Up, Up and Away in My Beautiful Balloon - Cappadocia and Konya, Turkey
Cappadocia and Konya, Turkey
5 AM wake -up call for those of us who were going on the hot air ballon ride over the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia. By 6:15AM we are boarding our 20 person baskets under huge balloons being inflated by hot air generated from propane burners. Lift-off occurred shortly after and we joined about 80 other balloons floating magically above the fairy chimneys famous in this area. Dawn brought shadows, oohs and aahs from all of us. The "flight" lasted 1 hour and I must have taken over a hundred pictures. Incredibly the balloon pilot landed our basket directly on the trailer- something I have never seen! A champagne toast celebrated our trip before returning to the hotel to join the rest of the tour group. I have been on other balloon trips but this one was, by far, the best! It was a magical experience and the highlight of the trip so far.
After a visit to a pottery shop that makes high end ceramic pieces using old world techniques, we are leaving Cappadocia and are now headed to Konya. It would be very easy to spend a lot more time in this area of Turkey. It is spectacular.
By the way, weather remains great- sunny, cool in the mornings but low 60s by mid-day. Also there are absolutely no bugs to contend with. We are happy campers.
In the category of "nothing is ever new "department we just stopped at the "original Holiday Inn"-a waypoint along the Silk Road where caravans spent the night to avoid bandits. These Caravanserai were built in the 13th century. The one we just visited was built in 1229 and is in remarkable shape.
The area of Turkey we are now traveling through remind us of the plains of Colorado or Eastern Washington, or Utah. Lots of open range, dry, almost desert-like conditions, very few trees and mountains in the background. Supposedly in ancient times this area was heavy treed; the country is actively reforesting the area.
The last stop today was at the former monastery which is now the Mevlana Rumi Museum. Mevlana was a highly respected philosopher/poet/theologian from the 13th century. After his death in 1273 his burial site in Konya became a shrine. His son and followers created the Mevlevi Order based on his teachings. The Mevlevi order is better known as the Whirling Dervishes, who sought a closer relationship to God through their dancing. The Mevlana museum is an important religious site to many Muslims.
The next section of our travels is taking us to Southwest Turkey where St. Paul spent a lot of his time and travels. We are learning that a considerable amount of early Christian activity occurred in Turkey.
Note from Yvonne......still afraid of heights....I skipped the balloon adventure. I was interviewed by a student at the museum who asked all about my interests in her country, my favorite foods, family life and personal habits. Her English skills were wonderful. I hope to be part of an "A" assignment.