Being Black In Turkey: Our Memorable Trip to Antalya and Istanbul

My seven-year-old daughter wanted to visit Turkey, a country teeming with history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. While the allure of this beautiful nation was undeniable, what truly made our trip unforgettable was the genuine curiosity and warm hospitality of the Turkish people despite us being the only black travelers in many of the places we explored.

Arrival and First Impressions:

Our adventure began as soon as we landed. My brother had an appointment at the dentist's office in Istanbul, so our first stop was straight from the airport. Finding a taxi proved to be a challenge, but with the help of an office aide, we finally secured one. We arrived at the Holiday Inn Istanbul-Kadikoy quite late, yet the staff was incredibly accommodating, and we enjoyed a delightful dinner there. One thing we noticed about Turkish hotels was that the rooms tended to be smaller compared to those in the United States.

Exploring Istanbul:

Our second day marked the beginning of our exploration in earnest. We ventured into the heart of the city, visiting the old city and iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum. These architectural wonders left us in awe, despite my phone's untimely demise.

Over the following days, we admired the Galata Tower and indulged in a memorable photoshoot, relished local cuisine at various restaurants, and savored the comforts of our hotel.

Shopping Extravaganza:

Day four was dedicated to a mini shopping spree. Although we had arrived in Turkey with two suitcases filled to the brim, the allure of Turkish goods proved irresistible. Exploring the mall and discovering unique items became a cherished part of our adventure.

Antalya's Coastal Charm:

On the fifth day, we headed to Antalya, where we stayed at AG Hotel initially. However, we couldn't resist experiencing the opulence of the Akra resort/hotel. Days were spent lounging by the pool, an activity my daughter particularly relished. Both hotels offered exquisite dining experiences, but Akra boasted more options and amenities due to its larger size.

A Visit to the Land of Legends:

A highlight of our journey was a visit to the Land of Legends. This enchanting place felt like a city in itself. We dined at Nemo Restaurant and later at Santorini, a Greek restaurant with a Turkish twist. Both establishments exuded class and elegance, and their culinary offerings were nothing short of exceptional.

Return to Istanbul:

As our trip neared its end, we returned to Istanbul, opting for the Marriott close to the airport for convenience. The bustling traffic during morning and evening rush hours reminded us of the bustling streets of New York and Los Angeles.

Tales of Taxi Troubles:

One challenge we encountered during our Turkish adventure was with taxis. Some drivers attempted to overcharge us significantly, demanding double or triple the metered fare. While most instances were manageable, there was one particular case where I had to stand my ground. Despite a meter reading of 375, the driver insisted on 1000. I refused to be taken advantage of, offering 450 and asserting that he could call the police if he disagreed. Ultimately, he was escorted out of the hotel for his behavior.

A Special Journey for My Daughter:

Throughout our trip, my daughter garnered considerable attention. From the moment we arrived at the airport until our departure, we received countless compliments. Strangers often approached us, expressing admiration for her appearance and touching her hair without asking. This curiosity extended to a chance encounter with a young girl at the mall, resulting in an impromptu playdate.

Our adventure in Turkey was a tapestry woven with rich cultural experiences, mouthwatering cuisine, and the warmth of the Turkish people. While we stood out as the only black travelers in many places, the genuine curiosity and openness of the locals turned these moments into cherished memories. We left Turkey with our hearts full of gratitude and our minds enriched by the beauty and diversity of this captivating country.