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The Doi Saket Annual Market Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand is back after 4 years! We explore this local 4 day event and enjoy some traditional Thai food along with an EPIC discovery and purchase that made us two ARSENAL fans super happy. Explore this little known and local fair with us! If we have learned one thing about Thailand, it's that markets are a bedrock of society here. Every town, village or city has at least one, or three! We really enjoy checking them out, no matter how big or small. You never know what you will find, least of all what Leon found at this one! But check that out in the video at the end! In This Post... ● What is the Doi Saket Market Festival? ● Our Doi Saket Market Festival Highlights ● What to Expect at Doi Saket Market Festival ● When is the Doi Saket Market Festival ● How to Get to the Doi Saket Market Festival ● Our Doi Saket Market Festival Experience Rating ● Check out the Doi Saket Market on YouTube Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand ● Explore Chiang Mai with Special Offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to Visiting Thailand Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. What is the Doi Saket Market Festival? The Doi Saket Market Festival is a vibrant four-day event held annually in the Doi Saket district of Chiang Mai, Thailand. It usually takes place in the second week of February, but the exact dates can vary and are often announced on local Facebook groups or the official Doi Saket website. This beautiful display highlights the importance of the market The festival is a celebration of Lanna culture and traditions, featuring a bustling market with over 500 stalls selling local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs. Visitors can enjoy live music and dance performances, traditional Lanna games, and a variety of other activities. Lanna culture is the rich and vibrant heritage of the Lanna Kingdom, which flourished in Northern Thailand from the 13th to the 18th centuries. It's a beautiful blend of influences from various ethnicities and religions, primarily Tai Yuan (Lanna Thai people), Burmese, and Theravada Buddhism. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Doi Saket Market Festival Highlights We were told about the market by our awesome AirBnb host, but honestly we could hear it going on anyway! There is so much more than just the endless stalls of food and wares; there are also shows, exhibits, games and of course a Thai staple - karaoke! Given we live just ten minutes away by car, we could certainly hear the music bellowing out across Doi Saket every night! The very first night we heard it we knew we had to look into going. Part of the reason we enjoy markets is obviously checking out the wide array of goods on offer, indeed at this one here in Doi Saket we even saw stacks of mattresses for sale! Thai markets are well known for food though, and honestly it is the first thing most people look forward to. Most importantly, don't eat before you go, so you have plenty of room for all the yummy things you will try! Jenn being tempted by some of the delicious food on offer When we arrived in town we could sense the buzz of the market the moment we stepped out of the car. Cars, bikes and people were everywhere! One can only imagine the economic benefits this market brings to the town, and how tough it must have been throughout the pandemic not having it. It was a delight to see it up and running and we were very excited to see what it had to offer. A rare break from the crowd... We grabbed a smoothie, some meat-on-a-stick (very popular here in Thailand) and some noodles. As expected it was absolutely delicious and very reasonable on price. There were so many food options it was almost overwhelming and we could have easily bought more! The market was sprawling; it branched off in two directions with food dominating the eastern sector and arts, crafts and homewares made up a bulk of the western quarter. The atmosphere was buzzing to the sound of music, the throng of the crowd and the hum of the local vendors. We even came across a charity stall too offering fun games to play to help raise money for a local hospice. One of the main food areas. Jenn grabbed a delicious smoothie from here! People and business owners alike come from all over Chiang Mai for the Doi Saket Market Festival and it really did feel like a true celebration. All in all it was a fantastic experience, as it usually is with Thai markets. We are really happy for the town of Doi Saket and of course all of the locals who put so much in to making this market a success. Let's hope it never has to close again! RETURN TO CONTENTS What to Expect at Doi Saket Market Festival ● The festival can get quite crowded, so it's best to arrive early. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. ● Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the weather can be quite hot and sunny. ● Be sure to bargain when you're shopping at the market. ● Have plenty of Thai baht on hand, as there may not be many ATMs in the area. RETURN TO CONTENTS When is the Doi Saket Market Festival The Doi Saket Market Festival is usually held over a 4-day period on the second week of February. This can be subject to change however and is usually announced on area Facebook groups. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Get to the Doi Saket Market Festival It should take about 50 minutes to get from Chiang Mai to Doi Saket by car, depending on traffic. Try to leave before peak rush hour, usually between 5pm and 7pm. If you're not planning on driving, there are also public transportation options available, such as buses and songthaews (shared taxis). These will take longer than driving, but they can be a more affordable option. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Find Hotels in Doi Saket Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Our Doi Saket Market Festival Experience Rating If you're looking for a unique and authentic Thai cultural experience, the Doi Saket Market Festival is definitely worth adding to your list. It's a great opportunity to learn about Lanna traditions, sample delicious food, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Doi Saket. Check out the Doi Saket Market on YouTube Photos are great, but we all love some video visual don't we? That is why we also filmed the whole thing, and have packaged all of our footage into a nice YouTube video you can enjoy! All you have to do it tap the link below, or search Jenn and Leon to find us. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand Check out all of the places we visited in Thailand  courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Chiang Mai with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Chiang Mai. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spa, a jungle sanctuary or even cooking classes, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Thailand. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand First time in Thailand?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Located in Nang Lae, Chiang Rai, The Black House Museum, or “Baan Dam” in Thai, is one of the strangest and most interesting places we have seen in Thailand to date. We are not sure if we have ever seen anything quite like it! Despite its dark and unnerving 'exhibits' we do still think it is still a must-see for anyone on a tour of Chiang Rai. Often confused for a temple, the Black House is home to the world’s largest collection of animal remains made into furniture, taxidermy and art installations. While it wasn't designed to be evil or frightening, it is commonly thought to be the 'Hell Temple'. This is due to its proximity and opposing style of the nearby White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), known as the 'Temple of Heaven'. In This Post... ● Baan Dam Black House Highlights ● History & Facts about the Black House Museum ● Baan Dam Black House Museum Visiting Times ● How to Get to Baan Dam Chiang Rai ● Our Black House Museum Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand ● Explore Chiang Mai with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Baan Dam Black House Museum Highlights It was already a pretty imposing walk on the way to the museum, with the car park lined with black and red flags depicting fierce animal faces and streaked blood. We knew that there was an 'out there' reputation about the place, but we still did not quite know to expect. The 'Cathedral' building certainly imposes itself on new visitors When we made it to the entrance, we were immediately struck by the impressive height and stature of the main Cathedral. It is exactly 44 meters high and 44 meters long and it is almost simplistic in design compared to other temples that we have encountered in Thailand. Its sheer size is impressive though, and its dark black and brown painted wood certainly seems to overpower its surroundings with a heavy and looming energy. The enormous black chairs, almost felt frightening as we walked beneath the steep and dark gables of the main hall. We were pretty wide-eyed walking around, not sure what to make of it all. The art collections, featuring streaked blood and scary looking animal faces, were displayed in each of the rooms quadrants. They added the only real color to what was otherwise a pretty dark and shady collection of horned furniture alongside some spectacular taxidermy. The styles also incorporate regional Lanna and Laotian influences as well as traditional Thai construction methods The museum is the lifetime work of controversial Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. He was a devout Buddhist, with all of the work displayed at the Black House portraying the cycle of life, death, and rebirth known as Samsara. This cycle includes suffering, which is the main principal of the exhibits and architectural style. The laying buddha symbolizes travel and enlightenment We can totally relate to the principal of Duchanee's work however there is a rather over-elaborate, and certainly not discreet, amount of human appendage on display. Most are just part of random statues, however the bathrooms in particular have many of them. We really did not understand this part of the exhibits and it did make us feel uncomfortable. It is something to be aware of prior to your visit. While he is celebrated now, Thawan Duchanee was not always popular. In fact, his art has at many times drawn accusations of disrespect. There has sadly even been physical attacks and vandalism over the years. Despite its divisive nature, Duchanee was unrelenting in his vision and his art was eventually defended and championed by many public figures. He was recognized on a national level for his talent with several awards in 2001. The rooms were narrow but still managed to depict the scene really well There was part of us that was expecting the usual Buddha statues, Nagas, lotuses, and elephants, but we found these to be in very short supply here. We were greeted with a plethora of bones, skulls, shells, teeth, animal skins and taxidermy, all arranged in an assortment of striking poses. There were many of these 'horned' chairs throughout the museum Even though we know that it was never Duchanee's intention for Baan Dam to be known as a 'hell temple', it is kind of hard to argue against the notion, given the nature of the 'art'. The prominent theme of black coloring on most of the buildings also lends weight to this, however we recently learnt that black was simply Duchanee's favorite color. Ultimately, this is art and art is expressive and impactful in many ways. The controversy surrounding it only adds to its allure and one could argue that no art is good art unless it provokes something. Would you agree? Let us know what you think in the comments! Just to change the tone slightly, how cute is this! This momma hen and her brood treated us to the sweetest of shows right outside the entrance to Baan Dam. Maybe you might catch them when you visit! History and Facts about Baan Dam Museum Thai artist Thawan Duchanee began construction on Baan Dam in 1976, and it is thought that all of Duchanee’s work represents the human suffering due to desire and greed that the Buddha saw along his travels. There are many references to Buddhism, which lends weight to the claims that the house was not created to promote evil and Satanic impulses. The site is very well landscaped and almost feels enclosed by the large surrounding trees and vegetation Baan Dam Museum has been constantly evolving over the past 40 years and Duchanee's vision was always for it to be a national cultural arts centre. With many of Thailand's Art Institutions offering scholarships to researchers here, alongside a growing number of visits from tourists and Thai's alike, it does indeed feel like his goals are now being realised. There are some spectacular art pieces on display like this one All of the buildings are constructed of wood and were exclusively designed by Duchanee. There are some 40 structures in total covering an area of 160,000sqm. Construction on the main Cathedral began in 1999 and took 7 years to build. In addition to being a public museum, the Cathedral is also used as a place for drawing and recalling Buddhist doctrine. The Tri Phum 'Triangle House' is actually the oldest structure on the site, with work starting in 1976. It was destroyed 3 times by storms and took over 7 years of construction and restoration to be completed. One of the larger buildings, the central triangular roof turret was impressive Thawan Duchanee was awarded the prestigious prize of National Thai Artist in Fine Art and Visual Art in 2001 by the Office of the National Culture Commission of Thailand. He sadly passed away in 2014 but his legacy remains here at Baan Dam. There is a shrine dedicated to him in the Cathedral. RETURN TO CONTENTS Baan Dam Black House Museum Visiting Times The Baan Dam Museum is open everyday from 9am to 5pm, excluding national holidays. The entrance fee is 80 baht per person and the ticket gains you access to the entire site. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Get to the Black House Museum in Chiang Rai The museum is 6 miles north (a 30 minute drive) of Chiang Rai. You are able to take private tours to Baan Dam, although should you wish to make your own way here private cars, taxis and public buses are all options. There is a fairly large car park that is free to use just around the corner from the main entrance. Alternatively, you could use a songthaew, which you can are able to catch at the old bus terminal in the centre of Chiang Rai. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Find Hotels in Chiang Rai Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Contact Information Address : 333 Nang Lae, อำเภอเมือง Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand Phone: +66 53 776 333 Email: info@thawan-duchanee.com Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily Website: thawan-duchanee.com RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Baan Dam Black House Museum Experience Rating Overall we have mixed emotions about Baan Dam. We respect art in all forms but the expressive and dark nature of some of the installations left us feeling a little uneasy. Unlike most museums, there was not much information pertaining to the exhibits and we may have understood it all a little more had there been. If we hadn't looked online prior it would have been hard for us to understand the outbuildings and their purpose. We would recommend visiting but would probably advise against bringing children! Baan Dam is indeed a unique piece of Thailand and we would love to hear your thoughts if you do check it out. Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand Check out all of the places we visited in Thailand  courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Chiang Rai with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Chiang Rai. Whether you're looking to visit the White Temple, Blue Temple or both, Klook can help! In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Thailand. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your GUIDE to Visiting Thailand First time in Thailand?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Wat Phra That is a stunning temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is known for its towering golden chedi (Buddha), which is a remarkable sight indeed and is said to house a piece of Buddha's hair. Inside the temple grounds are various sculptures and monuments, which provide a glimpse into the culture and history of the region. The temple is free to visit and is open to visitors throughout the year. There is also so much more to the site too; you can learn more about Buddhism at its museum, check out various shrines, cafes and stores, take in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and soak up some epic sunsets. With its stunning architecture and deep history, the Wat Phra That Temple is an essential stop for any traveler in Thailand. In This Post... ● Our Wat Phra That Highlights ● History & Facts About Wat Phra That ● Wat Phra That Visiting Times ● How to Get to Wat Phra That ● Our Wat Phra That Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand ● Explore Chiang Mai with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Wat Phra That Highlights The entrance to Wat Phra That is located at the bottom of a mountain that rises up above the bustling town of Doi Saket. At the base, you take a winding road up until you come to a large clearing that veers off to the left for the stores, museum and other temples in the complex. To the right is a large roundabout, which is at the foot of the 350 steps that lead up to the Golden Buddha. There is also a large laying Buddha to the right of the picture below which is still under construction. We will update this blog if it is finished before we leave Thailand! The magnificent staircase has 350 steps and is one heck of a climb! A treat for the eyes... The level of detail in every statue here is phenomenal and the vibrancy of the gold and its encrusted jewels shimmers throughout the day in the clear and burning sunlight. As you gaze up the stairs you only just start to realise the daunting task of climbing them. There must certainly be a significance to the difficulty of the task, the unnerving desire to reach the top and the energy it takes to get there. It almost feels humbling as you rise towards the feet of the cross-legged Buddha. Now we would love to have attempted the stairs, but on this particular day we had our car, and just to the left of the stairs there is an additional road that can be driven to a clearing behind the Buddha but level with it. So we took this option, parked up, and took a walk through the complex to the Buddha. The road is a dirt road for part of the way, and very steep, so do bear this in mind if you have an older vehicle that may struggle with it. Many Buddhist temples in Thailand are located on the top of a hill or a mountain. Most of them have a Naga staircase lined on both sides with a snake-like being, which is called Naga. This has its origin embedded in the myth of the Buddha. The staircase at Wat Phra That Doi Saket does not feature a Naga, but there are many Naga statues in and around the temple grounds. Unlike other temples that we have seen in Thailand so far, this one is a particular favorite of ours as it’s less touristy, so you won’t have tons of other travellers to share the space with. We have been several times and it has never been busy. There is plenty of spaces to park and the option of being able to drive to the top is nice. There is also much more to this temple than the Golden Buddha, with many interesting places to visit on the temple grounds. One could easily spend a good few hours exploring! We were blown away by the level of detail here You can find a small museum here, where you can learn all about the wonderful history of Doi Saket and Chiang Mai. What also makes it unique is that the interior walls have been painted with magnificent spiritual murals by an artist known as Khun Chaiwat Wannanon, which took 4 years to complete. It is very rare for any temple in Thailand to contain any type of modern art. There is also a monastic school on the temple grounds, where you can learn all about monks, their belief system, history and their day-today activities. We have yet to visit here but we will do at some point before we leave Doi Saket! Looking out at THAT sunset! Many find the style of What Phra That to be similar to that What Phra That Doi Suthep , which is in nearby Chiang Mai. This one is smaller however, and the entrance here features that 350-step staircase which leads visitors to the Golden Buddha and differentiates it from its larger namesake. However, the most prominent aspect of the temple is the majestic golden Buddha statue which is visible as far as the road outside that leads to the temple. Our very first time here was right on sunset, having arrived around 5.30pm. We had heard about it from our neighbors so we were very excited to see it. It certainly did not disappoint! Pictures somehow just do not do it justice at all. From the spectacular view, to the immense Buddha statue, to the monks chanting on loudspeakers to the birds chirping in the rays of the sun, the whole atmosphere was definitely radiating a spiritual and energetic vibe that we will not forget in a hurry. RETURN TO CONTENTS History and Facts About Wat Phra That The temple at Doi Saket is said to have been built in the year 1112. Legend has is that the Lord Buddha came to Doi Saket offered his hair for the purpose of worship. Shortly after he is said to have disappeared; this is the principal reason for the location of the temple. Thai artist, “Khun Chaiwat Wannanon” began painting the interior of the temple walls with spiritual Buddhist murals in the early 1990s. It took over 4 years for the murals to be completed. This is something that is unique to the temple at Doi Saket. Most Buddhist temples in Thailand do not have any modern art in a modern style. One of many spirit houses on the temple grounds Upon the discovery of Buddha's Footprints of Muang Yonok on the south side of the site, the construction of a new temple, Phra Maha Chedi and Plappla Mondop, has begun to cover them. There are five important Buddha Footprints, with these the fourth ones. The Nagas and deities have protected and worshiped them for over 2,600 years. More on these in a future blog post. Sign up to our site for post notifications so you do not miss it! RETURN TO CONTENTS Wat Phra That Visiting Times According to their Facebook page, Wat Phra That advertises as open from 6am to 6pm. Although the Golden Buddha is lit by floodlights overnight, the main road to go up the temple is not. When we went for the sunrise it was 6am in the morning and we were able to head up and walk around with no issues, in fact there was no-one around at all. Wat Phra That is free to enter , although you are able to leave a 20 baht donation at the Golden Buddha's feet. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Get to Wat Phra That Access from the main 118 highway is easy and very direct, regardless of what direction you are coming from. Doi Saket is located around 30 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai, heading towards Chiang Rai. Doi Saket is a rural farming district host to lots of beautiful rice fields, orchards, vineyards and beautiful mountain villages. We are currently living here and love how peaceful and natural it all is, especially with the convenience of the city of Chiang Mai only being a short 30 minute drive away. If you are not driving, the yellow Songthaew's will actually stop at the foot of the temple in Doi Saket town, with some even going up to the foot of the stairs. It is a long steep way up though, just so you are aware if you do plan to walk it. The yellow Songthaew will also take you from Doi Saket all the way to Chiang Mai city centre, for just 20 Thai Baht (50 cents). ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Find Hotels Near Wat Phra That Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Contact Information Address : 5 118, Choeng Doi, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai 50220, Thailand Opening hours: 6am to 6pm daily Facebook: @sutchatpapassarameThee RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Wat Phra That Experience Rating It does feel a little disingenuous to offer a 'rating' to a temple / shrine, especially one of this stature and beauty. It was never going to be less than five stars anyway. Wat Phra That offers so much by way of experience, the sense of solitude and peace adding to a distinct inner calmness that envelops you as you look out over Doi Saket. It is a place of prayer, a place of knowing, a place of spiritual growth and power. Couple that with the sunrise at its back, the sunset at its front, and you have a place that we absolutely recommend! Well worth a visit! Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand Check out all of the places we visited in Thailand courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Chiang Mai with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Chiang Mai. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spa, a jungle sanctuary or even cooking classes, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Thailand. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand First time in Thailand?