Konya Photos

Although many people dressed less conservatively in Konya than we had seen in other places, there were woman who were basically all overed up except their eyes.

We went to many beautiful mosques in Konya. Men pray in the pretty, open areas and woman pray behind the wall/sheets. Maybe they are praying for freedom to pray where they want to.

This mosque was built in the early 1200s.

Konya's bazarre is large. There are millions of spices, cheeses, olives, herbs, meats, etc. Here is a photo of many cheeses, including a very ripe one. We have been eating lamb...!

Askaray to Groeme - last destination ride - for now

Today's ride was shorter (orange road), but not necessarily easer than other rides. For one thing, we had high hopes of good coffee in Groeme, which made me want to arrive sooner. Again, the ride was very pretty - through more agricultural area until we reached Nevsehir.

Steve saw a turtle cross the road.

We also met a woman from Germany who was also touring. She started in Egypt, rode through Jordan and Syria and was riding through Turkey - coming from the direction of Nevsehir (opposite direction). She was worried about dogs, so I gave her my dog tazer and mace. I guess this means the end of our destination rides. We may ride around Cappadocia though.

Cappadocia is very different from the places that we have been so far - it is very touristy (Foca was as well), and looks unreal.

This is the pension in Groeme.

Konya to Askaray

The ride from Konya to Askaray (red road - not dogs) was easy - no major hills or strong wind; although, getting out of Konya was a bit crazy. Turkish drivers drive fast and assume they always have the right of way. We rode through more agricultural land and some very dry land with nothing planted. The scent of sage was present - and very nice. Miles of road consturction made riding easy but also not so pleasant. When possible, we rode on the road that was under construction - no one cared, and the road was closed to traffic (except the occasional tractor or horse and wagon). When the road under construction was not ridable, we roade on a narrow, bumpy shoulder.

We also rode by this beautiful mountain.

We saw a field with many storks - we have also seen stork nests - they are impressive.

Askaray is described by Lonely Planet as being an place not worthy of visiting. I may agree. The hotel options were sparse. The town does have a nice center square though. This photo is the square in Askaray.