Grand Tour of Turkey 15 days
About This Experience
Travel to the country where the cultures and customs of two continents collide. Here, Ottoman domes float against modern skylines. Classic scenes from Greek epics come to life. Whirling Dervishes bring mysticism to the mainstream. And bustling bazaars and vibrant street vendors prove variety is the spice of life. From cosmopolitan Istanbul to otherworldly Cappadocia and the Roman ruins of Ephesus, take in the history and living traditions where east meets west.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
13 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 11 three-course or buffet dinners with beer or wine on Days 2 and 14
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Experiencing the exotic in an accessible locale
Spending time in Asia & Europe while in Istanbul
Pamukkale’s natural hot springs & Turkish baths
The bazaars, spice markets & hookah bars
Diverse culinary delights, from kebabs to mezze
Stepping into scenes from ancient Greek history
Overnight Flight1 night
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Let desire be your compass in the city where East meets West
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Istanbul, crossroads of East and West and the world’s only city spanning two continents. A Go Ahead representative greets you and escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin exploring Istanbul. At an included dinner this evening, meet your fellow travelers.
Day3
History pulses in the Hagia Sophia and social center of Constantinople
Breakfast
Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia
Your Tour Director acquaints your with Istanbul on this morning’s sightseeing tour. You’ll visit the city’s Hippodrome, the breathtaking Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. About 1,000 years older than St. Peter’s in Rome, this awe-inspiring building was the pride of Christendom until the city fell to the Turks in 1453. This evening is free to spend as you like.
Canakkale1 night - hotel info
Day4
Step foot in the ancient stronghold made famous by Homer and the horse
Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to Troy from Istanbul, feat the Dardanelles Strait. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Troy, the legendary city at the heart of Homer’s Iliad. Later, make your way along the Aegean coast to Canakkale, a town coveted in centuries past for its strategic location at the entrance to the Dardanelles. Dinner is included tonight.
Kusadasi2 nights - hotel info
Day5
Day6
Want to know what Roman life was like? Just stroll through Esphesus
Breakfast, Dinner
Today’s excursion introduces you to one of the Mediterranean region’s best-preserved classical cities, Ephesus, once a sacred center for the cult of Artemis. Your guided tour highlights the city’s major landmarks: the elaborate Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre, which is still in use today. Leaving Ephesus, you’ll then travel to the house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days. Afterward, join our optional excursion to the village of Sirince for a firsthand look at rural village life in Turkey. Dinner is included tonight.
Optional Excursions
Village of Sirince $25* pp
The peaceful village of Sirince lies in the hills outside of Ephesus. Known for its homemade wines, olive oils and needlecrafts, Sirince offers a taste of rural life far removed from the bustle of Turkey’s cities. On a walking tour led by your Tour Director, stroll past some of the country’s best-preserved 19th-century architecture and enjoy panoramic views of peach orchards and olive groves.
Pamukkale2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Day8
Walk along cascading white stone and take a soak in the hot springs
Breakfast, Dinner
On this morning’s guided tour, discover why Pamukkale was a popular spa town during Roman times on a visit to the city’s famous travertines—petrified waterfalls of white stone pocked by natural basins filled with warm mineral water. Afterward, journey to the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis nearby. Hierapolis was established as a thermal spa at the end of the 2nd century B.C., and the ruins of baths, temples and other Greek monuments can be seen at the site. Enjoy a free afternoon to soak in the Pamukkale hot springs or join our optional excursion to Aphrodisias. Dinner is included tonight.
Optional Excursions
Aphrodisias $25* pp
Visit Aphrodisias and marvel at the excavated ruins that bear testimony to an age-old artists' colony. In the late first century B.C., the Roman Empire granted autonomy to the city that honored Aphrodite, goddess of love. Aphrodisias' ancient sculptors created works of stunning beauty out of the glowing marble they found in the nearby mountains, and many of these treasures can still be seen today.
Antalya2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Follow the Queen of Sheba’s lead and pass beneath the arch
Breakfast, Dinner
Antalya Museum
Travel to Antalya this morning. After arriving, a local guide leads you on a tour of the city. You’ll explore the Antalya Museum, an enormous complex housing nearly 30,000 antiquities. You’ll continue on to the ruins of Hadrian’s Gate, a remarkably well-preserved triumphal arch built to honor the Roman emperor’s visit in 130. According to legend, the Queen of Sheba passed through this arch during her journey to visit with King Solomon.
