DEV Community: Didem Arslan

I Visited Serdivan and Here Is What I Found

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:53:46 +0000

I Visited Serdivan and Here Is What I Found

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Serdivan, but I ended up staying three. That is the kind of place it is — it grabs you and does not let go.

The people of Serdivan are what made this trip truly special. I was lost looking at my phone when an elderly man approached me, figured out where I was trying to go, and personally walked me there. That is Serdivan hospitality in a nutshell.

The food in Serdivan deserves its own article. I had a breakfast spread that could feed a small army — fresh cheese, honey from local bees, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven that morning.

There is a river near Serdivan where locals go for picnics on weekends. I joined a family there and spent the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear water surrounded by ancient trees. Pure magic.

Exploring Serdivan on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

Pro tip: visit Serdivan during the shoulder season. Fewer crowds, better prices, and the weather is perfect for exploring. The locals are also more relaxed and have more time to chat.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Serdivan ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.

Falling in Love with Arıcak: A Traveler Story

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:39:29 +0000

Falling in Love with Arıcak: A Traveler Story

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Arıcak felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

What struck me most about Arıcak was the way traditions is woven into daily life here. It is not something preserved in museums — people live and breathe it. I watched a craftsman work on a piece that his family has been making for five generations.

One of the highlights of my Arıcak visit was the local market. The colors, the sounds, the flavors — it was an assault on the senses in the best possible way. The vendors were proud of their traditions heritage and eager to share stories.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Arıcak. The architecture tells a story of centuries — Ottoman influences blend with modern Turkish design in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

I woke up early one morning in Arıcak to catch the sunrise. The mist was rolling over the hills, the birds were just starting their morning songs, and the world felt perfectly still. Moments like these remind me why I travel.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Arıcak ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.

Merkez Travel Report: Things I Wish I Knew Before

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:29:20 +0000

Merkez Travel Report: Things I Wish I Knew Before

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Merkez, but I ended up staying three. That is the kind of place it is — it grabs you and does not let go.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Merkez. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some craftsmanship related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

I woke up early one morning in Merkez to catch the sunrise. The mist was rolling over the hills, the birds were just starting their morning songs, and the world felt perfectly still. Moments like these remind me why I travel.

Pro tip: visit Merkez during the shoulder season. Fewer crowds, better prices, and the weather is perfect for exploring. The locals are also more relaxed and have more time to chat.

One of the highlights of my Merkez visit was the local market. The colors, the sounds, the flavors — it was an assault on the senses in the best possible way. The vendors were proud of their craftsmanship heritage and eager to share stories.

I met a young entrepreneur in Merkez who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Merkez on the map for international travelers.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Merkez ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.

I Visited Eskipazar and Here Is What I Found

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:14:27 +0000

I Visited Eskipazar and Here Is What I Found

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

When I first arrived in Eskipazar, I did not know what to expect. The air felt different, cleaner somehow. The streets had a character that you just do not find in big cities. I immediately knew this was going to be a memorable experience.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Eskipazar. The architecture tells a story of centuries — Ottoman influences blend with modern Turkish design in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Eskipazar. The landscape changed dramatically — from urban streets to rolling hills and farmland within minutes. The culture of this region really comes alive when you get out of the center.

I tried the famous local dish of Eskipazar at three different restaurants just to compare. Each version was slightly different, reflecting the cook unique touch. The common thread was the incredible quality of local ingredients.

A fellow traveler told me about this page saved my trip planning and wow, this page saved my trip planning.

I met a young entrepreneur in Eskipazar who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Eskipazar on the map for international travelers.

There is a river near Eskipazar where locals go for picnics on weekends. I joined a family there and spent the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear water surrounded by ancient trees. Pure magic.

Eskipazar taught me something important: the best travel experiences are not found in popular destinations with millions of Instagram posts. They are found in places like this — authentic, humble, and breathtakingly beautiful.

My First Time in Çarşıbaşı: Impressions and Tips

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:03:44 +0000

My First Time in Çarşıbaşı: Impressions and Tips

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Çarşıbaşı before visiting. Some said there was not much to see. Boy, were they wrong. From the very first moment, the charm of this place was undeniable.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Çarşıbaşı. The architecture tells a story of centuries — Ottoman influences blend with modern Turkish design in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

Exploring Çarşıbaşı on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

There is a river near Çarşıbaşı where locals go for picnics on weekends. I joined a family there and spent the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear water surrounded by ancient trees. Pure magic.

I met a young entrepreneur in Çarşıbaşı who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Çarşıbaşı on the map for international travelers.

