ANOTHER SIDE OF PAMUKKALE | 棉花堡的另一面

While at Pamukkale, I was greeted by friendly stray cats there. Turkey is undoubtedly the country of cats. The well-kept and affectionate cats surprised me in a pleasant manner as some stray cats tend to be quite reserved back in Malaysia. Overall, about 90% of stray animals I encountered in Turkey are friendly. The friendliness of stray animals are indicators that they are being treated well, perhaps even better than homeless people in some countries.

I was at Pamukkale on the day of the bombing in Istanbul. The crazy behaviors of certain extremists to ruin others won't deter my enthusiasm for returning. I was told that bombings are common occurrences nearing general elections. Instead of the usual picture-perfect and near-heavenly pristine conditions of the well-known Cotton Castle, I will show you another side of Pamukkale. The tough job of maintaining perfection.

The first lesson was to schedule visits at the latest before November. Otherwise, water will be drained from the travertines. The reason is humidity over a prolonged period of time will encourage the growth of molds that will darken the color of the otherwise cottony white travertines. Hardworking maintenance staff will then need to clean travertines using a combination of vinegar and baking soda.

Another lesson was walking on travertines barefooted hurt a lot. However, I saw some staff wearing a type of silicon ballet flats. Perhaps asking for permission to wear similar footwear will enhance the experience of walking on travertines for some. Elderly people need to be extra careful while soaking their feet in the running hot spring. Make sure to sit down before putting your legs into running water as the molds underneath tend to be slippery to prevent unwanted accidents.