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Danielle's answer about things to do in Istanbul, Port Jackson and Greece

Hey !

Your question specified places to travel to "next". I hope you haven't already visited any of the following three countries I've suggested ! If you have, do get back to us with a list of the trips you have already taken so we can come up with some brand new alternatives. Right now I've suggested three different places, and I've described some of the attractions waiting for you in each :)

World on a String (Source: Ken Bosma) 

The Islands of Greece

Combine adventure and romance in a sailing trip around the Greek Islands ! Most of them would be relatively tourist-free, and what is more romantic than a beautiful, secluded beach :) Here are some more details about these island paradises :

1. Mykonos
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One of the most renowned tourist destinations in the world! Mykonos is the most famous Greek island in the world and the favorite destination of celebrities from around the globe. It is also one of the most beautiful Cycladic islands with many bare hills, amazing sandy beaches, exceptionally well-preserved Cycladic architecture, white chapels and uniquely beautiful landscapes.

Mykonos glitters happily under the sun and carries its glamorous and camp reputation with panache, but expensively so. Beneath the gloss this is a charming and hugely entertaining place where the sometimes frantic mix of good-time holidaymakers, cruise ship crowds, posturing fashionistas and preening celebrities is magically subdued by the cubist charms of Mykonos town, a traditional Cycladic maze.

(Source:  Lonely Planet) 

Don't miss the Windmills, a unique trait of this tiny island. Also, check out the local town market and visit the cafes for some authentic Greek food. Explore Little Venice, at the southwest end of the port, which is dotted with handsome Venetian-style houses and was once owned by fishing captains.

Mykonos (Source: Harvey Barrison) 

Don't forget to taste some of its traditional products. Mykonos is famous for kopanisti, a cheese with peppery flavor, and other local products such as the sun dried Myconian sausages made with aromatic herbs, and its sweets - mainly its amigdalota (cookies with almonds).

Saragli and Amigdalota (Source: Alpha) 

2. Santorini
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It is one of the most famous islands of the Cyclades as well as one of the most renowned Greek islands around the globe. Santorini presents a unique geological phenomenon, as today it is what has been left from the initial one (Stroggyli), which was submerged into the sea after the eruption of its volcano during the 16th century B.C.

Santorini is famous for its spectacular sunsets. The village of Oia on the northern tip of the island is a hugely popular sunset viewing site because there is an uninterrupted view of the sun as it finally sinks below the horizon. It is also famous for its local production of wine as the vines have been cultivated since the ancient times. The varieties Asirtiko, Athiri, Aidani, Mandilaria and Mavrotragano are cultivated here, while the wine known as “Vintsatoâ€Â is an exceptional one, produced by a mixture of Asirtiko and Aidani.

Don't miss the archeological wonders at Akortiri and Thira.

Santorini  (Source: Harvey Barrison) 

3. Crete
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With crystal sea waters; ragged and lofty mountains; famous museums and ancient settlements; awe-inspiring caves and ravines known since prehistoric times; frescoes rendered in vibrant colors; clement weather; captivating beach fronts offering luxury hotel accommodations; a magical island interior composed of picturesque villages; traditional and heartfelt hospitality; and an outstanding local cuisine, Crete is unique and the largest one among Greek islands with a total surface area of 8,336 sq. km and over 1,000 kilometers of coastline.

Crete is more like a small country than another Greek island. It's not just Greece's largest island, but arguably its most fascinating and diverse. Its remarkable history is evident across the island, from the ruins of the Minoan palace of Knossos to the Venetian fortresses of Rethymo; from old mosques and Byzantine monasteries to the cave that is the legendary birthplace of Zeus.

 (Source: Lonely Planet) 

 Crete (Source: Wolfgang Staudt) 

For some major sights and attractions, check out this page.

4. North-Eastern Aegean Islands
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Thick rays of sunlight along with monuments of Greek history without fighting any crowds - can it get better than this? That's why the North-Eastern Aegean Islands feature in my list!

It is stated that most visitors skip this place and head instead to Santorini. But if you take a tour of the North-Eastern Aegean Islands, you'll be assured an experience unique by itself! 

The North East Aegean islands consist of the islands of Samos, Hios, Ikaria, Fournoi, Oinousses, Psara, Lesbos, Agios Efstratios and Limnos. The island of Thassos is also often included in this group of islands, though geologically speaking, it is actually part of the Eastern Macedonia region of North Greece.

