Hot Air Balloon and Turkish Food in Cappadocia with Luke Martin

Luke Martin and Sabrina Davidson spent an amazing day in Cappadocia, Turkey. They started with a hot air balloon ride, enjoyed local food, explored fairy chimneys, and stayed in a cave hotel. This article shares their simple, honest experience.

Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia

Luke and Sabrina woke up early for a sunrise balloon ride. They flew with Voyager Balloons on the “ultra comfort” flight, which costs about $215 per person for 75 minutes in the air. The view at sunrise was full of colors, rock valleys, and over a hundred balloons all around. Their pilot was friendly and shared facts during the smooth journey. The trip ended with sparkling wine and smiles.

Eating Local Food: Mantı and Testi Kebab

After the flight, they visited a small family-run place called Zeytin Cafe Ev Yemekleri Restaurant. They ordered mantı, tiny dumplings stuffed with beef, covered in yogurt and chili oil. Luke thought they were delicious and creamy. Next, they tried testi kebab, a hot stew cooked and served inside a clay pot. The pot is brought to the table, set on fire, and cracked open. This restaurant’s version was full of tender beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices, much better than other places with touristy food.

Exploring Red Valley and Fairy Chimneys

Later, they took a walk in Göreme National Park, known as Red Valley. They saw fairy chimneys, which are strange, tall rocks caused by wind and water over thousands of years. Some of these rocks are carved into old homes and churches. Walking between the pillars, Luke noted that the rocks can be slippery, but the views and history make it worth the effort.

Enjoying Cappadocia Wine

They picked up two bottles of local wine from Turasan, a well-known brand in the area. The region’s caves are good for storing wine, and they enjoyed a glass on their balcony at sunset, looking at the hills and fairy chimneys.

Staying in a Cappadocia Cave Suite

Luke and Sabrina stayed at Cappadocia Cave Suites. Their room, carved inside the rock, cost $119 per person. The suite had a round stone bathtub, old Turkish decorations, and a balcony with clear views of balloons in the morning sky. The quiet, cool cave and private terrace made it a special place to relax.

Luke and Sabrina showed that Cappadocia is a great place for both food and adventure. Between the sunrise hot air balloon, tasty local dishes, beautiful walks, and cave hotel stay, they enjoyed the best side of this unique place.

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