A Quick Guide to Iceland (19 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Iceland )

Who wouldn't want to visit Iceland? If you are planning a trip to this majestic land of Ice and Fire, here are some tips I discovered during my recent Summer trip. Sharing is caring. 

Quick Guide: Cappadocia, Turkey.

image via reddit

When travelling to the moon is impossible, travelling to Cappadocia, Turkey is perhaps the best alternative available. The bizarre landscape in Cappadocia is out of this world, you might find yourself wide-eyed-bewildered, repeatedly questioning yourself: "Am I still on the surface of the earth?"

Quick Guide: Istanbul, Turkey

Get around the city: 

1. Tram: Purchase tokens from the machines at the stations. 2 TL each. All transits are included (counted as single journey).
2. Bus: İETT city public buses accept tokens, while private buses (green and white) only take Lira.
3. Taxi: Always ask for a price quote before you hop on.
4. Metro: Uses tokens.
5. Walking: Istanbul is a fantastic city to explore by foot, however, prepare good walking shoes as some of the streets are cobbled and some are slopes. Get a map of the city from your hostel.

Savings: 

1. Purchase a "museum pass" (valid 3/5 days ) if you are interested in museums. It allows you to skip queues.
2. An "Istanbulkart" can save you a lot of money if you are planning to stay more than 3 days and you know you are using a lot of public transit. It is an electronic refillable card used on buses, trains, and ferries!Several people can share 1 card.

Accommodation: 

Book a hotel in the Sultanahmet district.
Recommendations: Cordial House (I find it cozy and welcoming)
OR If you have more than 1 travel buddies, you can save more by renting an apartment on Roomorama, Stayful, Airbnb, Travelpony. (click on the orange link, sign up to get discounts and free nights.)

Read more: 10 Golden rule to score a FREE hotel stay

Culture: 

1. Dress modestly when visiting religious establishments. Prepare headscarves if you are visiting mosque.
2. Wash hands and remove shoes before entering a mosque.

3. Haggle for the best price in Bazaar. However, do not overdo it. 

See: 

Topkapi Palace
Hagia Sophia
Sultanahment Mosque (Blue Mosque)
Obelisk of III. Tutmosis
Basilica Cistern
Grand Bazaar
Spice Bazaar
Taksim Square
Dolmabahce palace
Süleymaniye Mosque
Galata Tower

Read more: 5 days in Istanbul (Itinerary Sharing)

Must Do: 

1. Enjoy a Bosphorus cruise.
2. Visit a Hamams.
3. Watch the Whirling Dervishes performance at the Galata Mevlevi Lodge.

4. Walk the Walls of Constantinople.
5. Haggle in Grand Bazaar.
6. Buy a Turkish Ice cream. Experience the fun. 

Read more: 15 FREE things to do in Istanbul

Must Eat:  

1. Balık ekmek at Eminonu pier.
2. Baclavas and turkish delight at Hafiz Mustafa.
3. Kebab at Sultanahmet Buhara Kebab House.

Read more: What to eat in Istanbul (15 MUST EATS)

Thank You for Reading! 

This post is based on my honest opinion and personal experience. 

 If you have more suggestions/ updates, feel free to share with us by commenting below!

QUICK GUIDE TO ROYAL MILE / OLD TOWN

image from www.123royalmile.com

Cutting through the heart of Edinburgh, The Royal Mile is the most visited street in Edinburgh. It is always buzzing with energy, jam packed with a lot to see, do and eat. Here, I've summarized a quick guide for those who are planning to "Walk the Mile"!