Have you ever wondered how nice it can be to have a layover on your way to SE Asia or South Africa? If you choose Turkish Airlines, read on!

This year we had several clients flying via Istanbul to South Africa, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. All of them praised Turkish Airlines, so we decided to use their services personally because there's nothing like first-hand experience. So, in short - Turkish Airlines pleasantly surprised us and we can recommend them. In addition, we thought of trying a 'stop over' in Istanbul because ...

Istanbul is a fascinating city with a rich history, amazing architecture, delicious food and a unique mix of cultures. It has always been a trading crossroad between East and West and between North and South, with influences from many cultures. There are quite a few reasons to stop here. Perhaps for a few hours, if there is a long layover between your connecting flights. Your guide will be waiting for you at the airport and you will be able to see the highlights, and again will take you to the airport to catch your next flight. The advantage is, among other things, that you check your luggage into your final destination so you don't have to worry about it at the stop, you probably don't need an entry visa (you need to check the current situation with the Turkish Embassy), and instead of a long, boring wait at the airport, you spend this time in amazing Istanbul. You can also opt for a longer stopover, perhaps two or three days. Here are just some of the benefits of stopping in Istanbul:

1. Explore the city's history: Istanbul has a rich and varied history and you can visit many historical sites during your layover. Some of the 'must-see' sights include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque (which is undergoing renovation and will open in May 2023), the Cisterna Basilica (the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns in town), Topkapi Palace (the residence of the Ottoman Sultans).

2. Istanbul is famous for its delicious cuisine and you can sample some of the city's most famous dishes such as kebabs, baklava or 'Turkish delight'.

3. Let the atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar engulf you: The Grand Bazaar is home to one of the largest and oldest indoor markets in the world (dating back to 1461) with nearly 4,000 shops selling everything from textiles and jewellery to spices and souvenirs. It's a great place to wander for hours without shopping, or perhaps find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.

4. Istanbul is a city rich in culture, which you can experience by watching traditional belly dancing, watching a dervish performance or visiting a Turkish hammam.

5. The Bosphorus is a strait that connects the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea and Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and also separates Europe and Asia. There are three bridges and two metro lines connecting the two continents. A cruise along its shores is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

6. Enjoy the nightlife.