For those visiting Eastern Anatolia for the first time, here are 4 great reasons.
Traveling is no longer limited to seaside, sand, and sun; people are increasingly seeking and preferring different experiences. Especially in Turkey, the concept of vacation is changing towards discovering new cultures and having unique experiences. Moving away from crowded beaches and restaurants and finding peace in a tranquil Anatolian town is becoming a trend. Visiting ancient cities and wandering through historical streets seems more appealing to people.
The Southeastern and Eastern Anatolia regions have always been a center of interest with their mystical atmospheres. In recent years, with the increase in organized tours and comfortable boutique hotels, interest in these regions has further increased.
In this article titled "4 Great Reasons to Visit Eastern Anatolia," attention is drawn to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia regions. Along with the historical and cultural riches such as Ani Ruins, Sarıkamış, Harput, and Van Castles, it is emphasized that magnificent flavors can also be found. Traditional dishes like meat meals, kebabs, stuffed meatballs, and baklava form the gastronomic richness of these regions.
The warm and hospitable people of Anatolia, combined with comfortable boutique hotels in the region, offer visitors an unforgettable experience. These regions provide a peaceful holiday opportunity, especially for those who want to escape the crowds and noise of seaside resorts.
In conclusion, Eastern Anatolia's mystical atmosphere, rich historical and cultural heritage, magnificent flavors, and warm people make it a destination waiting to be discovered.
To sum up;
1- Rich History and Cultural Heritage: Eastern Anatolia is home to a rich historical and cultural heritage among the oldest settlements in Anatolia. Visitors can explore many historical sites, from ancient ruins to medieval castles. Places like Ani Ruins, Sarıkamış, Harput, and Van Castles shed light on the region's diverse past.
2- Delicious Cuisine: Eastern Anatolia boasts a delicious culinary tradition enriched with centuries-old recipes and local ingredients. Visitors can taste delicious dishes like kebabs, stuffed meatballs, and baklava, experiencing the region's gastronomic delights firsthand. Although it's hard to choose, here are a few places that stand out;
Hasan Usta's Place (Kars): One of Kars' famous restaurants, Hasan Usta's Place is known for its traditional flavors, especially its liver kebab. Additionally, you can find traditional Kars flavors such as poppy seed bread and katmer here.
Kümbet Traditional Cuisine Restaurant (Erzurum): This restaurant offers traditional Erzurum cuisine, especially famous for its cağ kebab and kadayıf dolması. The dishes prepared with local ingredients offer guests a rich taste experience.
Hacı Baba Ciğerci (Ağrı): One of Ağrı's most popular liver kebab restaurants, Hacı Baba is known for its fresh and delicious liver kebabs. Here you can also taste traditional flavors like stuffed vine leaves, lamb tandir, and curd.
Yeni Gün Restaurant (Van): If you want to experience one of Van's famous breakfasts, Yeni Gün Restaurant is a good choice. Here you can find Van's herbal cheese, kuymak, and kuşgömü, among other regional breakfast delights.
Taşhan (Elazığ): Taşhan, a historic venue in Elazığ, offers its traditional flavors in a modern setting. Here you can taste traditional delicacies like poppy seed pastries, liver kebab, and hummus.
3- Warm Hospitality: People in Eastern Anatolia are known for their hospitality and are happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Staying in a cozy boutique hotel or dining in a local restaurant ensures that guests are welcomed with kindness and generosity, making their travels truly unforgettable. Here are some of the first ones that come to mind;
Renaissance Palace Hotel (Erzurum): This hotel, located in the heart of Erzurum, reflects the city's historical atmosphere in a modern way. With its Ottoman-style decoration and comfortable rooms, it stands out. Additionally, the hotel's restaurant offers both local and international flavors.
Mavilim Hotel (Van): Overlooking the magnificent view of Lake Van, this hotel is located in the heart of the city. With its rooms decorated with natural stone and wood details, it offers guests a comfortable accommodation opportunity. Also, watching the sunset from the hotel's terrace is an unforgettable experience.
Güngören Guest House (Kars): This guest house, where you can feel the historic atmosphere of Kars, serves in a restored old stone building. With its authentic decoration and warm atmosphere, it attracts attention. Guests can enjoy traditional Kars breakfast and explore the city's historical sites.
Aras Hotel (Ağrı): Located in the center of Ağrı, this boutique hotel stands out with its modern design. With its comfortable rooms, restaurant, and terrace, it offers guests a peaceful accommodation experience. Additionally, the hotel's staff is known for their hospitality.
Lalezar Hotel (Elazığ): Located in the heart of Elazığ, this hotel reminiscent of Elazığ's historic mansions. With its rooms decorated with stone and wood details, it offers guests a unique accommodation experience. The hotel's restaurant offers not only local flavors but also options from international cuisine.
4- Peaceful and Authentic Experience: Unlike crowded tourist destinations, Eastern Anatolia offers a tranquil and authentic travel experience. Visitors can escape the chaos of city life and enjoy the region's peaceful nature, charming villages, and traditional way of life. This is a way to create memories that will last a lifetime.
