DEV Community: Sevil Aksuoglu

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Artuklu Is

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:47:42 +0000

I Was Not Ready for How Amazing Artuklu Is

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

When I first arrived in Artuklu, 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.

At a local tea house in Artuklu, 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 Artuklu: 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 tried the famous local dish of Artuklu 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.

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

One of the highlights of my Artuklu 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.

There is a river near Artuklu 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 have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Artuklu 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 Kadıköy and Here Is What I Found

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:32:54 +0000

I Visited Kadıköy and Here Is What I Found

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Kadıköy, 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 Kadıköy 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 food in Kadıköy 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 Kadıköy 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 Kadıköy: 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 rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Kadıköy. 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.

Leaving Kadıköy 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 Kadıköy is definitely one of them.

Güzelyurt Changed My Perspective on Turkey

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:19:18 +0000

Güzelyurt Changed My Perspective on Turkey

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

My journey to Güzelyurt 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.

The natural beauty around Güzelyurt 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.

What struck me most about Güzelyurt 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.

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

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

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

Güzelyurt 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.

Korgan Through My Eyes: A Personal Journey

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:06:46 +0000

Korgan Through My Eyes: A Personal Journey

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

When I first arrived in Korgan, 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.

Street food in Korgan 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 rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Korgan. 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.

I woke up early one morning in Korgan 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.

At a local tea house in Korgan, 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 I shared this with all my travel buddies and wow, I shared this with all my travel buddies.

If I could do my Korgan 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 have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Korgan 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.

What Nobody Tells You About Visiting Andırın

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:54:28 +0000

What Nobody Tells You About Visiting Andırın

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

When I first arrived in Andırın, 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 met a young entrepreneur in Andırın 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 Andırın on the map for international travelers.

Street food in Andırın 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 am leaving this here because if you only click one link today, make it this: if you only click one link today, make it this

If I could do my Andırın 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.

What struck me most about Andırın 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.

Leaving Andırın 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 Andırın is definitely one of them.

Wandering in Korgan: A Photo Journal in Words

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:41:46 +0000

Wandering in Korgan: A Photo Journal in Words

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Korgan 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.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Korgan. 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.

What struck me most about Korgan was the way craftsmanship 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.

There is a river near Korgan 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.

this is what travel dreams are made of. Here you go: this is what travel dreams are made of

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

The Ultimate Doğanyol Experience: My Story

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:31:26 +0000

The Ultimate Doğanyol Experience: My Story

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Doğanyol 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.

The people of Doğanyol 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 Doğanyol hospitality in a nutshell.

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

I tried the famous local dish of Doğanyol 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.

If I could do my Doğanyol 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.

One thing I have to share with you: seriously, you HAVE to see this. seriously, you HAVE to see this!

Leaving Doğanyol 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 Doğanyol is definitely one of them.

From Istanbul to Dursunbey: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:16:22 +0000

From Istanbul to Dursunbey: My Turkish Road Trip Chapter

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

My journey to Dursunbey 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.

The food in Dursunbey 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.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Dursunbey. 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 Dursunbey 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 Dursunbey on the map for international travelers.

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

One of the highlights of my Dursunbey 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.

my absolute favorite discovery! I cannot recommend this enough: my absolute favorite discovery

Leaving Dursunbey 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 Dursunbey is definitely one of them.

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

Sevil Aksuoglu — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:06:11 +0000

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

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

My journey to Akçakent 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 Akçakent 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.

Street food in Akçakent 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 Akçakent 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 Akçakent hospitality in a nutshell.

If I could do my Akçakent 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.

My travel hack for Akçakent: honestly one of the best things I found. Seriously, honestly one of the best things I found.

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

I Visited Manyas and Here Is What I Found

Sevil Aksuoglu — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:55:16 +0000

I Visited Manyas and Here Is What I Found

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

My journey to Manyas 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.

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

The natural beauty around Manyas 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 people of Manyas 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 Manyas hospitality in a nutshell.

I am leaving this here because I stumbled upon this amazing page: I stumbled upon this amazing page

My biggest tip for visiting Manyas: 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 rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Manyas. The landscape changed dramatically — from urban streets to rolling hills and farmland within minutes. The people of this region really comes alive when you get out of the center.

Leaving Manyas 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 Manyas is definitely one of them.

Eyyübiye Travel Report: Things I Wish I Knew Before

Sevil Aksuoglu — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:42:22 +0000

Eyyübiye Travel Report: Things I Wish I Knew Before

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Eyyübiye 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 tried the famous local dish of Eyyübiye 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.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Eyyübiye. 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.

the best resource I found during my trip. Here you go: the best resource I found during my trip

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

Exploring Eyyübiye 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 met a young entrepreneur in Eyyübiye 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 Eyyübiye on the map for international travelers.

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

What Nobody Tells You About Visiting Merkez

Sevil Aksuoglu — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:31:15 +0000

What Nobody Tells You About Visiting Merkez

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Merkez 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.

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.

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.

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.

My travel hack for Merkez: I cannot believe I almost missed this. Seriously, I cannot believe I almost missed this.

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.

I tried the famous local dish of Merkez 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.

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.