I would totally go to eastern Turkey if I were you and you have enough time. My husband lived in Mardin for a short time as a child (he moved around Turkey a lot) and says Mardin is one of his best memories. The history seems so fascinating. There is a long history of Assyrian Christianity there and many ancient buildings. Then from Mardin its not too far from other places such as Harran (the cone shaped houses!) etc. I have not been to Mardin yet but we are hoping to make it out there either early in the summer or in the fall.

Also, the Black Sea area is absolutely gorgeous. Have you been to Safranbolu yet? I have pictures in my photo album if you want to see them. ;) From Safranbolu you can also go to Amasra on the Black Sea coast (again, more pictures in my album) which is this lovely little fishing village that is not *too* overrun with tourists. I guess it is famous for their fish restaurants, not that I eat fish but anyhow...its beautiful there and one of my favorite places to go to.

Personally...if I were you, I would also try to see as much of rural Turkey and villages as possible. You have already seen the big cities and more of the popular places, right?

If your time is somewhat limited and you want to stay in one spot as much as possible...along the Aegean coast is still wonderful, the northern part I prefer over Bodrum and all those overrun by tourists. You could try to rent a car if you dare (lol) and drive from Istanbul (or take a ferry across the Marmara Sea and drive or take a bus from there) make stops at Iznik (before Bursa, its where all the famous tiles came from like you see in the Blue Mosque) it is a small town with a long and deep history and also situated on a lake. I loved it there. The drive is beautiful along fruit orchards too. You can drive towards the coast and work your way down...stay at Assos (or the neighboring town, I am blanking on the name) and explore that region. My mother-in-law lives near Assos and sometimes lets out rooms in the summertime.

Hey, I totally owe you an email. I am sorry I have been so so behind. I will write you soon and if you want any more information, I can share with you. Don't forget, we all must meet up at some point! ;)

Oh and about Edirne, its a good city to visit and is *the best place to buy cheese* in Turkey, LOL. The mosque there is considered Sinan's masterpiece. Also Gallipoli is not too far off. I have not been there...yet!