Program/City/University Bolu is located in the Western Black Sea region of Turkey and is strategically located between Ankara and Istanbul. Due to this location, it offers easy access to both the Eastern Marmara and Western Black Sea regions. Bolu is particularly famous for its natural beauty and green areas, surrounded by natural wonders such as Lake Abant and Yedigoller. The city has a climate with frequent snowfall. While winters are cold and snowy, summers are cool and rainy. This climate makes Bolu an attractive destination for different activities throughout the year.
Bolu's vegetation is characterized by rich forests and diverse flora. The region has large forested areas, which allows many endemic plant species to survive. Although Bolu is demographically diverse, it is mainly made up of locals and visitors who come to the city for study or tourism.
The cost of living may be more affordable compared to Turkey's major metropolitan areas. Basic needs such as food, housing and transportation are relatively affordable. The city's economy is based on agriculture, animal husbandry and especially tourism. In addition to its natural beauties, Bolu is also an important center for thermal tourism. The thermal facilities around the city are an important resource for health tourism.
In terms of health services, Bolu is home to both public and private health institutions. Hospitals and health centers in the city and surrounding districts offer general and specialist health services.
Transportation to Bolu is provided by road and railway. Its proximity to big cities like Ankara and Istanbul makes road transportation a popular option. Urban transportation is provided by buses and minibuses. The infrastructure is generally in good condition and facilitates mobility within the city.
The local cuisine of the region offers various flavors of Turkish cuisine. Especially meat and vegetable dishes are frequently served on the tables of the locals. Bolu cuisine is also known for its Mengen district; the annual Mengen Cooking and Tourism Festival attracts national attention.
Sights worth seeing include Lake Abant, Yedigoller National Park and Kartalkaya Ski Center. These areas attract both local and foreign tourists and are ideal for activities such as hiking, camping and skiing.
The advantages of living in Bolu are that it offers a life in touch with nature and low cost of living. The disadvantages are that it has fewer big city amenities and limited job opportunities. However, its potential in nature tourism and health tourism contributes to the economic growth of the city.