Mehmet OZYAVUZ

I am a veteran solo traveler and enjoy the thrill of the unexpected. During the last few years Turkish archaeology has captured my interest, and this is a field that is enhanced by a knowledgeable guide. Memhet Ozyavuz is that person. Mehmet came highly recommended, and I wasn’t disappointed. Passionate about his country’s ancient history, strong interpersonal skills, flexible, thoughtful and adroit at anticipating needs. He is fluent in Turkish and English and offers a variety of tours. We began our adventure in Ankara at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. It is an Ottaman building, surrounded by gardens, and has a chronological exhibit beginning at the Neolithic through to the Ottoman period. Absolutely fascinating and shouldn’t be missed. Our next stop was the Ataturk Mausoleum, as not only is it impressive but has some outstanding exhibits WW1, and being an Aussie was interested in Gallipoli. Mehmet’s planning was impeccable. Next three days were at the ancient sites of Gordon (UNESCO), Alacahöyük (Neolithic, Hittite), Hattusa and Yazilikaya Rock Temple (UNESCO) (Chalcolithic period, Hittite). My favorite was Hattusa with its famous Spinx Gate at the entrance. To reach Cappadocia we drove on a country road stopping to chat to a shepherd, gaze at two rather large storks nesting on top of a village pole, admiring the farmlands and experiencing rustic small villages. Snow capped mountains were in the distance. Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys and underground cities and we had two days of sightseeing including Pashabag Valley, Zelve and Goreme Open Air Museums, all exceptional and the Hot Air Ballooning is very popular. On our way to Konya we stopped at the Lake Tuz (largest salt lake in the world) and two Caravanserais, think the Silk Road of long ago. Last two days at Konya visiting the Whirling Dervishes, Mevlana Museum and the famous Neolithic UNESCO site Catalhoyuk, and it’s interactive museum. It was Catalhoyuk that was my initial interest, but there is so much more in Central Turkey. This was an eight day trip, always to be remembered. Mehmet is wonderful company, great sense of humor, always generous with his time, and most importantly to me, extremely flexible with the day’s agenda. We made a few stops not on the original agenda which was a treat as these were new experiences. Mehmet Ozyavuz is experienced in all aspects of travel and is available for tours throughout Türkey. As a solo woman traveler I always felt safe wherever we were. Mehmet exercised care in choosing hotels and recommending restaurants. Prior to the trip he was prompt in responding to questions and concerns. He shows determination in ensuring that his guest/s enjoy their trip and to accommodate all needs. I wish him every success for the future and thank him for an unforgettable experience and hope to be able to tour with him again late 2025 or 2026.