From November 12 to 20, nearly 160 travel influencers from the United States, Canada, and South America embarked on an unforgettable journey to Türkiye, discovering the wonders of İstanbul and Cappadocia. The “Türkiye Awaits You with Turkish Airlines” initiative, a collaboration between the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), GoTürkiye, and Turkish Airlines (THY), invited influencers to immerse themselves in the country’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and unique experiences.
As part of the “How to be Cool in İstanbul” and “Cappadocia – The Land of Fairytales” campaigns, the influencers explored Türkiye’s diverse attractions, sharing their adventures with millions of followers through captivating posts, stories, and reels. This eight-day event marked the most extensive collaboration between TGA and THY this year, spotlighting Türkiye as a premier destination for travellers from the Americas.
A City of Contrasts: Multi-Experience Journeys in İstanbul The first half of the journey unfolded in İstanbul, straddling Europe and Asia and creating a fusion of cultures. From November 12 to 15, influencers were grouped based on their interests, allowing each to experience a tailored exploration of the city.
Food influencers began their adventure with a lavish Turkish breakfast, savouring culinary delights like Turkish baklava and street food, followed by visits to the Spice Bazaar and Michelin-starred restaurants. The city’s gastronomic fusion was further highlighted with tastings of fine Turkish wines, offering a glimpse into its evolving culinary scene.
For lifestyle influencers, İstanbul delivered moments of indulgence and discovery. Bosphorus tours, historical discoveries, and hammam treatments, as well as visits to top museums and art galleries showcased the city’s dynamic experiences. Meanwhile, travel and culture-focused groups delved into İstanbul’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, uncovering stories of the city’s rich past.
The last two groups experienced İstanbul through an entirely different lens. Sports influencers sailed at Kalamış, rowed along the Golden Horn, and cycled the scenic Bebek Coast. At the same time, shopaholics explored the Grand and Spice Bazaars, visited antique shops in Çukurcuma, and met designers at Galataport. Nişantaşı, İstanbul’s premier shopping district, added a touch of luxury to their itineraries.
A Fairy-Tale Escape: Unveiling the Wonders of Cappadocia The second half of the trip transported influencers to Cappadocia, a region famed for its otherworldly landscapes and timeless traditions. Divided into two groups, the visitors uncovered the magic of this “fairy-tale land” through activities that celebrated both its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Historical sites included the UNESCO World Heritage Göreme Open-Air Museum, Kılıçlar, Kızılçukur, and Love Valleys. The groups also explored Mustafapaşa Village—recognized as one of the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Best Tourism Villages—and Kaymaklı Underground City, which offers a glimpse into underground life through its tunnels, rooms, and barns. Other stops included Ortahisar Castle and the Ürgüp district
Cappadocia’s culinary traditions were another highlight. Influencers learned to prepare local dishes, including testi kebabı (pottery kebab), apricot stew, and mantı (Turkish dumplings), during hands-on cooking classes. Meals were paired with the region’s exceptional wines, made from grapes cultivated in its volcanic soil.
Art and craftsmanship also played a starring role. Guests attended pottery workshops in Avanos, famed for its clay traditions, and witnessed Turkish carpet-making demonstrations, celebrating centuries-old techniques.
Showcasing Türkiye to the World Throughout their journey, the influencers shared real-time updates, bringing Türkiye’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes to life for their global audiences. By blending local traditions with modern experiences, the trip demonstrated Türkiye’s unique appeal as a destination that bridges continents and cultures.
This extraordinary collaboration not only highlighted İstanbul’s cosmopolitan charm and Cappadocia’s dreamlike beauty but also underscored Türkiye’s position as a must-visit destination for travellers from the Americas. Through their eyes – and their cameras – the world saw a Türkiye that awaits every traveller with open arms.