Ankara

After three thrilling days in the golden city of Istanbul, we departed on a high-speed train to our next destination, the capital of Turkey: Ankara. In comparison to our last train rides boarding this modern convoy felt like a step into the future. It was equipped with large seats, Wi-Fi (most of the time) and a surprising amount of space. We also set forth at a speed we hadn't seen since we left Germany. So the perfect layout for a couple of productive hours...

After an aggravated battle with the WiFi, we arrived in Ankara. Absorbing our surroundings, taking in the city's details and way of life a first impression like the first sketch of an elaborate painting formed in our minds: Ankara is more modern than Istanbul.

We stayed in a colourful hostel in the city centre. It was there that we crossed paths with an exceptionally benevolent Iranian traveller. He extended to us not only his exotic food but also his captivating tales from distant lands. After indulging in a feast of enchanting flavours and engaging in lively conversation, we departed on a quest to explore the city.

We embarked on a journey that led us up a steep and mysterious hill, a path that took us to the fabled Ankara Citadel. Atop the ancient stronghold, we gazed upon a breathtaking view of the sprawling city below as the sun melted into a mesmerizing display of colours, painting the sky with hues seen only in dreams. As darkness enshrouded the land, we descended from the citadel to return to our colourful abode. There, in the heart of the hostel, we had a small dinner, before retiring to our chambers early, ready for the morrow's mysteries.

The dawn heralded the beginning of a new quest, one that required us to chart our course to a destination unknown. Over a hearty breakfast of Gözleme, we ventured forth, setting our sights on Anitkabir, the solemn tomb of Atatürk, the revered founder of Turkey. The place was teeming with children of all ages,

This seems to be the favourite destination for class trips of schools in and around Ankara. Most were attired in red and white, their T-shirts bearing Atatürk's visage and signature. Others dressed in black tie attire or black and white with red accessories (mainly worn by the people who seemed to not belong to any student group).

Lonely Planet had advised us that exploring this monumental site would take a minimum of two hours. Yet, within just half an hour, we had witnessed much of its grandeur. The place was a testament to Turkey's rich culture and unwavering national pride, a sight brimming with intrigue, though some might argue its architectural splendour wasn't quite perfected; it stood as a symbol of grandeur, albeit slightly ostentatious.

Our next destination led us to the coach station, where we succeeded in our quest to secure bus tickets for our impending adventure. In celebration, we indulged in ice cream and revelled in the thrill of slides in a whimsical park, for age held no dominion over our love for such delights (everyone who disagrees has not been on a proper slide for too long). Our steps then guided us back to the city centre, where we savoured pilav and grapefruit juice. Following a respite in our hostel, we embarked on a delectable culinary quest, sampling both Cig köfte and Lahmacun. Both dishes delighted our palates, but the latter claimed victory in our hearts.

On the morrow, we rose with the earliest light to catch the coach to Trabzon at the stroke of eight. There we are currently taking a rest to replenish our energy for the next chapter of our magical journey.