Their natural beauty, the crystal clear waters, the traditional villages with their stoned built houses, a lot of green and forests with running waters, make them the ideal place even for the most demanding visitors that are looking for quiet holidays.

Wonderful laced beaches with clear waters, hospitable inhabitants and natural beauty will offer you unforgettable moments and memories to cherish forever.

You can visit Archaeological museums, castles, monasteries and churches that will take you back on a magical journey through time.

 (Source: North East Aegean Islands Greece) 

So, what to visit: The Street Bazaar in Mytilini on Lesbos island, the 11th Century monastery standing amid olive groves in Chios, the Ephesus Museum. When on Lesbos Island, also consider visiting the fishing village Skala Sikaminias. For what? For a beautiful beach, off-the-beaten-path. smiley
   

Chios Port (Source: Dimitris Sou) 

Sydney

A city so popular, a lot of people believe it is the capital of Australia ! Romantic and adventurous, there's a lot of fun to be had in Sydney. If you are more a cosmopolitan person than a nature lover, you may prefer this option to Greece.

1. Sydney Opera House
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 (Source: Hai Linh Truong) 

Sydney Opera House built in 1973 is now a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most famous centers of performing arts. The architect of the Opera House Jorn Utzon was awarded with the Pritzker prize.

The Pritzker Prize citation stated:
"There is no doubt that the Sydney Opera House is his masterpiece. It is one of the great iconic buildings of the 20th century, an image of great beauty that has become known throughout the world - a symbol for not only a city, but a whole country and continent.

 (Source: Wikipedia) 

You can take a guided tour of the backstage and experience  what goes behind the scene of a performance. You can relax at the restaurants & bars or go shopping. You can also take a walk to the Royal Botanical Garden-Free of cost.

For information about various types of tour offers and cost. click on the link

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
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 (Source: Jono Haysom) 

The Harbour bridge in Sydney is also known as the Coat-hanger and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Australia was opened in 1932 and is made of steel.The harbour Bridge connects the city with the North shore which has eight lanes of traffic and two railway tracks. The most adventurous experience is climbing 1500 meter over the arch and is not recommened for if you do not have an apitite for adventure, however if you clmb the bridge you will have the most magnificent view of Sydney that will last a life time for sure.

Here is what a traveler has to say about Harbour Bridge Climbing:

Dont miss the bridge climb when you visit Sydney. It is once in a lifetime climb.

 (Source: BridgeClimb Sydney) 

To find out more about the itenarary and booking for Bridge climbing, visit this link

Dinner & Lunch cruises on Sydney Harbour are also popular.

3. Bondi Beach
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Bondi Beach Surfers (Source: Robert Engberg) 

Bondi is probably the most famous beach in Sydney, and a top spot for surfing. If you wish to enjoy the sun and sand, this is where you should head.

Take the bus down to Bondi beach and soak up the afternoon sun, check out the surfers, sunbathe or take a swim. After a sunny salty hour go and get some typical Aussie food; Fish 'n chips and beer at a bar/restaurant with a view over the beach. Beer is more than just a beverage in Australia, it has become part of their culture.

City Guide 24 Hours In Sydney, Australia (Source: Lonely Planet) 

Another great place to relax is at any of the beaches around Sydney.

This is really what makes Sydney such a special cosmopolitan city - the golden beautiful beaches and great surfing pretty much in the middle of it all!

Things To Do In Sydney, Australia For Free! (Source: Lonely Planet) 

You can even learn to surf, if you feel upto it. Follow this link for more details.

4. The Rocks
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The Rocks is the oldest part of the city. This is where the place the British convicts built their camps. It is best explored on foot. The Rocks visitors center conducts some great walking tours, or you can even explore on your own!

The Rock, where Sydney first began in 1788 when the first European settlers start their camp here. In the past a rough place, it has now beautiful renovated warehouses, sailors' home, charming restaurants and a pretty touristic market for all your souvenirs

Sydney top 10 on a budget - Lonely Planet (Source: Sydney top 10 on a budget - Lonely Planet) 

Check out the famous market in The Rocks, where the farmers market and designer market blend in with each other and you can buy all from home made lemonade and candy, to everything you can possibly make out of Kangaroo balls...

