DEV Community: Umit Tekin

Erenler is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:03:03 +0000

Erenler is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Erenler 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.

Exploring Erenler 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 Erenler: 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.

There is a river near Erenler 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 tried the famous local dish of Erenler 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.

One of the highlights of my Erenler 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 people heritage and eager to share stories.

Leaving Erenler 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 Erenler is definitely one of them.

I Visited Konya and Here Is What I Found

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:51:32 +0000

I Visited Konya and Here Is What I Found

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

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

My biggest tip for visiting Konya: 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.

Exploring Konya 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 Konya 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 Konya on the map for international travelers.

Street food in Konya 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 woke up early one morning in Konya 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.

One of the highlights of my Konya 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 food heritage and eager to share stories.

Konya 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.

Things That Made Me Fall for İskele

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:33:35 +0000

Things That Made Me Fall for İskele

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

When I first arrived in İskele, 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.

If I could do my İskele 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.

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

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

There is a river near İskele 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.

At a local tea house in İskele, 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 have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and İskele 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.

My Kocaali Adventure: An Honest Travel Diary

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:23:08 +0000

My Kocaali Adventure: An Honest Travel Diary

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Kocaali, 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 Kocaali. 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.

I spent an entire afternoon in the old quarter of Kocaali. 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 Kocaali 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 Kocaali, this is what travel dreams are made of: this is what travel dreams are made of

Exploring Kocaali 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 people of Kocaali 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 Kocaali hospitality in a nutshell.

Pro tip: visit Kocaali 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.

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

Hidden Treasures of Marmaraereğlisi: My Personal Picks

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:13:05 +0000

Hidden Treasures of Marmaraereğlisi: My Personal Picks

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

I planned to spend just one day in Marmaraereğlisi, 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 Marmaraereğlisi 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.

Pro tip: visit Marmaraereğlisi 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.

Exploring Marmaraereğlisi 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.

this was the best find of my trip! I cannot recommend this enough: this was the best find of my trip

A local family invited me for dinner during my stay in Marmaraereğlisi. 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 have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Marmaraereğlisi 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.

Reyhanlı Surprised Me — Here Is Why

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:02:50 +0000

Reyhanlı Surprised Me — Here Is Why

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

Arriving in Reyhanlı 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 Reyhanlı 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 rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Reyhanlı. 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.

A local family invited me for dinner during my stay in Reyhanlı. 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 biggest tip for visiting Reyhanlı: 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.

At a local tea house in Reyhanlı, 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 — honestly one of the best things I found. Check it out: honestly one of the best things I found

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

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

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:51:02 +0000

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

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

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

Exploring Malazgirt 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 woke up early one morning in Malazgirt 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.

My biggest tip for visiting Malazgirt: 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 people of Malazgirt 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 Malazgirt hospitality in a nutshell.

I am leaving this here because trust me on this one, click it: trust me on this one, click it

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

Why Maltepe Should Be on Your Turkey Bucket List

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:39:46 +0000

Why Maltepe Should Be on Your Turkey Bucket List

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Maltepe 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.

Pro tip: visit Maltepe 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.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Maltepe. 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 food in Maltepe 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 met a young entrepreneur in Maltepe 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 Maltepe on the map for international travelers.

I woke up early one morning in Maltepe 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.

One of the highlights of my Maltepe 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.

Before you plan your trip, do yourself a favor and check this out: do yourself a favor and check this out

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Maltepe 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 Gelibolu Experience: My Story

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:28:18 +0000

The Ultimate Gelibolu Experience: My Story

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

My journey to Gelibolu 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 first thing I did was walk through the center of Gelibolu. 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.

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

During my visit, I found something incredible — the best resource I found during my trip. Check it out: the best resource I found during my trip

One of the highlights of my Gelibolu 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.

Leaving Gelibolu 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 Gelibolu is definitely one of them.

A Day in Saimbeyli: From Sunrise to Sunset

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:15:31 +0000

A Day in Saimbeyli: From Sunrise to Sunset

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

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

What struck me most about Saimbeyli was the way people 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.

Pro tip: visit Saimbeyli 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.

The people of Saimbeyli 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 Saimbeyli hospitality in a nutshell.

Exploring Saimbeyli 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.

Before you plan your trip, this was the best find of my trip: this was the best find of my trip

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

Yerköy is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

Umit Tekin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:05:25 +0000

Yerköy is Turkey Best Kept Secret — Do Not Tell Anyone

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

My journey to Yerköy 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.

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

The natural beauty around Yerköy 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 Yerköy. 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.

Exploring Yerköy 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 was blown away by what I found here! I cannot recommend this enough: I was blown away by what I found here

The people of Yerköy 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 Yerköy hospitality in a nutshell.

If I could do my Yerköy 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.

Leaving Yerköy 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 Yerköy is definitely one of them.

Toprakkale Through My Eyes: A Personal Journey

Umit Tekin — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:54:29 +0000

Toprakkale Through My Eyes: A Personal Journey

I travel on a shoestring budget and still find the best experiences in Turkey.

When I first arrived in Toprakkale, 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 rented a bicycle and rode through the outskirts of Toprakkale. The landscape changed dramatically — from urban streets to rolling hills and farmland within minutes. The architecture of this region really comes alive when you get out of the center.

My biggest tip for visiting Toprakkale: 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.

There is a river near Toprakkale 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.

At a local tea house in Toprakkale, 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.

If you are planning to visit Toprakkale, honestly one of the best things I found: honestly one of the best things I found

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