One mountain, many roads

One mountain range, several access roads, two main ones, one takes you to Ayder and the other to Gito, all in the north east Turkey.
We started our journey by driving to Ayder, in the sizzling summer, this place was so cool we needed jackets at night. Surrounded with waterfalls and green trees, we were not alone in a heavenly environment as hundreds of Saudi Arabian nationals have also found refuge in the Ayder region. As we walked the hilly market road, on one side were shops and restaurants, and on the other were some giant swings decorated with flowers and for a fee people took turns swinging. It was an interesting scene of Saudi women, fully covered up, eyes out, like back home taking turns on the swing, nothing was hindering them from enjoying their cool escapade.
Further down the river, I saw a group of them even zip lining, others ventured into rafting, all with the full traditional wear. I commend their free spirit surpassing all obstacles that includes how they are sometimes judged by their attire. In fact, along the river there are not many activities except the above mentioned. The ice cold river water does not make it easy to swim, even for a few minutes before hypothermia hits the veins, one can stop breathing.
Interestingly, on the other side of the mountain, towards Gito, the area was full of tourists, but this time all locals, and some other nationals. The lack of big shopping areas and tens of restaurants found on the Ayder side, does not make it friendly for Arab tourists who come here for long.
We were driven by a local guide to the top of the mountain where we ended up in Gito. The scenery was breathtaking, cows, goats and chicken were all over the place and the true village spirit came through. We had lunch at a local restaurant with an excellent view.
The Turkish cuisine is mostly known for its kebabs and grills. However, for some of us who are used to spices, this kitchen is rather bland. And the addition of hot sauce and chilli, helps bring out the flavour of the meat.
I will be leaving Turkey soon for another adventure. I find this place interesting, but somehow lacks the warm reception and the fact that they do not have any command of English, makes communication hard, hence both client and service provider end up in a bad mood.
All together, Turkey is surely worth visiting, every city has a flavour of its own.