After five weeks of chugging along on her Orient Express-inspired odyssey, Sue Perkins finally reaches the end of the line — Istanbul. This sixth and final episode of Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris to Istanbul finds our intrepid host trading train compartments for Turkish delights, swapping railway schedules for the swirling mysteries of fortune telling, and ditching the dining car for, well, let’s just say a dining experience with a considerably better view.
Istanbul, the city of two continents, doesn’t disappoint. Perkins takes in the sights and sounds, traverses the Bosporus Strait, and naturally, samples the local sugary treats. But this wouldn’t be a Sue Perkins adventure without a touch of the mystical, would it? And so, our host seeks guidance from a fortune teller. One can only hope the predictions involved fewer train delays than she experienced en route.
From the urban bustle of Istanbul, the episode shifts to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. This region of central Turkey, known for its unique “fairy chimney” rock formations and semi-arid climate, provides a dramatic backdrop for the series finale. Perkins explores the extensive underground cave systems, offering a glimpse into Cappadocia’s rich history. And to cap things off, there’s a hot air balloon ride over the surreal terrain. It’s a visual feast that should definitely inspire wanderlust, even in the most armchair-bound viewer.
So, with a belly full of Turkish delight, a head full of predictions (hopefully good ones), and a camera roll full of stunning aerial shots, Sue Perkins wraps up her grand adventure. This final episode offers a fittingly spectacular conclusion to her journey, blending cultural exploration, stunning scenery, and Perkins’ signature blend of wit and curiosity. A fitting end to an entertaining trip, offering closure while leaving you thinking, maybe a lengthy train journey across Europe isn’t so bad after all. Well, except for those delays.
Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris to Istanbul airs Tuesdays at 9pm on Channel 4.
