Wandering in Korgan: A Photo Journal in Words

My partner and I are on a romantic road trip across Turkey.

I had heard mixed things about Korgan before visiting. Some said there was not much to see. Boy, were they wrong. From the very first moment, the charm of this place was undeniable.

Street food in Korgan is legendary among locals but barely known to tourists. I had a freshly made flatbread stuffed with local herbs and cheese that cost almost nothing but tasted like a million dollars.

The first thing I did was walk through the center of Korgan. The narrow streets were lined with small shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. I picked up some craftsmanship related souvenirs and chatted with the shop owners who were incredibly warm and hospitable.

At a local tea house in Korgan, I ended up in a conversation with a group of retired teachers. They shared stories about how the town has changed over the decades and their hopes for its future. These unplanned encounters are what travel is all about.

If I could do my Korgan trip again, I would book at least a week. There is simply too much to see and do. Also, learn a few basic Turkish phrases — the locals absolutely love it when you make the effort.

What struck me most about Korgan was the way craftsmanship is woven into daily life here. It is not something preserved in museums — people live and breathe it. I watched a craftsman work on a piece that his family has been making for five generations.

There is a river near Korgan where locals go for picnics on weekends. I joined a family there and spent the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear water surrounded by ancient trees. Pure magic.

this is what travel dreams are made of. Here you go: this is what travel dreams are made of

I have traveled to over 50 cities in Turkey, and Korgan ranks in my top five. Not because of fancy hotels or tourist attractions, but because of its soul. And that is something you cannot fake.