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Sometimes called 'smoky' season, from February to May Thailand's northern regions, in particular Chiang Mai, are covered by a thick haze caused by agricultural burning and exacerbated by unregulated vehicles. So why does Chiang Mai have the worst air quality rating in the world at this time of year? Read on for all you need to know about the causes of Smoky Season here in Thailand, when to avoid it, and what you can do to protect yourself from it if it catches you by surprise like it did us! In This Post... ● What is Burning Season and Why Does it Happen? ● When is Burning Season in Thailand ● What Can You do to Protect Yourself from the Smoke? ● Should You Still Come to Thailand During Smoky Season? ● Our Final Thoughts on Thailand's Smoky Season Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand ● Explore Top Thai Destinations with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. What is Burning Season and why does it happen? The main contributor to Chiang Mai's poor air quality at this time of year is not necessarily the usual suspects of fossil fuels, factories and polluting vehicles (although this is a factor). It is actually caused by agricultural farmers, primarily the burning of biowaste such as unsold corn. This is practiced during the 'dry season' as there is hardly any rain for several months. In addition to burning waste, the farmers also use this time to set fire to cultivated farmland, clearing it for the next crop cycle. This process is in fact illegal in Thailand but farmers do this anyway as it is the most cost-effective way to deal with waste and land preparation, mainly owing to the lack of affordable alternatives. In addition to it being a cheaper, the burning also paves the way for the growth of white mushrooms in mountainous areas, which are then exported to markets such as China and the United States. This is a valuable source of income for the farmers and makes it harder for the government to clamp down on the practice, despite the environmental damage and negative impact on people's health. The smog usually clears by April, but due to a lack of wind and rain it continues to choke the north of Thailand Chiang Mai, like many other major cities in Thailand, also suffers from lack of vehicle regulation and heavy congestion. Tuk-tuks, cars, motorcycles, songthaews and trucks all contribute heavily to the poor air quality. This existing problem only increases as travel and tourism peaks between October and February, adding to the city's traffic problems. While much of the North of Thailand suffers from this smog, the city of Chiang Mai is particularly vulnerable as it is surrounded by the mountains of Doi Saket, Doi Suthep, Doi Khun Tan, and Doi Inthanon. They create a dense valley that traps the smog and literally blankets it over city. Even on a cloud-free day it feels gloomy. The heat is still palpable, but it is very hard to see the sun at times! RETURN TO CONTENTS When is Burning Season in Thailand? There is no exact start date for Burning Season, but typically it will start in November , owing to the start of the dry season . With no rain to clear the air, the smog eventually starts to cover the whole of the North. By February, when the heat is most intense (average temperatures start to hit 35 degrees Celsius / 95F), the air becomes much thicker and with barely any wind, the smoke and smog gets trapped. As with the start, there is no particular end date to Thailand's Burning Season either, however 'rainy season' tends to start at the end of March / beginning of April . The rain and strong winds not only help to clear the smoke, but also mark the end of the burning and the beginning of the new growing season. The end of the Burning Season in Chiang Mai can also coincide with the Songkran Water Festival , which is held on April 13th (the Thai New Year). This incredible festival involves people standing outside their houses with large tubs of cold water and hoses, waiting to douse literally anyone who walks past. It is totally friendly and huge fun, with parades also going through the streets, and locals even providing water filling stations for the public to use. Literally nowhere in the city is safe! RETURN TO CONTENTS What can you do to Protect Yourself from the Smoke? ⪢ Avoid the City Perhaps not ideal if you are a local or are staying in Chiang Mai already, but highly advisable if you are planning to visit during smoky season. There are lots of great surrounding areas, such as Doi Saket, which still encounter the smoke but at a lower rate due to less vehicles and more open spaces. ⪢ Wear a Mask N95 masks are widely available and the most effective way to protect from the smoke if you are outside. They filter out 95% of harmful particles (hence the name) and can be found in most stores or online. ⪢ Use an Air filter / Purifier This is a solid option for the home, as they actively filter the air around the home and can be invaluable if you are typically affected by poor air quality. They are relatively affordable in Thailand and can be found at most appliance stores and online too. ⪢ Stay Indoors The best way to avoid the smoke of Burning Season in Chiang Mai is simply to stay at home if you can. This is not a great option if you are keen to get out and explore, but in all honesty it is so hazy and smog-covered that you can not really see much which takes away from the experience. If you need to go out, early morning or late evening is the best time. It is super hot and muggy anyway, so staying indoors with a good purifier and air-con is not exactly the worst solution! Plan for indoor activities, and try to keep doors and windows closed too. ⪢ Travel by Car / Taxi One of the best (and most popular) ways to get around in Thailand is typically by motorcycle, a tuk-tuk or a songthaew. These are all open-air vehicles however, so should you need to go out during this time using a car or taking a cab is the safest bet. RETURN TO CONTENTS Should You Still Come to Thailand During Smoky Season? We have to admit, we knew nothing about smoky season before we came to Thailand. We arrived on December 25th and up until the end of January it was barely noticeable. We are staying in Doi Saket, which is just outside of Chiang Mai, 20-30 minutes east of the main city centre. It is far more rural here, so the air is slightly better, yet we are still barely able to see the surrounding mountains because of the haze. Leaving Chiang Mai for Phuket, the haze clearly visible We do smell the smoke, and we definitely try to avoid being outside for too long. As we are staying in Thailand long-term, this is not a big issue for us from an exploration point of view, although it is a little frustrating! It is also rather strange not really being able to feel the sunlight, be it indoors or outdoors. The heat is still there, but it is darker and gloomier, and we are very much looking forward to waking up to the bright light of the sun again! ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Chiang Mai and Beyond Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Final Thought on Thailand's Smoky Season We would still recommend visiting this spectacular country in any case, although perhaps staying in the south or near the coast between February and May would have been our choice in hindsight! We absolutely love Thailand and while we will always avoid visiting during this time for health reasons, we are keeping a close eye on the news for any developments. Government ministers in Chiang Mai in particular have been putting forward proposals over the past year with regards to regulating polluting vehicles and developing more transport infrastructure to ease pollution-causing congestion. In addition, the government itself has been holding meetings with neighboring Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos in an attempt to find a way to stop the burning every year. We can only hope that these initiatives have an affect, and that for everyone's sake, Burning Season can be a relic of the past that is consigned to the environmental dustbin! Your FREE Interactive Map of Thailand Check out all of the places we visited in Thailand  courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Top Thai Destinations with Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Thailand. Whether you're looking to visit some of the famous sites, looking for airport transfers or even hotels, Klook can help. Klook offers great deals on top attractions and offers additional security behind your booking as a reputable and accountable company! All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Thailand. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand First time in Thailand?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

A picture perfect paradise in our opinion, this beautiful town on the Bodrum peninsula in Türkiye is a thriving tourist destination for all of the right reasons; 5 star restaurants, resorts and beach clubs with spectacular views, wonderful hospitality and a host of epic sunbathing spots! Perhaps lesser known than some of the other towns on the Aegean coast of Türkiye, Gundogan is 47km away from the Milas-Bodrum Airport and is an active fishing town. Despite its bustling tourist trade in the summer seasons (which run from June to October), Gundogan is known for being laid back and peaceful in comparison to nearby hotspots. We fell in love with it for that reason, and of course its beautiful picturesque views! In This Article... ● Our Gundogan Highlights ● Gundogan History ● The Weather in Gundogan ● Gundogan Nightlife ● Food & Restaurants in Gündoğan ● Things to Do in Gundogan ● Our Accommodation in Gundogan ● Our Gundogan YouTube Video ● Our Gundogan Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go ● Hotels in Gundogan ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Bodrum with Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Gündoğan, Bodrum: A Two-Month Travel Guide Jenn always does her research and after 5 months in the busy city of Batumi the town of Gundogan ticked all of the boxes - by the sea, great weather, traditional restaurants and a chill vibe! It had everything we were looking for on paper and we couldn't wait to get back to the great country of Türkiye in any case after spending an amazing month in Istanbul last year. It was a great journey from Batumi; we travelled across the land border into Türkiye via taxi and first made our way to the city of Trabzon by coach, and then onto the beautiful mountain lake retreat of Uzungöl . After that we took a domestic flight to Bodrum. It was a lovely warm up for a full return to Türkiye. More on that in an upcoming blog post! Gundogan is well known for its beautiful flowers which flourish practically all year around. We came at the perfect time and it was awesome to watch them fully bloom at every turn! Such vibrant pinks, reds and whites, almost all of the whitewashed homes embrace the beautiful natural plant life of the area and it is lovely to see. We were really impressed with the views, especially as we were staying halfway up the mountain and looking down on the bay. We regularly took strolls on the boardwalk and it is full of nature and wildlife and really peaceful. The mix of palm trees and colorful flowers compliment the soothing sounds of the waves perfectly. It was so calm and relaxing! We spent two fantastic months here, which could have easily been more if not for reaching the limit of our visa! From the wonderful locals we met, to the delicious food and gorgeous daily views and vibes, we literally could not get enough of Gundogan. Read on for all you need to know including the weather , food , accommodation , things to do and our Gundogan experience rating . RETURN TO CONTENTS Gündoğan History Gundogan means 'sunrise' in English and it is easy to see why given its location and consistent clear skies. It is located near to the ancient city of Madnasa and it is famous in Bodrum for its old rock formations and cemeteries. Many of the locals believe that there was once an ancient zoo here as evidenced through carvings in old walls that run across the hill tops. Across the bay there is an old Greek Church and remains of a Byzantine settlement on 'Rabbit Island'. We did not visit but perhaps we will next time (we have agreed to come back next year as we loved it so much!). The Nar Tugan Sun Monument The Nar Tugan Sun monument is a two-language description of a full circular form, while as a whole, it contains two different elements in content. The bottom gray represents the days shortened until December 21st of the sleeping world. The red and curved place on the top represents fire, heat, brightness, and hot times after December 22nd. The observation of the sun and seasons was called Nar Tugan. The slope in the statue shows the slope of the axis that allows us to live through all of these seasons. Its sculptor is Mert Aegean West. There are approximately 4000 inhabitants here today, and along with residents past throughout the centuries the history of the town has been carefully preserved. Most of the houses are painted white and any construction is carefully considered. Many of the houses are surrounded by olive trees, mandarin, palm and oak and have never changed! Aside from the few modern resorts and the varnished docks we were swept up in the traditional style, and a s the incredibly kind locals say, 'Nothing less than history, seaside, nature, sun and friendly people can be found here in Gündoğan ' RETURN TO CONTENTS The Weather in Gündoğan May to August are the driest months on average and the typical temperature can vary between 25 - 35 degrees. July is the sunniest month and the rainy season runs from November to January. Most of the activities and restaurants operate from June to October. We probably took this same photo on about five separate occasions! The days were like this almost constantly! We just loved heading outside while we were here. It was strikingly quiet and super peaceful even though the weather was a very consistent 25 degrees every day! We definitely expected it to be busier and we were surprised it wasn't given the great climate. It is hard to think of many days out of the two months we were there that there was not pure sun; perhaps one day of light rain, one outrageously windy day and a couple of cloudy ones. Other than that it was perfect! RETURN TO CONTENTS Gündoğan Nightlife We definitely felt we picked a good time to come here. Honestly Gundogan is not a place that is famed for its nightlife and even as it started to become busier towards the end of May that was certainly evident. The restaurants do stay open fairly late and the music and vibe is great but there are only limited options. This actually suited us though; we loved the chilled out feeling and it was really nice to receive such personal service whenever we visited an establishment as they were fairly quiet. We had some great nights sipping Raki with some of the business owners and it really added to the allure of this place! It is worth noting that we did note the volume going up as we approached June; it is a small town so the music carries all around in the wind! To be honest it was often quite nice to relax in our sun room and listen to the different songs and laughs as we wound our evening down. We love to embrace local vibes and we were grateful for that, and also some pretty good sound proofing at our Airbnb when we did want to switch off! The bay is alive with lights at night, making for a lovely night walk on the boardwalk RETURN TO CONTENTS Food & Restaurants in Gündoğan There were several awesome restaurants we had the pleasure of visiting and we will be featuring these in more detail in a separate post (get notified directly in your email inbox and sign up here ). But for now here are our top three places to eat in Gundogan : ⪢ Cape Bodrum A luxury 5 star resort, Cape Bodrum is a special part of Gundogan that will take your breath away! Aside from epic accommodations and private infinity pools overlooking the bay, you can also walk right in off of the street and dine by the sea with excellent service and delicious cuisine. There is great music with a DJ and tanning beds await you after you finish your meal. Or you can just go straight for the beds and enjoy your favorite drink! VERY highly recommended! ⪢ Aida Restaurant & Bar If you want a representation of the famous Turkish hospitality then this is the place to be! It was the first restaurant we ate at in Gundogan and it was such a great experience. Easy to see why we were drawn to this lovely restaurant, so beautifully decorated We quickly got to know the owner and we were treated to some awesome local flavors with great meze, quality tenderloin, delicious fish and our very first Turkish Raki! The atmosphere is wonderful and we even had a couple of great fires after hours. ⪢ Dozo Restaurant Dozo Restaurant was the closest of all to our Airbnb and we visited several times! It has an incredibly beautiful dock with loungers that you can enjoy throughout the day with friendly table service. It has a full bar and also a solid menu which includes traditional Turkish cuisine and some great seafood choices. We spent a lovely evening drinking Raki with the owner here and we loved the ambience of the place! A big shout out to the seating too... they have some really comfortable lounge pods that we almost Doz'ed' off in! RETURN TO CONTENTS Things to Do in Gündoğan While evenings may be fairly tame in Gundogan (as mentioned there are mainly just restaurants, a few choice bars and no clubs) there is plenty to do during the day. These are a few things you can try, although bear in mind most of water activities do not get started until June and usually run until September. ⪢ Swimming & Snorkelling Available at various docks throughout, however if you are just swimming you can pretty much dive in anywhere! This gorgeous circular dock also hosts weddings ⪢ Sunbathing Most docks / sunbathing jetties are either private or owned by the restaurants so you will need to check first. Many do openly rent to walk-in customers and are not exclusive. There is also a fairly good sized sandy beach area which is free to use and located at the centre of the bay. One of the free beach areas affording excellent views of the bay ⪢ Wednesday Market & Shopping A really good place to check out if you really want to get a feel for traditional Turkish culture! This bustling market pretty much has a bit of everything and is covered by canopies to offer some respite from the hot sun! There are also many independent souvenir and trinket shops around the town centre so be sure to check these out too! ⪢ Boat Trips There are daily departures from Gundogan harbour which take you to the two small islands closest to the bay and beyond. We did not try them during our stay but they are very popular with tourists and are no doubt worth a go! ⪢ Wind Surfing, Sailing & Paddle Boarding We saw at least two docks with these options and while it is not something for us, this looks like great fun! ⪢ Go to Bodrum and the Surrounding Towns There are many surrounding towns that are have just as much charm as Gundogan . Of course you can also head to the main port city of Bodrum which is around 40 minutes away by car / bus and is the most popular place on the peninsula. Buses are inexpensive and run every 30 minutes or so and you can catch them from main dolmus station in town. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Accommodation in Gündoğan Our apartment was located about a 15 minute walk away from the main town centre and kept us very fit given it was around halfway up the mountainside! Access to the main boardwalk was very easy and we enjoyed many strolls amongst the docks and palm trees of the bay. We arrived in April which is about two months before peak season and at that time most of the restaurants along the water were closed. On our daily walks it was fascinating to watch them prepare and gradually get ready for the big June opening! By the end of May the empty docks were varnished, beautifully decorated and full of loungers and umbrellas ready to accommodate the expected masses. We booked 2 months in an Airbnb and we were immediately impressed with our host! He picked us up from the airport and was so kind, even stopping off to get us a coffee and doing his best to ensure we were comfortable! The property was great and we had a lovely time there. It had great views of Gundogan Bay and we had no issues at all, apart from some minor hiccups with the internet which was swiftly resolved. Our Airbnb, on a hill that is steeper than it looks! Our hosts had a self contained apartment on the ground floor and we were on the second floor. We spent much of our days and nights in the sun room which was super bright and airy. We had everything we needed including our own washing machine which was handy for us as full time travellers! The kitchen was fully equipped and even had a dishwasher. There was no microwave but there was a counter top oven which worked well for us once we figured out how to use it! We also had private access to the rooftop patio where we were even able to catch a glimpse of the Super Flower Blood Moon that graced the skies in the middle of May. It was a great moment and made our time here even more memorable! A minor downfall to the location (as we had no vehicle) was a lack of local amenities within easy reach. The nearest convenience store was a 15 - 20 minute walk away which included THAT hill which we mentioned earlier (yes it was very steep!). We tended to walk there and take a taxi back from town which was fine for a big shop but not great when we just needed something basic like water or a pint of milk (or late night munchies). The taxi cost was on average 50 Turkish lira and it's good to note that the taxi's run on a metered system. Our Accommodation Rating Overall we would give our hosts a full 5 stars. They were friendly and went out of their way to accommodate us. There is no con that outweighs a pro and it was also excellent value for the months we stayed (please note the price goes up significantly during peak season). We would recommend this place for sure, if you would like any further information at all let us know in the comments and we will be happy to help! Jenn on the dock! So many places for snaps like this! RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Gündoğan YouTube Video In this 4K video, you'll get a glimpse of some of the amazing sights, sounds and tastes of this beautiful Turkish town. We show you the beautiful Boardwalk and the stunning views from the beach. You'll also get to experience some of those fantastic restaurants we showed you earlier! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Gündoğan Experience Rating Feel free to let us know your thoughts on Gundogan in the comments. We had a fantastic time here and we decided within days that this may well become an annual trip. Be it for a relaxing vacation or a place to vibe while you work, you will not be disappointed. Thumbs up for Glorious Gundogan ! We would love to hear from you and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask. We are always happy to help. As always thanks for following along on our journey! Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. Hotels in Gundogan Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Bodrum with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Bodrum. Whether you're looking for a boat trip, jeep safari, or if you want to see some turtles, there are plenty of options available at great prices. Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities, and all tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Bodrum and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Standing proudly on the coast of the Bosporus Strait, on the European side of Istanbul, The Dolmabahçe Palace has nearly 170 years of history to accompany its splendour. It is located in the Beşiktaş district and we could not wait to get close to this marvelous feature of Ottoman and Turkish history. Read on for our Dolmabahce Palace highlights , some history behind the palace, and important information such as how to find it , buying tickets , opening times and more. Plus some exclusive offers from Klook , and our special palace YouTube video! In This Article... ● Our Dolmabahce Palace Highlights ● The History Behind the Dolmabahce Palace ● What is the Entry Fee for the Dolmabahce Palace? ● What are the Dolmabahce Palace Opening Times? ● How to Find the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul ● Tips for for Visiting the Dolmabahce Palace ● Explore the Dolmabahce Palace on YouTube ● Our Dolmabahce Palace Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Dolmabahce Palace Highlights Our accommodation during our month long visit to Istanbul was in the Fener district. You can take a ferry from the area however there is a direct stop from Hazerfen Ahmet Çelebi İskelesi Port which takes you directly to Beşiktaş. This port is in Eminönü, where you will also find amazing places to visit such as the Grand Bazaar, The Spice Bazaar, The Blue Mosque and of course, the great Hagia Sophia. We chose to take the 20 minute walk to the port aside the Golden Horn with its calming views and locals getting in some early morning fishing. It's also good to note, there is a direct tram service that can be used as well to get directly to the centre. You will need the IstanbulKart to access all of the cities main forms of transport in Istanbul. You can purchase your IstanbulKart at one of the many machines located at all ferry ports, subway and tram stations. We paid 20 lira each for the card and credit; after the one ferry ride across in our journey we still had 6 lira left on each card. It is also super easy to top up the amount you need at the kiosks at each ferry port. You will find the Palace entrance opposite the Besiktas football stadium, which was great to see for us footie fans!! The Exterior of the Gate of the Sultan (Saltanat Kapısı) on Dolmabahçe Avenue. We chose to walk on our way back as we took a diversion to visit the Galata Tower and to catch a glimpse of the sunset as we crossed the bridge back to the European side but more on that in another post. So this magnificent palace was the main center of governance for the Ottoman Empire for over 30 years. Its construction was completed in 1856 and almost bankrupted the empire at an eye watering cost of nearly $2 billion in today's money. You can certainly see why, the extravagance is there to see and no expense was spared. There are many rooms to explore from libraries, office, board rooms and lounge areas. One of our favourite places is the grand staircase! What a marvel! The palace is impressive and ornate through out. We would recommend approximately 1 hour to walk through the palace. The Dolmabahçe Palace was home to six sultans and is also the final resting place of the revered founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who passed away at 9.05am on November 10, 1938. The clock in his personal quarters still bears this time as a mark of respect for this great leader. Beautiful view from one of the stained glass windows of the Palace The palace grounds are absolutely beautiful. There are many fountains and gardens to wander through. There is a small restaurant, souvenir store and of course many benches and places to sit and admire the beautiful Bosporus. It is a lovely spot to read a good book, relax and enjoy taking in the view of the water... this property was chosen to be a palace for a reason, why not take some extra time to bask in it! We would recommend 20 - 30 minutes to explore the grounds areas. The Harem felt a little underwhelming after seeing the palace although it is interesting to see the various rooms that the sultan's wives lived in, the sitting rooms, circumcision rooms and the various Turkish bathrooms. Lovely none the less but not as grandiose as the main palace. The extra add on time for the tour of the Harem was approximately 30 minutes. We would recommend allotting two hours to plan a proper visit the palace as a minimum. It is a great day out and there is also lots to do and admire in the surrounding areas too. Plus the Galata Tower is just a 45 minute walk away if you fancy it! The stunning exterior façade overlooking the Bosporus Strait The History Behind the Dolmabahce Palace The construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and was completed in 1856 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, replacing the older Topkapı Palace as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace was built in the neoclassical architectural style and is a fusion of Ottoman and European design elements, reflecting the Ottoman Empire's efforts to modernize and Westernize. The Gate to the Bosporus at The Dolmabahçe Palace The palace is known for its impressive size, exquisite details, and luxurious furnishings. It boasts 285 rooms, 43 halls, and a stunning facade facing the Bosporus. One of the most striking features of the palace is the Crystal Staircase, made of Baccarat crystal, brass, and mahogany. It leads to the ceremonial halls on the upper floors. The palace interiors are adorned with intricate paintings, lavish chandeliers, and ornate furniture, showcasing the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. The Dolmabahçe Clock Tower Dolmabahçe Palace served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire during the later years of its existence. The palace played a role in important historical events, including the signing of the Treaty of Sèvres in 1920, which marked the end of World War I for the Ottoman Empire, and the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923, which led to the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey. It also famously served as the residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, during his visits to Istanbul. Atatürk passed away in a bedroom at the palace on November 10, 1938, and that room is now a museum in his honor. Today, Dolmabahçe Palace is open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors to explore its lavish interiors, learn about its history, and marvel at its architectural beauty. Dolmabahçe Palace stands as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's aspiration for modernization and its efforts to engage with the changing world. It remains a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Turkey. RETURN TO CONTENTS What is the Entry Fee for the Dolmabahce Palace? The entry fees for Dolmabahçe Palace are as follows: Full price: 650 Turkish Liras Discounted price: 50 Turkish Liras Children under 7 years old: Free Free for people with disabilities and their accompanying persons. * The discounted price is available for students, teachers, senior citizens, and journalists. You can get a discounted ticket by showing your valid ID at the ticket office. The entry fee covers all three parts of the palace; the main building, the harem rooms, and the palace collections. The ticket price also includes the optional use of an audio guide. You can also buy a combined ticket for all of the national palaces in Istanbul, which costs 750 Turkish Liras. You can buy tickets for Dolmabahçe Palace online or at the ticket office on site. We recommended buying your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. ⪢ Purchase a Tour with Klook Take a tour of the Dolmabahce Palace and discover its history and architectural methods. Get the chance to explore the interior and exterior courtyards before entering the palace and learning about the largest collection of Baccarat chandeliers in the world, found only in the Dolmabahce Palace. Tap the link below for more information! RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the Dolmabahce Palace Opening Times? The palace is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day except Mondays. Last admission is at 5pm, and depends on the amount of visitors at the time. