Turkey is a Gem

There is a song from a movie that premiered during my teen years, Smokey and the Bandit, that said “we’re gonna do what they say can’t be done.” Well we did it. Twenty-four of us traveled to Turkey and back. Not only did we have a fantastic time, but two weeks later, everyone is still Covid-19 free. We followed the protocols set forth by the airlines, the hotels, the restaurants, and the sites. We wore masks, practiced social distancing, washed our hands and can celebrate the fact that international travel is possible even in this uncertain and at times somewhat frightening moment in history.

Turkey is a gem of a trip that folks don’t consider as often as they should. We too often lump it in with other places in the region and really have never explored it on its own merits. It is a country rich in history, both biblical and generally. It is a large country, the size of Texas, with a diverse landscape and population. When you start the conversation with “it is located on two continents” that should be a signal that something unique is here. Poised of the edge of Europe and Asia on the Bosporus Strait, it links not only the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, it links the truly ancient with the modern. From the hustle of Istanbul (ancient Constantinople) to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, it is a truly amazing place.

You cannot travel here without sensing the enormity of the significance of the place. Its place in Christian history cemented by hosting the first three ecumenical councils, the Council of Nicaea 325 AD, First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD, and The Council of Ephesus in 431 AD. But it goes back farther to Paul’s missionary journeys and John the Revelator’s seven churches. Turkey should be a must see on every Christian pilgrims’ bucket lists. The people are friendly and welcoming. It is an inexpensive place to travel and has such a diversity of Christian sites to visit, but also boasts hot air balloon rides over Cappadocia and sailing to the Mediterranean islands in a private gulet.

As you can tell, I am a fan of Turkey. In fact, as we returned from our trip, everyone was saying we need to tell more people about this place. I hope you will add it to your list of places to go. Also, remember that safe travel is possible if you follow the guidelines, protocols and precautions.

Tom Smith
Executive Director of Travel Ministry
EO Tours