Day10
Pick your pleasure: seaside relaxation or time travel to Trojan times
Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a day at leisure in Antalya. While Antalya is notable for its ruins, it’s also Turkey’s premier seaside resort town. Spend a day discovering the city’s modern and ancient charms, or join an optional excursion to the ancient sites of Aspendos and Perge this afternoon. Dinner is included tonight.
Optional Excursions
Aspendos & Perge $25* pp
After the Trojan Wars, some of the victorious Greek forces stayed in Asia Minor and established new towns for Greek colonists. This excursion will take you to Perge, one of the most successful of these new colonies, which prospered under the patronage of Alexander the Great. The ancient remains of this proud city are extensive, and you’ll have a chance to explore the Great Theatre, the ruined Hellenistic Gates, Roman baths and the impressive stadium. Later, visit the Roman theater at Aspendos, a center of classical drama in the first century A.D. Please note: During the summer months, this region can be quite hot. Please bring sunscreen and sturdy footwear.
Cappadocia2 nights - hotel info
Day11
Beyond the otherworldly landscapes dwell Turkey’s living mystics
Breakfast, Dinner
Mevlana Museum
Cross the Taurus Mountains to visit the mystical center of Konya, where you’ll find the spiritual home of Sufism and the Whirling Dervishes. Learn more about the Dervishes on your tour of the Mevlana Museum, which was once their monastery. Later, traverse the windswept Anatolian steppe before reaching Cappadocia and its strange, unearthly rock formations. This evening, after an included dinner, join an optional excursion to see a Whirling Dervishes performance (seasonal).
Optional Excursions
Whirling Dervishes $39* pp
The Sufi Muslim sect known as the Whirling Dervishes was founded in the 13th century by Mevlana Rumi. They were named after their elaborate dance-like ritual, which honors the movement of the Earth. Learn more about this fascinating ancient faith and its modern-day practitioners during this cultural performance.
Day12
Meander through sacred places carved into rock faces
Breakfast, Dinner
Göreme Natural Park
Tour the famous Göreme Open Air Museum, comprising beautifully frescoed rock churches dating back to the fourth century. Continue on to the charming towns of Pasabag, a bustling trading center, and Avanos, where the local economy thrives on the production of pottery created from the distinctive red clay of the Kizilirmak River.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day13
Delve into an ancient underground city with high-level amenities
Breakfast
This morning is free for your own explorations of Cappadocia. Alternatively, join our optional excursion to the Özkonak Underground City, where you’ll learn about the mysterious story behind this ancient subterranean complex. Later today, catch your afternoon flight back to Istanbul.
Optional Excursions
Underground City $25* pp
Discover the mysterious Özkonak Underground City. This guided tour will expose the secrets of this ancient city, which lay buried for centuries until it was found, by chance, by a local farmer. Built to house thousands of people, the city's tunnels and underground rooms boast innovations including moving stone doors, a winery, a ventilation system, a water well and a built-in system for communication between rooms on different levels. Please note: On days when Özkonak is crowded, your guide may take the tour to an alternative underground city, Kaymakli.
Day14
Brush up on your Turkish while haggling at the Grand Bazaar
Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a free day to explore Istanbul. You might try your hand at haggling in the Grand Bazaar. Or, join our optional excursion to the Bosphorus, also known as the Istanbul Strait. This boundary between European Turkey and Asian Turkey connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. This evening, reflect on your journey at your farewell dinner.
Optional Excursions
Bosphorus Straits Cruise $55* pp
Cruise through the Bosphorus Straits, looking out on decadent Ottoman palaces and imposing medieval castles as you journey through the narrow waterway that separates Europe from Asia. On your way, you'll stop to visit the famous Egyptian bazaar, known as the Spice Market. After returning from your cruise, sit down to a lunch of Turkish specialties. Please note: This excursion is weather dependent. In some cases, dinner will be offered instead of lunch.
