Spontaneous trips are the best trips: Our Experience in Bursa and Must-Visit places here

 Have you ever embarked on a journey with no plans, just following your gut and strong feeling of wanderlust? That’s what we did with our girl company. The Night before our weekend we chose the destination which was a really hard choice, booked everything, and immediately started packing luggage's. Bursa, a city located in northwestern Turkey is nestled at the foothills of Mount Uludağ, that’s why it is often referred to as & quot; Green Bursa & quot; due to its lush surroundings. The city boasts a really rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene. As one of the earliest Ottoman capitals, Bursa is steeped in centuries of history and is home to a wealth of architectural treasures, including mosques, tombs, and just ancient houses where once were living people of the magnificent Ottoman empire. So, if you are a huge fan of Muhteşem Yüzyıl or just Ottoman culture like me, you will definitely love it! Every corner of Bursa old town is worth seeing. It is a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, historic landmarks, and bustling markets.

● For example, The Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), with its imposing architecture and stunning calligraphy, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, built in the 14th century.      

● Koza Han (Silk Bazaar) will offer you a step back in time to the Ottoman era when it was a center of trade and commerce. Here and in a couple of bazaars around Ulu Cami you can find any traditional or modern souvenirs and gifts you want.            

● For a deeper understanding of the Bursa's pivotal role in shaping Turkish history, visit numerous tombs where the most prominent figures of the Ottoman empire are resting. It’s the Tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi, the fathers of Ottoman empire, Green Tomb of Mehmed I, and Muradiye Complex, consisting of 12 tombs. Among another interesting places, there are also ancient Bursa Castle and Tophane Clock Tower, the symbol of the city’s modernization and progress, both offering panoramic views of Bursa; historical Irgandi Bridge which has been claimed locally that it is one of only four bridges in the world housing bazaar; Turkish & Islamic Art Museum. And don’t forget about local food of Bursa, because no trip to this city would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. From mouth-watering kebaps to desserts, Bursa's cuisine is a feast for the senses. We tasted traditional dishes such as İskender kebap and tried local specialties like candied chestnuts and pişmaniye. It was literally fantastic, even though we could barely walk after these culinary masterpieces.                                                                                                                                                  Now I would like to reveal for you some hidden gems and my favourtie spots of the city which are maybe not that obvious as they lay in the outskirts of Bursa, beyond the bustling city center, but they should be on your bucket list!                                                                                                                      ● Inkaya Tarihi Çinar: one of the most famous symbols in the city of Bursa. This massive tree is over 600 years old, 37 m tall, 3 m crown diameter, has a 10 m circumference and is claimed to be the biggest and oldest tree in Turkey. Its branches are so huge that some metal constructions had to be installed to keep it above the ground. But this place is not just about the tree. The whole area including open-air cafes and restaurants, cozy shop selling traditional stuff, little streams between the tiles flowing under your legs and incredible breathtaking view of natural landscapes makes me feel like I am in a fairytale and gives me shivers

                               ● Cumalıkızık: This little village with a 700-year-old history which is still intact,  represents traditional Ottoman residential architecture and is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Most of the houses continue to be used as residences by locals, and that’s why the village is so popular. They are trying so hard to create the charming historical atmosphere for visitors. Their quaint souvenirs shops offer all sorts of traditional things for reasonable prices while their cafes serve traditional Turkish breakfasts which I strongly recommend to try (P.S. it was the most delicious breakfast in my life).         

                               ● Mudanya: Located a bit aside from Bursa, along the shores of the Sea of Marmara, this cozy coastal town will distract you from hustle and bustle of the city and just let  you rest. Walking along the shore, enjoying the breeze and local sea- or just street food make you relax. But of course this place is not left without some historical importance. Probably the most crucial moment in the history of the Republic of Turkey took place here, in the Mudanya Armistice House. In 1922 in this building the treaty, marking the end of the Turkish War of Independence, was signed, internationally acknowledging the Republic of Turkey. Visitors can tour the historic house, which has been preserved as a museum, and learn about legendary negotiations that took place here. 

