Discovering Turkey: Peeya Bhatia’s Unforgettable 9-Day Experience with Thrillophilia
Standing on the deck of a Bosphorus cruise as Istanbul slowly lit up for the evening, Peeya Bhatia realised that this trip was already shaping into something far more special than a regular family holiday. The soft hum of music, the glow of city lights reflecting on the water, and the quiet excitement shared with her parents made the moment feel complete. It was only the first evening of their nine-day journey through Turkey, yet the experience already felt thoughtfully crafted and deeply memorable.
Travelling with her parents, Peeya wanted this trip to be comfortable, enriching, and free of unnecessary stress. From the very beginning, the planning process felt reassuring. Every detail, from flights to daily schedules, was carefully handled by Ujjwal Gupta from Thrillophilia. His patience, clarity, and constant support allowed the family to focus on what truly mattered, experiencing Turkey together without worrying about logistics.
A Graceful Beginning in Istanbul
The journey began in Istanbul, a city where history and modern life exist side by side. After a smooth arrival and transfer to their hotel, the family had just enough time to freshen up before heading out for their Bosphorus dinner cruise. Sailing between two continents while enjoying a well-prepared meal felt surreal. Traditional folkloric performances added colour and rhythm to the evening, while the illuminated skyline created a perfect introduction to Turkey’s cultural richness.
The following day was dedicated to exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks. Walking through the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace felt like stepping into different eras of history. Each site carried stories of empires, faith, and artistry, explained in a way that felt engaging rather than overwhelming. The inclusion of lunch during the tour made the day comfortable and unhurried, especially for family travel. By evening, Peeya and her parents felt they had truly connected with the city, not just seen it.
Slowing Down in Antalya
From Istanbul, the journey shifted towards the Mediterranean charm of Antalya. After flying in and checking into their hotel, the family appreciated having a leisure day to rest and settle in. It was a welcome pause, allowing them to enjoy the coastal atmosphere and ease into a slower rhythm.
Antalya revealed its beauty gradually. The city and waterfall tour brought together history and nature in a balanced way. Walking past ancient structures like Hadrian’s Gate and exploring the remnants of Perge offered insight into Turkey’s layered past. Later, the visit to Düden and Kursunlu waterfalls introduced a refreshing contrast, where the sound of cascading water and lush surroundings created moments of quiet admiration. The day felt well-paced, thoughtful, and ideal for travellers who value comfort alongside exploration.
Cappadocia’s Otherworldly Landscapes
Cappadocia marked a shift in scenery and emotion. Known for its unique terrain, the region felt unlike anything the family had seen before. After arriving and settling into their hotel, the highlight of the day awaited them, an ATV quad ride through Love Valley. Riding through unusual rock formations as the sun slowly dipped below the horizon was both exciting and calming. The sunset views added a sense of wonder, making the experience memorable for all the right reasons.
The following day’s Green Cappadocia Tour deepened their understanding of the region. Exploring the Derinkuyu Underground City sparked curiosity about how entire communities once lived beneath the earth. Walking through Ihlara Valley, surrounded by cliffs and greenery, brought a peaceful contrast to the earlier adventures. Selime Monastery and panoramic viewpoints rounded off the day beautifully. Each stop felt meaningful, not rushed, allowing the family to absorb Cappadocia’s spirit at their own pace.
Returning to Istanbul with Reflection
As the journey looped back to Istanbul for the final leg, the family welcomed a quieter day. With no fixed schedule, they explored nearby streets, revisited favourite cafés, and simply enjoyed being present. This unstructured time became one of the most cherished parts of the trip, offering space to reflect on the days gone by.
Throughout the journey, the smooth coordination stood out. Transfers were timely, hotels were well-chosen, and the itinerary balanced guided tours with leisure. Peeya especially appreciated how approachable and supportive Ujjwal Gupta remained throughout the trip. His attention to detail and readiness to assist ensured that even multi-city travel felt effortless.
A Journey That Felt Personal
By the time departure day arrived, Turkey felt less like a destination and more like a collection of shared family memories. From historic mosques and lively cruises to quiet valleys and scenic waterfalls, each experience added a different layer to the journey. What truly elevated the trip, however, was the sense of care behind its planning.
For Peeya Bhatia and her parents, this nine-day adventure was not just about ticking destinations off a list. It was about travelling comfortably, learning together, and creating moments that would be remembered long after returning home. With thoughtful planning, reliable support, and meaningful experiences, Thrillophilia turned their Turkey holiday into a journey they would happily revisit in the future.
Read More: Thrillophilia Turkey Reviews