I found a car rental company that offered a Ford Transit in a similar configuration. They also had a 4×4 model available in some locations. I was able to book a Ford Transit 4×4 in Istanbul and we were able to rent it for the entire duration of our trip, making our lives much easier. The Ford Transit 4×4 was perfect for our needs. It had a spacious interior, ample storage space, and was equipped with four-wheel drive, which was essential for navigating the rough terrain in some areas. We also appreciated the fact that it had a high roof, which allowed us to stand up without hitting our heads. The interior was well-appointed with comfortable seating and ample legroom, making it a great vehicle for long road trips. The exterior was also well-designed, with a rugged look that suited the terrain we were driving on. The 4×4 system was reliable and efficient, providing good traction and control on various road surfaces. I was also impressed with the fuel efficiency of the vehicle, which was a bonus for our long road trips. The fuel economy was around 20-30 kilometers per liter, depending on the terrain and driving conditions. This was significantly better than the fuel economy of our previous Ford Tourneo Custom, which was around 15-20 kilometers per liter. The fuel efficiency of the Ford Transit 4×4 was a major factor in our decision to rent it for our entire trip. We also appreciated the fact that the vehicle was equipped with a number of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock braking system, and electronic stability control. These features provided an added layer of protection and security for our safety. The Ford Transit 4×4 also had a robust build quality, which was evident in its durability and reliability.
Planning and Preparation
Before embarking on our Mediterranean coastal road trip, we had to plan and prepare extensively. Given the time of year and the region we were visiting, we knew that the weather would be pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This made it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s natural beauty. We researched and booked our accommodations in advance, opting for a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb apartments to suit our budget and preferences. We created a detailed itinerary, breaking down our trip into manageable chunks and allocating time for each destination.
Planning the Route
The Route
The route was planned to be around 2,500 kilometers long, covering the entire length of Turkey. The plan was to drive from Istanbul to Gazipaşa, then to Antalya, and then to Izmir. From there, we would head back to Istanbul, covering the entire length of the country. The route would take us through the scenic coastal roads, the mountainous regions, and the bustling cities. We would be driving through the Mediterranean coast, the Aegean coast, and the Black Sea coast. The route would also take us through the ancient cities of Ephesus and Pergamon.
Choosing the Right Car
The Car
Booking.com usually has a good range of such hotels and hence went with that. My usual overseas pick was rentalcars.com. But this time around, the prices were quite high. The plan was to do this as a road trip, we would land in Istanbul, hire the car, do the cross country and then drop it back in Istanbul to cover the city. The car would be a 4×4, with a good fuel efficiency and a comfortable interior. It would have a good safety record and a reliable engine. The car would also have a good GPS system and a comfortable seating capacity.
Preparing for the Trip
Preparing for the Trip
Before embarking on the trip, we would need to prepare the car and ourselves. We would need to check the car’s maintenance and ensure that it is in good condition. We would also need to check the weather forecast and road conditions.
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Preparing for the Journey
Before embarking on our road trip, we made sure to prepare our vehicle for the long journey ahead. We filled up our gas tank to ensure we had enough fuel for the trip. We also checked the oil, tire pressure, and brakes to ensure our vehicle was in good condition. We also made sure to pack essential items such as:
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Spare tire
- Snacks and water
- Maps and GPS devices
- Basic toolkit
The Journey Begins
As we set off on our road trip, we felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. We had no specific destination in mind, and we were open to exploring new places and trying new things. We took turns driving, with each of us getting a chance to rest and enjoy the scenery. We stopped at various rest stops and gas stations along the way, taking in the sights and sounds of the different regions we passed through.
The Unsettling Atmosphere of Sharjah
As we entered the city, we were immediately struck by the stark contrast between the modern skyscrapers and the traditional souks. The city’s architecture is a blend of old and new, with ancient mosques and forts standing alongside sleek glass towers. However, this blend of old and new is not just a physical phenomenon, but also a reflection of the city’s complex history and cultural identity. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of the ancient trade routes made it an important center for commerce and culture. The presence of various ethnic groups, including Arabs, Indians, and Pakistanis, has contributed to the city’s rich cultural diversity. The city’s history is also marked by periods of conflict and instability, which have left their mark on the city’s architecture and infrastructure. Despite the city’s rich history and cultural diversity, the atmosphere in Sharjah can be unsettling at times.
The Istanbul Airport Experience
Istanbul is a city that has been around for thousands of years, and its airport is no exception. The city’s airport has undergone significant changes over the years, with the new Istanbul Airport being the latest addition to the city’s aviation landscape.
The New Istanbul Airport
The new Istanbul Airport, also known as Istanbul New Airport (INA), is a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2019. It is located on the European side of the city, approximately 35 kilometers from the city center.
I was a bit disappointed, but I was also curious to try some veggie food.
The Journey Begins
The Black Ford Tourneo Custom was a reliable and spacious vehicle, perfect for long road trips. With its comfortable seating capacity and ample storage space, it was an ideal choice for our family vacation.
The kids were excited to try the local cuisine, and we were all excited to try the local drinks.
As we entered the store, we were greeted by a friendly store clerk who asked if we needed any assistance. We explained our situation and he offered us a warm smile and a free hot chocolate to warm us up. He then asked if we were on a road trip and we confirmed that we were. He then asked if we had any pets and we confirmed that we had a dog.