  Shortly, my happiness about this trip cannot be even described. From the sea to the mountains, from wonderful nature to rich historical heritage, Bursa just took my heart and left me with lifetime memories. And I’m so glad to give you a little guide through this city and maybe inspire you to go on that trip you’ve been already thinking about for a long time. Go and explore! Adventures are waiting for you:)

Erasmus+ program: Foreign students can study in Turkey

Knowledge is useless unless it is shared with others.'~ Erasmus The European Commission has created a one-of-a-kind opportunity for international students to broaden their knowledge and cultural experience by improving the quality of their education through international exchange. The Erasmus+ program allows students to pursue higher education in participating countries such as Turkey. Let us tell you about the exciting experience of studying in Turkey through the Erasmus program. Information about the Erasmus+ program in Turkey can be found on the European Commission official website and at https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/. Receiving a scholarship is determined by several factors, including the number of available spots and academic performance. Turkish universities are well known for providing excellent education. They provide adiverse range of academic programs and courses in a variety of specialties. International students have access to cutting-edge infrastructure and resources, as well as the opportunity to interact with highly qualified teachers and researchers. According to studies and surveys, the majority of students who participated in the Erasmus+ program in Turkey were extremely satisfied with their experience. They are enthusiastic about academic opportunities, cultural experiences, and interactions with local students. The program helps to foster international understanding and a stronger bond between cultures. The Erasmus+ program in Turkey offers international students an excellent opportunity to receive a quality education, broaden their cultural experience, and enrich their knowledge. The possibility of receiving a scholarship helps to reduce the financial burden.

Hello, I am Elly.

Hello, I am Elly. My second month in Ankara just ended and I have a few observations that I would like to share with you and prepare you for some facts before you arrive in Ankara.

The first thing I still can't get used to is the fact that people don't know the traffic rules here. This applies to both pedestrians and car drivers. Do not hope in vain that any driver will give way to you at the zebra crossing. Even if you try to cross a zebra crossing, they won't stop the cars and start shouting at you from the open windows, when they should be giving way.

As for pedestrians, when you are on your way and walking straight, they will start moving in your direction, even though there is a lot of space, they will come in your direction even if you try to avoid them and they will hit you, or run over your shoulder, or run over your foot. I don't know why they like to crash so aggressively, but they do it every time.

Another fact, "Ankara çok kalabalık", which means that Ankara is very crowded. Even in one small corner, many people can be crowded together and make too much noise. For me, coming from a town, it was difficult to get used to the noise and crowds. I remember the first month I was here, even if I went for a short walk I would come home with a headache and feel constantly tired. I'm not like that now, I think I'm slowly getting used to it.

As you can see, Ankara is a bit dangerous at first for people who don't know the place yet. Therefore, keep in mind that you should always be attentive and caref
ul when walking on the street. You will get used to the noise and crowds over time. But if you have the opportunity, you should visit this place. I've spent the most special two months of my life here.

Traveling in Turkey while volunteering ?

Traveling in Turkey while volunteering ?

Hi everyone I’m Molka , 23 years old Tunisian ecological Designer , this is my second month in Ankara ( It’s july 2023 ) and I want to share with you my experience in traveling during volunteering .During this volunteering program i had the chance to discover turkey , of course you can say how did you manage your money ? specially you know we only receive small amount as pocket money .. but this experience teaches me how to manage my personal expenses .first month is the month where you test yourself .. what you can buy what you can cook .. food packaging here in Turkish so sometimes you think it’s a product then you discover it’s something else or with a different taste ( it happened to me and after that i ask my friends who understand turkish ) .. then according on

how you want to spend the holidays ? you want just to discover something you never saw or you love mountains or the sea and which type of sea here you have a choice.. for me it was easy my friends who knows my choice they were here       

before and helped me with good recommendation. My first trip was to Istanbul i was alone no internet just i have whats app conversation between me and best friend , the magic of traveling alone and following your spirit and intuition is what i lived . i discovered new places other than my friend suggested , met people who became now my friends , built new connections , loved Istanbul on my way . ‘the most valuable experience that you live in your life is when live it alone 'and experience that 

