rest and relaxation. So I shuffled through several possibilities, but ultimately decided on a wellness getaway.

A little pampering of body, mind spirit, and disconnection from the day to day living sounded like bliss.  I started looking at alternatives: transport and accommodation.

First I looked flights departing from Heathrow, my closest airport. And in a kind of game I choose my destination based on the most direct flight I found attractive. And that's how I discovered a direct flight of Air Europa from Heathrow to Tenerife on the dates I wanted to go on.

That was how it was defined my next destination: Tenerife, to Canary Islands. I had never been to the Canary Islands, and for that reason alone I knew I needed to go!

In addition, the Canary Islands is ideal for those seeking wellness getaway. Its range of hotels with health centers and spa treatments, is overwhelming. In most island, but especially in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, there are many hotels with this type of service.

So I started researching a bit about the destination itself (places, attractions, landscapes, activities) and various kinds of hotels and resorts.

To really disconnect I needed somewhere quiet (and to sleep with these volcanic landscapes, pools of sea, small beaches, the Atlantic under my feet) and a attractive background. 

I shuffled through various possibilities (in Puerto de la Cruz or near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, for example), but I opted for the Ocean Health Spa Hotel in Punta del Hidalgo.

The location can not be beaten. It promises unique sunsets, breathtaking views and disconnection. In addition, a few minutes drive are many attractions in the northern part of the island of Tenerife.

On the other hand, the hotel services are aimed at the integral well-being as they are based on two very interesting principles:

Thalassotherapy: seawater is used to regenerate the consumed energy, stimulate metabolism and activate the body's defenses.

Method F.X. Mayr: proposed purification therapy centered in the intestine and to improve eating habits and correct.

There are pools of saltwater algae treatments and wraps various, special diets if you request, and but a restaurant with a very tempting menu. I hope to have time to take yoga classes oceanfront!

The hotel has invited me to try their services, which I'm more than happy to go along with! Now I'll tell you when I get back, when my body and my mind (and my traveling curiosity) has become revitalized.

GUIDE TO TRAVEL TO CAPPADOCIA ( WEATHER , PLACES TO VISIT AND MORE )

Like all places that repeated so many times in travel programs and posters of travel agencies, we think to reach Cappadocia would that disappointing feeling "that I already saw," and would not be as magical as we had been sold .
But we were wrong; Cappadocia is all that we saw in photos and more. Without a doubt one of the most special places in these 7 years of travel.
Many come just to make a balloon flight; but no! Cappadocia is not a place that he can do justice in one or two days; It is a huge area that includes towns, valleys, abandoned and inhabited caves, underground cities ... have to be here to believe it.

So you're not lost in the fog as  you start planning your trip from now, we prepared this comprehensive guide to traveling to Cappadocia with our experience. The weather for the time of year, housing costs, tours, transportation, and our favorite places.

I can only say that you need to see this with your own eyes ...
 


HOW TO GET TO Cappadocia?
First of all, we have to leave this issue clear to no more confusion: Cappadocia is not the name of a city, but a region in central Turkey. Within this region there are cities and towns, but more interesting is around the two resort towns: Goreme and Urgup.

If you're going to make a short trip to Turkey and did not want to stop at Cappadocia, take into account that Istanbul is a long journey of 10-12 hours by bus.
Companies that make this stretch are: Nevşehir Seyahat, Metro Suha and Kamil Koc. The bus will leave you in Nevsehir and then going to take a mini-bus for free to people who want to go.

If you take a flight it is just over 1 hour. There are two airports that you can get: Kayseri and Cappadocia (Nevsehir) Airport. From either going to have to take a mini-bus to Göreme or where you're staying. From Kayseri is 1 hour to give yourself Göreme and Cappadocia Airport are 45 minutes.
Generally the cheapest Pegasus Airlines has them, but also checks with Anadolu Jet (only flies to Kayseri), Onur Air and Turkish Airlines.

Cappadocia-map



This map is for you to have notion of naming the places we go, but you can get a much more detailed when you get to Cappadocia



CLIMATE IN CAPPADOCIA AND WHEN TO GO?