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Find the Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul The Dolmabahçe Palace is located in Istanbul, Turkey, along the European coastline of the Bosphorus Strait. The palace is situated in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, not far from the Kabataş and Beşiktaş areas. It is easily accessible from various parts of the city using public transportation or private vehicles. ⪢ By Tram - Take the T1 tram line (Bağcılar-Kabataş) towards Kabataş from various points in Istanbul, depending on your location. - Get off at the "Kabataş" tram stop. - From Kabataş, you can walk to Dolmabahçe Palace. It's about a 15-20 minute walk along the coastline. Just follow the signs or use a navigation app to guide you. ⪢ By Bus You can take various bus lines to reach the Beşiktaş area, which is close to Dolmabahçe Palace. These include the 28, 30D, 46Ç, 47K, and 82. From the Beşiktaş bus stop, you can walk to Dolmabahçe Palace. It's approximately a 20-25 minute walk. Follow the signs or use a navigation app for guidance. ⪢ Metro & Tram Combo ● Take the M2 metro line (Yenikapı-Hacıosman) to "Taksim" station. ● Transfer to the T1 tram line (Bağcılar-Kabataş) and take it towards Kabataş. ● Get off at the "Kabataş" tram stop. ● Walk to Dolmabahçe Palace as mentioned earlier. ⪢ By Taxi You can also take a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber to directly reach Dolmabahçe Palace. Just provide the palace's name to the driver or enter the destination in the ride-sharing app. Make sure to check the current transportation options, schedules, and any possible route changes before your journey. If you choose a private taxi, be sure to agree a price before leaving as drivers are known to inflate fares, especially for tourists. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye RETURN TO CONTENTS Tips for Visiting the Dolmabahce Palace ● Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the palace (it is pretty big!). ● Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking. ● Bring your ID if you are eligible for a discounted ticket. ● Avoid visiting on Mondays as the palace is closed on this day. ● Buy your tickets in advance, especially during peak season (May to August). ● Take advantage of the audio guide to learn more about the palace. ● Be respectful of the palace and its visitors; do not touch the exhibits and be mindful in sensitive areas. ● Photos and videos are NOT permitted anywhere inside the palace except in designated places. Explore the Dolmabahce Palace on YouTube Take an even closer look inside this beautiful piece of architecture as part of our walking tour of Istanbul, including our visit to the historical Galata Tower! RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Dolmabahce Palace Experience Rating One of the easiest 5 out of 5's we have ever decided on! Our experience at the Dolmabahce Palace certainly was both a fascinating and exciting one. The architecture here is truly phenomenal and the palace grounds are tranquil and beautiful. The palace itself is so opulent and grand, it is hard not to walk around with amazement. We were really impressed with the main building, although slightly disappointed with the Harem. Not to take away anything from the overall experience though. For the price it is definitely worth it, and is an absolute must-see if you are in Istanbul! Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your GUIDE to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Canadian Christmas lights done right! Almost one million lights adorn the trees and buildings of the historic pioneer Upper Canada Village at this beautiful winter festival. It is one of the largest of its kind in Ontario and is a truly captivating experience, especially in the snow! Alight at Night is located in Morrisburg, Ontario and was established in 2000, making this year its 22nd anniversary. Upper Canada Village is already a great place to visit throughout the year but Alight at Night elevates it to another level! Check out some of our highlights , find out about the famous Canadian Beaver Tails , the history of Upper Canada Village , and all you need to know about visiting Alight at Night . In This Post... ● Our Alight at Night Highlights ● What Are Beaver Tails? ● The History Behind Upper Canada Village ● How to Get Tickets for Alight at Night ● Alight at Night Opening Times & Ticket Prices ● Tips for Visiting Alight at Night ● How to Get to Upper Canada Village ● Our Alight at Night Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Canada ● Explore Canada with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Canada Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Alight at Night Highlights We had just returned to Canada after a year and a half away traveling, and we wanted to go to Alight at Night to enjoy quality time with the family. Jenn and the kiddos had been here many times before when they were a little younger, so it was also a tad nostalgic to! It was really fun this time around as always, and everyone had a great time. A cherished memory for sure! Around 50,000 people visit this enchanting display ever year and it is easy to see why. It captures the essence of Christmas and the festive season in a truly multi-sensory way and in our opinion it makes for a lovely evening stroll either with that special someone or the entire family. There are lots of activities here, aside from the lights themselves. There are horse drawn carriage rides, good old fashioned carol singing, a sit down with Santa, train rides (and many other fun activities for children), light and music shows (check out our YouTube video for that), a gift store, restaurants, refreshments and even Beaver Tails! The gift store has your typical souvenir memorabilia but also has many other high end items including hand knit roll sweaters, things for the home, beautiful Christmas decorations, ornaments for trees and the like. What Are Beaver Tails? Beaver Tails are a trademark Canadian sweet pastry consisting of a flat piece of fried dough, dusted with sugar and cinnamon or served with a wide selection of other delicious toppings. Beaver Tails Canada Inc is a restaurant chain established in 1978, now famous all over Canada and in many other parts of the world such as Mexico, France, UAE, Republic of Korea and Japan. Fun fact - one of Jenn's very first jobs was working at a Beaver Tail hut at Ottawa's Winterlude Festival when she was 16! The History Behind Upper Canada Village Upper Canada Village is a living history museum located in Morrisburg, Ontario, Canada. It depicts a 19th-century village in Upper Canada, which is the historical name for the southern part of what is now Ontario. The village was founded in 1961 as part of the St. Lawrence Seaway project. The Seaway required the flooding of ten villages in the area, known as the Lost Villages. Upper Canada Village was a part of the project's heritage preservation plan. Many of the buildings in Upper Canada Village were transported directly from the villages to be flooded. The park, owned and operated by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, was opened to the public in 1961. It is one of the largest living-history sites in Canada, with over 40 historical buildings. These include homes, functioning mills and trades workshops. The village is staffed by interpreters who dress in period clothing and demonstrate the skills and trades of the 19th century. Visitors can learn about farming, cooking, blacksmithing, and other aspects of everyday life in Upper Canada. Upper Canada Village is a popular tourist destination, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year. It is a great place to learn about the history of Ontario and experience life in the 19th century. 1958: Construction of Upper Canada Village begins as part of the St. Lawrence Seaway project. 1961: Upper Canada Village opens to the public. 1972: The village is designated a National Historic Site of Canada. 1980: The village is expanded to include the Lost Villages Museum. 2000: The village celebrates its 40th anniversary. 2011: The village celebrates its 50th anniversary. There are plenty of activities available including village tours, camping and dining. Find out more at uppercanadavillage.com . Despite Canada being a relatively young country there is much to learn about its history and Upper Canada Village is a great place to begin! How to Get Tickets for Alight at Night You are only able to purchase tickets in advance exclusively through the Upper Canada Village website . There are no on-site admissions. You must arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to your ticket time and there is plenty of parking available at no extra charge. Also please note that only service animals (not pets) are permitted for this event. The tour itself will take around 40 minutes depending on your level of activity. If you would like to take the Pommier Carriage Ride this too must be booked online and is an additional charge to the entry fee. Alight at Night Opening Times & Ticket Prices Alight at Night is open from November 29th to January 4th in 2024 . Opening times are between 5pm to 9pm. General admission prices are $17 CAD per person , with children under 4 permitted free entry. There a small discount for under 13's and over 65's. Book your tickets here . Tips for Visiting Alight at Night ⪢ Dress warmly: It can be quite cold at night in November and December, so be sure to dress warmly. ⪢ Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. ⪢ Bring a flashlight: The paths can be dark in places, so it is a good idea to bring a flashlight. ⪢ Take your time: There is a lot to see at Alight at Night, so take your time and enjoy the experience! How to Get to Upper Canada Village There are a few different ways to get to Alight at Night in Upper Canada Village, depending on how close you are. The village is slightly remote and a little out of the way if you are staying in Ottawa or Montreal. Ideally you do need a vehicle to get there, unless you live nearby. ⪢ By Car The village is located at 13740 County Road 2 in Morrisburg. There is a large parking lot available for festival attendees. ⪢ By Bus There is a bus stop located at the corner of County Road 2 and Upper Canada Village Road. OC Transport bus 712 stops at this location. ⪢ By Bike The village is located on the Trans Canada Trail, so it is possible to bike there. However, the roads are not paved, so it is not recommended for road bikes. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Find Hotels Near Upper Canada Village Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Our Alight at Night Experience Rating We are rating Alight at Night 5 stars... or should it be five lights?! There is a really cool (pun intended) appeal here and it is a lovely location to get one into the spirit of the festive season. It is really well put together and we felt the Christmas spirit in the air as we wandered through the village. With plenty of activities and events it will indeed get you ready and excited for Christmas! Your FREE Interactive Map of Canada Check out all of the places we visited in Canada courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Canada with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a good variety of tours to help you experience the best of Canada. Whether you're looking for a Niagara Falls experience, a private tour of beautiful Banff, or a day trip to Lake Louise, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Canada. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience. Your FREE Guide to Visiting Canada First time in Canada?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Self-care Sundays are the perfect way to recharge and prepare for the week ahead. By incorporating fashion and fragrances into your routine, you can create a luxurious and rejuvenating experience. This article will walk you through the steps to make your self-care Sundays both stylish and fragrant. Source: Bảo Phúc Table of Contents ● The Importance of Self-Care Sundays ● Creating a Fashion Ritual ● Fragrance Rituals for Self-Care ● Enhancing Your Self-Care Routine ● Embrace the Rituals More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our blog ● Poetry, Lifestyle & Social Media Blogs on Closer Lives Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. The Importance of Self-Care Sundays ⪢ What is Self-Care? Self-care involves activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It's about taking time for yourself to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. Self-care Sundays provide a dedicated day to focus on these activities, ensuring you start your week feeling refreshed and energized. ⪢ Why Fashion and Fragrances? Fashion and fragrances play a significant role in how we feel about ourselves. Wearing your favorite outfit or fragrance can lift your mood, boost confidence, and create a sense of well-being. By integrating these elements into your self-care routine, you can enhance the overall experience. RETURN TO CONTENTS Creating a Fashion Ritual ⪢ Declutter and Organize Your Wardrobe Start your self-care Sunday by decluttering and organizing your wardrobe. This not only makes it easier to find your favorite pieces but also creates a sense of order and calm. Donate or recycle items you don't wear, and neatly arrange the rest. Source: Cottonbro studio ⪢ Choose a Relaxing Outfit Select an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and stylish. Consider soft fabrics like cotton or silk that feel gentle against your skin. The goal is to wear something that allows you to relax while also making you feel good about yourself. ⪢ Incorporate Accessories Accessories can elevate any outfit and add a touch of personal style. Choose a few favorite pieces, such as a statement necklace, a cozy scarf, or an elegant hat. These small additions can make a big difference in how you feel. RETURN TO CONTENTS Fragrance Rituals for Self-Care ⪢ Selecting the Right Fragrance Fragrances have the power to influence our emotions and set the tone for the day. Choose a scent that aligns with your mood and the environment you want to create. For a calming effect, consider fragrances with notes of lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood. For an energizing boost, opt for citrus or peppermint scents. Source: Mart Production ⪢ Applying Fragrance Applying your chosen fragrance can be a mindful and soothing ritual. Spray it on pulse points such as your wrists, neck, and behind your ears. You can also lightly mist your clothes or a cozy blanket to surround yourself with the scent. ⪢ Fragrance Monthly Subscription Consider joining a fragrance monthly subscription  service to explore new scents and keep your routine fresh. This way, you can try different fragrances each month without committing to a full-sized bottle. It adds an element of surprise and excitement to your self-care Sundays. RETURN TO CONTENTS Enhancing Your Self-Care Routine ⪢ Create a Relaxing Environment Set the scene for your self-care Sunday by creating a calming environment. Light scented candles, play soft music, and dim the lights. This will help you unwind and fully immerse yourself in the experience. ⪢ Pamper Yourself Take time to pamper yourself with a luxurious bath or shower. Use fragrant bath salts, oils, or bubbles to enhance the sensory experience. Follow up with a moisturizing body lotion or oil to keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated. Source: Mart Production ⪢ Enjoy a Mindful Activity Engage in a mindful activity that you enjoy, such as reading a book, journaling, or practicing yoga. These activities help you relax, clear your mind, and focus on the present moment. ⪢ Try a DIY Fashion Project Get creative with a DIY fashion project. Whether it's customizing a piece of clothing or creating new accessories, this can be a fun and rewarding way to express your style. You might try tie-dyeing a shirt, sewing a patch onto a jacket, or making your own jewelry. The process can be both relaxing and satisfying, and you'll have a unique item to show for it. ⪢ Incorporate Aromatherapy Aromatherapy can enhance your self-care routine by using essential oils to promote relaxation and well-being. You can use an essential oil diffuser, add a few drops to your bath, or apply them to your skin (diluted with a carrier oil). Popular choices for relaxation include lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus. For an uplifting effect, try citrus oils like orange or lemon. ⪢ Indulge in a Spa-Like Experience at Home Transform your bathroom into a spa sanctuary to enhance your self-care Sunday. Invest in plush towels, a soft robe, and spa-quality skincare products. Begin with a gentle exfoliating scrub, followed by a hydrating face mask. Don't forget to play soothing music and light aromatic candles to create a serene atmosphere. This spa-like experience can help you unwind, nourish your skin, and leave you feeling pampered and revitalized. ⪢ Savoring a Gourmet Treat Treat yourself to a gourmet snack or meal as part of your self-care Sunday. Whether it's a decadent chocolate, a beautifully crafted pastry, or a delicious homemade dish, indulging in a culinary delight can elevate your day. Pair your treat with a favorite beverage, like a glass of wine, a cup of herbal tea, or a freshly brewed coffee. This small act of indulgence can bring immense joy and satisfaction, making your self-care routine even more special. RETURN TO CONTENTS Embrace the Rituals Incorporating fashion and fragrances into your self-care Sundays can transform an ordinary day into a luxurious and rejuvenating experience. By dedicating time to these rituals, you not only enhance your mood and confidence but also create a sense of well-being that carries into the week ahead. Remember, self-care is about prioritizing yourself and finding joy in small, meaningful moments. Whether it’s through a relaxing outfit, a favorite scent, or a gourmet treat, make your self-care Sunday a celebration of you. Enjoy the process, explore new rituals, and let each Sunday be a reminder of the importance of taking care of your mind, body, and soul. With these practices, you'll start your week feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on whatever comes your way RETURN TO CONTENTS This is a guest post for Jenn & Leon Travel Blog, written by Tana LaPierre.  Tana is a passionate explorer and writer who loves capturing the world's stories and sharing them through her writing, bringing diverse tales to life for others to enjoy. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube  of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Poetry, Lifestyle & Social Media Blogs on Closer Lives We have a major passion for travel here at Closer Lives (can you tell?!), however our biggest passion stems from writing itself. It is from writing that we met, through our poetry on Instagram, and it is what basically started this whole thing! While we have focused primarily on documenting our travel excursions and writing Country Guides , we are also just as keen to share our knowledge and experience on Social Media , along with the very Poetry that brought us Closer in the first place. We are also steadily building a collection of Lifestyle blogs, where we share how we travel, resources we use and alternative living tips.

There is such importance and power behind a name. I recall talking with my ex mother in law (a strong Christian) while I was pregnant with her first grandchild and she asked me what name I was planning to choose. She discussed with me the gift and power of intention in a name…I love the lessons and wisdom that come from older generations than our own (yes, even that from an ex mother in law) So.. long story short, I named her grandchildren Noah, Eden & Adam. Both a gift to her and my children. Jennifer: my name essentially means “white fairy” or “white phantom” and has origins dating back to Roman Britain, perhaps even to pagan goddesses. Jennifer comes from a Cornish form of the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar “Jennifer” itself is Cornish for “white wave” or “white shadow”; “Gwenhwyfar,” as it turns out, is “derived from the elements gwen meaning ‘fair, white, blessed’ and sebara meaning ‘phantom, magical being.’ Interesting side note: I have been seriously considering allowing my natural hair to grow in. I have been colouring and hiding my new growth of grey, white and SILVER; literal SILVER hair, for years. It's going to be a long process but I am in it to win it. When I saw these photos of Annika von Holdt with her beautiful natural hair I was convinced that this is the path for me too. Am I the only one getting total MARVEL vibes here....channeling energy from your hands with white and silver hair!? In ancient cultures and tribes all over the world they used to introduce themselves fully. Why do we no longer say ‘I’m Jennifer, pure of heart, a white enchantress’ it sounds WAY cooler and far more memorable! And if you don’t identify with your birth name any longer than change it and find something that does resonate with the new you .. trust me, I’m a Scorpio. I’ve lived many lives in this one already.. we are the transformers! Take a name in your spiritual transformation process (but do remember there is a key and relevance in your birth namesake in your spiritual journey). After asking the universe (manifesting, calling it into being) for a deep, real conversation about the things I’m passionate about with a stranger, I recently met a fascinating man while we were in Patong, Phuket for Songkran, the WATER PARTY of the year and the Buddhist New Year in Thailand! When I returned from the washroom Leon was discussing ChatGPT with him and he hadn't tried it out....the first question he asked it was 'Explain to me Athenian Democracy' and that says it all. He was a fellow Canadian at that, I rarely have met Canadians in my travels and/or fellow funeral directors (which I ALSO met here at this exact restaurant the day before but that's a story for another time) He is backpacker in his late 50’s… a world traveller, writer, extremely spiritual & knowledgeable likes to dissect society, technology, politics, space, quantum, discuss ‘conspiracy theories’… basically he knew his ‘stuff’ (the ‘stuff’ that matters to me) he ‘spoke’ my language. (all joking aside I actually do speak 4 languages English, French, Portuguese and Spanish) When I finally got around to asking his name (often in travels we just get talking naturally and casually and introductions tend to fall to the wayside) he said ‘well, I go by Dallas…’ I thought that was an odd way to put it and it felt impersonal to me.. I like to know the depths of people (I'm a Scorpio, we don't do surface level) and his statement felt lingering to me, so following my intuition I said “yes, but what is your ‘birth/real name’?” (which I wouldn’t normally ask!) and he said ‘you know, it’s been so long since I’ve used it I can’t even bring myself to say it out loud…’ and he didn’t say it… but I could tell he thought/felt deeply about it… and I KNOW, as a healer, that was a take away for him.. a call to heal his namesake wounds...often in lineage/generational patterns and childhood trauma wounds etc. there’s no escaping the inner works when they come calling for you…and they will at some point in your journey. The other fascinating thing I find about my name is that oddly, I have many times in my life been referred to by strangers as ‘the lady in black’. Maybe it's due the sense of mystery or allure my energy sends out? I dunno...I remember when Leon and I stayed in Merida, Mexico in June 2021 at an old Mansion and the host kept calling me Lady in Black all weekend...for example brought a bottle of wine to our room and said " You're welcome Lady in Black. " That was the weekend that Leon read aloud to me all over the grounds from the Book of Osiris written by a clairaudient that I had found a few days prior at the local book store. I paid 60 pesos for it and it is valued at $450 usd (I love books however I am no collector etc quite the opposite actually since it's difficult to travel with tangible books) The book was a blessing to me in so many ways! Again, a story for another day. I’m a Scorpio and my colour is black and I have an affinity for the tone.. and it’s my clothing colour of choice but my namesake is all about the white..maybe it's the balance between light and dark? White and Black? The ying and yang? Who knows but what I do know is that there is true power and gifting that is attached to words and names. Writing prompt: What does your name mean? Compose an essay or write a poem about your name…your name sake.. anything that comes to you associated to your name .. have you noticed any generational patterns etc. learn about you!

