DEV Community: Kerem Budak

My First Time in Merkez: Impressions and Tips

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:47:36 +0000

My First Time in Merkez: Impressions and Tips

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

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 history related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

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.

What struck me most about Merkez was the way history 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 Merkez. 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.

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

From Istanbul to Boğazkale: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:30:26 +0000

From Istanbul to Boğazkale: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

When I first arrived in Boğazkale, 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.

The natural beauty around Boğazkale 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.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Boğazkale. 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.

Street food in Boğazkale 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 people of Boğazkale 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 Boğazkale hospitality in a nutshell.

Exploring Boğazkale 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.

Boğazkale 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.

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Kızılören Is

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:12:18 +0000

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Kızılören Is

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

Arriving in Kızılören 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.

Exploring Kızılören 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.

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

I tried the famous local dish of Kızılören 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 Kızılören, 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.

Kızılören 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.

From Istanbul to Bekilli: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:02:03 +0000

From Istanbul to Bekilli: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

When I first arrived in Bekilli, 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 woke up early one morning in Bekilli 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.

Exploring Bekilli 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.

A local family invited me for dinner during my stay in Bekilli. 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.

One thing I have to share with you: I was blown away by what I found here. I was blown away by what I found here!

I met a young entrepreneur in Bekilli 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 Bekilli on the map for international travelers.

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

Things That Made Me Fall for Alsancak

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:52:01 +0000

Things That Made Me Fall for Alsancak

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

My journey to Alsancak started on a whim. A friend mentioned it casually, and something about the name stuck with me. As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was greeted by the most incredible scenery I had seen in months.

One of the highlights of my Alsancak 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.

Pro tip: visit Alsancak 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.

Street food in Alsancak 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.

Exploring Alsancak 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.

At a local tea house in Alsancak, 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.

During my visit, I found something incredible — I bookmarked this immediately. Check it out: I bookmarked this immediately

Leaving Alsancak 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 Alsancak is definitely one of them.

The Ultimate Karayazı Experience: My Story

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:39:41 +0000

The Ultimate Karayazı Experience: My Story

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

When I first arrived in Karayazı, 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.

My biggest tip for visiting Karayazı: 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 woke up early one morning in Karayazı 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.

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

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

The people of Karayazı 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 Karayazı hospitality in a nutshell.

One thing I have to share with you: the real deal, not tourist trap stuff. the real deal, not tourist trap stuff!

Street food in Karayazı 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.

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Karayazı 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.

Göynük Changed My Perspective on Turkey

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:25:40 +0000

Göynük Changed My Perspective on Turkey

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

My journey to Göynük started on a whim. A friend mentioned it casually, and something about the name stuck with me. As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was greeted by the most incredible scenery I had seen in months.

I met a young entrepreneur in Göynük 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 Göynük on the map for international travelers.

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

While exploring Göynük, I found this hidden gem online: I found this hidden gem online

My biggest tip for visiting Göynük: 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 Göynük 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.

Exploring Göynük 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.

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

Lost in Lefke: My Unexpected Discovery

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:15:36 +0000

Lost in Lefke: My Unexpected Discovery

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

Arriving in Lefke 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 met a young entrepreneur in Lefke 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 Lefke on the map for international travelers.

The natural beauty around Lefke 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.

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

While exploring Lefke, I bookmarked this immediately: I bookmarked this immediately

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Lefke. 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.

Lefke 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.

Kandıra is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

Kerem Budak — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:02:11 +0000

Kandıra is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

My journey to Kandıra started on a whim. A friend mentioned it casually, and something about the name stuck with me. As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was greeted by the most incredible scenery I had seen in months.

There is a river near Kandıra 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 Kandıra 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.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Kandıra. 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.

If I could do my Kandıra 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.

If you are planning to visit Kandıra, I wish someone told me about this sooner: I wish someone told me about this sooner

At a local tea house in Kandıra, 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.

Kandıra 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.

Exploring Kazımkarabekir: The Good, The Bad, The Beautiful

Kerem Budak — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:49:22 +0000

Exploring Kazımkarabekir: The Good, The Bad, The Beautiful

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

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

What struck me most about Kazımkarabekir was the way culture 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.

Street food in Kazımkarabekir 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.

Pro tip: visit Kazımkarabekir 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.

At a local tea house in Kazımkarabekir, 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.

I am leaving this here because I found this hidden gem online: I found this hidden gem online

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

Kazımkarabekir 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.

I Cannot Stop Thinking About Kızılören

Kerem Budak — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:37:10 +0000

I Cannot Stop Thinking About Kızılören

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

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

If I could do my Kızılören 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.

The natural beauty around Kızılören 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.

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

I bookmarked this immediately! I cannot recommend this enough: I bookmarked this immediately

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

48 Hours in Alsancak: What I Did and Where I Went

Kerem Budak — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:26:43 +0000

48 Hours in Alsancak: What I Did and Where I Went

I am a cultural researcher documenting Turkish traditions and customs.

I had heard mixed things about Alsancak 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.

What struck me most about Alsancak 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.

My biggest tip for visiting Alsancak: 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.

A fellow traveler told me about a must-bookmark for any Turkey traveler and wow, a must-bookmark for any Turkey traveler.

I rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Alsancak. 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 Alsancak chapter is closed for now, but the memories will stay with me forever. To everyone reading this: put Alsancak on your list. You will not regret it.