Turkey is a unique nation with a distinctive history and culture, resulting largely from its particular location on two continents: Europe and Asia. This positioning has influenced Turkey throughout its long history and is evident in daily life, with most placing it more in line with Europe when it comes to the economy and politics, while it is geographically mostly Asian and distinctly Islamic, like most of its Middle Eastern neighbors.

However, while Turkey is definitely an Islamic nation, visitors will find that a much more progressive mindset and Westernized culture is more evidence of the European influence that abounds. These characteristics that distinguish Turkey from other Islamic countries allow for safe, enjoyable gay tours.

Millions of tourists flock to Turkey each year, many of which are on gay vacations devoted to relaxing on pristine beaches in resort towns on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, exploring ancient architecture and ruins, and taking part in gay tours that include some of Turkey\’s most enticing spiritual, cultural and historical sites.

Throughout its history the city that is presently called Istanbul has been the capital of the Byzantine Empire, the Roman Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire, which has resulted in there being essentially no end to the sites of historical importance located throughout the city and throughout the nation. Whether visitors choose luxury resort vacations on pristine beaches, urban gay travel in Istanbul or a rural experience in an old-world village, travelers will find that culturally-rich attractions and experiences are waiting to be had around every corner.

From indulging in sweet black tea or hardy Turkish coffee at a sidewalk caf to experiencing an afternoon at a hammam (a traditional Turkish public bath), gay vacations to Turkey will allow you to fully immerse yourself in this distinctive culture and to partake in many memorable experiences.

When opting for Turkey gay tours, you will find that your time in Turkey can be even more fulfilling and memorable with the added advantage of professional travel planners organizing the logistics of your trip.

While travelers may not see a vocal, well-organized LGBT community during their gay vacations to Turkey, they will see that there is an LGBT scene and community. Unlike other Islamic countries, there are no laws specifically targeting the LGBT community and there are numerous community discos, bars and other establishments, many of which can be found in the Taksim Square neighborhood of Istanbul.

The abundance of community establishments allows those partaking in gay travel in Turkey to experience Turkish LGBT life during their visit, while opting for gay vacations ensures that you will not miss out on some of the most breathtaking sites and experiences that Turkey has to offer.

Score about gay tours for singles in Turkey. Spirit Journeys does unique gay adventure tours. Column authored by Howie Holben.