MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Cappadocia Kapadokya, Turkey

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Your Journey

  • Google Maps

    For navigation, specifically useful for offline maps that help you find your way in areas with limited connectivity.

  • Google Translate

    For language assistance. Download the Turkish language pack for offline use. This valuable in various situations.

  • WhatsApp

    Widely used in Turkey for communication. Many hotels and tour operators use it for bookings and inquiries.

  • Booking.com / Agoda

    For accommodation bookings and finding last-minute deals.

  • Babbel

    A language learning app to pick up basic Turkish phrases. Learning a few words enhances your journey. Learn Turkish with Babbel.

Useful Websites for Planning

  • E-Visa System

    Republic of Türkiye Electronic Visa Application System: Www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ (for e-Visa application).

  • Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism

    Www.ktb.gov.tr/EN/ (for general tourism information, official updates, and cultural insights).

  • Official Cappadocia Tourism Portals

    Search for "Cappadocia tourism official" to find local tourism board websites that offer detailed information on attractions, events, and services.

  • NordVPN

    A VPN service for travelers, securing your internet connection while abroad. Secure your connection with NordVPN.

  • Flight Trackers

    Use flight tracking apps for real-time updates on international and domestic flights.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

Local Maps: Available at hotels and tourist information centers. These maps are useful for navigating Goreme town and basic outlines for hiking trails in the valleys.

Books About the Destination

"Birds Without Wings" by Louis de Bernières: A fictional work set in a village similar to those in Cappadocia's past, offering a rich historical and cultural backdrop.

Local Publications

Local tourist brochures or free magazines, often found at hotels and tourist offices, frequently contain maps, restaurant listings, and tour information.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 155
  • Gendarmerie (rural police for Goreme and surrounding areas): 156
  • Ambulance: 112
  • Fire: 110

Hospital & Embassy Information

  • Nevşehir State Hospital (Nevşehir Devlet Hastanesi): Main public hospital serving the region.
  • Private hospitals in larger cities like Nevşehir and Kayseri offer modern facilities and English-speaking staff.
  • Embassy and Consulate Information: Most countries have embassies in Ankara and consulates in Istanbul.
  • Lost Document Procedures: Report to local police for a police report. Contact your country's embassy for assistance.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  • Search for documentaries on Turkish history, Byzantine art, or the geology of volcanic regions.
  • This presents a view of Cappadocia's formation and cultural layers.
  • Explore films showing the region's beauty.
  • View travel vlogs for current visitor experiences.

Music and Art to Experience

  • Listen to traditional Turkish folk music. This enhances your sense of place.
  • Explore Sufi music, especially if you plan to attend a Whirling Dervish ceremony.
  • Discover local art forms.
  • Visit art galleries in Goreme.

Online Communities and Language Learning

  • Join travel forums (e.g., TripAdvisor forums, Reddit's r/travel) where travelers share tips and up-to-date information.
  • Utilize apps like Duolingo or Memrise for learning basic Turkish phrases.
  • Connect with travel groups for shared experiences.
  • Find local event listings online.

Safety Advisory

Natural Disaster Protocols

Earthquake Preparedness

  • In case of an earthquake, follow official guidance.
  • Drop, cover, and hold on.
  • Seek shelter under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall.
  • Remain calm and await further instructions.

Flash Flood Awareness

  • Be aware of potential flash floods during heavy rain.
  • Especially in valleys, flash floods pose a risk.
  • Avoid low-lying areas or dry riverbeds during or after heavy rainfall.
  • Seek higher ground immediately if water rises.

General Safety Tips

  • Save emergency numbers in your phone before you travel.
  • Stay informed about local conditions through hotel staff or official sources.
  • Follow all safety warnings and guidance from local authorities.
  • Maintain a general awareness of your surroundings.

Ethical Engagement

Support Local Businesses Directly

  • Shop at local artisan workshops and family-run shops.
  • Your money directly benefits the community.
  • Dine at traditional local restaurants.

Cultural Experiences

  • Participate in local cultural experiences that genuinely benefit the community.
  • Look for authentic artisan workshops or cooking classes with local families.
  • Choose locally owned tour operators.

