Flying Off To A Dream: Simerjit’s Family Trip to Turkey and Greece with Thrillophilia

"When life feels overwhelming and hectic, take a break and explore the world." 

After a long, busy month, I was venting to my daughter about how much I needed a break on a fine Sunday and this line popped up in my head. Promptly, I decided to plan a trip to escape this hustling life.

I told my family, “We are going on a trip, let’s start planning!” Excited, the planning began, and with the help of my daughter, we decided to take a two-week trip to Turkey and Greece—two of my dream destinations! 

Feeling thrilled and a little overwhelmed, I turned to Thrillophilia for help. Their Turkey and Greece package was exactly what we needed for a perfect family getaway.

With everything sorted within the evening, I let out a sigh of relief and started daydreaming about beaches and sunsets. 

Stepping into the Historical Wonderland

Our Istanbul city tour was like a real-life presentation of a history book! We explored incredible Byzantine and Ottoman relics that gave us a glimpse into Turkey's rich past. Our day started at the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, with its massive domes and intricate mosaics.  What made the iconic building more interesting was its dynamic history and cultural significance. The kids were awed after learning what time can change! Right across, the Blue Mosque mesmerised us with its stunning blue tiles and six towering minarets.

At the Hippodrome, we imagined ancient chariot races and admired other historical landmarks. The bustling Grand Bazaar was a treat to the eyes with its endless shops and vibrant colours. Topkapi Palace wrapped up our fantastic historical city tour with its artefacts and relics!

Our Bosphorus cruise offered the ultimate fun! Together, we enjoyed breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, iconic landmarks like the Dolmabahce Palace, and charming waterfront mansions. My daughter loved admiring the seagulls, while I soaked in the cool breeze and vibrant atmosphere.

For me, the highlight of exploring Turkey was experiencing and watching the Whirling Dervishes at Hodjapasha. It was a serene and spiritual experience where the soulful music and graceful performance of the dervishes transported us to a different realm. As they spun in harmony, it felt like time had slowed down, and we were witnessing a beautiful expression of devotion and connection to the divine. The ritual was mesmerising and deeply calming, and quite new for us. It left us with a sense of peace and awe. 

Mykonos - A City of Happy Blues

The island welcomed us with its vibrant charm- its whitewashed houses and bright blue accents perfectly matched the stunning Aegean Sea. On our island and city tour, we explored the narrow, winding streets of Mykonos Town, visited iconic landmarks like the Mykonos Windmills and admired the quaint Little Venice area with its colourful waterfront homes. The ambience of this island was lively, with a touch of culture, history, and beauty everywhere we looked.

On our leisure day, we decided to dive deeper into Mykonos’ local culture. We started by exploring the charming markets, where we picked up handmade souvenirs and admired the artistry of the locals. Thanks to my daughter’s searching skills, we were able to find some cosy cafes nearby as well!

Later, we spent some time relaxing on the pristine beaches, soaking up the sun and dipping our toes into the crystal-clear water. For lunch, we savoured delicious local dishes at a seaside tavern. The authentic Greek flavours of Moussaka, Garides saganaki, Souvlai and Baklava made me fall in love with continental food. 

Santorini’s Sunsets

Our journey to Santorini began with a scenic ferry ride from Mykonos. As we arrived, the island greeted us with its iconic blue-domed white buildings, and a breathtaking view of the blue Aegean Sea. That evening, we watched the famous Santorini sunset from Oia—it was an unforgettable moment where we took endless pictures and soaked in the beauty of the island.

The next day, we embarked on an exciting cruise around the Caldera. The boat ride offered magnificent views of Santorini’s unique volcanic landscape and we could not stop gaping at the island with the volcano. After reaching, we hiked up its rugged paths and reached the fascinating volcanic craters. I had never stood in front of a volcano before and it scared the soul out of me…but to be honest, the thrill it provided was unparalleled! The greatness of the crater even stunned my ever-brave daughter! Next up, we visited the thermal springs. Stepping into the warm, mineral-rich waters was soothing and fun for all.

On our last day in Santorini, we did not do much and enjoyed a leisurely day. We strolled through the charming streets of the island, browsing local shops and picking up handmade keepsakes. Later, we relaxed at a quiet beach, savouring the tranquillity around us. Santorini left us with magical memories and a sense of peace we’ll never forget.

What began as a random thought became our most fun manifestation in the form of the most memorable trip. From exploring the rich history of Istanbul to marvelling at the serene beauty of Santorini, every moment was filled with wonder and joy. We bonded as a family over shared adventures, delicious meals, and breathtaking sunsets. This trip wasn’t just a vacation; it was a casket of treasured memories that we’ll cherish forever.

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