Extend Your Stay
Add Istanbul $249*
The cultural and economic capital of Turkey, Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia—both figuratively and geographically. Once known as Constantinople, this former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires has long been a bustling and cosmopolitan crossroads. Experience the intersection of East and West at the Byzantine-built Hagia Sofya, the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque and the exotic Topkapi Palace.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
About This Experience
Travel to the country where the cultures and customs of two continents collide. Here, Ottoman domes float against modern skylines. Classic scenes from Greek epics come to life. Whirling Dervishes bring mysticism to the mainstream. And bustling bazaars and vibrant street vendors prove variety is the spice of life. From cosmopolitan Istanbul to otherworldly Cappadocia and the Roman ruins of Ephesus, take in the history and living traditions where east meets west.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
13 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily; 9 three-course or buffet dinners with beer or wine on Day 2 and 14
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Experiencing the exotic in an accessible locale
Spending time in Asia & Europe while in Istanbul
Pamukkale’s natural hot springs & Turkish baths
The bazaars, spice markets & hookah bars
Diverse culinary delights, from kebabs to mezze
Stepping into scenes from ancient Greek history
Overnight Flight1 night
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Let desire be your compass in the city where East meets West
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Istanbul, crossroads of East and West and the world’s only city spanning two continents. A Go Ahead representative greets you and escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin exploring Istanbul. At an included dinner this evening, meet your fellow travelers.
Day3
History pulses in the Hagia Sophia and social center of Constantinople
Breakfast
Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia
Your Tour Director acquaints you with Istanbul on this morning’s sightseeing tour. You’ll visit the city’s Hippodrome, the breathtaking Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. About 1,000 years older than St. Peter’s in Rome, this awe-inspiring building was the pride of Christendom until the city fell to the Turks in 1453. This evening is free to enjoy at leisure.
Canakkale1 night - hotel info
Day4
Step foot in the ancient stronghold made famous by Homer and the horse
Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to Troy from Istanbul, featuring a ferry across the Dardanelles Strait. Upon arrival, take a guided sightseeing tour of Troy, the legendary city at the heart of Homer’s Iliad. Later, make your way along the Aegean coast to Canakkale, a town coveted in centuries past for its strategic location at the entrance to the Dardanelles. Dinner is included tonight.
Kusadasi2 nights - hotel info
Day5
Day6
Want to know what Roman life was like? Just stroll through Esphesus
Breakfast
Ephesus ruins, House of the Virgin Mary
Today’s excursion introduces you to one of the Mediterranean region’s best-preserved classical cities, Ephesus, once a sacred center for the cult of Artemis. Discover the city’s major landmarks: the elaborate Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre, which is still in use today. Leaving Ephesus, you’ll then travel to the house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days. Afterward, join our optional excursion to the town of Sirince for a firsthand look at rural village life in Turkey.
Optional Excursions
Village of Sirince $25* pp
The peaceful village of Sirince lies in the hills outside of Ephesus. Known for its homemade wines, olive oils and needlecrafts, Sirince offers a taste of rural life far removed from the bustle of Turkey’s cities. On a walking tour led by your Tour Director, stroll past some of the country’s best-preserved 19th-century architecture and enjoy panoramic views of peach orchards and olive groves.
Pamukkale2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Day8
Walk along cascading white stone and take a soak in the hot springs
Breakfast, Dinner
On this morning’s guided tour, discover why Pamukkale was a popular spa town during Roman times on a visit to the city’s famous travertines—petrified waterfalls of white stone pocked by natural basins filled with warm mineral water. Afterward, journey nearby to the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis. Hierapolis was established as a thermal spa at the end of the 2nd century B.C., and the ruins of baths, temples and other Greek monuments can be seen at the site. Enjoy a free afternoon to soak in the Pamukkale hot springs or join our optional excursion to Aphrodisias. Dinner is included tonight.
Optional Excursions
Aphrodisias $25* pp
Visit Aphrodisias and marvel at the excavated ruins that bear testimony to an age-old artists' colony. In the late first century B.C., the Roman Empire granted autonomy to the city that honored Aphrodite, goddess of love. Aphrodisias' ancient sculptors created works of stunning beauty out of the glowing marble they found in the nearby mountains, and many of these treasures can still be seen today.