City Guide  24 Hours In Sydney, Australia (Source: Lonely Planet)

"The Rocks", Sydney Australia (Source: Richard Taylor) 

Istanbul

If immersing yourself in a new culture is adventurous for you, then the beautiful city of Istanbul is a great option. WIth the mystique of the East and popular entertainment like a hot nightlife scene, this Turkish city can be as romantic as you want it to be.

1. Blue Mosque
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The Blue Mosque has been Turkey's mascot to the world for many years. Standing majestically over the Sultanahmet Park, it proudly proclaims its stature. Under the glorious dome are hundreds of brilliant stained-glass windows that sparkle like jewels. Although called the Blue mosque, the facade is as likely to be orange, red or yellow, depending on the time that you choose to visit it.

Hagia Sophia (Source: Andrew E. Larsen) 

What's so blue about the Blue Mosque? Not much.

Istanbul's imperial Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I (Sultan Ahmet Camii) is called the Blue Mosque because of its interior tiles, mostly on the upper level and difficult to see unless you're right up there with them.

Forget the blue tiles! The mosque (built 1603-17) is the masterwork of Ottoman architect Sedefkar Mehmet Aga. It's built on the site of the Great Palace of Byzantium, on the southeastern side of the Hippodrome (map).

With its six minarets and a great cascade of domes, the mosque is a worthy sibling to Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) just a few minutes' stroll to the north.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), Istanbul (Source: Turkeyplanner) 

The Blue Mosque at night (Source: David Spender) 

2. Topkapi Palace
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The ruling seat of the Ottoman throne for 5 centuries, the Topkapi Palace is a magnificent historical site and a must-see. I recommend a guided tour so you can learn a lot. For a little extra, you can also see the harem.

Today Topkapi Palace functions as a museum and only a very small part of its original domain and environment can be appreciated. The ravages of time have resulted in the destruction (by fire) and the demolition (through new building) of many of its original structures. Despite this, the original 15th century spatial organization based on a triple courtyard order that integrates, segregates, and defines the palace's residential, ceremonial, and functional requirements has remained remarkably intact.

(Source: Topkapı palace Istanbul, Turkey) 

 

Topkapi Palace Istanbul (Source: Topkapi Palace Istanbul) 

3. Grand Bazaar
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The Grand Bazaar is THE place to shop and I must warn you that the bazaar itself is way grander than what its name suggests. It covers over 4000 shops with practically everything you can think of buying, apart from the mosques and restaurants and other places you can rest and take a break because you will certainly need one! Open 8.30AM to 7PM Monday to Saturday.

Tourist shops selling glittery geegaws line the main streets, but delve into the back streets and you'll still find Istanbullus buying a few metres of cloth, a gold bangle for a daughter's birthday, a beautifully crafted gold-plated 'eye' to ward off evil or an antique carpet. Before you visit, prepare yourself properly. Make sure you're in a good mood and energised, ready to swap friendly banter with the hundreds of shopkeepers who will attempt to lure you into their establishments. Finally, abandon this guide at your hotel and explore.

(Source: Lonely Planet) 

Just one of many hallways in the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul (Source: Frank Kovalchek) 

4. Bosphorus Night Cruise
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The Bosphorus ferry ride during night hours is one of the most romantic activities in the city compounded with a feeling of adventure. You can enjoy the view of the old city behind you with its twinkling lights while searchlights of passing ferries mesmerize you as you look ahead.

Here's a review from Fodor's:

One of the most pleasant experiences in Istanbul - and an easy way to escape the chaos of the city - is a trip up the Bosphorus by ferry from the Eminonu docks in the Old Town. Along the way you'll see wooded hills; villages large and small, modern and old-fashioned; the old wooden summer homes called yalis (waterside houses) that were built for the city's wealthier residents in the Ottoman era; and the grand palaces of Besiktas.

 (Source: Fodor's Travel Guides) 

Ferry Timings: Daily evening at every half hour frequency, last ferry between 11.00 pm and 12.00am

Ferry ticket is priced at USD 1.71.

Click here for more information.

Bosphorus  (Source: Robin) 

Hope the information I've given you helps you to dream about your next trip in more detail ! :) Once you have chosen a destination, do get back to us because there is a lot we can help you with, from flights to souvenir shopping and all that comes in between - accommodation, restaurants, attractions, transport options and more.

Cheers,

Danielle


July 11, 2011  •  Like   •  Add comment   •  Ask question


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