Two Oceans Aquarium

The southern tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, is the meeting place of two mighty oceans – the Indian and Atlantic – and the Two Oceans Aquarium in nearby Cape Town is perfectly placed to showcase the incredible diversity of marine life from both.

This Western Cape aquarium is among the top tourist attractions in the Mother City, and with over 8 000 specimens representing over 300 species in their care, it’s not hard to understand why.

Among its popular displays are the magnificent I&J Ocean Exhibit and the Predator Exhibit, the latter usually serving as the grand finale to a Two Oceans Aquarium visit. Here, in more than 2-billion litres of seawater, large ragged-tooth sharks patrol the tank as graceful rays, loggerhead turtles and shoals of giant yellowtail flash by.

If you hold an open-water diving certificate – and are feeling particularly brave – there is also the option of getting into the exhibit. Shark sightings are guaranteed! Those of a less bold nature can dive and feed the fishes by hand in the more sedate Kelp Forest exhibit.

While lacking in the visceral thrills of big marine predators, the Kelp Forest is equally popular; in fact, it is one of only 3 living kelp forests on display in an aquariumanywhere in the world. The exhibit contains three species of giant kelp that provide shelter to a variety of smaller fish species, and the simulated tidal movement of the water has a calming effect on all who spend time here.

There’s also a popular Penguin Exhibit, housing 2 species of penguin and other birds, reptiles and amphibians.

While adults will thoroughly enjoy the Two Oceans Aquarium, it’s the younger members of the family who will be really thrilled, especially when they discover the I&J Children’s Play Centre – or the Smart Living Challenge Zone, a fun series of interactive games that teach players about conserving the environment.

Mediterranean Region

Mediterranean Region is known as Akdeniz in Turkish. Bordered by the Aegean to the west, central Anatolia to the north and South-Eastern Anatolia to the east. This lush mountainous region that features the Toros mountains, has a semi-arid climate with dry summers and mild winters. Very popular with tourists, as not only does it host magnificent beaches but also perfect for the explorer and adventure lover.

Antalya
With ancient cities hidden among forests with oxygen-rich air, Antalya is a holiday paradise offering much more than one might expect.

Adana
While history buffs can enjoy exploring the ruins of ancient cities, nature-lovers find repose breathing the cool, clean air in the Taurus Mountains.

Burdur
Burdur has ruins from many civilizations, revealing a true combination of various aesthetic tastes.

Aegean Region

Aegean Region of Turkey has its beautiful landscapes, dazzling coastlines, immaculate beaches, pine woods and olive groves. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, history buffs and adrenaline junkies. Many popular holiday villages and fishing harbours are scattered up and down the coast.

İzmir
The beautiful İzmir pulls you into a world of picturesque modernity and traditions, with its refreshing touches to the human souls.

Aydın
The city of Aydın, the homeland of tasteful figs takes you to the centre of ancient sculptures that inspire the modern arts.

Denizli
Eye-catching artefacts around the astonishing white miracle of nature will take your breath away!

Muğla
Muğla brings together the perfect combination of culture, history and sun-soaked relaxation on crystal clear waters.

Marmara Region

Marmara Region where east indeed meets west. To the north west, Greece and Bulgaria add to local traditions. Istanbul, Turkey’s largest and most vibrant city stands, a bustling, vibrant, cosmopolitan hive of energy. Soaked in history and reminisce of the Ottoman times. The ancient Ottoman capital of Bursa is known not only for its historic architecture but also where Turkey’s elite spend their winters skiing on the mountain of Uludağ. A must visit region for every traveller.

Edirne
Located north of Tekirdağ, Edirne (Adrianople) was the Ottoman capital for many years.

Çanakkale
Çanakkale is the honourable resting place for the soldiers who lost their lives in Gelibolu.

Bursa
The city of Bursa, southeast of the Sea of Marmara, lies on the lower slopes of Mount Uludağ (Mt. Olympos of Mysia, 2543m), with the city deriving its name from its founder King Prusias of Bithynia.

Balıkesir
In the province of Balıkesir interesting historical sites seem to harmoniously blend with nature.

Southeastern Anatolia

If you want to escape the sun-sea-sand holiday makers and experience Turkey’s more traditional side, then this is the region for you. A crossroads of civilizations in biblical times. The Syriac monasteries in Mardin and Midyat still chant in Aramaic. The summers are long and dry. As the region is perfect for agriculture, you won’t be surprised that the best kebabs and vegetables are part of everyday life as you feast on the local cuisine.

Şanlıurfa
Predating Stonehenge by 6000 years, Şanlıurfa’s Göbeklitepe upends the widely-held views on the rise of civilization.

Mardin
With an architectural heritage that bedecks the steep slopes with elegantly built golden houses, Mardin guides you to a rich cultural and religious diversity unfolded in every corner.

Central Anatolia

Central Anatolia, known as the cradle of civilization is home to many museums, the capital city Ankara, the famous chimney rocks of Cappadocia and the land of Mevlana in Konya. Many of the carpets that you’ll see around the country are woven in small villages in this region. This plateau like area usually has very hot and dry summers.

Sivas
As an important commercial centre during the Middle Ages, Sivas stood at the junction of the caravan routes to Persia and Baghdad.

Niğde
Nahita of Hittite times sheltering ancient civilizations and natural beauties.

Nevşehir
The apple of Cappadocia’s eye inspiring human imagination with its heavily-populated glittering fairy chimneys.

Black Sea Region

Tea, hazelnuts, cherry orchards and fresh sardines is what the region is known for. A chilly sea to the north and lush green mountain slopes to the south. A favourite area for avid cyclists and adventure seekers. Lined with seaside towns and mostly undeveloped beaches. This region is perfect for those who want to enjoy stunning back-drops in small sleepy fishing villages.

Trabzon
An inspiration for world-renowned travellers like Xenophon, and Evliya Çelebi who immortalized Trabzon in his travel book.

Sinop
The northernmost tip of Turkey welcomes you to the homeland of the famous philosopher, Diogenes the Cynic.