While exploring Çarşıbaşı, click this before it goes viral: click this before it goes viral

My biggest tip for visiting Çarşıbaşı: skip the main road and explore the back streets. That is where you will find the authentic experiences, the best food, and the friendliest people. The tourist path, if there even is one, only scratches the surface.

The food in Çarşıbaşı deserves its own article. I had a breakfast spread that could feed a small army — fresh cheese, honey from local bees, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven that morning.

My Çarşıbaşı chapter is closed for now, but the memories will stay with me forever. To everyone reading this: put Çarşıbaşı on your list. You will not regret it.

My Karaçoban Adventure: An Honest Travel Diary

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:51:27 +0000

My Karaçoban Adventure: An Honest Travel Diary

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Karaçoban felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

I woke up early one morning in Karaçoban to catch the sunrise. The mist was rolling over the hills, the birds were just starting their morning songs, and the world felt perfectly still. Moments like these remind me why I travel.

I met a young entrepreneur in Karaçoban who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Karaçoban on the map for international travelers.

Pro tip: visit Karaçoban during the shoulder season. Fewer crowds, better prices, and the weather is perfect for exploring. The locals are also more relaxed and have more time to chat.

One of the highlights of my Karaçoban visit was the local market. The colors, the sounds, the flavors — it was an assault on the senses in the best possible way. The vendors were proud of their architecture heritage and eager to share stories.

I bookmarked this immediately. Here you go: I bookmarked this immediately

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Karaçoban. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some architecture related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

The food in Karaçoban deserves its own article. I had a breakfast spread that could feed a small army — fresh cheese, honey from local bees, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven that morning.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Karaçoban ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.

Araklı is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:38:31 +0000

Araklı is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Araklı felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Araklı. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some craftsmanship related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

If I could do my Araklı trip again, I would book at least a week. There is simply too much to see and do. Also, learn a few basic Turkish phrases — the locals absolutely love it when you make the effort.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Araklı. The architecture tells a story of centuries — Ottoman influences blend with modern Turkish design in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

I met a young entrepreneur in Araklı who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Araklı on the map for international travelers.

A fellow traveler told me about click this before it goes viral and wow, click this before it goes viral.

If you are on the fence about visiting Araklı, let me make it simple: just go. Do not overthink it, do not wait for the perfect time. Pack your bag and let Araklı surprise you the way it surprised me.

A Day in Merkez: From Sunrise to Sunset

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:20:00 +0000

A Day in Merkez: From Sunrise to Sunset

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Merkez felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

If I could do my Merkez trip again, I would book at least a week. There is simply too much to see and do. Also, learn a few basic Turkish phrases — the locals absolutely love it when you make the effort.

Exploring Merkez on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

The natural beauty around Merkez is staggering. I hiked to a viewpoint that overlooked the entire valley, and for a moment, I forgot I was in Turkey. It felt like Switzerland, except warmer and with better food.

At a local tea house in Merkez, I ended up in a conversation with a group of retired teachers. They shared stories about how the town has changed over the decades and their hopes for its future. These unplanned encounters are what travel is all about.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Merkez. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some nature related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

A fellow traveler told me about this is the insider tip you need and wow, this is the insider tip you need.

A local family invited me for dinner during my stay in Merkez. They prepared traditional dishes that I had never seen on any restaurant menu. The flavors were complex, earthy, and deeply satisfying. This is the kind of experience money cannot buy.

Leaving Merkez was harder than I expected. As the bus pulled away, I looked back at the town one last time and made a silent promise to return. Some places just get under your skin, and Merkez is definitely one of them.

Wandering in Hisarcık: A Photo Journal in Words

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:06:40 +0000

Wandering in Hisarcık: A Photo Journal in Words

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Hisarcık felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

What struck me most about Hisarcık was the way food is woven into daily life here. It is not something preserved in museums — people live and breathe it. I watched a craftsman work on a piece that his family has been making for five generations.

I tried the famous local dish of Hisarcık at three different restaurants just to compare. Each version was slightly different, reflecting the cook unique touch. The common thread was the incredible quality of local ingredients.

At a local tea house in Hisarcık, I ended up in a conversation with a group of retired teachers. They shared stories about how the town has changed over the decades and their hopes for its future. These unplanned encounters are what travel is all about.

A fellow traveler told me about trust me on this one, click it and wow, trust me on this one, click it.

