While space tourism is coming on in great leaps, the reality of jetting off to the moon is not going to be a reality for a fair few years. You can however, take a hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia, Turkey, where the lunar landscape ticks “other worldly” boxes, like nowhere else on our planet!
Image by SashSegal CC0
What’s so special about Cappadocia?
Quite simply, it is a geological oddity that will blow your mind. Undulating landscapes punctuated by sharp volcanic peaks, and the locals were true troglodytes, living in homes carved from the soft volcanic rock. It is a unique place to visit that should be on every globetrotting bucket list.
Image by ddouk CC0
Make sure you get a birds eye view
Booking a flight in a hot air balloon is a must when you visit. While most of the attractions in Cappadocia are underground, the view from above is unmissable. Think pseudo-psychedelic volcanic landscapes, fairy chimneys, and sensuous folding valleys. Balloon rides usually set off around sunrise, which means you get to see the whole spectacular landscape bathed in the most beautiful light.
Image by Hans CC0
Stay in a (posh) cave
Would you believe there is such a thing as a 5 Star Cave? The cave hotels in the area are restored troglodyte dwellings that have been given a luxurious contemporary re-vamp, often with reclaimed stone, iron and wood. You can expect wi-fi, spa baths, and TVs. Wondering why Cappadocia’s residents choose to live in caves? The volcanic rock in the area is soft, so easy to excavate, and is an excellent insulation material, keeping the rooms at a perfectly pleasant 17 – 20 degrees all year round.
Image by LaCamila CC0
Go To Göreme Open-Air Museum
The finest examples of rock-cut churches and colorful fresh-as-the-day-they-were-done frescos from the 10th, 11th and 12th Centuries draw everyone who visits Cappadocia to Göreme Open-Air Museum. It is a wonderful chance to experience the stunning landscape and the unique architecture of the chapel clusters up close.
Image by Hans CC0
Don’t forget your travel insurance!
Recreational hot air balloon rides are covered automatically on our travel insurance policies, so you’ll be covered for that as well as lost or stolen luggage, passports, or holiday money, cancelled flights, medical assistance, repatriation…. Just give us a call on 01892 833338 or get a quote online.
Please note: Policies, terms, and conditions may change. All information published in this blog pertaining to travel insurance from worldwideinsure.com is only deemed valid at the time of publication.