On the way to Derinkuyu Underground City, I stopped at a few small villages and towns to take in the local culture and way of life. The villages were charming and peaceful, with traditional stone houses and locals going about their daily routines. I even had the chance to try some local pastries and sweets from a small bakery, which were delicious.
Exploring the underground cities was an incredible experience, and I was amazed at the intricate network of tunnels and rooms that were carved out of the rock. Some of the tunnels were narrow and claustrophobic, while others opened up into spacious chambers with high ceilings. It was impressive to see how the underground cities were designed with ventilation systems, wells, and even stables for animals. It gave me a new appreciation for the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the people who lived in the region.
After the underground city visits, I returned to my hotel to rest for a while before the hot air balloon ride. The ride was a highlight of my trip, and I felt like I was floating above a magical fairy-tale land. The sunrise was breathtaking, with the sun casting a warm glow over the unique rock formations, valleys, and villages below. The hot air balloon ride was definitely worth the early wake-up call, and I would recommend it to anyone visiting Cappadocia.
