Istanbul is the only city in the world to sprawl out over two continents -Europe and Asia.

Istanbul has been the capital of some of the world’s largest empires in history-Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman.

Turkey is a Mediterranean country, also sharing shores with Greece, Bulgaria and Russia.

Turkey is home to Çatalhöyük, archeologically said to be the world’s oldest civilization site.

Turks are said to be the most hospitable people in the world.

Turkey being secular enjoys the freedom to comfortable observe all faiths and hosts people of all ethnic backgrounds harmoniously.

Topkapi Palace houses the world’s biggest diamond.

Turkey ranks third after Spain and Greece in the number of blue flags in marinas and beaches. Turkey became a member country 10 years ago and has now turned into one of the countries that best apply the criteria of blue flag.