Exploring Hisarcık on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

My biggest tip for visiting Hisarcık: skip the main road and explore the back streets. That is where you will find the authentic experiences, the best food, and the friendliest people. The tourist path, if there even is one, only scratches the surface.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Hisarcık ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Gökçeada Is

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:55:51 +0000

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Gökçeada Is

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Gökçeada, but I ended up staying three. That is the kind of place it is — it grabs you and does not let go.

The natural beauty around Gökçeada is staggering. I hiked to a viewpoint that overlooked the entire valley, and for a moment, I forgot I was in Turkey. It felt like Switzerland, except warmer and with better food.

A local family invited me for dinner during my stay in Gökçeada. They prepared traditional dishes that I had never seen on any restaurant menu. The flavors were complex, earthy, and deeply satisfying. This is the kind of experience money cannot buy.

My travel hack for Gökçeada: this link is a game changer. Seriously, this link is a game changer.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Gökçeada. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some architecture related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

The people of Gökçeada are what made this trip truly special. I was lost looking at my phone when an elderly man approached me, figured out where I was trying to go, and personally walked me there. That is Gökçeada hospitality in a nutshell.

Exploring Gökçeada on foot was the best decision I made. Every corner had something new to discover. I found a tiny cafe hidden behind an old mosque where they served the most authentic Turkish tea I have ever tasted.

One of the highlights of my Gökçeada visit was the local market. The colors, the sounds, the flavors — it was an assault on the senses in the best possible way. The vendors were proud of their architecture heritage and eager to share stories.

Gökçeada taught me something important: the best travel experiences are not found in popular destinations with millions of Instagram posts. They are found in places like this — authentic, humble, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Hidden Treasures of Başiskele: My Personal Picks

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:45:36 +0000

Hidden Treasures of Başiskele: My Personal Picks

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

Arriving in Başiskele felt like stepping into a different era. The old buildings, the friendly faces, the smell of fresh bread from a nearby bakery — everything felt genuine and welcoming.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Başiskele. The landscape changed dramatically — from urban streets to rolling hills and farmland within minutes. The history of this region really comes alive when you get out of the center.

Street food in Başiskele is legendary among locals but barely known to tourists. I had a freshly made flatbread stuffed with local herbs and cheese that cost almost nothing but tasted like a million dollars.

The natural beauty around Başiskele is staggering. I hiked to a viewpoint that overlooked the entire valley, and for a moment, I forgot I was in Turkey. It felt like Switzerland, except warmer and with better food.

While exploring Başiskele, if you only click one link today, make it this: if you only click one link today, make it this

At a local tea house in Başiskele, I ended up in a conversation with a group of retired teachers. They shared stories about how the town has changed over the decades and their hopes for its future. These unplanned encounters are what travel is all about.

My biggest tip for visiting Başiskele: skip the main road and explore the back streets. That is where you will find the authentic experiences, the best food, and the friendliest people. The tourist path, if there even is one, only scratches the surface.

One of the highlights of my Başiskele visit was the local market. The colors, the sounds, the flavors — it was an assault on the senses in the best possible way. The vendors were proud of their history heritage and eager to share stories.

Başiskele taught me something important: the best travel experiences are not found in popular destinations with millions of Instagram posts. They are found in places like this — authentic, humble, and breathtakingly beautiful.

A Day in Nusaybin: From Sunrise to Sunset

Didem Arslan — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:34:34 +0000

A Day in Nusaybin: From Sunrise to Sunset

I appreciate the finer things in life and seek luxury experiences across Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Nusaybin, but I ended up staying three. That is the kind of place it is — it grabs you and does not let go.

I met a young entrepreneur in Nusaybin who was building a tourism startup to showcase the hidden gems of the region. The passion in their eyes was infectious. It is people like this who will put Nusaybin on the map for international travelers.

The food in Nusaybin deserves its own article. I had a breakfast spread that could feed a small army — fresh cheese, honey from local bees, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven that morning.

click this before it goes viral. Here you go: click this before it goes viral

My biggest tip for visiting Nusaybin: skip the main road and explore the back streets. That is where you will find the authentic experiences, the best food, and the friendliest people. The tourist path, if there even is one, only scratches the surface.

What struck me most about Nusaybin was the way food is woven into daily life here. It is not something preserved in museums — people live and breathe it. I watched a craftsman work on a piece that his family has been making for five generations.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Nusaybin. The landscape changed dramatically — from urban streets to rolling hills and farmland within minutes. The food of this region really comes alive when you get out of the center.

My Nusaybin chapter is closed for now, but the memories will stay with me forever. To everyone reading this: put Nusaybin on your list. You will not regret it.