Most people prefer companionship while traveling but there is something about solo travel. It is life-changing, a transformative experience, and an opportunity of navigating on your own. It is always suggestive to come out of the comfort zone to experience self-discovery as well as pure exhilaration. Solo travel means you are the commander of the trip and tailoring the itinerary in accordance to your desires. In short you can discover your own rhythm and explore a gamut of experiences. Table of Contents ● Dubai ● Thailand ● Japan ● Australia ● Spain ● Canada ● England ● How to follow our blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here  for more information. World’s Best Solo Travel Destinations Unveiled Solo travel destinations the world over abound, thus choosing one rests on the traveler’s budget, interest, as well as preferred experiences. Let’s see the world’s finest solo travel destinations at a glance: ⪢ Dubai Solo travelers can tour Dubai as it is safe, has minimal crime rate, and plethora of mind-blowing attractions. Exploring the City of Gold solo will be truly rewarding for the gamut of cultural experiences, dining with a view, cruises, massive shopping malls, and more. Once in Dubai, observing the Burj Khalifa and getting on board for the most excellent Dubai desert safari tours  is a mandate, after all these are integral to the city’s essence. The bucket list also comprises the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Marina, Old Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts, the Dubai Creek, and more. Dubai also promises a pulsating nightlife. ⪢ Thailand Solo travelers rejoice. Get your Thailand visa  as Thailand never disappoints. With its cities brimming with life, colorful street markets, charming streets, to relaxing beaches, you are spoilt for choice. Head to Bangkok, the capital city and you will be at awe at its ornate temples, convenient public transportation, deep culture, and vibrant nightlife. Do visit Wat Arun , the Grand Palace, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market. How can you forget Phuket, Thailand’s charm? Unwind at the pristine beaches of Patong or try your hands at some water sports. Also make the most of the night market and some delectable cuisine at a beachfront seafood eatery. Also add Chiang Mai to the itinerary for some historic charm, arts, beautiful temples like Wat Phra, and Buddhist meditation retreats. ⪢ Japan Japan is much loved for its delectable cuisine, welcoming environment, deep culture, and above all safety. Cities to explore here galore - Osaka, Tokyo , Hiroshima, Kyoto , and the like with each having its distinctive specialty. Solo travelers will simple adore the futuristic skyscrapers as well as neon-lit streets in Tokyo. The Tokyo Tower, Shinkansen, and Senso-ji Temple should not be missed. Kyoto conversely has created a niche for its tradition & history. Solo travelers do not miss Arashiyama’s bamboo groves, tea houses, the Gion district, and Kinkaku-ji (UNESCO World Heritage site). Once in Osaka, sample the city’s delectable cuisines, visit the Universal Studios, Shinsaibashi, and also Osaka Castle. While in Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Miyajima Island, and Hiroshima Castle are a should-see. ⪢ Australia This is another favorite when it comes to solo travels. What lure travelers to Australia are the friendly locals, iconic spots, and above all the vibe which is laid-back. Sydney is an ideal choice as it is blessed with dazzling beaches like the Bondi, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Surry Hills, and more. Melbourne is synonymous for its culture and art. Solo travelers can marvel at the exquisite street art, partake in live performances, and events, and also explore Federation Square and St Kilda. Solo travelers take pleasure of epic road trips in Australia by visiting the Great Barrier for underwater adventures and if remote adventure interests you head towards the Australian Outback. ⪢ Spain Spain is truly captivating for solo travelers of every interest. Visit Barcelona’s architectural masterpiece Antoni Gaudi, shop at La Boqueria, take a lazy walk along Las Ramblas, or let loose on a beach. Get on board to Madrid for some gala nighttime at tapas bars or survey the historic landmarks like the Prado Museum. You can explore Chueca too for some boutique shopping. Also visit Seville for some wonders like Plaza de Espana, Seville Cathedral, or Maria Luisa Park. If you adore the waters, head to Balearic Islands for its awe-inspiring beaches and thrilling water sports. Also partake in beach parties at Ibiza. Last but not least, the Moorish architecture in Granada too is worth a visit. ⪢ Canada Solo travelers have a mammoth to explore in Canada right from the European charm to being in nature’s lap. Vancouver is famed for its multicultural vibe and historic charm. Step into Stanley Park, visit trendy shops at Yaletown, or delve into deep history at Gastown. Visit Toronto for its dynamic urban experience. Toronto has endless to offer solo travelers including the CN Tower, Distillery District, to Queen Street West for world-class shopping and dining. The theatres, galleries, as well as museums too top the list. Then there is Banff National Park for satiating the outdoor buffs. Spot wildlife, go on hikes, or marvel at the beautiful mountains. Do not sideline the Icefields Parkway and Lake Louise . ⪢ England Solo travelers will fall in love with England for its endless possibilities waiting to be explored. Visit the Buckingham Palace as well as the British Museum in London. Feel the uniqueness of Notting Hill or wander through Soho. The well-connected transportation makes every tour a breeze. Then there is Cambridge as well as Oxford steeped in culture, abode to highly esteemed universities, and the quintessential English experience. Visit Bath Abbey in Bath and Tintagel Castle in Cornwall. Also do explore Stratford-upon-Avon where William Shakespeare was born along with other opportunities such as English pubs as well as tearooms. Wrapping Up The bottom line is, travel solo. This world is all yours for exploration. Take a single baby step to get started and there will be no looking back. Happy solo travels!!! How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube  of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

It's with a mix of emotions that we are stepping away from Etsy after two years. The platform offered a fantastic launchpad for our products, but after careful consideration and a heap of frustrations, we have decided to pursue a different path for for our store, Closer Lives Emporium. In this post , we share the many reasons behind our decision and our major concerns with the platform. Things that drove a massive 32% drop in Etsy's stock price in 2023 , other sellers leaving in droves , and the tripling of Etsy's seller fees . Not to mention the hugely controversial Etsy reserve fiasco . What did we learn on Etsy, and what exciting things do we see coming next? Read on to find out! Table of Contents ● First things first, what is Etsy? ● How is Etsy performing? ● Why we choose Etsy for Closer Lives Emporium ● The journey to 300 products ● Understanding the SEO > product descriptions, alt tags, size charts etc. Mistakes spell a time-consuming disaster! ● The importance of Branding ● The Etsy ads disaster ● Etsy's direction... too concerned with updates and apps ● Crazy Etsy charges ● Time vs effort - is it worth it? ● Competition – how tough is it? ● The infamous Etsy 'reserve' debacle ● Poor store customization ● The turning point: time to QUIT ETSY and move on to OUR OWN PLATFORM, closerlives.com ● The benefits of building your own site ● The future of Closer Lives Emporium - what have we learnt, and where do we go from here? ● How to follow our Blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. First things first, what is Etsy?   Etsy is an online marketplace that caters to those who appreciate unique and handcrafted items. It's a popular destination for people looking to support independent sellers and artists from all over the world. The platform offers a wide range of products, from jewelry and clothing to home decor and art. If you're looking for something special and bespoke, Etsy is a great place to browse. Imagine Etsy as a giant online version of a craft fair. Here, you'll find a vast selection of handmade and vintage items created by independent sellers. This means you're directly supporting creative individuals who put their heart and soul into their work. So if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or a gift with a personal touch, Etsy is definitely worth checking out. ⪢ Drop Shipping and Print-on-Demand In addition to handcrafted items, Etsy is also a platform that is an outlet for the masses of drop-shippers and print-on-demand companies who have exploded onto the scene in recent years. Drop-shipping and print on demand (POD) companies like Printify are fulfillment models that allow you to sell products online without holding any inventory. With drop-shipping, you partner with a supplier who stores and ships products directly to your customers after you make a sale. POD takes it a step further - you design custom products (like t-shirts or mugs) and the POD provider prints them on demand only when someone orders, handling the fulfillment for you. Both models free you up from managing stock and allow you to test out a wider range of products without upfront investment. RETURN TO CONTENTS How is Etsy performing? In Q4 2023, Etsy reached 7.9 million active sellers, with a year-over-year growth of 3.8%.   One reason why selling on Etsy can be profitable is the growing number of buyers on the platform. According to Etsy, the number of active buyers went up by 3.4% to 97.3 million. This shows that Etsy is becoming a bigger market where sellers can make good money.   In 2023, Etsy’s consolidated Gross Merchandise Sales (GMS) decreased slightly to $13.16 billion from $13.32 billion in 2022, with a 1.2% decrease.   However, annual consolidated revenue notably increased, reaching $2.75 billion, marking a 7.1% YoY increase from $2.57 billion in 2022. Particularly noteworthy is the fourth quarter performance, where revenue marks a new record of $842.2 million, a 4.3% increase compared to Q4 2022, highlighting Etsy’s ongoing strength and resilience.   In February 2024, Etsy received 474.1 million visits, according to the web traffic collected by Similarweb . This number has made Etsy the 4th player in the Marketplace and Shopping category, only after Amazon, eBay, and Walmart. Despite this 'increase', 2023 was actually not such a good year for the platform when you really drill down into the numbers. While its revenue seems to have grown, actual sales on the Etsy have stalled. On Etsy, the money from sales goes directly to the millions of sellers on the platform, not Etsy itself. Etsy makes its money by charging sellers fees for various services they use to list and sell their products. Here's the interesting part: Even though Etsy's own revenue has increased from a very aggressive seller fee strategy to counter losses, the total amount of sales on the platform (called Gross Merchandise Sales or GMS) has dipped. This means sellers are making a less money overall. This trend worried investors in 2023, and it's why Etsy took action. In December of that year, they announced they were laying off 11% of their staff to focus on initiatives that will help sellers grow their sales on the platform. Initiatives which we will look at throughout this post. Funnily enough, they do not seem to be helping one bit. RETURN TO CONTENTS Why we choose Etsy for Closer Lives Emporium Fresh into our full-time travel adventure and with an eye on not depleting our savings too much, we started looking around for some serious ways to earn on the go. Etsy was by no means our only option, as we were already teaching English online when we decided to give it a try. That being said, we liked the idea of earning money without having to do much; it kind of seemed to good to be true! We were inspired by many hours of researching YouTubers and successful entrepreneurs who were sharing their Etsy success stories. Some were demonstrating hundreds of thousands of sales on POD items, in particular tees. With plenty of creative ideas as content creators on social media, we sensed an opportunity for us too. If they could do it, why couldn't we? At the time, we were in the midst of establishing this website, which was born from Closer Lives Poetry on Instagram, a community page, which Jenn had founded. closerlives.com was actually intended to be a Creator Academy initially, to expand the concept beyond the confines of IG at the time. With very little experience in website building, establishing our POD range on Closer Lives did not seem like the best idea, given the fact it would take some time to garner domain authority, and we wanted to start earning straight away. So familiar with the brand and prowess of Etsy, it seemed like the perfect spot to build. And so, Closer Lives Emporium was born. RETURN TO CONTENTS The journey to 300 products We started creating our range in Merida, Mexico (of all places). We had a super cute Airbnb in the middle of a quiet urban sector of the city. It was a good spot to relax and get creative, and once we got started, our range just exploded! There are a few platforms you can try for POD services, the main two being printiful.com and printify.com . We set up an account with both, but opted to use Printify more as it felt a little more user friendly, and it synchronised with Etsy pretty seamlessly. For those who may not know, POD companies usually have tie ups with the big players like Etsy and Shopify, whereby products you create upload directly to the respective selling platform. Any time a product sells, the order automatically generates in the POD platform, and aside from some customer service should you so choose, the process is entirely automated from point of order to the customer receiving the goods. There are some nuances and processes you can put in place, like manually authorising orders, sending thank you emails and such, but even postal tracking is automated so you really don't have to. All this takes a little bit of work to set up and get right, but once you have it done, you can sit back, and earn money in your sleep as they say. We kind of lost track of how many items we were creating at one point, if anything we were just having fun with it. We quickly made it to over 100 products, and before we knew it, we hit over 300 across 17 categories. Woah!!! RETURN TO CONTENTS Understanding the SEO > product descriptions, alt tags, size charts etc. Mistakes spell a time-consuming disaster! One of the biggest challenges was actually marketing the products, which goes far beyond just making it and sticking it on your Etsy storefront. There are things like flat-lays, descriptions, alt tags, getting the title right, terms and conditions, refund policies, privacy policies, size charts, fulfillment times, actual delivery times etc. Say what now? We thought this was going to be easy! Such things are not exactly talked about when people share their glossy charts advertising thousands of sales. This was exactly where the time starts to become a factor. Creating a ton of designs, popping them onto a product template and pressing 'publish' is honestly the easy part. Getting these items on the virtual shelf properly is another matter entirely. Especially if you don't know what your doing, and make some critical mistakes along the way. Let's give you an example. Alt tags. Yes alt tags. You may have heard of them, and in the past year or so they have grown into the conversation so much so that you can even see them given as an option for you in your Instagram posts. An alt tag is a hidden description for an image on a webpage, helping visually impaired people understand the image. It also provides backup text if the image fails to load, but perhaps most crucially, improves search engine ranking . And search engine ranking is a biggie. Like the biggest, actually. Funnily enough, alt tags weren't actually a thing on Etsy. In fact when we started in 2021, they weren't prevalent at all. So we did not make them. Just as we did not make size chart thumbs for our items, or fulfillment information graphics. A BIG mistake we had no clue we were making. Let us tell you, when you have 300 items, and realise you need to update them all with critical things like size chart graphics, that is hours of work . Then Etsy comes along and hits you with alt tags. Then you realise you aren't making sales potentially because of these issues. Then the panic sets in when you realise on average each of your items has at least 10 photos, which means potentially 3000 alt tags. Say what now? So hopefully we are able to paint the picture now! After all of our initial hype of getting things onto Etsy, we realised our shop was always going to struggle without some serious time being put into the background. SEO-effective product titles and descriptions was not something we did prior to uploading the item from Printify. They were just generic. We had to design a whole bunch of things like our size charts and product flat-lays. Then upload those and figure out how the hell to write a good alt tag, let alone 3000 of them. Weeks and months passed before we were finally able to get these kind of things done. Let us tell you, those weeks and months are measured in actual time spent , or at least it certainly feels like it looking back. RETURN TO CONTENTS The importance of Branding So things were starting to move, and after the rough months at the beginning, we were starting to learn a lot, and were making some serious progress on getting our listings up to scratch. We could see the difference it was making too; picking up some sales here or there, and getting excited about the future prospects. Our product wall was looking better by the day, and our products themselves were looking professional and organised. One of the key elements to this was our branding, something we took great care to curate right from the off. Again we were very in-experienced with this kind of thing, and quickly found out why people pay big-bucks for logo designers and high performance graphics. Just so you know, Canva is great and all, but it is very limiting when it comes to logos. We never did end up paying big bucks, but then again the offset against changing our logo several times, and having issues with pixelation and poor quality, perhaps we should have done in hindsight. The crux of the branding comes in with all of the 'peripheral' stuff that the big drop-shippers do not tell you about. Those fulfillment charts and delivery info charts are very important. A brand is more than just a flashy logo; it is in the details, the way you market your products, the follow up emails, the terms and conditions. These things can make-or-break a business and are often sidelined in the short-term pursuit of mega bucks. Fortunately with our business experience we did particularly well in this area, but again, that dreaded time count was dding up. Yet more hours, days and weeks to get it spot on! RETURN TO CONTENTS The Etsy Ads disaster So at the point in our journey where we finally felt like our store was how we wanted it, in terms of all of the above, we were still struggling to hit consistent sales. We had got over the 20 mark, which had felt like quite a lot of work for not really that much. With all of the effort we had put in to getting the descriptions, titles and alt tags right, we were hoping for far more return than that. With our reach pretty low, and our confidence in our products pretty high, we came to the conclusion that we should invest some cash into the store. Now sure, time is money, so the months of work it had taken to get to this point should always be considered as investment, but we are talking cold hard bucks in the system. We were averaging about ten visitors a day to our store, and simple logic told us that this was never going to be enough to take off. Besides, Etsy are obsessed with pushing its advertising-to-sales potential at you, so we decided to bite. And wait for the sales to roll in. This is where our frustration with the platform really started to kick in. Now you might think that paying some money for a bigger slice of the reach pie might automatically boost your profits. But with Etsy, this is a big no no. ⪢ Etsy Ads offers two ways to promote your products to a wider audience on Etsy and beyond: ⪢ Onsite Ads: These work on a cost-per-click (CPC) basis. You set a daily budget and Etsy will display your ads in various locations throughout the Etsy platform, like search results or product pages. You only pay when someone clicks on your ad, not when they just see it. ⪢ Offsite Ads: This is a commission-based advertising program. Etsy automatically enrolls all sellers and displays your product listings on other platforms like Google, Pinterest, or Instagram. You only pay a commission (12-15% of the sale price) if someone clicks on your ad and then makes a purchase within 30 days. Funnily enough, it seemed like every ad-based sale we were making was coming from 'offsite ads'. So we were losing 12-15% every time. Not to mention the taxes on top (which we will get into later). Now the average margin on your items, especially if you want to remain competitive and soak up the delivery charge, might only be 20%. Take away Etsy ad fees, taxes, and Etsy listing fees, and yes folks, you are losing money. Sadly for us, at least 80% of our sales were barely breaking even. Before we even factored the time spent on creating the damn things. Etsy's cut was easily approaching 25-30% with offsite ads factored in, and without them, the chances of selling though onsite ads was basically zero. We quickly realised that Etsy was starting to demonstrate itself as a little bit of a scam. With the platform raking in billions, where on earth was the support for the sellers that make it? 25% ? Absolutely madness. ⪢ Was there even a good reach? In all fairness, the reach on Etsy ads did seem okay. We saw an uptick of around 100 visitors a day to our store at one point, although that cost us a cool $130 in a month before we cut it off. It just was not worth it with the offset against sales barely breaking even. A shortage of actual buyers on the platform? Or were our products just not good enough? Definitely an argument for the later, although we had sold at least one across 30% of our range. Deep down we just knew the exposure was not good enough. RETURN TO CONTENTS Etsy's direction... too concerned with updates and apps With the amount of money Etsy was charging us for listings and ads, we were wondering if there was going to be some sort of major investment in the system to boost reach or something. Yes we know that is wishful thinking, but at this point, we had put way to much work in to simply give up. We turned the ads on and then off, then on again, desperately hoping they would spur the organic reach we craved. A few sales trickled in, we lost money, and we eventually decided to keep them off. In 2022, it felt like the money was going into constant updates and tweaks. A whole new app to replace one that was not broken, a slew of changes to product features and parameters (which meant yet another 300 changes), and then one of the most frustrating of all, an enforced delivery lead-time update which led to another 300 changes. There were plenty of others besides, and we seemed to be spending far more time catering to the platform than sending out 'thank you for your custom' emails. Sales were few and far between, but the time demanded was off the charts. In the past two years (roughly April 2022 - April 2024), Etsy has implemented several changes to improve the platform for both sellers and buyers. There have been adjustments to fee structures, though as ever with Etsy the specifics are ridiculously complex. After major seller backlash campaigns in the past few years, Etsy has made efforts to improve search algorithms and introduce new features to help buyers discover unique products. This involved better filtering options or promoting (apparently) high-quality listings. There have also been updates to the offsite ads program, such as offering sellers more control over their ad placements and budgets. Honestly, it is all company bluster to keep us going and paying our fees. Sadly hardly any of it has worked. RETURN TO CONTENTS Crazy Etsy charges The crazy Etsy charges. The crazy Etsy statements. It really is one of the worst parts of the platform. Even to this day, we still cannot make sense of the chaos. Etsy provides a monthly statement, and on it is a barrage of costs that no amount of terms and conditions reading can understand! For example, we sold a pair of green sneakers and a pair of brown sneakers. 