Antalya2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Follow the Queen of Sheba’s lead and pass beneath the arch
Breakfast, Dinner
Antalya Museum, Hadrian's Gate
Travel to Antalya this morning. After arriving, a local guide leads you on a tour of the city. You’ll explore the Antalya Museum, an enormous complex housing nearly 30,000 antiquities. You’ll continue on to the ruins of Hadrian’s Gate, a remarkably well-preserved triumphal arch built to honor the Roman emperor’s visit in 130. According to legend, the Queen of Sheba passed through this arch during her journey to visit with King Solomon.
Day10
Pick your pleasure: seaside relaxation or time travel to Trojan times
Breakfast
Soend a free day in Antalya. While Antalya is notable for its ruins, it’s also Turkey’s premier seaside resort town. Spend a day discovering the city’s modern and ancient charms, or join our optional excursion to the ancient sites of Aspendos and Perge this afternoon.
Optional Excursions
Aspendos & Perge $25* pp
After the Trojan Wars, some of the victorious Greek forces stayed in Asia Minor and established new towns for Greek colonists. This excursion will take you to Perge, one of the most successful of these new colonies, which prospered under the patronage of Alexander the Great. The ancient remains of this proud city are extensive, and you’ll have a chance to explore the Great Theatre, the ruined Hellenistic Gates, Roman baths and the impressive stadium. Later, visit the Roman theater at Aspendos, a center of classical drama in the first century A.D. Please note: During the summer months, this region can be quite hot. Please bring sunscreen and sturdy footwear.
Cappadocia2 nights - hotel info
Day11
Beyond the otherworldly landscapes dwell Turkey’s living mystics
Breakfast, Dinner
Mevlana Museum
Cross the Taurus Mountains to visit the mystical center of Konya, where you’ll find the spiritual home of Sufism and the Whirling Dervishes. Learn more about the Dervishes on your tour of the Mevlana Museum, which was once their monastery. Later, traverse the windswept Anatolian steppe before reaching Cappadocia and its unearthly rock formations. This evening, after an included dinner, join our optional excursion to see a Whirling Dervishes performance (seasonal).
Optional Excursions
Whirling Dervishes $39* pp
The Sufi Muslim sect known as the Whirling Dervishes was founded in the 13th century by Mevlana Rumi. They were named after their elaborate dance-like ritual, which honors the movement of the Earth. Learn more about this fascinating ancient faith and its modern-day practitioners during this cultural performance.
Day12
Meander through sacred places carved into rock faces
Breakfast, Dinner
Göreme Open-Air Museum
Tour the famous Göreme Open Air Museum, comprising beautifully frescoed rock churches dating back to the fourth century. Continue on to the charming towns of Pasabag, a bustling trading center, and Avanos, where the local economy thrives on the production of pottery created from the distinctive red clay of the Kizilirmak River. This evening, you may opt to attend a folklore show. Dinner is included tonight.
Optional Excursions
Cappadocia Folklore Show $35* pp
An authentic Cappadocian restaurant carved out of sheer rock provides the setting for an evening of snacks, drinks and entertainment. Taste delicious Turkish wine, beer and snacks while a troupe of traditional dancers performs.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day13
Delve into an ancient underground city with high-level amenities
Breakfast
This morning is free for your own explorations of Cappadocia. Alternatively, join our optional excursion to the Özkonak Underground City, where you’ll learn about the mysterious story behind this ancient subterranean complex. Later today, catch your afternoon flight back to Istanbul.
Optional Excursions
Underground City $25* pp
Discover the mysterious Özkonak Underground City. This guided tour will expose the secrets of this ancient city, which lay buried for centuries until it was found, by chance, by a local farmer. Built to house thousands of people, the city's tunnels and underground rooms boast innovations including moving stone doors, a winery, a ventilation system, a water well and a built-in system for communication between rooms on different levels. Please note: On days when Özkonak is crowded, your guide may take the tour to an alternative underground city, Kaymakli.
Day14
Brush up on your Turkish while haggling at the Grand Bazaar
Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a free day to explore Istanbul. You might try your hand at haggling in the Grand Bazaar. Or, join our optional excursion to the Bosphorus, also known as the Istanbul Strait. This boundary between European Turkey and Asian Turkey connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. This evening, reflect on your journey at an included farewell dinner.
