Izmit

Izmit is located some 160 miles (257 kilometers) from Ankara, the national capital, and about 55 miles (89 kilometers) from Istanbul.

To experience the Southern Marmara (area) way of life, hit the road and tour the wider region around Izmit. Sapanca, lies roughly 18 miles (29 kilometers) to the west. Go there to check out the Yeni Mosque and Sapanca Lake Park.

Around 35 miles (56 kilometers) to the west of Izmit is Yalova, a regional city where you can explore Yasar Okuyan Park, Baris Manco Open Air Theater and Yalova Ferry Terminal. Agustos Park, Yuruyen Kosk and Mohackale Park are good places to visit.

Enjoy moments of transcendence in Southern Marmara 's mosques.

If you are in the area during winter, take advantage of winter pastimes including skiing and snow shoeing. These activities are popular in the Southern Marmara. In these busy times, the ideal vacation is often all about taking the time to relax. When it's time to kick back, do as the locals do and try beach combing or sunbathing.

You'll be sure to endear yourself with to local people in Southern Marmara, by speaking the Turkish language. "Benimle dans eder misiniz?" ("Would you like to dance with me?") is useful. "Nerelisin?" means "Where are you from?"

When it's time to leave this special place, bid a fond Hoşçakal (farewell) to the locals you've met and the great places you've seen.