2 items, that's it, that's all. On Etsy's statement - TWENTY separate charges. Yes 20! Let's give you more of an idea: The sale of the two pairs of sneakers came to $74.08 (CAD) . Charges applied by Etsy (we have added both charges together, but they are all separately placed on your statement, for each item, just to confuse you): ● Bill for click-throughs to your shop: $2.65 ● VAT on Etsy Ads: $0.53 ● Listing Fee: $0.27 ● VAT auto-renew sold: $0.10 ● Processing Fee: $3.21 ● VAT on Processing Fee: $1.28 ● Sales tax paid by buyer: $9.70 ● Transaction Fee: $9.24 ● Regulatory Operating Fee: $0.36 ● VAT on Transaction: $1.84 TOTAL: $29.18 So given that our profit margin on both the pairs of sneakers is $36, that leaves us with $6. Raising prices is not an option as we are trying to stay competitive with others in the market... given all of the work involved in launching the product, $6 is not a lot. And the more money thrown at advertising for no returns equals a loss sadly. ⪢ Oh, and the listing fees... We were aware of the listing fees prior to joining, however it is another expense that can seem to sneak up on you without you realising. Every item comes with an initial listing fee, which renews every 4 months, and also is charged on each sale. While 27 cents might not seem a lot, when you factor in 300 products, it really starts to add up and eat into the margins. RETURN TO CONTENTS Time vs effort - is it worth it? Now none of this is to say all is completely at a loss. From what we understand, for drop-shippers, Etsy is all about volume. If you can sell a thousand sneakers, that becomes $6000 profit. But the offshoot is that you simply cannot reach volume without Etsy ads, and Etsy ads are totally unsustainable and unprofitable. It is all geared towards raking in money for the platform, leaving the sellers with nothing but years of hard work with little to show for it. It really is not worth it in our opinion. Maybe a few years ago in the early days of Etsy it was, but in this day and age it is a false economy. It all feels a little like working for a public company where you bust a gut for minimum wage while the fat cats at the top flood their paychecks with millions of dollars. And you can bet they aren't working nearly as hard. Etsy works on the same principal and we decided we were no longer going to fall for it! RETURN TO CONTENTS Competition – how tough is it? The competition on Etsy can be quite tough as we have already mentioned, but it also depends on several factors: ⪢ Saturation: Certain niches on Etsy (like printed tees) are highly saturated, meaning there are many sellers offering similar products. This can make it challenging for new shops to stand out, especially for popular items like clothing or travel accessories (like ours). ⪢ Search Ranking: Etsy's search algorithm plays a big role in determining which shops appear first in search results. Understanding SEO principles and optimizing your listings with relevant keywords is crucial for getting your products seen according to Etsy, but by no means guaranteed. In our experience, the big accounts gobble up about 90%, leaving the remaining 10% feeding off of the scraps. Ok, we cannot back up those numbers, but it certainly felt like that in the 2 years we went at it. ⪢ Product Differentiation: What makes your products unique? Do you offer a special design element, use high-quality materials, or cater to a specific niche within a broader category? Standing out from the crowd is essential for attracting customers. That is what the Etsy 'experts' tell you anyway. Thumbnails are crucial, as are titles, but that takes time and money (Canva pro or flat-lay app subscriptions for example). All while eating into the little-to-no profit margins you have. ⪢ Marketing & Branding: Successful Etsy shops often invest in marketing their products beyond just the Etsy platform. This could involve social media promotion, influencer partnerships, or running targeted ads. Building a strong brand identity also helps you resonate with potential customers. Again this all costs a lot of time and money, and can be very draining. It is a hard slog, with absolutely no guarantees. Especially when you are fighting against millions of others. RETURN TO CONTENTS The infamous Etsy 'reserve' debacle The Etsy "reserve" debacle refers to a policy change implemented in 2021 that caused significant frustration among many sellers. Here's a breakdown of what happened: ⪢ The Policy: Etsy introduced a system where they could withhold a portion (usually 75%, yes 75%! ) of seller's funds in a reserve account. This meant sellers wouldn't have immediate access to the full amount from their sales. ⪢ Reasons for Reserve: The purpose, according to Etsy, was to protect the platform and buyers from potential fraud. They would hold the reserve until specific criteria were met, such as the order being shipped with tracking or a certain timeframe passing (typically 45 days). ⪢ Sellers' Frustration: Several aspects of the policy caused major problems for sellers, with the lack of transparency quite shocking. Many sellers felt Etsy wasn't clear about why their funds were being placed in reserve, making it difficult to address the issue. ⪢ Cash Flow Impact: Holding a significant portion of funds could strain a seller's cash flow, especially for those who rely on Etsy income to purchase materials or cover other business expenses. ⪢ Impact on New Shops: New shops (like us at the time), which are more susceptible to being flagged for reserve due to limited sales history, could find it challenging to gain momentum if their earnings are restricted. ⪢ Aftermath: The policy received significant pushback from the seller community, with many voicing their concerns online and through petitions and boycotts. While Etsy has made adjustments to the policy since its initial implementation, the "reserve" debacle remains a point of contention for many sellers. This shambolic policy was not quite the final straw when it was first implemented, but coupled with the insane charges, constant changes to the platform, the awful ad program and terrible reach, we were really getting there. RETURN TO CONTENTS Poor store customization Another major source of frustration for us came with the lack of customization for our storefront, which honestly is pretty poor given the amount of changes Etsy loves to implement practically anywhere else but. For example, items sold always go to no 1 spot in the feed, which means if you have a layout aesthetic you are constantly re-organizing it. And the re-organisation process absolutely sucks and is very time consuming. The store banner is a nightmare, has poor rendering and is a pain to size correctly. Yu can get additional layout options but of course, you must pay monthly for the privilege. The product layouts cannot be customised and it is very difficult to showcase your brand beyond the small profile picture. These are just a few frustrations, there are plenty more plastered all over the internet. Very disappointing from Etsy given how much money it is extracting from its sellers. RETURN TO CONTENTS The turning point: time to QUIT ETSY and move on to OUR OWN PLATFORM closerlives.com So what was the straw that broke the camels back? Well in all honesty, it was our own website, THIS website, which did it. Up until mid 2023, our website had taken a bit of a back seat to Etsy, our travels, teaching English online, and YouTube. We had started it as a creator academy, abandoned that, and then started to blog a little. But with limited time and an uncertainty as to how to monetize, it just was not a priority. After experiencing a dramatic rise and surpassing monetization on YouTube while in Jakarta in 2023, we realised that our website was an opportunity we could no longer avoid. We had blogged a little up until that point, but the design and usability was poor, and it was not bringing in any cash. We were nervous about throwing time at it, as we were concerned that it would be another Etsy situation. A whole lot of work for no payout. Well, we were very happy to be proved wrong on that front! After some serious research, again that good old time , and some big blogs, we completely overhauled Closer Lives. It has been 6 months of major reconstruction and we are now seeing tangible results; increased ad revenues, over ten thousand visitors a month and even store sales. Our OWN brand, our OWN money, and a GENUINE COMMUNITY that we could never replicate on Etsy. The decision was made. Time to go it alone! RETURN TO CONTENTS The benefits of building your own site Building your own website and online store offers several advantages compared to selling on platforms like Etsy; here are but just a few reasons, and things to consider: ⪢ Greater Control & Branding: You have complete control over the design, layout, and branding of your online store. This allows you to create a unique shopping experience that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target audience. On Etsy, your shop operates within a larger platform with a pre-determined layout and branding elements. ⪢ Lower Fees: While website building and hosting come with costs, you typically avoid the transaction fees and listing fees associated with marketplaces like Etsy. In the long run, this can lead to significant savings, especially for businesses with high sales volume. ⪢ Customer Data Ownership: When you run your own store, you collect customer data directly, allowing you to build targeted email marketing campaigns and gain valuable insights into your customer base. On Etsy, customer data belongs to the platform, limiting your marketing options. ⪢ Flexibility and Customization: With your own website, you have the freedom to customize the functionality of your online store. This could involve adding features like loyalty programs, subscription boxes, or personalized product recommendations, which might not be readily available on marketplaces. ⪢ Scalability: As your business grows, your website can easily scale to accommodate increased traffic and product offerings. Scaling on marketplaces might involve additional fees or limitations depending on the platform's structure. ⪢ Here's a caveat though: Building and maintaining your own website requires more effort and technical expertise compared to using a pre-built platform like Etsy. You'll need to consider factors like web hosting, domain name registration, website design, security measures, and ongoing maintenance. However, the long-term benefits of control, cost-efficiency, and brand ownership can be significant for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence! RETURN TO CONTENTS The future of Closer Lives Emporium - what have we learnt, and where do we go from here? This whole experience has been a massive learning curve for us, and as ever hindsight will always demonstrate the could have's, should not's and what could-have-been's. If we could go back and do it all over again, would we? To be honest, as tempting as that might be, we wouldn't. We learnt far too much through our own mistakes, and we appreciate those as much as we do our successes. We did sell on Etsy, we did make a little bit of cash and we did come out of it with almost 300 products that are still very much alive and well right here on our own site. The learning curve has been steep and challenging, but has not deterred us from making a success of Closer Lives Emporium. That being said, it has also pushed us to developing our own site as a whole, which in turn led to us pursuing one of our biggest passions - writing and blogging! Would that have still been a reality if we were pushing our Etsy store? I guess we will never know, But one thing is for sure, we are having the time of our lives developing this blog, and happiness genuinely is the key to success. The energy this blog continues to give us is the cornerstone of Closer Lives. That all being said, our store is very much operational on here to and you are welcome to take a look! We hope this post has helped you in some way, and if you have any questions and want to pick our brains at all, feel free to get in touch! Drop a comment or pop us an email; we are always on hand and our advice is free. Helping and making a difference: that to us is a far better use of our time! ⪢ How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube  of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

For nearly a thousand years, the Hagia Sophia served as the primary cathedral of the Eastern Orthodox Church and was considered the largest and most important church in the Christian world. Its grandeur, elaborate mosaics, and architectural brilliance were, and still are, absolutely awe-inspiring. This remarkable structure not only showcases the ingenuity of Byzantine architecture but also reflects the complex interplay of religion, politics, and art that has shaped the region. In this post, we will explore the fascinating history of the Hagia Sophia, its architectural significance, and its enduring impact on both the local and global stages. In This Blog... ● Our Hagia Sophia Highlights ● The Incredible History of the Hagia Sophia ● 5 Interesting Facts about the Hagia Sophia ● What are the Entry Requirements for the Hagia Sophia? ● Hagia Sophia Opening Times ● How to Get to the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul ● Tips for Visiting the Hagia Sophia ● Discover the Hagia Sophia on YouTube ● Our Hagia Sophia Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Hagia Sophia Highlights One of the best ways to see a city is by walking, and Istanbul is a great place to do that! There is so much to see and do, and you never quite know what you will find. That being said, it is very hilly, so be prepared for a serious work out! The walk from Balat (where we were staying) to the Hagia Sophia was just under 5 km. As full-time travelers we are used to this kind of thing, so we were happy to walk, even though there are a wealth of transportation options that could have taken us there directly. We walked through some pretty cool neighborhoods and enjoyed a great stop for lunch before finally making it to the Hagia Sophia. Honestly it may sound silly but we did not realize that the Blue Mosque is pretty much directly opposite, so that was a good bonus! We actually ended up going there first, before heading over to the Ayasofya. It honestly feels like there is not much that can be said about this place that has not been said already. The moment we stepped inside it was like being transported to another world; not just back in time, but kind of like a different realm entirely. The energy here is so powerful, the visual stimulation, the history, the purpose. Not just a place of worship, this is a structure that has felt the life of billions walking through it over the last 1500 years. That is just incredible. We have always been drawn to historical places and we both have a particular penchant for Roman architecture and history. Even though we knew the Hagia Sophia was super old, neither of us knew that its construction stretched back to the dawn of Christianity within the Roman Empire. It is actually quite hard to comprehend that this was a church for almost a thousand years, before being converted to its present form as a mosque. That is perhaps the enduring allure of the Hagia Sophia, far beyond its purpose as a place of worship. It is the convergence of two mighty faiths, the centre point of conflict and conquest, the archaeological marvel of its amazing design and construction that has withstood mother nature herself, let alone world wars. This is a place which has drawn humanity for millennia, and will continue to wonder and amaze for another no doubt. We are most grateful to have had the opportunity to visit, to experience and feel this place. Inside, standing beneath the earthquake-proof domes, littered with its ancient frescos, was one of those moments you just don't forget. Period! Whatever your faith, or even if you do not have one, the Hagia Sophia is a place that you cannot help but appreciate with marvel and allure. We implore you to visit! Read on for more on the astonishing history of the Hagia Sophia, along with some interesting facts, tips and information to know before you go. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Incredible History of the Hagia Sophia The history of the Hagia Sophia is a fascinating and complex journey through various civilizations, religions, and cultural shifts. The Hagia Sophia was commissioned by Emperor Justinian I of the Byzantine Empire and completed in 537 CE. It was built on the site of two previous churches that had been destroyed. The Hagia Sophia was an architectural marvel of its time, featuring a massive dome that was a pioneering engineering achievement. Its design incorporated elements of both the Roman and Byzantine architectural styles. In 1453, the Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Mehmed II, conquered Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) after a lengthy siege. The city fell, and the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. The Ottomans made several modifications to the Hagia Sophia to suit its new purpose as a mosque. Minarets were added, and Islamic features such as calligraphy and decorative elements were introduced. Some of the original Christian mosaics were covered or removed. From this point it remained unchanged in its primary use for almost 500 years. In 1935, following the establishment of the modern Turkish Republic by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum. This move was part of Atatürk's broader efforts to secularize Turkey and emphasize its historical and cultural heritage. During its time as a museum, restoration efforts were undertaken to preserve the Hagia Sophia's architectural and artistic treasures. Visitors from around the world were able to explore its interior and appreciate its historical significance. In July 2020, a Turkish court ruled that the Hagia Sophia's museum status should be revoked, and it should be reconverted into a mosque. The Turkish government subsequently announced the reopening of the Hagia Sophia for Muslim prayers. The reconversion sparked debates both within Turkey and internationally, with concerns raised about the preservation of the Hagia Sophia's cultural and historical significance. The move also raised questions about the balance between religious and secular values. Throughout its history, the Hagia Sophia has borne witness to significant geopolitical changes, religious transformations, and cultural exchanges. It remains an enduring symbol of Istanbul and a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of multiple civilizations. The complex history of the Hagia Sophia reflects the intricate tapestry of human civilization, and it continues to captivate and inspire people from around the world. RETURN TO CONTENTS 5 Interesting Facts about the Hagia Sophia 1. Architectural Marvel The Hagia Sophia's massive dome was a groundbreaking architectural achievement of its time. It was considered the largest dome in the world for nearly a thousand years. The dome's weight is distributed through a series of pendentives, which allow it to seemingly float above the space and create a breathtaking interior. 2. Mosaic Masterpieces The interior of the Hagia Sophia was adorned with intricate mosaics depicting various religious scenes and figures. These mosaics showcased remarkable artistry and craftsmanship. Some mosaics were covered or removed when the building was converted into a mosque, but many have been preserved and restored. 3. Earthquake Survivor The Hagia Sophia has withstood several earthquakes over its long history. One of the most significant earthquakes occurred in 989 CE, causing the original dome to collapse. It was rebuilt by Byzantine architects and engineers, demonstrating their resilience and skill in architectural restoration. 4. Influence on Architecture The Hagia Sophia's architectural innovations had a profound influence on subsequent mosque design in the Islamic world. Its dome, use of pendentives, and grand scale inspired the development of Ottoman and other Islamic architectural styles. Many mosques built after the Hagia Sophia exhibit design elements reminiscent of this iconic structure. 5. Historic Chariot Racing In the early Byzantine period, the Hagia Sophia played a role in the city's famous chariot races. The race course, known as the Hippodrome, was located near the Hagia Sophia. Emperors and spectators would often gather at the cathedral's balcony to watch the races, making it a center of social and cultural activity. RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the Entry Requirements for the Hagia Sophia? There are no entrance fees to the Hagia Sophia as it is a mosque now. However, you may give a donation if you wish. In the past, the Hagia Sophia Museum had an entrance fee of 100 Turkish Liras. However, this fee was waived in 2020 after the Hagia Sophia was converted back into a mosque. If you are interested in taking a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia, there are a number of companies that offer tours at a variety of price points. ⪢ Enjoy the Best of Istanbul with Klook Learn about the mosque’s storied history from a friendly and insightful tour guide! Choose from multiple start time options and enjoy the intimacy of a small group tour. Combine with the Blue Mosque, or enjoy a full tour of Istanbul's best highlights. Tap the a link below to find out more! RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the Hagia Sophia Opening Times? The Hagia Sophia is open to visitors from 9am to 10pm , 7 days a week . However, it is closed to visitors during prayer times: Fajr (dawn prayer): 3:30 AM to 4:45 AM Zuhr (noon prayer): 12:15 PM to 1:30 PM Asr (afternoon prayer): 4:00 PM to 5:20 PM Maghrib (sunset prayer): 6:50 PM to 8:10 PM Isha (night prayer): 8:30 PM to 9:50 PM On Fridays, the Hagia Sophia is closed to visitors from 10am to 2pm for the Friday prayer . Visitors can enter the Hagia Sophia after 2pm . It is important to note that the Hagia Sophia can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the evening. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Get to Hagia Sophia in Istanbul To get to the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point. The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district, which is a central and historically significant area of the city. Here are some common methods of transportation to reach the Hagia Sophia: ⪢ Walking If you're staying in the Sultanahmet area or a nearby neighborhood, you might find it convenient to walk to the Hagia Sophia. It's a pedestrian-friendly area with many attractions in close proximity. ⪢ By Tour Many guided city tours and hop-on-hop-off bus tours include stops at major attractions, including the Hagia Sophia. This can be a convenient way to explore multiple sites in one day. ⪢ By Bike or Scooter If you're an adventurous traveler, you might consider renting a bike to explore Istanbul. There are bike lanes and paths in certain areas of the city. ⪢ By Tram Istanbul's tram system is a convenient way to reach Sultanahmet. You can take the T1 line, which runs through major tourist areas. The closest tram stop to the Hagia Sophia is "Sultanahmet," and from there, it's a short walk to the monument. ⪢ By Ferry If you're staying on the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take a ferry across the Bosporus to the European side and then use public transportation or walk to the Hagia Sophia. ⪢ By Metro You can use the Marmaray metro line, which connects both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Get off at the "Sirkeci" station and walk to Sultanahmet. ⪢ By Taxi Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available in Istanbul. You can simply input "Hagia Sophia" as your destination and be dropped off at or near the site. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Find Hotels Near the Hagia Sophia Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Contact Information Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Website: ayasofyacamii.gov.tr Phone: +90 212 522 17 50 RETURN TO CONTENTS Tips for Visiting the Hagia Sophia ⪢ Dress Modestly and Respect Local Customs: As a historic and religious site, the Hagia Sophia requires visitors to dress modestly and respectfully. Make sure your clothing covers your shoulders and knees. Women must cover their heads with a scarf or Hijab. ⪢ Cultural Sensitivity: Remember that the Hagia Sophia is a place of worship and cultural significance. Be respectful of those who are there for religious reasons and maintain a quiet and considerate demeanor. ⪢ Weather Considerations: Istanbul's weather can be variable, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast before your visit. Depending on the time of year, you might want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, or an umbrella and a light jacket in case of rain or cooler temperatures. ⪢ Camera & Photography: Photography is typically allowed inside the Hagia Sophia, but there are restrictions on using flash. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disrupting their experience while taking photos. ⪢ Explore the Surroundings: The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul, which is rich in historical and cultural attractions. Consider visiting nearby sites such as the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern to make the most of your visit. ⪢ Crowds and Timing: The Hagia Sophia can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early in the day can help you beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed visit. RETURN TO CONTENTS Discover the Hagia Sophia on YouTube In this we explore the legendary Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Blue Mosque of Istanbul. Along the way we see the streets of Istanbul and have some delicious traditional Turkish food for lunch, visit an epic Turkish delight shop and enjoy dinner with a spectacular view! We finish what was an absolutely epic day with a late night stroll through the food market in the streets of Istanbul! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Hagia Sophia Experience Rating We have been to a fair few churches, cathedrals and mosques in our time traveling around the world. Regardless of religious beliefs or values, the importance and significance of these incredible buildings and places of worship cannot be undervalued. Of all that we have been to, the Hagia Sophia is by far the oldest, and one of the most impressive without doubt. The incredible history and mind-blowing engineering of the Hagia Sophia is an experience that is just so unique. Sitting beneath the dome and soaking up the atmosphere in such an immense space was something that touched us deeply. We both have differing values in how we feel about the religious world, and the Hagia Sophia is a place where all of that comes together in a history crossing millennia (unbelievable in itself). The two major faiths of the world converge here at a point that has brought about centuries of war and conflict, and that now brings peace, tranquility and togetherness. That is the power of the Hagia Sophia; we felt it, and we are sure you will too. Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Step inside one of the oldest castles in the UK, with a history spanning over 2,000 years! Prepare to be awestruck by Cardiff Castle, a majestic fortress with a story as rich as its architecture. From Roman beginnings to a lavish Victorian transformation, this castle boasts a history as dramatic as the battles it has witnessed. We absolutely love exploring castles and we were really happy to add Cardiff Castle to our ever-growing list. This blog post is your one-stop guide as we delve into its fascinating past, highlight must-see features with stunning photos, include interesting facts, and provide all the practical information you need for your visit, including opening times and ticket details. We also explore the surrounding Bute Park, and its incredible abortorium. There is so much to the story here. Let's get to it! In This Blog... ● Our Cardiff Castle Highlights ● The History of Cardiff Castle ● 10 Interesting Facts about Cardiff Castle ● Cardiff Castle Opening Times & Ticket Prices ● How to get to Cardiff Castle ● Our Cardiff Castle Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE interactive map of England ● Explore England with Special Offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to Visiting England Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Cardiff Castle Highlights As two passionate history fans, exploring the castles of the UK has always been something we have been keen to do. That being said, that had all pretty much happened in England to-date. Wales had always been high on the list, especially given its fascinating Celtic history, but we had never really had the chance to go there - until now. So, of course, what better way to kick off a road trip around Wales than with a visit to its perhaps most famous pride-and-joy, the incredibly Cardiff Castle! A life-long ambition fulfilled, we came here with a huge sense of anticipation and we were not disappointed in the slightest. This is a magnificent castle, and one that we will not forget in a hurry! The first of 4 Roman forts is established in Cardiff, it was strategically built alongside the River Taff, which supplied its moat and provided easy access to the sea. In around 270 AD the basis of the Castle’s layout today is built in stone, modified over the years as it defended the city from invasion. It now stands as one of the most important structures in Wales, and is a fascinating beacon of Roman, Welsh and English history in the area. With a large itinerary for the day, we got to the castle early, and had very limited time. We were only able to explore the inner castle and exterior area (Bute Park), and were desperately disappointed not to be able to go inside. We will save that for another time! If you chose to, you can get a ticket to explore the walls of the castle, the Norman keep , its museum and perhaps its most impressive feature, the Victorian Apartments . It was a cloudy and windy day as you can probably tell from the photos, but we still really enjoyed our time wandering through the free parts of the grounds. The Welsh Dragon, the main castle entrance gate and the keep on the mound are excellent features to check out. The paid area is well sectioned off, but you can still get close enough for some good shots. Once you get past the mound of the keep the you will exit to Bute Park. ⪢ The Surrounding Gardens (Bute Park) Bute Park is a large park (around 130 acres) located right next to Cardiff Castle. It used to be the private pleasure garden of the castle, but now it's a public park and considered the "green heart" of Cardiff. It's a Grade 1 listed historic park with a wealth of archaeological and nature conservation interest including a magnificent arboretum containing over 3000 rare and beautiful trees, some of which are "champion trees" - the biggest of their species in the UK. There are remains of a medieval Blackfriars Friary within the park, and it also has a visitor center, cafes, toilets, a woodland play trail, and fitness equipment. There is plenty to enjoy here and when you exit the east-side of Cardiff Castle you will find yourself in the park itself. We crossed over the River Taff, and were thoroughly impressed by the arboretum which kind of reminded us of the mangroves in Langkawi (Malaysia). They really are spectacular! We also checked out the Gorsedd Stone Circle, which may look old, but was actually only installed in 1978. It was moved to Bute Park from Gorsedd (hence its name), to celebrate Cardiff hosting the Welsh National Eisteddfod . This 8 day festival is considered to be the largest music and poetry festival in Europe! We did not know this at the time, but as two poets who literally met each other through our poetry, it was super cool to find this out afterwards. Especially as Jenn was particularly drawn to stand right in the middle of it on the large central stone overlooking the castle walls! Y ou can find more information on the official Bute Park website . Read on for more on the history of the castle, and some impressive facts! Plus find out all you need to know about opening times, admission prices, and how to get there. The History of Cardiff Castle ⪢ One of the UK's Oldest Surviving Castles Cardiff Castle, standing tall in the heart of Wales's capital city, has a rich and storied history dating back over 2,000 years. Its origins trace to the Roman occupation of Britain, where a fort was constructed on the site around 55 AD. Over the centuries, the castle evolved, with significant developments occurring during the Norman period when William the Conqueror's nephew, Robert Fitzhamon, built the first stone keep in the late 11th century. ⪢ Medieval Conflicts Cardiff Castle has indeed witnessed its fair share of attacks and conquests throughout its history. It was repeatedly involved in clashes between the Anglo-Normans and the Welsh during the 12th century. A significant event occurred in 1404 when Owain Glyndŵr, a Welsh leader, successfully stormed and captured the castle during his rebellion. ⪢ English Civil War During the English Civil War (1642-1651), the castle changed hands twice. Royalist forces under the Marquess of Hertford captured the castle in a surprise attack, then Parliamentary forces and local troops quickly besieged and recaptured the castle within hours. While these are the most prominent instances, it's likely the castle faced other attacks or attempts at conquest throughout its long history, particularly during periods of regional conflict. ⪢ Noble Ownership & Victorian Transformation Subsequent generations of noble families, including the de Clare and Herbert families, expanded and fortified the castle, shaping its imposing appearance. However, it was during the Victorian era that Cardiff Castle underwent its most significant transformation. In the 19th century, the castle's owner, the Third Marquess of Bute, commissioned renowned architect William Burges to redesign and refurbish the castle interiors, resulting in the creation of opulent and fantastical rooms that are now celebrated as some of the finest examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture in the world. The castle remained in the Bute family until the 20th century when it was gifted to the city of Cardiff. ⪢ The End of the Moat In the mid-1800s, Isambard Kingdom Brunel came up with plans to divert the River Taff to the west, away from its old course around Cardiff Castle. Having supplied the moat for over a thousand years, this move was considered to have marked the end of the defensive era of the castle. The river now flows next to Cardiff Arms Park and the Cardiff Principality Stadium. It also allowed Cardiff Central Station to be built in an area that had previously been prone to flooding. ⪢ Air Raid Shelter to Modern Day Attraction Cardiff Castle also played a role in World War II, with its walls offering shelter to citizens during air raids. Following the 4th Marquess's death, the castle and its parkland were gifted to the city of Cardiff. For a period, it housed the National College of Music and Drama, but since 1974, it has become one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into Roman, Norman, and Victorian eras within its walls. RETURN TO CONTENTS 10 Interesting Facts About Cardiff Castle 1. Roman Beginnings The site boasts a Roman fort built around AD 55, making it nearly 2,000 years old! Four separate forts were built by the Romans over two centuries, laying the foundation for the later castle. 