Wrap up
Konya is extremely cold during December and known for frigid prairie winds.
Capture the moment
Video cameras are only allowed for the first few minutes, but cameras without a flash can be used the entire time. Also consider taking notes and bringing some of Rumi’s poetry.
Shop for souvenirs
The Mevlâna Cultural Center hosts a trade show with lots of Rumi tchotchkes.
Get tickets and a tour
There are usually two shows a day; the afternoon show is often filled with busloads of people from Istanbul. We recommend using Dos Plumas Travel, a Turkish travel company started by a Texan. They’ll get you tickets, a guide and a hotel room (the city fills up due to the festival).
Konya is an approximately 1-hour flight from Istanbul
Daily trains and buses are available, but flying is recommended and much easier. You might also consider a side-trip. Spend a few nights in Cappadocia, half a day’s drive away, to experience the best hot-air ballooning in the world.