We decided to brave the expense (and the early morning wake up) to see the sun rise over the surreal landscape of Cappadocia in central Turkey, from hot air balloon. The bus picked us up bright and early from our hostel and transported us to the take off point, where there were about 3 other balloons with the same idea. Before we knew it we were climbing into the large basket, and were being whisked smoothly and swiftly up, up and away.

The views were spectacular taking off over the intriguing 'moonscape' and I was surprised by how smooth and relaxing the ride was. In fact I couldn't help being slightly disappointed that I wasn't even a little scared! Sixteen people in our basket made things very cozy indeed, detracting slightly from the amazing sights surrounding us as we jostled for an unobstructed view. I guess we learnt that the cheapest deal is not always the best! Regardless, it was a memorable experience that I would recommend, but only if the budget allows it.

The best experience of our month long journey through Greece and Turkey was hiring mopeds in Goreme and setting off into the country side. I wore a painted grin the entire time (partly out of fear!) as we zipped through villages, hurtled down long straight roads slicing through acres of farmland, discovered out of the way excavation sites and competed with tractors, cattle and sheep for road space. I found it difficult to concentrate on the rode with such amazing and varied landscape whizzing past.
We survived the busy intersections of Urgup, and stopped for a lovely lunch in Mustafapasa. Despite it being Ramadan, the restaurant owners prepared a tasty meal of menemen (a vegetable and egg dish served on a sizzling stone plate), salad and, of course, tea in tiny tulip shaped glasses.
Around every corner was an unexpected sight, from baffling formations carved out by nature to man made underground cities and cave dwellings built by ancient civilizations.

We knew we were the only tourists around as we were the only geeks wearing helmets and traveling under 60 km an hour! The locals made us feel welcome, however, by waving from the fields and beeping their tractor horns. Their greetings were always accompanied by big grins and curious expressions, except for the local children who played 'chicken' by standing in the middle of the road, and threw stones at us when we rode past their homes! It all added to the adventure- kids are mischievous everywhere I guess...

Next, we explored the ancient underground city of Kaymakli. We caught a bus to Nevsehir where we then caught a dolmus (mini bus) to the entrance of the city. It was a fun afternoon exploring the underground caves and eavesdropping on tour guides for free information about the purpose of different rooms. Try to avoid the large tour groups, however, it can get pretty cosy down there.

Definitely try to get to Cappadocia when in Turkey- it has to be seen to be believed! We made the eleven hour overnight journey by bus from Antalya in southern Turkey, which was a bit of a killer, but the cheapest way to get there. Beware of people trying to sell you tours, balloon rides and accommodation in Nevsehir, the last stop before Goreme. Agents in cahoots with the bus companies pounce on exhausted, unsuspecting tourists!
Flights to Kayseri, the main airport in Cappadocia, can be quite cheap if you book them in advance, so there is no excuse not to check out this crazy place!