2. Norman Transformation Following the Norman conquest in 1066, a motte and bailey castle was constructed, solidifying Cardiff as the center of the Marcher Lordship of Glamorgan. 3. Medieval Makeover Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle underwent numerous transformations, including the addition of a stone shell keep and extensive defensive walls. 4. Victorian Extravaganza In the 19th century, the 3rd Marquess of Bute embarked on a grand project with architect William Burges, transforming the castle into a lavish Victorian Gothic mansion. This resulted in the opulent interiors with murals, stained glass, and intricate carvings we see today. 5. World War II Refuge During the war, the castle's tunnels provided shelter to citizens during air raids. These tunnels, with dormitories, kitchens, and first-aid facilities, are now accessible as part of the castle tour. 6. Giant Rugby Ball In 2015, during the Rugby World Cup, a giant rugby ball was cleverly installed into the castle wall, symbolizing Wales' passion for the sport. 7. Ghosts and Legends The castle is shrouded in tales of ghosts and legends, including the "Black Cat" said to roam the grounds and the "Archer" haunting the Clock Tower. 8. Movie Magic The castle has served as a filming location for various movies and TV shows, including "Doctor Who" and "Torchwood." 9. Architectural Mashup The castle is a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing Roman, Norman, Medieval, and extravagant Victorian Gothic elements. 10. National Treasure Today, Cardiff Castle is one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into its rich and layered history. RETURN TO CONTENTS Cardiff Castle Opening Times & Ticket Prices ⪢ Opening times Cardiff Castle is open to visitors 7 days a week, including bank holidays. The only exceptions are Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January), when the castle is closed. Summer Opening (Mar – Oct) Monday to Friday Saturday to Sunday Opening Time 10am 9am Last Entry 5pm 5pm Closing Time 6pm 6pm Winter Opening (Nov – Feb) Monday to Friday Saturday to Sunday Opening Time 10am 9am Last Entry 4pm 4pm Closing Time 5pm 5pm ⪢ Ticket Prices Admission Rates Prices (GBP) Adult £15.50 ($19.45 USD / $26.58 CAD) Child (Ages 5 – 16, must be with an adult) £10.50 ($13.18 USD / $18.01 CAD) Senior / Student / Disabled (single carer free with each disabled ticket) £12.50 ($15.68 USD / $21.44 CAD) Adult Family Ticket (2 Adults and 2 Children) £42.50 ($53.33 USD / $72.89 CAD) Senior Family Ticket (2 Seniors and 2 Children) £36.50 ($45.80 USD / $62.60 CAD) Under 5s FREE ** Prices are correct at time of writing (May 2024). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Note: If you currently live or work in Cardiff then you are entitled to your very own Key to the Castle with FREE admission to this world-class heritage attraction for 3 years . RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Get to Cardiff Castle Cardiff Castle is conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff city center, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can choose from several options to reach the castle: ⪢ Public Transport Cardiff has an extensive public transport network, including buses and trains. Cardiff Central Railway Station is just a short walk from the castle, making it a convenient option for those arriving by train. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the city center, with several bus stops within walking distance of the castle. ⪢ Walking If you are already in the city center, walking to Cardiff Castle is often the most straightforward option. The castle is centrally located, making it easily reachable on foot from many nearby attractions, hotels, and shopping areas. ⪢ Cycling Cardiff is a cycle-friendly city, and cycling to Cardiff Castle is a popular option if you enjoy exploring by bike. The city center has dedicated cycle lanes, and bicycle parking is available near the castle entrance. ⪢ Taxi or Ride-Sharing Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout Cardiff, providing a convenient door-to-door option if you prefer not to use public transport or walk. Taxis can drop off you near the castle entrance. ⪢ Car While parking in the city center can be limited, there are several public car parks within walking distance of Cardiff Castle, generally charging around £6 per hour. They are well sign-posted and easy to access. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Hotels in Cardiff Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Contact Information Address: Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB Email: cardiffcastle@cardiff.gov.uk Phone: 02920878100 Website: cardiffcastle.com Our Cardiff Castle Experience Rating We would perhaps have given a higher rating had we had time to go inside, but even still, we would recommend a visit based on what we saw and the experience we had. There is plenty to see here even if you do not want to spend anything, and it is a really nice walk inside where you are able, and outside in Bute Park and along the street with the famous animal wall. Parking is easy to get to and being located in the heart of the city there are plenty of other things you can do around the castle if you are going for a longer day out. Our castle ratings have pretty high standards, and given we have been to the likes of Balmoral and Arundel , we feel that 3.5 is still pretty respectable! Take nothing away from Cardiff Castle, it is very inspiring and wonderfully imposing! Feel free to let us know about your experience in the comments below... would you rate it higher? Your FREE Interactive Map of Wales Check out all of the places we visited in Wales courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore the UK with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of the UK. Whether you're looking for Stonehenge, a tour of London, or some castle trips Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the UK. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE Guide to Visiting Wales Visiting Wales for the first time?  Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

The Galata Tower, known as "Galata Kulesi" in Turkish, is a historic medieval stone tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul, Türkiye. It stands prominently on the European side of the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including the Golden Horn, the Bosporus Strait, and the old city of Istanbul. The tower is a fine example of medieval military architecture and features a cylindrical structure with a conical cap. It stands at a height of about 67 meters (219 feet) and consists of nine floors. The lower sections of the tower are made of stone, while the upper levels are made of brick. Throughout its history, the Galata Tower has served various purposes, including as a watchtower, a lighthouse, and a fire tower. It played a significant role in the defense of the city, and as a signaling point for ships entering the Golden Horn. In This Article... ● Our Galata Tower Highlights ● The History Behind the G alata Tower ● 5 Interesting Facts About the Galata Tower ● Galata Tower Entry Fee & Opening Times ● How to Get to the Galata Tower in Istanbul ● Tips for Visiting the Galata Tower ● Discover the Galata Tower on YouTube ● Our Galata Tower Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Galata Tower Highlights Our visit to the Galata Tower came towards the end of an action packed day, making our way from our homebase in the old neighborhood of Balat. We took a ferry from the harbor at Eminönü to Beşiktaş, taking a quick pit stop at the famous Midyeci Ahmet for some epic mussels, before heading to the incredible Dolmabahçe Palace. After spending several hours at the grand palace, we made our way on foot to the Galata Tower, which is around 20 minutes away. We were pretty exhausted by the time we got there, but nonetheless still very excited to be at this cultural landmark. We could actually see the tower from the other side of the Bosporus on our rooftop in Balat, so it was great to finally be there in person. The tower is hugely impressive up close. You can literally see the layers of history circling its walls, despite many rebuilds and restorations. It has a simple yet beautiful design, emboldened by centuries of different uses and occupations. The tower stands tall amongst the crowds of buildings all around it, full of restaurants, artisan shops and homes. The area is tight and crowded but very beautiful, especially the surrounding cobblestone streets with their beautiful curves and variations that are so synonymous with Istanbul. Even though it was incredibly busy we were able to get some pretty good shots of the tower, although we were unable to go up to the top as it was way too busy and a little too late in the day. We were still very grateful to be here though, and it was a special moment to place our feet and hands in an area that to this day still retains such charm and cultural importance. Keep scrolling to learn more about the epic story of the life of the Galata Tower, and all you need to know before visiting. RETURN TO CONTENTS The History Behind the Galata Tower The history of the Galata Tower is intertwined with the broader historical developments of Istanbul and the various civilizations that have inhabited the city over the centuries. The tower was constructed in 1348 by the Genoese colony of Galata, which was a major trading and commercial hub during the medieval period. The Genoese utilized the tower as part of their defensive fortifications, mainly as a watchtower and as a means of controlling and protecting access to the Golden Horn. In 1453, the Ottoman Empire under Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror captured Constantinople (now Istanbul), including the Galata Tower. The tower retained its military importance under Ottoman rule, serving as a fire tower to detect and signal fires that might break out in the city. It was also used for observation and signaling purposes. Over the centuries, the tower underwent several repairs and renovations to address damages from earthquakes and other factors. In the 18th century, the conical cap of the tower was rebuilt after a fire, giving it the distinctive shape it has today. Throughout its history, the Galata Tower has also held cultural significance. It features prominently in Ottoman miniature paintings, engravings, and literary works, making it a recognizable symbol of Istanbul. The tower's iconic silhouette has been captured by many artists and photographers over the years. In the mid-20th century, the Galata Tower underwent a significant restoration project led by the Turkish government. This restoration aimed to preserve the tower's historical significance and restore its original appearance. The tower was opened to the public as a tourist attraction, allowing people to experience its historical ambiance and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top. The tower's observation deck and panoramic views became major draws for both locals and visitors, and the surrounding Galata district transformed into a vibrant area with shops, cafes, and galleries. Today, the Galata Tower remains a beloved symbol of Istanbul and a must-visit destination. Its historical significance and architectural beauty continues to captivate people from around the world. The tower also stands as a testament to the city's rich and diverse history, reflecting the layers of civilization that have shaped Istanbul over the centuries. 5 Interesting Facts About the Galata Tower 1. Leonardo da Vinci's Sketch The renowned Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci is believed to have made a sketch of the Galata Tower during his travels to Istanbul in the early 16th century. The sketch, found in one of his notebooks, offers a unique historical depiction of the tower. 2. Aviation First In 1638, the Ottoman Sultan Murad IV used the Galata Tower to conduct one of the earliest recorded aviation experiments. He had two condemned criminals launched from the top of the tower using wings made of eagle feathers and wood. Sadly, the experiment resulted in the deaths of the criminals, demonstrating the challenges of human flight. 3. Historical Use as a Prison At various points in its history, the Galata Tower was used as a prison. In the 18th century, it was a place of imprisonment for high-ranking Ottoman officials who fell out of favor. The tower's prison cells were notoriously cramped and uncomfortable, adding to its intriguing historical legacy. 4. Symbol of Celebration The Galata Tower has been used as a symbol of celebration and festivity throughout its history. During the Ottoman period, fires were lit on the tower's top terrace to mark special occasions, such as the end of Ramadan and other important festivals. The tower's role as a place of illumination and festivity added to its cultural significance. 5. Galata Mevlevi Lodge Adjacent to the Galata Tower is the Galata Mevlevi Lodge, which was a center for the Mevlevi Sufi order (also known as the Whirling Dervishes) during the Ottoman era. The lodge complex includes a semahane (ceremonial hall) where the famous whirling dervish rituals were performed. Today, the Galata Mevlevi Lodge is a museum and cultural center, offering insight into Sufi traditions and practices. RETURN TO CONTENTS Galata Tower Entrance Fee and Opening Times The entry fee for Galata Tower is 650 Turkish Liras as of August 2023. Museum Pass Istanbul is valid for entrance to the tower. Here are the ticket prices for different age groups: Adults (12+ years old): 650 TL Children (7-11 years old): 325 TL Infants (0-6 years old): Free You can buy tickets online or at the tower's ticket office. ⪢ Book your Galata Tower tickets with Klook ● Ascend Galata Tower for captivating views of Istanbul's skyline, blending history and modernity. Immerse yourself in the architectural grandeur, a timeless gem adorning Istanbul's skyline ● Marvel at the elegant design and historical significance, making it a must-visit landmark ● Uncover Galata Tower's rich history, from mediaeval origins to shaping Istanbul's cultural narrative ⪢ Galata Tower Opening Times The Galata Tower is open from 8:30am to 11pm every day, from April 1st to October 31st. From November 1st to March 31st, it is open from 8:30am to 10pm. The ticket office closes an hour earlier than the tower itself. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Galata Tower in Istanbul The Galata Tower is located in the Galata district of Istanbul, Turkey. Once you arrive in the Galata district, the tower is quite prominent, and you can easily spot it as you approach. The tower is located in a bustling area with shops, cafes, and other attractions, so you can enjoy the surroundings before or after your visit to the tower. Just follow the signs or ask locals for directions if needed! ⪢ By Tram Take the T1 tram line (Bağcılar-Kabataş) and get off at the Karaköy tram stop. From there, it's a short walk to the tower. Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and the metro. You can use the public transportation system to reach the Galata Tower. Take a tram or metro to the Karaköy or Şişhane stations, both of which are within walking distance of the tower. ⪢ By Ferry If you're on the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take a ferry from Kadıköy to Karaköy, which is near the Galata Tower. This option offers a scenic journey across the Bosphorus. ⪢ By Metro Take the M2 metro line (Hacıosman-Yenikapı) and get off at the Şişhane metro station. The tower is a bit uphill from Şişhane, so be prepared for a short walk. ⪢ By Taxi Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available in Istanbul. You can simply provide the address of the Galata Tower to the driver. Be sure to agree a price before leaving as drivers are known to inflate fares, especially for tourists. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Hotels Near the Galata Tower Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Contact Information Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu / İstanbul Website: muze.gov.tr Phone: +90 212 249 0344 RETURN TO CONTENTS Tips for Visiting the Galata Tower ⪢ Dress Modestly and Respect Local Customs: While there's no strict dress code to enter the Galata Tower, it's a good practice to dress modestly out of respect for local customs, especially if you plan to explore other parts of Istanbul during your visit. Additionally, if you're planning to visit religious sites nearby, it's recommended to have clothing that covers shoulders and knees. ⪢ Weather Considerations: Istanbul's weather can be variable, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast before your visit. Depending on the time of year, you might want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, or an umbrella and a light jacket in case of rain or cooler temperatures. ⪢ Camera & Photography: The Galata Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul, making it a prime spot for photography. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning vistas. However, if you're using a tripod or professional photography equipment, check the tower's policy on such equipment, but generally there are no restrictions. ⪢ Operating Hours & Seasonal Variations: The Galata Tower is generally open to visitors every day of the week. However, operating hours can vary depending on the season and specific events. It's a good idea to check the tower's official website or contact them in advance to confirm the current opening hours and any potential closures for maintenance or special occasions. ⪢ Crowds & Timing: The Galata Tower is a popular tourist attraction, and it can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. To avoid long lines and crowds, consider visiting early in the morning when it opens or later in the afternoon. Remember that conditions and policies might change over time, so it's always a good idea to double-check information closer to your visit. Enjoy your time at the Galata Tower and take in the spectacular views of this vibrant city! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore the Galata Tower on YouTube In this travel vlog we visit the beautiful Dolmabahce Place and take a look inside this beautiful Turkish architectural marvel. We then follow that with a we visit to the historical Galata Tower. Come along and explore with us as we take you on a cultural journey through Istanbul! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Galata Tower Experience Rating The Galata Tower's journey from a medieval watchtower to a cultural landmark is definitely a major part of what attracted us to it. We absolutely love ancient history and architecture and the Galata Tower certainly ticks those boxes. It has an enduring importance in Istanbul's history and plays a major role in connecting the past with the present. The tower is really impressive up close, and the surrounding area is vibrant and affluent, typical of many of the old-meets-new, up-and-coming Turkish neighborhoods. Sadly for us it was too late to visit the top of the tower by the time we got there, but this did not take anything away from our experience. We urge you to visit, and if you do head to the top please let us know! We would love to know about your experience! Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

This beautiful festival of lights is all about letting go of negativity and making wishes for the future, symbolized by floating handmade Krathong's (small baskets) on water and lighting lanterns into the sky. This ancient tradition also honors Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of water. In this post we share all you need to know about one of the biggest festivals in Thailand. If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of such a magical tradition, Thailand is calling! This enchanting country, rich in culture and history, offers a plethora of experiences that combine customs and age-old practices. Festivals are a major part of the Thai calendar and Loi Krathong is regarded as one of the most important and significant. We spent a majority of 2023 in Thailand, and we have so much love for the Land of Smiles. There are many reasons why we are kind of obsessed with this country, and Loi Krathong is certainly one of them! Let's take a Closer look at the tradition and meaning behind this festival, and all of the other good stuff you need to enjoy it yourself! In This Article ● What is Loi Krathong? ● Where to Celebrate Loi Krathong in Thailand ● How to Participate in Loi Krathong as a Traveler ● Travel Tips for Experiencing Loi Krathong ● Packing Essentials for the Festival ● Why You Should Experience Loi Krathong ● FAQs About Loi Krathong ● Our Loi Krathong Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE interactive map of Thailand ● Explore Top Thai Destinations with Klook ● Your FREE GUIDE to Visiting Thailand Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. What is Loi Krathong? ⪢ The Meaning Behind Loi Krathong Loi Krathong is one of Thailand’s most enchanting festivals, where locals, expats and tourists alike come together to release lotus-shaped floats (Krathong's) onto water bodies. These floats symbolize letting go of negativity, expressing gratitude to the water goddess, and seeking blessings for the future. It’s a spiritual event that blends natural beauty, cultural traditions, and reverence for nature. ⪢ How Loi Krathong Differs From Yi Peng Although often confused with Yi Peng, the lantern festival popular in northern Thailand, Loi Krathong has unique traditions. While Loi Krathong involves releasing Krathong's on rivers and lakes, Yi Peng is about setting lanterns into the sky. Both festivals share themes of renewal and gratitude but offer distinct experiences. ⪢ When Does Loi Krathong Take Place? The festival occurs in November during the full moon of the 12th lunar month. This timing signifies the end of the rainy season, marking a time to celebrate the abundance of water and show respect to the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha. ⪢ How Long Does the Celebration Last? Celebrations can last from one to three days, depending on the region. Larger cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok extend the festivities with cultural performances, parades, and spectacular fireworks displays. Where to Celebrate Loi Krathong in Thailand ⪢ Best Cities for Loi Krathong Celebrations ● Chiang Mai: A magical mix of Loi Krathong and Yi Peng, with glowing Krathong's on the famous Mae Ping River that runs through the city, plus thousands of floating lanterns in the sky. This is one of the most popular locations, with some estimating up to a quarter of a million people celebrated here in 2023. ● Doi Saket: Only around 45 minutes away from Chiang Mai, the small town of Doi Saket hosts a pretty large 2 - 3 day lantern release bonanza, along with firework displays. Over 100,000 people are said to have attended in 2023, making this a growing hotspot for Loi Krathong. ● Sukhothai: Known as the festival's birthplace, Sukhothai provides an authentic experience with traditional ceremonies. ● Bangkok: The Chao Phraya River becomes a hub of activity with Krathong's, parades, and dazzling fireworks. Since the pandemic Thailand's capital has become somewhat of a rival to Chiang Mai, as this festival continues to gain popularity amongst tourists. ⪢ Find Hotels in Thailand Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. ⪢ Staying in Chiang Mai? Check Out The Palms Restaurant in Doi Saket We do enjoy big crowds and big events, but for Loi Krathong we have enjoyed a quieter, more intimate experience at the Palms Restaurant in Doi Saket , about a 45 minute drive outside of the city. As much as the city experience in Chiang Mai is fantastic, this spot is where the photos in this post have come from, and it is just about as authentic and intimate as you can get. This restaurant is in the middle of rice paddies, surrounded by mountains, and has a direct view of the lantern release and firework events in Doi Saket. Oh an don't worry, you will get a lantern too! How to Participate in Loi Krathong as a Traveler ⪢ Getting a Krathong These lotus-shaped floats can be purchased at local markets or created from natural materials like banana leaves, flowers, and candles. We