 ‘ and for me i love my company and i enjoy spending time alone . i went to princes island and there i had such wonderful experience crossing bosphor first time with bus going to the Asian part and when i came back i asked another bus driver he showed me the ferry it was waaw the with sunset and also in this small trip i had new friends. Second month i went to İzmir! Oh İzmir my recovery ! i'm from Mediterranean and i struggled the fısh , nı sea, nothing is similat to my preferences in Ankara ! but when i went to izmir i felt home! actually Izmir trip was more expensive but different . in each trip i meet new people that they becomes my friends , i met too girls that later they showed me other parts from Izmir as local people . All i want to say in this articis if you learn how to calculate your money , and you set your priorities so you can do whatever you want .of course you will not be in a very luxurious trip , you may prevent yourself from some stuff , it depends on each person preferences , for me i had two only goals : discover istanbul and izmir . but i didn’t planned to anything else . i limited my budget for other things and i choose traveling . for me if you have small budget you have to search more in airbnb , choose a cheap bus (i didn't choose comfort) the is more important .cook for yourself it’s cheaper but also you can try some specific or local things . get to know people they may help you they may make your trip more comfortable. negotiate when you feel is someone is trying to use you because you don’t understand the language . learn some words : left right , how to go ? how much ? some numbers ... and always have internet to check bus or any transportation , for example in my izmir trip i went to cecme which is a place you can go to with special bus that Google maps doesn’t show you , but local people knows , from where it will pass , where to find it ...

Generally human beings they attract who they are , if you are a good person looking for adventure you will attract good people who will help you , and be part of your adventure . and the most important is to let go and enjoy that you are volunteering and also discovering this country .

Turkey through my eyes

 I felt very excited before coming, and that excitement did not decrease, my first month in Turkey has been a wonderful experience! I must say that Turkish people are so friendly, since the moment I got off the plane I have always received a smile and kindness. 

Did I have some hardships?
Yes, it’s hard to live in turkey without speaking the language, so learning Turkish became a must on my to-do list.
Another thing that was difficult was trying to manage my time well in the first weeks, but now I got a kick to it so it’s a little bit easier.
Besides this, there were some minor things but not worth mentioning.

What do I eat in Turkey as a vegetarian?

Once again I have to praise and thank Turkish people because they always find a way for me to eat something. But it’s still difficult I don’t have the ingredients that I normally use, so cocking at home can be a bit of a struggle but I learned to adapt.

What did I do?

A better question is what didn’t I do, every day is a new experience even if the day is spent at home. We have more or less the same routine every week, but still, we manage to do something different, I have been to a lot of places around Ankara, and I was able to understand the culture better because of this. In addition to our weekly routine, there was always a different activity. On my first day, we were a part of an international day, where I was privileged enough to talk with people from different countries, we also went to a language university, and visited a famous park on the way. I have also visited Eskişehir, a beautiful city where you can feel more at peace and connected with nature. I have learned how to make a traditional meal, Mantı, and I have to admit it was one of my favorite activities, the woman that taught us is one of the most genuine people, and I was blessed to meet her. 

I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by wonderful people, and the other volunteers quickly became my Turkish family, we do almost everything together, but the thing we do most is laugh. So considering this I always have positive things in my day-to-day. Another thing that is important to mention about my experience is that I always tried to be open to new situations and people and because of this I believe I made friends and made new memories more easily. 

So I have high expectations for next month. I’m eager to make more friends, go to new places, and have new experiences.

With love,

Leo

Aysu`s last month in Ankara

Hello everyone!

I am at the end of my project and will tell you about my experience.

I couldn't get used to it at first, but now I've gotten so used to it that I don't want to go.

Let me tell you how my second month went.

