Hello from Turkey!

I arrived in Turkey yesterday crossing the border from Iran to Antakya (Antioch). Not too much to see and do in Antioch, so i bought a ticket for a 9 hour bus ride to Malatya (where i am now). In the time between, i took a bus into town and checked out the ancient chapel of saint peter's. (Mum you will like this - as i have now have some major points with j.c.). This was a beautiful chapel in a cave on the side of a mountain where Peter used to preach (so its pretty old). my visiting and touching the waterhere i have apparently earnt a plenary indulgence. this sounds pretty good, but i have no idea what it is. i do know it was a major focal point of any christian pilgrimage.

after this, and a big 9 hour bus ride, i have found myself in malatya and waiting for a bus to mount nemrut (photos tomorrow as i'll stay the night on the mountain). this is where the heads of the giant statues are. you seem them on advertisements in the west occassionally.

The landscape here in the west of turkey is incredible and i'm looking forward to seeing more, although it is relatively expensive. my last 4 nights accomodation in Hama (Syria) was all up 5 pounds. my first night in turkey was 10 pounds!!! ouch!

Will have some interesting stories tomorrow - take care wherever you are!

johnierocket