encouraged the use of eco-friendly options to minimize environmental impact. ⪢ Best Practices for Floating Your Krathong Floating your Krathong is a simple yet meaningful act. Find a safe spot by the water, light the candle on your Krathong, and let it float gently away. While doing this, make a wish or say a silent prayer. Always observe cultural etiquette by avoiding overly touristy behavior and respecting the traditions of the locals. ⪢ Best Practices for Using a Paper Lantern Paper lanterns can create beautiful atmospheres for events and celebrations, but their use can have environmental implications. If possible, try to use lanterns made with eco-friendly materials, such as biodegradable or recycled ones. Do try to avoid lanterns that contain plastic components or coatings that can harm wildlife. Remember they all fall somewhere eventually! Also please do be aware of trees! It is easy to get caught up in the moment, but do try to let go in an open space. It is also worth noting that they do take a while to 'warm up'. We found the best way is to light it and place it on the ground. After a couple of minutes or so, it will let you know when it is ready. P.s. Don't make the mistake of lighting it and then trying to push it up into the air to quickly. This will not work and it will come down! Patience is key. Travel Tips for Experiencing Loi Krathong ⪢ Booking Accommodations Loi Krathong is a busy time, so book your stay early to secure the best locations. Hotels near rivers, like those along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok or the Ping River in Chiang Mai, offer front-row views of the festivities, but they do get booked well in advance. We find that platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com are great resources to find deals and reviews. Also if you are traveling to Chiang Mai be sure to book your flight well in advance, as the airport is pretty small, and it gets hectic for flights and traffic on the lead-up to, and the days after the festival. ⪢ Safety Tips for Travelers ● Crowds: Be mindful of pickpockets and crowded areas, especially near popular water spots. ● Water Safety: Exercise caution around rivers and lakes, particularly with children or in areas with minimal lighting. ● Eco-Consciousness: Opt for biodegradable Krathong's and dispose of any waste responsibly. Packing Essentials for the Festival Pack light, but ensure you have: ● Comfortable clothing that adheres to cultural norms (avoid overly revealing attire). ● A reusable water bottle, as you may be on your feet for hours. ● A flashlight or portable phone light to navigate after dark. Why You Should Experience Loi Krathong ⪢ A Festival of Light and Spiritual Renewal Loi Krathong is more than a celebration; it’s a spiritual journey. The sight of thousands of Krathong's floating on water, illuminated by flickering candles, is a breathtaking experience. It represents the release of negativity and the welcoming of good fortune. ⪢ Cultural Immersion and Local Connection This festival offers a chance to connect with Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re crafting a Krathong, enjoying traditional performances, or savoring local delicacies, every moment like this brings you Closer to the Thai way of life! FAQs About Loi Krathong Is Loi Krathong Safe for Solo Travelers? Yes, Loi Krathong is generally safe for solo travelers. Thailand is known for its welcoming nature, and the festival's lively yet respectful atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy the celebrations on your own. However, stay vigilant in crowded areas and around water. Can Children Participate in Loi Krathong? Absolutely! Children can enjoy crafting and floating their Krathong's alongside families. Many locals bring their kids to participate, making it a family-friendly event. What’s the Best Way to Get Around During the Festival? Songthaew's are common in Chiang Mai, with Grab and Gojek being the best way in Bangkok. Walking is often the best way to explore festivities and avoid traffic, depending on where you are staying. How Does Loi Krathong Impact Daily Life in Thailand? The festival creates a joyful buzz, with schools and offices often organizing their own celebrations. Local markets thrive, and tourist spots become busier. It’s a time of communal harmony and excitement! Are Tourists Welcome to Join the Festivities? Yes! Tourists are warmly welcomed to join in. Whether it’s releasing a Krathong, attending performances, or simply observing, visitors are encouraged to respectfully participate and enjoy the cultural richness. Our Loi Krathong Experience Rating Loi Krathong is a celebration of light, renewal, and gratitude, and for us it is an event that has resonated both times we have been lucky enough to experience it. Beyond the paper lanterns and fancy food, Loi Krathong really creates a moment where reflection and appreciation take center stage. The community atmosphere, the beautiful visuals in the sky, the chance to mingle with locals; this festival brings the country together in pool of warmth and happiness, and we are totally down for that. Bring on 2025 we say! Your FREE interactive map of Thailand Check out all of the places we visited in Thailand  courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. Explore Top Thai Destinations with Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Thailand. Whether you're looking to visit some of the famous sites, looking for airport transfers or even hotels, Klook can help. Klook offers great deals on top attractions and offers additional security behind your booking as a reputable and accountable company! All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Thailand. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Thailand First time in Thailand?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

South of the city of Trabzon you will find the 'long lake' that is Uzungöl, nestled in a gorgeous lush mountain valley and surrounded by a cabin style village not all to different to those synonymous with ski resorts. Snow (depending on the time of year), cafes, traditional restaurants and wonderful views await you in Uzungöl and if you are traveling in the Black Sea region then we would definitely recommend a visit. We visited in early April and it was fairly quiet with fellow tourists few and far between, alongside a melting snow that dazzled in the sun to add even more beauty to the scene. In This Article... ● About Uzungöl ● How to Travel to Uzungöl ● Uzungöl Weather - The Best Time to Visit ● How Much Time (and money) You Need in Uzungöl ● The Local Food & Things to do in Uzungöl ● Turkish Tea & Knife Store in Trabzon ● Accommodation in Trabzon ● Map of Uzungöl & Trabzon ● Explore Uzungöl on YouTube ● Our Uzungöl Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. About Uzungöl Uzungöl is a picturesque mountain lake situated south of the city of Trabzon in the Black Sea region of Türkiye. We had a fantastic time and it reminded Jenn a lot of ski resorts in Canada! Visiting here is totally affordable and is certainly worth a visit if ever you are in the area. Uzungöl is also the name of the village on the lake's coast. The lake was formed by a landslide and it is famous for its natural environment; the high rise sloping mountains and dense surrounding forests add almost as much allure to the experience as the lake itself. In recent years a tourist boom has led to many hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops cropping up in the village. The government has also invested in local roads and infrastructure to improve accessibility. Interested yet? Keep reading for how to get here, the best time to visit, things to do and a rundown of our accommodation. Oh and did we mention the knife / sword store? That too! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to Travel to Uzungöl The first thing to note is that most of what you will see online when referencing Trabzon City is indeed Uzungöl Lake. However this lake is actually 100km - a 90 minute drive - away from the city. So if you are booking accommodation it is important to bear this in mind. We were a little caught out by this although it worked out nicely for us in the end as we took a tour there courtesy of our hotel. You will find plenty of tour operators in the main shopping hub of Trabzon, most of whom will likely offer a package deal which will stop at some local confectionary and souvenir stores. Our tour included a stop at Akif Usta Bıçakçılık , a famous knife store which we will talk about later. Our tour was provided by Zağnos Tours International and we would recommend them based on our experience. Find out more information about their tours and services here . If a tour is not for you, car hire is also available in Trabzon and the prices are fairly reasonable. We did not get one but from research Rental Cars seem to be a good company to work with. Check them out here . RETURN TO CONTENTS Uzungöl Weather - The Best Time to Visit July is the hottest time of the year in Uzungöl , with temperatures as high as 38 degrees Celsius (100F). The driest month is February and the rainy season runs between May and August. At over 1000ft above sea level the air is fresh and cool for most of the year. We really enjoyed the climate here; even with the snow the temperature was decent and it did not feel that cold. It definitely felt very fresh and crisp though! Snow tends to start falling from November but by April the melt will begin and in our opinion this is the perfect time as it adds to the magic of this place without feeling too uncomfortable. June - September - The summer months April & May - Avoid the heat August - The most rainfall November - March - Winter months RETURN TO CONTENTS How Much Time (and money) You Need in Uzungöl Ultimately you will not need a great deal of cash in Uzungöl. Walking the lake is free, as is its famous Instagram photo op observation deck. The lake is of course the star attraction and you are able to walk around it via a dedicated and well maintained pathway. There are many shops, stalls, coffee stops and restaurants to tempt you, plus there is a swing affording incredible views from above the lake for 10 lira. We were here for around 3 hours as part of the tour and we felt this was plenty of time; we stopped for a bite to eat and a coffee within that. We spent around $10 (USD) on the food; we did not purchase anything from the stores on this occasion. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Local Food & Things to Do in Uzungöl There are a fair few things to do in Uzungöl if you want to add more to your experience of this iconic lake. Here are our picks, including the famous Mıhlama / Kuymak cheese! Jump to Where You Want to Go ● Food ●   Shopping in Uzungöl ●   Uzungöl Mosque ●   Uzungöl Swin g ●   Uzungöl Lake Observation Deck ●   The Hapsiyas Bridge ⪢ Food - Kuymak / Mıhlama Cheese & Menemen No trip to Uzungöl would be complete without trying Mıhlama cheese, a breakfast favorite in Türkiye's Black Sea region. Its primary ingredients are cornmeal and cheese which is melted and served with bread. Leon loves cheese but is not a fan of Mıhlama. Jenn liked it though! She could not finish it all however, we have to say it was just a tad too much. We also ordered Menemen which has become a favorite of ours ever since we first tried it in Istanbul. Menemen is a mix of onions, peppers, tomatoes and eggs and it is absolutely delicious. You will find it wherever you go in Türkiye, with the inclusion of onions a great national debate! There are plenty of other options to try here and of course we would strongly recommend a traditional Turkish Breakfast if you are yet to try one. They are simply put, amazing! We also stopped off at this very cool zen-like coffee store after walking the lake perimeter. The coffee was excellent, as was Leon's Salep. This rich, creamy, milky drink is a Turkish winter favorite and is always served with cinnamon on top. It almost tastes like rice pudding! You simply must try it; this warm beverage is a game changer! ⪢ Shopping in Uzungöl There are plenty of souvenir shops and trinket stores here and no doubt more will continue to open as the tourism in this area grows. It is always great to invest in the local economy too! Most of the stores are small and crammed full of goods. We always enjoy browsing through them, honestly you never quite know what you might find. ⪢ Uzungöl Mosque We did not go inside but this Mosque has two striking minarets that are typical of a Turkish skyline. It is a nice feature of Uzungöl and you cannot miss it as you drive up to the lake. You are able to go inside but be aware that if you are not a Muslim you will not be given access after the call to prayer. ⪢ Uzungöl Swing The swing is at the top of the hill and you are able to drive and park there if you do not fancy climbing the stairs. We did not try it but it does look like a lot of fun. Let us know what you think if you give (or haven given) it a go! At time of writing the cost for this is 10TL, which is around 50 cents. ⪢ Uzungöl Lake Observation Deck Again at the top of the hill, this is perhaps the best thing you can do in Uzungöl as it is the perfect vantage point to take in the epic beauty of the lake and its surrounding mountains. It is completely free and offers you that perfect social media shot! ⪢ The Hapsiyas Bridge This bridge is on the way to Uzungöl and is sometimes referred to as 'the Tiled Bridge' in reference to the terracotta tiles on its roof. It was built in 1935 and has been granted the status of 'monumental piece'. Definitely a neat little stop off! Turkish Tea & Knife store in Trabzon As part of our tour we stopped off at two pretty cool places on the way to the lake. The first was the İkiçay Tea Factory, although unfortunately the factory was closed for maintenance. We still got to try some tea and watch a pretty cool traditional Turkish dance. Of course we grabbed a bag to take home too and we have to say the quality was excellent! If you are a lover of tea, be sure to stop by. For more information check out their website here . Our other stop was at Akif Usta Bıçakçılık , a popular knife store with a beautiful shop front and some pretty cool stock. They have a range of other items too, including chinaware and a host of trinkets and souvenirs. But the main offer is the knives and swords (yes swords), including a fairly large (and heavy) one that Leon was lucky enough to hold! Check out their website here . RETURN TO CONTENTS Accommodation in Trabzon We spent 2 nights at the 3-star Deryaman Hotel Trabzon which is located in the heart of the city. It is just a short 5 minute walk from the major shopping district and about 20 minutes from the Black Sea coast. The room was great and we had a very nice stay here. The bed was comfy and the bathroom was clean and well serviced. Coffee / tea is included (which we always look for) and the room was a good size. The hotel itself is neatly decorated both in the hallways and room and there is a nice modern elevator too. Breakfast was included in our price and just as with all the breakfasts we have ever had in Türkiye, it does not disappoint at Deryaman. The hotel restaurant is on the top floor and is enclosed so you should not expect to find views of the city there. But it is well presented and is open all day; even outside of mealtimes. It could easily be a nice place to relax or work outside of your room. You can check out the room in our Trabzon video on YouTube . We picked this spot mainly for its proximity to local amenities and on that front it ticks every box. There is a vast array of restaurants, bars and food stores that are easily found by just crossing the main road in front of the hotel entranceway. There were no issues with the concierge and the check-in process was smooth. They do accept cards and there is no deposit required, although be prepared to be asked for cash as it does seem to be the most encouraged method of payment. When we booked our tour to Uzungöl the card machine was mysteriously 'updating' and so I had to nip out to the ATM. On that note finding an ATM was oddly a little difficult given the amount of stores there are in the main shopping area. Tap here for directions to the ATM we used .   ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. RETURN TO CONTENTS Map of Uzungöl & Trabzon Click on the map below to explore various local restaurants and attractions in Uzungöl. This is the route we took from the city if Trabzon. As mentioned we were on a tour but if you are travelling privately the drive is still relatively straightforward and you get to see plenty of the coast on the way. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Uzungöl on YouTube Join us for our day tour as we take you on our day tour from Trabzon. Watch and see the parts that the blog post doesn't show! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Uzungöl  Experience Rating We had a really wonderful day here overall, wandering around the lake and enjoying some of the local amenities. We would most certainly recommend a visit if you are in the area, or looking for things to do if you are staying in Trabzon like we did. It is not quite as spectacular as the likes of Lake Louise or Lake Moraine in Canada but it did remind us of them for sure. Give it a go... you will not be disappointed. Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the oldest cities in the world. Spread across two continents it is the former capital of the great Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. This sprawling bustling metropolis is full of history and wonder and offers some of the most incredible attractions and hospitality in the world. We absolutely loved it here and we are sure you will too! These are our 5 top must-see places in Istanbul, will you visit them all? Before you scroll on, please note that we DID NOT include the Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar in this blog. This is totally intentional, because we wanted to show you some perhaps lesser known spots that are equally as good! In This Article... ● Dolmabahçe Palace ● Fatih Market & Fatih Mosque ● Galata Tower ● Colorful Balat ● Çamlıca Hill & Çamlıca Mosque Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ● Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ● Your FREE Guide to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. 1. Dolmabahçe Palace This magnificent palace is one of the standout features of Istanbul and is located in the Beşiktaş district. It has over 170 years of history to its name and was home to no less than 6 sultans! It is also where the revered founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, spent his final moments. The construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and was completed in 1856 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, replacing the older Topkapı Palace as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace was built in the neoclassical architectural style and is a fusion of Ottoman and European design elements, reflecting the Ottoman Empire's efforts to modernize and Westernize. You are able to have full access to the grounds which showcase beautiful fountains and gardens, along with a café, gift shop, and of course the main attraction of the Palace itself. The Palace option is split into two parts, the main palace and then the Harem. Find out all you need to know in the blog post below. FULL GUIDE: The Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul, Turkey. Why you should visit! ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels in Istanbul, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. RETURN TO CONTENTS 2. Fatih Market & Fatih Mosque Every Wednesday on the streets just outside of the Fatih Mosque, the roads are closed and quite literally hundreds (if not thousands) of stalls pop up for Istanbul's largest outdoor market. Canopies are strewn from building to building and it makes for quite the scene! You will literally find everything here, from fruits & vegetables, herbs, spices, fish, meats, clothing and much more. It is definitely a place to pick up a good bargain and with such beautiful displays, it is hard not to be tempted! It was amazing to see the sheer volume of goods on display from every angle, there were even rugs hanging between the buildings as the sellers use every inch of space. The sellers are as entertaining as the items themselves as they shout out a constant stream of offers and prices. It was an excellent experience and was made even better by the amazing scene of the Fatih Mosque's minarets piercing the sky. This Ottoman mosque was built in 1463 and is one of the largest of its kind in this ancient city. After suffering earthquake damage it was rebuilt in its current design in 1770 and is named after Fatih Sultan Mehmed, the Ottoman Sultan who conquered the city ten years prior to the Mosque's construction. The mosque features many striking domes which are highly visible from a distance. It certainly is a huge building and is also accompanied by a large complex of gardens and many spots to relax and enjoy the view. It is constructed in the typical baroque style of many such buildings in the city. You are able to visit the grounds and central courtyard but we feel it is worth noting that this is a very conservative Muslim area, along with most of the Fatih district. RETURN TO CONTENTS 3. Galata Tower This medieval stone tower is located in the Galata / Karaköy quarter of Istanbul, very close to where the Golden Horn meets the Bosporus. It is one of the oldest towers in the city. Standing at 205ft tall with 9 floors, The Galata Tower was completed in 1348 and has had many functions over time. Originally built as a lighthouse by the Byzantines, it was later used for surveillance and then as a dungeon by the Ottomans after they conquered Istanbul. From the 16th century until 1960 it was used as a fire tower (most of Istanbul's buildings were of wood construction) and was vital in spotting fires before they spread. Ironically the tower itself has been rebuilt twice due to internal fires. For less than $10 you can gain access to this important piece of Istanbul's history. We did not go inside as we got there late in the day but we were happy to have been in its presence either way! The local area is also full of nice restaurants, cafes and stores and is well worth a visit! Find out all you need to know in our blog post below. FULL GUIDE: Galata Tower Istanbul: History, Tips, and Tickets RETURN TO CONTENTS 4. Colorful Balat Balat was the historical home of the Jewish community of Istanbul in the 17th century and is located next to the Greek quarter of Fener. It is steeped in culture and tradition and has gone on to house many ethnicities over the years. It is part of the 'old' city and has a wonderful and encapsulating charm amongst its winding cobbled streets and mix of restored and abandoned buildings. The famous colored mansion houses of Kiremit Street, Balat are one of the most photographed places in Istanbul and this street is a hub of tourist and local activity everyday in Balat. We actually stayed in the yellow one Jenn is standing in front of in the photo. It has apartments to rent through Airbnb and we had a very pleasant stay for one month. They come fully equipped with a self contained kitchen and bathroom and are all decorated and presented in the traditional old styles that run throughout this neighborhood. More on this in a future blog post! Perhaps one of the best kept secrets of Istanbul, Balat is gradually becoming more popular among tourists and locals alike. The infusion of Turkish, Greek, Jewish and Latin culture is evident throughout its winding and hilly streets. The beautiful painted steps of the İncir Ağacı Kahvesi Café are a very popular attraction, alongside the vibrant and colorful umbrellas of the café next door. We certainly took a few photos here! Balat is not just charming for its colors though. It is also crammed full of restaurants, cafes, bakeries, independent and antique stores. There is just so much to see, on every corner there is some form of presentation which just adds to the bespoke and alluring nature of this place. We are both big fans of street art and Balat certainly has an abundance of this too! We will share much more in an upcoming blog post, including the old wall, 'the 5th largest castle of Europe' Phanar Greek Orthodox College and the cast iron Bulgarian Church of St Stephen. This corner café is located on the main street of Vodina Caddesi. The owners of Café Dora, Elif and his wife are always leading from the front and greeting passers by with a warm welcome. It has great food and a wonderful vibe with a real traditional Turkish feel. It is named after the owners' Rottweiler Dora who you simply must meet! We highly recommend it! READ MORE: Cafe Dora, the best cafe in Balat, Istanbul! RETURN TO CONTENTS 5. Çamlıca Hill & Çamlıca Mosque The Grand Çamlıca Mosque was opened in March 2019 and is located on Çamlıca Hill of the Üsküdar district in Istanbul. This mosque features no less than 70 domes and has 6 minarets, making it the largest mosque in Turkey. It can accommodate up to 63,000 people! It has a brilliant outside space which showcases some amazing views of the city due to its placement at the top of Çamlıca Hill. It is serene, peaceful and well worth checking out! The Grand Çamlıca Mosque was part of several 'mega projects' orchestrated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan aimed at stimulating the Turkish economy. The interior design is fairly minimalist in its approach but as you can see it is both grand and striking due to the sheer scale of the building. At 72 metres in height, the main dome symbolises the 72 nations of the capital. The mosque also features the worlds largest finial! There is an onsite museum and gallery and parking for up to 3,500 cars. Çamlıca Hill is in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul and is 288 metres above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of the city and Bosporus, including the mouth of the Golden Horn. It is a must see place for this alone! The hill also has many amenities taking advantage of the views, including food options and walking gardens. The restaurant has an excellent breakfast with seating areas overlooking the gardens and of course, THAT view. It is also famous for having the best simit bread in the city! Be sure to bring along a blanket so you can sit in the grass and enjoy this beautiful area. If possible try to arrive close to sunset time as this is the best place to see the sunset in all of Istanbul! RETURN TO CONTENTS ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your GUIDE to Visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye?   Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