Mid-December to mid-March: is very cold. Snowfall usually start in late December or early lasting until mid-March, and the wind blows hard, so it is normal that any balloon flights are suspended. Many hotels are closed because the heating costs are not justified by the amount of tourists there. The positive is that there being low season discount on accommodation, and if you can pull off a winter vacation here, you'll also have fantastic photos of Cappadocia snowfall.

Mid-October to mid-December / mid-March to late April: good time to travel; cold but tolerable, and there is so much tourism high season. We went in late October, and although we always had to be with diver and  a warm jacket (sometimes hat and gloves as well), we didn't mind because at least we weren't dying of heat as we might have been had it been summer. The temperature was between 8 ° and 12 ° C.

May to late June / September and October: the best time to travel in terms of temperature. But since this is the peak season travel wise (where 90% of tourist come traveling to Turkey for the first time) forget the quiet walk through the most popular valleys, and prepare for long lines at all the attractions.
While Cappadocia is an arid place during these months it is when it rains and the weather is more changeable.

July and August: the sun heats with his ferocity in the summer of Cappadocia (above 35 ° C) and walking becomes intolerable. In mid August the temperature starts to drop.




WHERE TO STAY?
For us, it is best to stay in Goreme, because it has a great location in the middle of conical formations and there are many places to visit within walking distance. The negative is that the people live exclusively on tourism; every business is a hotel, souvenir stall, restaurant or travel agency. You'll always be surrounded by tourists and prices are higher.

Urgup is very much a one-oriented tourists Turkish people. It is bigger, much cheaper and with real options to eat, and not all restaurants have ridiculously inflated prices. The big downside is that the most interesting places far away.

We stayed six days in Göreme and three in Urgup. As we said, in terms of location, there is no rival to Göreme, so if you are staying a few days we recommend you stay here.
When we moved to Urgup we felt we were back in Turkey. We found cheap food stalls, bakeries, many teahouses and life beyond tourism, but would leave it as a second option.

In Cappadocia it is careful all the integrity of the area, so you will not see concrete monstrosities with tin roofs ruining the landscape, as seen in many places. One of the rules of conservation of UNESCO is that everything has to be done is built with local stone, thus maintaining a uniform color and style.
Most hotels are built as many as thirty or forty years ago were caves where people lived. Many rooms are actual caves renovated and others are new buildings inside are acclimated as such.

I imagine that there are options to spare, but everything depends on how much you want to pay.

PLACES TO VISIT FROM Goreme
♦ Göreme Sunset Point: is 10 minutes from the town center. It is a very good place to watch the flight of the balloons in the morning. Free.
The time off balloons varies depending on time of year, so you should ask for an agency to not wait for the dead early morning cold as happened to us the first time, we arrived before 6 and above They did not come out! For example, during our trip (end of October) they took off from 7am.


View from Sunset Point Goreme
♦ Uçhisar: even before arriving in Goreme, this town is the first thing you'll see in Cappadocia. The spectacular castle is the highest point in the area, and one of those images that are a must on any tourist brochure.
To enter the castle charge admission, but the best is the view from afar, rather than inside. For we do not need pay it.
It is 5 kilometers from Göreme. You can go the route finger (all uphill) and walk back to the Pigeon Valley (Guvercinlik Vadisi), which is very easy to do.

Uçhisar

♦ Çavuşin: the imposing rock Çavuşin is where the villagers once lived. The place is fantastic and is only 4 kilometers from Göreme. Free.

Çavuşin

♦ Network (Gulludere) and Rose (Kizilcukur) Valley: They are the two most spectacular valleys, especially at sunset. When we asked a local guide what was your favorite place to watch the sunset, she told us that there is nothing like the view from the balcony that is behind the church Haçli Kalesi, in the Rose Valley (there is a little stand that sells juices and tea next to the church). From the hills that separate the route of the valley also has a magical panorama.
The problem is that the signs of the walks is not very clear, and there are several divisions, so it is easy to miss.
The only way to be able to go walking well is because cuatricilos or bikes are not allowed on the trails, and the ground is not suitable for bicycles.
If you have little time in Cappadocia, this valley is definitely the one you can not miss. Besides the natural formations and caves, you'll also find several churches with crosses carved into the ceiling frescoes and formidable (the Haçli Kalesi is the ninth century).


