Turkey, known also as Anatolia and Asia Minor, is considered a bridge between East and West, but you will find that the country is decidedly western oriented, modern and the people very hospitable. Turkey is the only secular and democratic Moslem country in the world and will become Europe's eastern frontier. The country has always welcomed people of many races and religions, and is a promoter of peace. When it comes to transportation, communication and hotel facilities you will see that Turkey offers high standards and comfort.

Anatolia is host to some of the most ancient civilizations and settlements in the world, and her soil is absolutely the richest in archaeological sites.

The region played an immense role in the development of Western Civilization. The legendary city of Troy and the birthplace of many of the early Greek philosophers, such as Thales of Miletus, are on the Aegean coast.

St. Paul passed through Anatolia and so did the legendary Silk Road. It is claimed that St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) was born on the Mediterranean coast. Mount Ararat and the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham are in eastern Anatolia.

Turkey is approximately 1600 km (1000 mi) from East to West and 550 km (340 mi) from North to South. The county is situated between 40-42 degrees latitude and 25-45 degrees longitude, and features almost every climate type. It is bordered by the Black Sea, the Marmara Sea, the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea and has over 8000 km (5000 mi) of shoreline with some of the cleanest and bluest waters in the world.

ÓPhoto courtesy of Wayne Schoenfeld