Sustainable Practices

Minimize Waste & Conserve Resources

  • Use Reusable water bottles and shopping bags to reduce plastic waste.
  • Be mindful of water and energy consumption at your accommodation.
  • Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving your room.

Respect the Environment

  • Stick to marked trails when hiking.
  • Do not litter.
  • Do not deface the rock formations or ancient sites. These are irreplaceable.

Cultural Respect

Dress and Demeanor

  1. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or in more conservative villages.
  2. Observe local traditions and gestures.
  3. Engage respectfully with locals, especially when bargaining in markets.
  4. Ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals.
  5. Maintain a polite and friendly demeanor.

Language and Interaction

  1. Learn and use basic Turkish phrases. This shows respect and opens doors to more meaningful interactions.
  2. Greetings like "Merhaba" (hello) are appreciated.
  3. "Teşekkür ederim" (Thank you) and "Lütfen" (Please) are good starting points.
  4. Respect local customs regarding personal space.
  5. Be patient and understanding in communication.

Responsible Travel Pledge

Environmental Care

Commit to minimizing your environmental footprint by conserving resources and reducing waste.

Cultural Preservation

Maintain cultural respect by observing local traditions and engaging politely with residents.

Local Support

Support the local economy by choosing local businesses and artisans for your purchases.

Safety Information

Save all emergency numbers in your phone. Stay informed about local conditions and adhere to official safety warnings.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

Chronological Planning Timeline

  • 3 Months Before

    Check Passport Validity (6+ months). Book Hot Air Balloon Flight (sells out quickly). Research and Book Accommodations (especially unique cave hotels).

  • 1 Month Before

    Apply for e-Visa (if needed). Book International and Domestic Flights. Arrange Airport Transfers. Plan Major Tours/Activities. Purchase Travel Insurance.

  • 1 Week Before

    Confirm All Bookings. Pack Climate-Appropriate Clothing and Essentials. Notify Your Bank/Credit Card Company. Download Offline Maps and Translation Apps. Make Copies of Documents.

Required Advance Bookings & Research

  • Hot Air Balloon Flights

    This is the most important advance booking. Without it, you risk missing this signature experience.

  • Popular Cave Hotels

    Desirable accommodations, especially unique cave hotels, have limited rooms and book quickly.

  • Airport Transfers

    Pre-booking makes a smooth arrival and departure without scrambling for transport.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Local Customs

Familiarize yourself with basic social norms and respectful behavior (see Section 14.3).

Geography

Understand the layout of Cappadocia, main towns (Goreme, Uchisar, Avanos, Ürgüp), and major attractions.

Basic Turkish

Learning basic Turkish phrases makes a positive impression (see Section 14.3).

Home Preparation Before Departure

Home Security & Contacts

  • Secure your home: Lock windows and doors, set alarms.
  • Inform Trusted Contacts: Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with family or friends at home.
  • Arrange for Mail, Pets, or House-Sitting.
  • Set up automatic bill payments.

Document Copies & Digital Prep

  • Make Copies of Documents: Create digital (cloud storage) and physical copies of your passport, visa, insurance.
  • Store copies separately from the originals.
  • Download Offline Maps and Translation Apps: Google Maps for Cappadocia and Google Translate with Turkish pack.
  • Notify Your Bank/Credit Card Company of your travel dates and destinations to avoid card blocks.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear Immigration and Customs: Have your passport and e-Visa (if applicable) ready.
  • Locate Your Pre-booked Airport Transfer: Look for your name or the transfer company's sign.
  • Consider Purchasing a Local SIM Card: For immediate connectivity, airport options are usually more convenient.
  • Withdraw local currency (Turkish Lira) from an ATM.

Orientation Strategies & Purchases

  • Once at your hotel, ask reception for a local map, dolmuş schedules, and recommendations.
  • Take a short walk around Goreme town center to get your bearings, locate ATMs, and find local eateries.
  • Purchase bottled water, especially if you arrive thirsty after your journey.
  • Utilize your pre-booked shared or private airport shuttle service for direct transfer to your hotel.

Arrival Efficiency

Streamline your arrival by having all documents ready and knowing your transfer arrangements. Instant connectivity assists your first explorations.