Fresco inside Haçli Kalesi
♦ Love Valley: the Love Valley are sufficiently intriguing to make sense of the name.

Travel-to-Turkey-Cappadocia-Love-Valley

♦ Pigeon Valley (Guvercinlik Vadisi) is a short, easy hike to continue linking with Uçhisar Göreme. The name (Pigeon Valley) put it because there are several caves that until recently were used to feed pigeons and they gather dung, which serve as fertilizer and fertilizer. 


Travel-to-Turkey-Cappadocia-3

♦ Open Air Museum: always full of tour groups, is the appeal is not lacking in any tour. We did not hear any traveler who didn't thoroughly enjoy this, so do not completely rule out even though it does cost a fair bit. 

♦ If you have a whole day to spare walk from Göreme to Çavuşin (no need to go by the paved road, you can grab the dirt road that divides thereof). After visiting Çavuşin Rediscover the paved road and walk towards Göreme to the turnoff that goes to "Love Valley". There is a road that takes you inside the valley and another that goes up. The road that goes up is good because you go through a gazebo and you can better appreciate the scenery, but then becomes a normal way land; while below so you do not have good views but you're always in the valley.
After about 4 or 5 km walk you'll arrive at Uçhisar. Visit the village and volvé to Göreme by the "Pigeon Valley", which will be two more kilometers.
It is a long and tiring walk, but strongly recommended.

Travel-to-Turkey-Cappadocia-Love-Valley-2

PLACES TO VISIT FROM Urgup

♦ Mustafapaşa: is a town where even before the formation of the Republic, Greeks and Turks lived transmigration. This is evident in several typical Greek buildings, such as the church with Greek plates in the front and painted blue and white houses.
There is also an old church converted into a mosque, which clearly note the difference between the original building and the minaret added decades later.
Facing you'll see a madrassa (school in Arabic, usually referiendo to Islamic school) converted church. Note that on both sides of the entrance there spin columns; They are used in cases of earthquake to know if there was danger of collapse. If the columns are spinning then you will know all is well, but if you take a look and the happen to be locked you better run!

Travel-to-Turkey-Cappadocia-Mustafapasa

♦ Aktepe Hill (Sunset Point): no need to pay the entrance TL 2 for this viewpoint that are filled with tourists. Just before reaching the barrier to entry, grab the dirt road that goes left. After about 300 meters you'll arrive to a terrace where you'll have even better views of the Red Valley to pay, and well away from stacking up.
It's the best place to watch the flying balloons, but you'll have to wake up very early because he is 6 kilometers from Urgup. At that hour of the morning they do not charge admission (at least when we went).


♦ Ortahisar: a less touristy than the other people in the area, where only are some tours, but not do much more than get off, and go visit the castle. It is good to stay a while sitting watching life that no longer exists in Göreme.


♦ Imagination (Devrent) Valley and Pasabagi: from Urgup you can walk (about 10 kilometers.), Hitchhike or take a dolmuş to Devrent Valley, where it joins with another paved road, which is what you have to take. From there it is better to walk to not miss anything.
In the "Imagination Valley" you'll have to fair bit of imagination to find anything unusual  in those rocks. After a couple of kilometers you'll reach Pasabagi where in one place you have a dream-team of rock formations; conical shaped rocks that resembled something a little more xrated, rabbit, a church dug in the rock and what comes to mind. Best of all is the office of the gendarmes across the path; for us there is no doubt that Hanna and Barbera were inspired here to create The Flintstones.
If you still went to Çavuşin, you can keep walking for another 3 kilometers.


♦ Walk all day beginning in Urgup walk down the path to the side of Ortahisar. A 1 kilometer there is a viewpoint overlooking three conical hat formations called "3 Beauties of Urgup".
I followed him to Ortahisar (about 5 km. More) and take a tour of the village. Rediscover the main road and turn in the road leading to Göreme. After 500 meters you'll arrive at Kaya Camping. Just before the entrance to the campsite there is a dirt road that enters the Red Valley. You can do the entire walk through the valley to Çavuşin or end at the viewpoint of Haçli Kalesi and return the same way.
If you stay to watch the sunset we do not recommend trying to get back on the road to Kaya Camping in low light because it is very easy to miss.