In the second month, some of my friends' projects were together, and they returned to their own countries.  New volunteers came from Portugal and Azerbaijan. We started shooting videos for YouTube during our office days.

We shoot videos about ESC and volunteering on YouTube.  For everyone to easily reach the questions in their minds.

Our shooting days and office days are very productive. You can watch our videos on YouTube

Thanks to these videos, my English accent has improved, and I have become more comfortable in front of the camera.

Let me tell you more about our Culture Nights.

We gathered together one day with the Food Delivery team.  They told us about Turkish traditions and culture.  We all sang folk songs together.  It's been a fantastic night. Someone we know invited us to his mother's house so that we could prepare Mante ourselves and see Turkish culture more closely.

He taught us how to make Mante, and we made it ourselves. 
Then we set up a very nice table and ate together.  We drank tea and tasted Turkish delights and Turkish desserts.  They were such friendly people; they hosted us very well.  I have never seen Turkish culture so closely. I will never forget that day.

We also had a Portuguese culture night.  Leo, from Portugal, cooked her country's food, showed us the national dance, and explained what it was like.  As long as I was here, I got to know the cultures of so many different countries. It was beautiful.

  I learned new things, gained new experiences, and made friends from other countries.

This month we went to a few Turkish universities.  We attended several conferences, one of them for volunteer projects.  In fact, at a conference, we told university students about our experiences, how we applied to this project, and what we learned.  I loved attending such meetings because we met people from different countries and backgrounds, and I learned new things from each conference.

Eskişehir is our new city to visit this month. Before we went to Eskişehir, we had researched what to do and where to visit. We thought that 1 day was enough to visit, so we didn't stay. It was the birthday of Fidan, who is our teammate from Azerbaijan.  We pretended we didn't remember and celebrated her birthday in front of the fairy tale castle in Sazova park at her favorite place.  She was startled and happy.  She didn’t expect it.

 

Results of short-term volunteering

 Hello, beautiful people!

Are you ready to know more about my volunteering experience?
So l can`t wait to tell you about my second month in the capital of Turkey. It`s my last month of short-term volunteering. That`s why l`d like to sum up all my knowledges, insights and experience l got on this project.

First of all, l found a lot of beautiful people. Or they found me, l don`t know:)
Turkish people are so amazing. I`m impressed by their hospitality and openness to guests. Last week we were invited by our Turkish friend. His mother was teaching us how to cook mantı. As a result of good teamwork, we got a lunch.  Me and other volunteers ate mantı with different sauces prepared by ourselves and I can say that  it was really tasty. 

  Our team enjoyed not only the cooking, but also the warm atmosphere. For this three hours in this house l was feeling like at home. It reminded me family lunch with my parents and relatives. I`m very grateful for this opportunity and hope that it wasn`t the last such experience.

What about my knowledges except mantı of course? One of the biggest achievements for this month is public speech. Three times I was telling people about my volunteering experience and in general about ESC. The best part on this events with Turkish youth is that l was lucky to meet very clever and active people from different parts of Turkey. When l came here l had some goals and expectations. One of the main goals was discovering Turkish culture. Who can help better with this than citizens? That`s why every time l`m very excited about new acquaintance.

If I started talking about Turkish people, l can`t skip my friends. Once on food delivery we met volunteers, who helped us. They were so nice so that after this nice meeting we became good friends. On the weekends we spend free time together drinking tea, coffee, singing songs, watching movies and enjoying warm conversations about everything.My experience in Turkey is also about discovering new places. Last week our volunteering team had a trip to Eskişehir. I`d like to share my impressions  shortly. I really liked this city because of beautiful nature and places. Most of all I was impressed by museum of modern art. It was pleasure to spend there two hours there. Then we were eating çığbörek. We have the same meal in Ukraine but I liked Turkish version more honestly.

So my second month in Ankara was full of new experience, knowledges and people. I explored a lot of new sides on myself and l`m happy that this place gives me inspiration for new learning and developing my skills.