Want to ride horses in Turkey? Here's a reliable horse ranch, The Akhal-Teke Horse Center, owned by my friend, Erchian's family. I love the virtual tour on this website.
These Turkish horses are also famous in America. They come in many stunning colors.
The Akhal-Teke Association of American site describes their temperament:
The Akhal-Teke horses are vigorous, excitable, and restless. Thousands of years of selective breeding have left their mark not only on their physical appearance and efficiency, but also on their behavior. These horses are not only sensible but also very sensitive; they are even able to respond to mental suggestions of humans. Their intelligence is not comparable to any other breed. They not only need a sensitive rider, but a human being who can share their feelings when they gallop over vast areas just for the joy of movement. Due to the way in which they were raised and bred they are essentially one-master horses and bonding with a human owner is in their blood. Some Tekes may be difficult when ridden by strangers. With them you cannot achieve obedience by shouting or punishment; a glance, a small gesture, or a soft-spoken word are sufficient. A punishment not understood by the horse can cause them to be in a defensive mood for weeks. They are horses with character, outspoken individuals. Says Sue Waldock, President of the Akhal-Teke Association of GB: “They respond best to daily love and attention, a bit like a dog. If you ignore a dog it will misbehave too.” They are not suited to nervous or irritable humans. They are not suited to the limitations of modern stables, which kill their spirit. They are horses belonging to wide open spaces.
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