OTHER PLACES
We include them if you see them on maps or itineraries of tours and you wonder whether they will be interesting; but all we saw near Goreme and Urgup liked more than these. We went because we were invited to a tour, but they are far and we do not miss much if you do not know.

Derinkuyu Underground City: TL 20 to be charged entry puts high expectations, and this underground city seems not met. It is the deepest of the 36 that exist in all Cappadocia (the largest is Kaymakali), with 14 floors underground from which you can visit seven.
Of course it is incredible to imagine how people lived thousands of years underground, and walking toward the center of the earth we imagined these claustrophobic, terrifying tunnels, but we were greeted with were empty caves and many tourists. This is 35 kilometers from Göreme.


Sobessos: the discovery was that a farmer, in 1963, found one of the most important historical buildings in the history of Cappadocia. Working in the field he uncovered what looked like the beginnings of ancient ruins, but for years no one listened. Only in 2002 the authorities finally decided to listen and began to dig. "Geez, the old man was right!" They said, when uncovered the ruins of the only city in late Roman and early Christian era (mid S.IV SV) throughout the region.
The importance of the place is undeniable, but what you will see are mosaics and bases of columns and walls. Unfortunately it still has not been fully restored due to lack of funds. Only for history buffs.
The site is near Sahinefendi, more than 30 km. Göreme.



OUR TOP 5
5- Love Valley: fulfill the dream of many by walking the valley of the rocks-penis or watching it from above; as it is spectacular.

Imagination 4- (Devrent) Valley and Pasabagi: if we're staying with the fixed idea after the Valley of Love, here you will be able to free your imagination.

3- Çavuşin: no excuses not to go, it is beside the Göreme and the carved huge rock is truly fabulous.

2 See the balloon flight at dawn from Aktepe Hill: hurts wake to such inhumane hours, but well worth the burning eyes. Watch the forecast and the sky before going, because if you went down there and do not go is very hard!

1- Red and Rose Valley: undisputed winner. Be sure to watch the sunset from the viewpoint Haçli is behind the church.


"MUSEUM PASS" PASS GENERAL FOR ALL PAYMENTS ATTRACTIONS

If you want to visit several of the places for which no entrance fee, you can get the Museum Pass, which costs 45 TL and includes the Göreme Open Air Museum (with Dark Church); Zelve Open Air Museum; the subterránes cities of Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı and Özkonak; Soganli Valley; Ihlara Valley (more than 80km from Goreme), among others.

You have in mind that it is only valid for 72 hours.

We believe there is no need to pay for these "museums" because the beauty of Cappadocia is its fantastic nature, and that you can watch for free.

BALLOON FLIGHT
The gondolas of Venice, camel ride at the Pyramids of Egypt, walking in flip flops by Mar del Plata and ... ballooning in Cappadocia! There are people traveling to Turkey almost exclusively to do this tour, we all saw the documentary and tourist brochures. So romantic, it was incredibly influential in the boom of tourism in this area.


To give you an idea, flights with Anatolian Balloons, one of the most recommended companies, start at 160 Euros for 45-60 minutes in a basket of between 20 and 25 people.


HOW TO MOVE AROUND Cappadocia?
As I said before, the best to go well is walking valleys remain until you legs like those of Pupi Zanetti. Well, maybe a little less, but we mean that you can walk get you to places you could not with a vehicle.

Public transport there, of course. The dolmuş (mini-buses) cover all people, but the frequency is not the best. Each trip costs about TL 3, depending on the distance to do.

The tours are definitely not our thing, so we do not recommend those. They may sound tempting if you have little time and covering several places, but there's nothing more boring than going in a van with other tourists up and down in the same places. 

So we say:
Walking everywhere!
Walking everywhere!

Tourism not work for Turkey, but we hope we have done our part to convince travel to Cappadocia.
Any questions, update, complaint, declaration of love or revolutionary idea, leave it in the comments that our dedicated team of two full time employees be given the importance it deserves.

Have a good trip!