Travel in Volunteering

Hello everyone!

In this post I will share with you what I experienced in the 2nd month of my volunteering (in March). Our activities this month consisted mostly of working at a dormitory where we helped those affected by the earthquake and, secondly, of travelling around the country in our spare time.  We travelled to a lot of cities this month. That's why this post will generally be about the cities we have visited. This trip was not only a chance for me to give back to the community but also an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.
My first trip was Konya, a city known for its whirling dervishes and its spiritual significance. While there, I visited the Mevlana Museum, which is dedicated to the life and teachings of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet and philosopher. The museum had an incredible collection of artefacts and was a peaceful place to reflect on life's deeper questions.
Next, I travelled to Alanya, a charming coastal town located on the Mediterranean Sea. The town's stunning beaches and crystal-clear water were a welcome respite after a long journey. In my free time, I explored the city and its rich cultural heritage, including the Alanya Castle and the Red Tower, both of which offered breathtaking views of the coastline.

I then headed to Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents and is known for its rich history and cultural significance. The highlight of my trip was visiting the Hagia Sophia, a historic monument that has been a church, a mosque, and a museum throughout its long history. The intricate architecture and stunning mosaics left me in awe.
From Istanbul, I travelled to Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey known for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. I took a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, and the views were simply breathtaking. The natural beauty of the region was awe-inspiring and left me feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience it.
Finally, I visited Eskishehir our last free days, a university town known for its thermal spas and hot springs. I visited the Odunpazarı district, which is known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, and the Porsuk River, which is a popular spot for locals to relax and socialise. I also tried local cuisine, such as the delicious Eskişehir-style meatballs and the sweet dessert known as "çibörek." After a long and rewarding time working in the earthquake dormitory, travelling to Eskishehir  was the perfect way to unwind and relax.

Overall, my experience as an ESC volunteer in Turkey was an incredible journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, learn new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and ways of life. I had the opportunity to meet and work with other volunteers from all over the world. It was amazing to see how we all came together, despite our different backgrounds and cultures, to work towards a common goal. We shared our experiences and perspectives, learned from each other, and formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I am grateful for this opportunity and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a meaningful and rewarding volunteer experience.
Thank you for reading, and I hope this post inspires you to consider volunteering in Turkey or elsewhere in the world!

Nuriyye Ceferova