When we first arrived in Balat our Airbnb host kindly took us on a small tour of the beautiful winding streets of this 15th century historic Istanbul district. We had watched some videos prior to coming and knew of the vibrant colours and mixture of restored and rundown buildings, ruins, artisan bistros and cafes. We were even more enamoured seeing it in person and we couldn’t wait to explore further on our own! We retired to our apartment for the evening as we were slightly jet lagged and the following day, we decided to go for a stroll around Balat. Cue in Cafe Dora! Read on for the awesome food we tried, more about the amazing dog behind the name, how to find Cafe Dora, our YouTube video highlights and our café rating! In This Article ●   Our Cafe Dora Highlights ●   Cafe Dora on YouTube ●   How to find Cafe Dora ●   Our Cafe Dora Experience Ratings Travel Resources & Offers ●   Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye ●   Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook ●   Your GUIDE to Visiting Türkiye Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Our Cafe Dora Highlights This corner cafe is located on the main street of Vodina Caddesi. The owners of Cafe Dora, Elif and his wife are almost always leading from the front and greeting passers by with a warm welcome. When Elif said hello and asked us over, we happily obliged. We are so happy we did, with Elif and his wife becoming special friends throughout our stay and offering us great food and hospitality with every visit. Café Dora's name is derived from its owner’s beautiful Rottweiler, Dora. She is super friendly and usually takes up residence on the corner by the traditional Turkish coffee stand that stands proudly outside. She is not intrusive to guests in any way and Elif takes great care to ensure she is well behaved! You will find a good menu with breakfast options including the traditional Turkish breakfast, eggs and our personal favourites, Menemen Tarifi and Gözleme. The drink options are great too, with coffee for all tastes. The menu is definitely moderately priced and extremely affordable for tourists with meals ranging from 15 – 100 lira with the average being around 25 lira! The afternoon and dinner meals here are a real treat too with a selection of burgers including the Café Dora special, fries, salads, pizza and Köfte (Turkish Meatballs). All of the food is home-made and absolutely delicious! We pretty much tried every option over our many visits here. You will be served with plenty of bread, Turkish Tea and service with a wonderfully warm smile too! You can also enjoy Turkish Hookah here and alongside the menu the prices are very reasonable. It is a fantastic vibe in a great location, you cannot ask for more really. Recently married Elif and his wife are super friendly and also introduced us to their newest arrival, baby Dora! This was a special moment for us that we will not forget! Jenn was as happy as kid in a candy shop! During our stay in Istanbul, we found out it was Elif’s birthday so we surprised him with a mini cake! Our favourite thing about travelling is meeting amazing people we will never forget along the way. Be sure to stop by the café and say hello when you are in the area to see the Greek Orthodox school, the colourful mansions (home of our Airbnb) and the colourful stairs that are all super popular places to visit when in Fener Balat, Istanbul. We loved this entire area! We highly recommend a visit if you have the time. If you come to see the houses, head to Café Dora too! RETURN TO CONTENTS Cafe Dora on YouTube Now for some video! Enjoy the highlight reel of Balat and the café, and if you do enjoy our video and would like to follow along with our content why not subscribe to our channel! It is completely free and it means YouTube will notify you of our latest videos so you won't miss them. Typically we will post once or twice a week. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Cafe Dora in Balat, Istanbul Tap the map for directions to Café Dora. It is just two blocks away from the water and located on the main road which runs through Balat. We would recommend visiting on foot as there is limited parking in the area. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Contact Information Address: Balat, Vodina Cd. No: 55/A, 34087 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Opening hours: 8.30am to 12am Our Café Dora Experience Ratings In our opinion there really is no reason not to stop off and enjoy this beautiful café. Indeed Balat itself! Finding Dora was a great bonus for us as the food was awesome, but more significantly for us we also made wonderful friends that we are still connected with to this very day! ✓ Atmosphere: 5/5 Café Dora certainly feels very traditional in its design and has a great front seating area. It is neatly sectioned off from the road with planters although the road is narrow and usually busy. We really did get the feeling that we were in the heart of Balat and could not have asked for a more genuine Turkish café experience though! ✓ Cost: 5/5 Virtually everything on the menu is very affordable and beat most of the other restaurants in the area on price. On every visit we left a tip and overall we never walked away with any issue with what we spent! ✓ Food: 5/5 The options available are on the more limited side, but for what Café Dora lacks on range, it certainly makes up for it in quality and value. The food is absolutely delicious and we would definitely recommend the full breakfast, menemen and the Gözleme. Top marks!! ✓ Service: 5/5 The service at Café Dora was always brilliant. Even at busy times our table was kept clear from dishes, someone was always on hand to make sure we had tea and bread available, and pretty much anything else we needed. More often than not the tea was complimentary too. No complaints at all! Your FREE Interactive Map of Türkiye Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Istanbul with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Istanbul. Whether you're looking for a dinner cruise on the Bosporus or a day trip to ancient sites like the Galata Tower or Troy, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Istanbul and Türkiye. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to visiting Türkiye First time in Türkiye ? Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Hoi An Memories is a large-scale live performance that takes place at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park in Hoi An, Vietnam. It's a spectacular show that tells the story of Hoi An's history and culture through music, dance, and elaborate sets. Have you ever dreamt of stepping back in time and witnessing the vibrant tapestry of a historical town unfold before you? In Hoi An, Vietnam, that dream becomes reality at the Hoi An Memories Theme Park. This unique cultural destination offers a multi-layered experience that goes beyond just watching a show. Imagine yourself captivated by the world's largest outdoor performance, featuring over 500 performers who bring the story of Hoi An to life through a mesmerizing fusion of music, dramatic scenes, and electrifying dance. The Hoi An Memories show is just the beginning! Delve deeper into the local way of life by exploring the Coconut Forest, where carefully choreographed performances unfold amidst a lush, seven-acre grove. Prepare to be transported to Hoi An's golden age as you wander through the vibrantly themed sections of the park, each one a beautiful snapshot of the town's rich history and cultural exchange. Read on for all you need to know about our evening at Hoi An Memories, with our highlights , more information about the park and show, ticket details , opening times, valuable tips, and our specially curated YouTube video . Plus how to get here from Da Nang or within Hoi An! Table of Contents ● What is Hoi An Memories About? ● Our Hoi An Memories Highlights ● The Hoi An Memories Show ● Hoi An Memories Opening Times & Ticket Prices ● Things to Know before Visiting Hoi An Memories ● How to get to Hoi An Memories Land ● Getting to Hoi An from Da Nang ● Watch our First Impressions of Hoi An on YouTube ● Our Hoi An Memories Experience Rating Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Vietnam ● Explore Hoi An with Special Offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to Visiting Vietnam Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. What is Hoi An Memories Land About? Hoi An Memories Land is a unique theme park offering a multi-faceted experience that goes beyond just watching its centerpiece Hoi An Memories show (which we will cover later). The park itself focuses on telling the story of Hoi An's transformation from a small village to a thriving international port, and the cultural exchange that shaped the city. Hoi An Memories Land is a celebration of Vietnamese culture. Within the park are sections housing architectural replicas that reflect Hoi An's unique heritage, such as miniature Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese villages. Throughout the park there are smaller themed performances, that occur at hourly intervals, with demonstrations of traditional crafts, and historical reenactments. This all leads up to the final nightly show, which focuses more on a unique love story that has been told through the generations. Read on for our highlights, all you need to know before visiting including opening times, special ticket offers and information about how to get here. Our Hoi An Memories Highlights We were already on a high after spending a lovely couple of days in Da Nang and we were really excited to see wait Hoi An had to offer. We did not know all too much about its beautiful history, so Hoi An Memories was literally the perfect opportunity to do just that. We were a little apprehensive at first, as we harboured a concern that it may be a little tacky, but honestly we had nothing to worry about. The park is put together extremely well, and the performances are the what it is all about. And they were great, before we even made it to the main show! Each area of the park is zoned and as you walk through you are guided by staff who will keep you informed of the upcoming programs. It is all focused around the cultural history and journey of this old town, and it is as educational as it is fun and in some parts, pretty spectacular. From ancient times, the story of bamboo houses and the influx of crafts and trade merchants is told. With so much influence from lands beyond, Hoi An evolved and grew with aplomb. In all of the sectors of the park the mini shows appear, from Geisha's to fighting tigers, wedding ceremonies to recruited soldiers. The areas are well decorated and free to browse around before and after the shows, although there is not much give in-between. Given the late opening of the park it did not leave a great deal of time to check things out, but perhaps just enough for some photos! We have to say that it was all done really well, and we certainly felt the spirit of the place. We had been there for a good couple of hours before the grand show at the end, and we weren't all too sure what more there could be to show. But then at that point, we weren't prepared for the additional love story , which elevated everything to a whole new level! More on that in the next section. The main objective of this park is to continue to keep the legend and history of Hoi An alive, and it delivers a great experience in that regard. We left with a far greater knowledge of Hoi An than we came in with, and that is all one can ask for! Perhaps our only regret was not getting any food in the magnificent bamboo restaurant (below), but we had actually eaten prior to coming and were just not hungry! It did seem a tad pricey but if you do have time we would recommend trying it, as it did look pretty good from what we saw. Read on for more information on how to get there, visiting times and our Hoi An Memories experience rating . RETURN TO CONTENTS The Hoi An Memories Show The Hoi An Memories Show features over 500 performers who bring to life Hoi An's transformation from a small fishing village to a thriving international trading port over the course of 400 years. The audience is taken on a journey through different eras, witnessing scenes of rural life, traditional crafts, and bustling trade with Chinese, Japanese, and Western merchants. It is performed in a grand outdoor arena and includes lasers, music and special visual affects. There is a pond in the center which imitates the Thu Bon River, huge town building props and some truly excellent performances from its actors,. The show begins with the humble beginnings of Hoi An as a small agricultural village, which sees the villagers going about their daily lives, fishing, farming, and weaving. Hoi An goes on to became a major trading port in Southeast Asia, attracting merchants from all over the world. The show depicts the interaction between different cultures, with scenes of Chinese traders, Japanese tea ceremonies, and European influences. It celebrates the traditional crafts and customs of Vietnam, with scenes like silk weaving, lantern making, and other traditional Vietnamese crafts. The show also explores the human stories of Hoi An's past, with scenes of love, loss, and resilience. The performers come together in a colorful display of music, dance, and fireworks at the end, with it totally living up to its 'memories' name as we are still reminiscing about it months later. This show will not leave you! RETURN TO CONTENTS Hoi An Memories Opening Times & Ticket Prices Opening Hours ⪢ The Hoi An Memories Theme Park is open from Wednesday to Monday, 3pm to 10pm. It is closed on Tuesdays. ⪢ The Hoi An Memories Show starts at 8 pm and lasts for an hour. We would suggest going into the stadium / seating area closer to 7pm as seats numbers are not allocated. Ticket Prices For entrance to the park itself , it is 25k VND (98 cents USD) for children and 50k VND ($1.97 USD) for adults. Specific ticket prices for Hoi An Memories Show fluctuate depending on factors like season, seat selection, availability and ongoing promotions. For adults, prices can range from 600k to 1.4m VND, and for children there are tickets between 150k to 700k VND. Given the cheapest adult ticket for just the show starts at almost $24 USD, we would highly recommend saving money and booking through Klook. ● Get combo tickets for the park, show and dinner ● Also combine with a show boat and lantern release on the river ● Other combo options include coconut basket boat rides and pottery classes ** Prices are correct at time of writing (December 2024). Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information. RETURN TO CONTENTS Things to know before visiting Hoi An Memories Here are a few important things that we think you should know to help you have a seamless experience in Hoi An: ⪢ Weather & Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Hoi An Memories Land is during the dry season, which runs from February to September. During this time, you can expect sunny skies and little rain. However, it can also be quite hot and humid, especially during the summer months (June to August). ⪢ Clothing & Respectful Attire There is no strict dress code for Hoi An Memories Land, but it is recommended to dress modestly. Long pants or skirts and shirts with sleeves are ideal. This is respectful of Vietnamese culture and will also help you to be more comfortable in the hot and humid weather. You'll also want to wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved. Avoid wearing flip flops or sandals as you may end up taking them off for the show. An umbrella or hat can be useful for sun protection, especially if visiting during the hotter months. ⪢ Peak Times Hoi An is a popular tourist destination, so expect larger crowds during peak season (December to April) and on weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and October). ⪢ Hoi An Memories Show ● Book tickets in advance: Especially during peak season, it's a good idea to book your tickets for the Hoi An Memories show online in advance. This will guarantee your spot and save you time waiting in line. ● Bring cash: While some vendors in the park may accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to bring cash with you. You can use it for snacks, drinks, souvenirs, or any other incidentals. ● Arrive early: If you want to get a good seat for the show, it's recommended to arrive early. The park opens around 5pm, and the show starts at 7:30pm. This will also give you some time to explore the park before the show. ⪢ Bonus Tip Consider getting a Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance Ticket , which allows you to visit multiple attractions within the Ancient Town area. It's a cost-effective way to explore the city's historical sites and enjoy cultural activities. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Hoi An Memories Land There are a few transport options available to get to Hoi An Memories Land, depending on your location and budget. It is located about 5 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town and about 30 kilometers from Da Nang City. Note that traffic in Hoi An can be congested, especially during peak season. Be sure to factor in some extra time for your journey if you're taking a taxi or private car. ⪢ Private Car You can pre-book a private car service to take you directly to Hoi An Memories Land. This is a good option if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. Prices will vary depending on the company you choose, but expect to pay around 200,000 VND ($8.68 USD) or more. ⪢ By taxi This is the most convenient option, especially if you're staying in Hoi An Ancient Town. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or ask your hotel to call one for you. The ride to Hoi An Memories Land should take around 15-20 minutes and cost approximately 100,00 VND ($4.34 USD). ⪢ By shuttle bus The Hoi An Memories Land website sometimes offers information about shuttle bus services from Da Nang City to the theme park. This can be a more budget-friendly option, but it's important to check the availability and schedule in advance as they may not run daily. ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Contact Information Address: Cồn Hến, rẽ trái, 200 Nguyễn Tri Phương, Cẩm Châu, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam Email: booking@hoianmemoriesland.com Phone: (+84) 904 636 600 Website: hoianmemoriesland.com Facebook: @memoriesland.hoian RETURN TO CONTENTS Getting to Hoi An from Da Nang To get to Hoi An Night Market from Da Nang, there are a few transportation options you can choose from. ⪢ Private Car or Taxi The most convenient and direct way to reach Hoi An from Da Nang is by hiring a private car or taking a taxi (in our opinion). You can easily find taxis at the airport or in the city center of Da Nang. This is the option we chose, and the journey from Da Nang to Hoi An took us around 30-40 minutes and cost $20 USD. ⪢ Shuttle Bus Another option is to take a shuttle bus, which operates between Da Nang and Hoi An. These buses are available at designated bus stations or can be booked through tour agencies or your accommodation. The shuttle bus service is a more affordable option compared to a private car or taxi, but it may take a bit longer due to multiple stops along the way. ⪢ Motorbike If you're comfortable riding a motorbike, you can rent one in Da Nang and ride to Hoi An. The route is straightforward and well-signposted, usually following the coastal road. However, be very cautious while riding and make sure you have a valid motorbike license and proper safety gear. From what we saw, things are pretty chaotic on the roads, so we would also recommend you have the necessary insurance, just to be safe. ⪢ Public Bus Public buses also operate between Da Nang and Hoi An. You can catch a local bus at Da Nang Central Bus Station, which is located near the city center. The journey takes around one hour, and buses usually run at regular intervals throughout the day. However, the schedule might be less frequent in the evenings, so be sure to check the bus timings in advance. Once you arrive in Hoi An, you can reach the Night Market by following the directions provided earlier. It's located in the Ancient Town along Nguyen Hoang Street, and you can easily explore the market on foot. RETURN TO CONTENTS Watch our First Impressions of Hoi An on YouTube Join us on an unforgettable journey as we delve into the captivating city of Hoi An, Vietnam in 2023! Brace yourself for a whirlwind of emotions as we share our genuine first impressions and uncover the irresistible allure of this incredible destination. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Hoi An Memories Experience Rating Hoi An Memories Theme Park and Show is worth every penny in our opinion! There is plenty to see in the park beforehand with 10 shows which are co-ordinated to give you enough time to reach each one. There are tons of photo opportunities, information boards in English to help you understand the meaning of the shows, and high-class standards from the performers. Then of course we get to the main event itself, with in our opinion is nothing short of spectacular! So well done, excellently co-ordinated and definitely a memory that lives on for us. Even though the prices are a tad on the expensive side, it would be a total shame to come all the way to Hoi An and miss out on Memories! As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too! Your FREE Interactive Map of Vietnam Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Hoi An with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Hoi An. Whether you're looking for a coconut boat ride, spas, or even a lantern making class, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Vietnam. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your guide to Visiting Vietnam Visiting Vietnam for the first time?  Explore our detailed guide featuring everything you need to know, including our newest posts, essential attractions, and vital details on health & safety, transportation, local customs, connectivity, visa details, helpful links, and more. No sign-up needed.

Hanging lanterns hold a significant cultural and historical importance in Vietnam, particularly in the city of Hoi An. The tradition of hanging lanterns can be traced back several centuries and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese folklore and religious practices. Read on for more information and history about the lanterns in Vietnam, and find a list of some of the festivals you might want to plan for if you are visiting this amazing country. Table of Contents ● Hoi An, and its History with Lanterns ● What are the Main Lantern Festivals in Vietnam? ● Our first impressions of Da Nang on YouTube Travel Resources & Offers ● Your FREE Interactive Map of Vietnam ● Explore Hoi An with Special Offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to Visiting Vietnam Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Tap here   for more information. Hoi An, and its History with Lanterns Hoi An, located on the central coast of Vietnam, was a bustling trading port during the 16th and 17th centuries. It served as a melting pot of different cultures, attracting merchants from China, Japan, India, and other countries. These diverse influences contributed to the vibrant cultural heritage of Hoi An and shaped the tradition of hanging lanterns. In the past, lanterns were primarily used for religious and spiritual purposes. People believed that hanging lanterns in front of their houses would bring good luck, ward off evil spirits, and guide the souls of ancestors back home during important festivities and ceremonies. Lanterns were also lit to celebrate special occasions such as the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival. The lantern-making process was passed down from generation to generation, with each family often having its unique techniques and designs. Artisans would meticulously craft lanterns using bamboo frames and colored silk or thin fabric. The frames were carefully bent and shaped into various forms such as spheres, cylinders, or squares, while the fabric was skillfully stretched and attached to create a beautiful, translucent covering. Over time, the tradition of hanging lanterns became intertwined with the daily lives of the local community in Hoi An. It was not limited to religious or festive occasions but became an integral part of the city's cultural identity. Streets and houses in the Ancient Town of Hoi An are adorned with multicolored lanterns, creating a mesmerizing sight, particularly during the annual Lantern Festival held on the 14th day of each lunar month. The Lantern Festival, also known as the Full Moon Festival, is a captivating event that attracts both locals and tourists. During this celebration, electric lights are turned off, and the streets are illuminated solely by the soft glow of countless lanterns. Locals release floating lanterns on the river, believing that their wishes will come true as the lanterns drift away. The tradition of hanging lanterns in Vietnam, and specifically in Hoi An, continues to thrive today. It has not only become a symbol of cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship but also a beloved tourist attraction. Visitors can explore lantern workshops, participate in lantern-making classes, and immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty and symbolism of these vibrant illuminated decorations. What are the Main Lantern Festivals in Vietnam? Vietnam is known for its vibrant lantern festivals that celebrate various cultural and religious traditions. Here are some notable lantern festivals in Vietnam: ⪢ Hoi An Lantern Festival This festival takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month in Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its lantern-lit streets. During the festival, perhaps one of the most popular in Vietnam, the city turns off its electric lights, and the entire Ancient Town is illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. Visitors can release floating lanterns on the river, enjoy traditional performances, and immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere. Book your tickets in advance for the Hoi An Lantern Festival to save you time and money! ⪢ Mid-Autumn Festival Also known as the Moon Festival or Children's Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It is a joyful occasion for children and families, marked by colorful lanterns, lion dances, dragon parades, and the sharing of mooncakes. The festival symbolizes reunion and the harvest season. ⪢ Tet Trung Thu Tet Trung Thu, or the Vietnamese version of the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a significant celebration for children. It occurs on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month and is characterized by lantern processions, lion dances, and performances. Children carry lanterns shaped like animals or characters from folk tales as they parade through the streets. ⪢ Tet Nguyen Tieu Tet Nguyen Tieu, also known as the First Full Moon Festival, is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. During this festival, people visit temples, light incense, and release lanterns to pray for good luck and fortune in the new year. ⪢ Lim Festival The Lim Festival is a unique cultural event held in Lim Village, Bac Ninh Province, typically in February or March of the lunar calendar. The festival features a variety of folk songs, traditional games, and lantern displays. One of the highlights is the Quan Ho folk songs, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage of humanity. These are just a few examples of the notable lantern festivals celebrated in Vietnam. The dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar, so it's recommended to check the specific dates closer to the time of your visit. Attending these festivals offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the vibrant traditions and the lively atmosphere of Vietnam's cultural celebrations! Book your tickets in advance for a boat ride and lantern release in Hoi An with Klook ● Explore Hoi An at its most magical during an evening tour that includes a boat ride and release the lantern on water ● Take in the sights and smells of the bustling night market. ● Learn about the traditional culture of Hoi An while cruising on the Thu Bon river Explore Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town Our First Impressions of Da Nang on YouTube Da Nang really does have it ALL! We were amazed by the beaches and clubs! Join us as we explore this captivating city filled with enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. In this travel video, we'll share our first impressions as we get settled in on day one in Da Nang (Danang) and reveal part of why this hidden gem has stolen our hearts! We had a short visit but we love the city so much we have it on our long stay list for the future! ⪢ Streamline Your Travel with Closer Lives Powered by 12Go Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs. Through our white-labeled platform, booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey. 12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip. ⪢ Explore Nearby Hotels Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Your FREE Interactive Map of Vietnam Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Hoi An with Special Offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Hoi An. Whether you're looking for a coconut boat ride, spas, or even a lantern making class, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Vietnam. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE Guide to Visiting Vietnam First time in Vietnam? Check out our comprehensive guide with   all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!