Riding Buses in Turkey

Traveling over land through Asia is an adventure to say the least, and has left us dreading any sort of long bus trip. Our first trip in Turkey was via bus from Istanbul to Canakkale and was to be a 6 hour ride. We were not excited, and the price was a lot higher than what we had been paying in Asia. However, we were in for a real treat when we boarded our plush air conditioned bus and found that every seat had a TV, a food tray, and a USB power outlet.

As we were smiling with disbelief, a stewardess came down the aisle serving complementary snacks and drinks as if we were on an airplane. The roads were paved (shocking!) and at times we felt like we were simply sitting at an internet cafe. During the bus ride we pounded out some serious catch-up on trip planning as we were served tea, coffee, water, and cake. When we stopped for a break the rest stop had tables with seats and stores with shelves! Even though we still had to pay for the toilet, it was actually inside with running water!

We drove along the Sea of Marmara and made for a very picturesque journey. Near the end of the journey the bus boarded a ferry to cross the Dardanelles (which connects the Sea of Marmara with the Agean Sea) and we could see cute little Canakkale nestled quaintly at the water’s edge! The bus trip was so enjoyable and productive that we couldn’t wait to ride the bus again!