Ismail was born in a troglodyte dwelling where he later built the Ufuk Pension. He calls himself 'a modern cave-man'. And indeed with his charm, helpfulness and strong Turkish pride linked to an enlightened attitude, this describes him well. Ismail's partner Mutlu shares his philosphy when he barks at some, but welcomes you with as many wags as his white tail can manage.
      Ismail has run the pension for 12 years, is also a partner of the Dove Travel Agency.
      Ufuk Pension (Horizon) (Ufuk means Horizon) is situated on the route to the Open air Museum, just 3 minutes walk from the centre of the Greme village. The pension backs onto a hill and is surounded by several large tufa cones. From the terrace and restaurant there are views over the village and north towards Cavusin and Avanos. The pension consists of 15 rooms with ensuite facilities. Several of these rooms are 'natural' caves. There are also a couple of rooms for budget travellers which have communal facilties. Whichever accommodation you choose, you will have piping hot water 24 hours a day, and central heating through the winter months. Ismail's restaurant apart from its fine view also serves very good food with prompt service. Even if you just drop in for a drink you will be invited to a game of Backgammon or given a quick Turkish lesson by Ismail himself. Although he speaks good English, he does think that visitors should learn some basic Turkish. Waking up early at Ufuk pension, you can, accompenied by Mutlu, take a walk up the road towards the Open-air Museum, just 800 metres away, or take a turning off the road into Rose Valley or the Valley of Swords, and return in time for breakfast! Ismail has maps and directions for the whole Cappadocia area, and through his Travel Agency can arrange your tour programme for you..... ( The details given here are not an advertisement but the opinion of the present writer who has known Ismail for 12 years and also working in the same field could be considered his rival!

     Defined by the triangle of the towns Nevsehir, Nigde and Kayseri, Goreme is the center of Cappadocia. The peaks of Erciyes (3916 m.), and Hasan (3253 m.) Volcanoes dominate the region. It was their eruptions some 60 million years ago that showered the whole area with as which turned to soft stone known as tufa. Subsequent erosion has formed the unique valleys, pinnacles and rock formations which have been worked into houses and churches over the centuries. Many of these rock houses are still inhabited.