The early Christians sought refuge in the caves of Cappadocia, living and worshipping underground. Some of these cave dwellings have now been converted into hotels with all the mod cons: air conditioning, heating and private bathrooms.

In recent years, Turkey has made a considerable effort to develop its hotel facilities. Grading: Hotels registered with the Ministry of Tourism are graded from 1 star (1 yildizli) to 5 stars (5 yildizli). Classification is based on the standard of service and facilities. Motels and holiday villas are first class (1 sinif) or second class (2 sinif). There are other establishments registered with local authorities, and these too correspond to a certain standard in regard to facilities and services. There is also a national hotel association: TUROB (see Accommodation Information below).

Guest houses (pensions) can be found in holiday resorts and major towns.

Villas and apartments can be rented, especially on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

There are numerous sites, but facilities are generally limited.

There are a number of excellent youth hostels in Turkey. The Yücelt Interyouth Hostel in Istanbul (see Accommodation Information) is a member of Hostelling International.

TUROB (Touristic Hotels and Investors Association)
Cumhuriyet Cad. Pak Apt. Kat 6 D: 12, Harbiye (Divan Oteli Yani), 33437 Sisli-Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: (212) 296 2464.
Website: www.turob.org

Yücelt Interyouth Hostel
Caferiye Sok No 6/1, Sultanahmet 34400, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: (212) 513 6150/1.
Website: www.yucelthostel.com