Optional Excursions
Bosphorus Straits Cruise $55* pp
Cruise through the Bosphorus Straits, looking out on decadent Ottoman palaces and imposing medieval castles as you journey through the narrow waterway that separates Europe from Asia. On your way, you'll stop to visit the famous Egyptian bazaar, known as the Spice Market. After returning from your cruise, sit down to a lunch of Turkish specialties. Please note: This excursion is weather dependent. In some cases, dinner will be offered instead of lunch.
Extend Your Stay
Add Istanbul $249*
The cultural and economic capital of Turkey, Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia—both figuratively and geographically. Once known as Constantinople, this former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires has long been a bustling and cosmopolitan crossroads. Experience the intersection of East and West at the Byzantine-built Hagia Sofya, the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque and the exotic Topkapi Palace.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Turkey, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of your return home. A visa is also required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders to enter Turkey. The cost to purchase a visa upon arrival in Turkey is $20 for Americans and $60 for Canadians (payment in USD only and subject to change without notice). If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the Turkish Consulate.
Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Turkey. Especially during the summer months, take proper care for sun exposure. While no vaccinations are required for entry, be sure to check with your doctor or health care provider for the latest updates and overseas travel recommendations.
Cuisine
Turkish food is invariably fresh and very carefully prepared. Sourdough bread with sheep’s cheese and olives, as well as jam or honey, is typically eaten for breakfast. A midday meal or dinner often starts with a meze, a plate of varied appetizers, such as cheese pastry rolls, pickled vegetables and potato fritters. You’ll also see salads served with dips made of eggplant, beans or red caviar. On the coast, fish is an excellent choice, where fresh tuna, turbot and sardines are very good. Meat eaters should try lamb kebabs, in a wide variety of types, each with a different sauce or dressing. The national drink is tea, which comes in various flavors. Turkish coffee is extremely strong and thick. Avoid drinking the tap water in Turkey.
Transportation
Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from Istanbul. There’s also an included flight from Cappadocia to Istanbul. All other included transportation is by private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the main cities by public transportation. Istanbul has an extensive—and remarkably inexpensive—transport system of bus, tram, train and metro lines. Purchase all-inclusive passes for the best deal and try to avoid peak periods of travel, when walking is probably your best bet.
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you will have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing & Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The Turkish lira is the currency you’ll be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in Turkey although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take credit cards and dollar bills in small denominations. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges. Exchange small amounts of Turkish lira at one time in order to compensate for inflation.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalency of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Grand Tour of Turkey
Turkey was a complete surprise to me. I had no knowledge of what a wonderful and interesting country it is. I learned a lot from ancient history to modern times. I have no favorite site. They were all great. The balloon ride is a must. The people were warm and friendly. Our guide, Basak, was very knowledgeable, interesting, humorous and kind. Her love of her country was evident. The bus was great and the driver was a courteous and safe driver. Our group ranged from age 47 years to 73 years and everyone enjoyed the tour. I would recommend this tour to everyone.
Grand Tour of Turkey
The tour was great. Getting there was a nightmare. Our flight from Washington to Frankfurt was cancelled. I called Go Ahead and told them the new flight schedule. I was told someone would pick us up at the airport. When we got to Frankfurt the flight was changed again. I called Go Ahead with the new schedule and was told not to worry someone would pick us up. When we got to Istanbul no one was there to meet us. I called Go Ahead and was told that someone would be there very shortly. 1 1/2 hours later I called Go Ahead and the anwswering service told me they had to find someone. When the person came on the line they told me this was all my fault and that I must take a cab to the hotel. I had no problem taking a cab but I had been told multiple times that someone would pick me up. I have a very expensive overseas call plan on my cell, and due to the long holds, the bill was 26 and 39 and 32$ plus 25 for the cab and a charge of 7$ to convert the money.
Grand Tour of Turkey
The tour was fantastic. I am still in awe of the country and the tour director. We learned so much; Mehmet was always well prepared with history and important highlights of our destination. My only complaint: too much crammed into too short a period. Good learning needs reflection time. Suggestion: extend the linngth of the trip...... but PLEASE don't leave out anything!
Whew! Turkey in two weeks!
The Grand Tour of Turkey is a fascinating tour with a full schedule. I was concerned at the amount of time on a bus, but it ended up being quite comfortable. We traveled nearly every other day, with 4 to 8 hours of bus time between. The schedule includes lots of stops and sites along the way, which make it a comfortable tour. Our group became quite close, and we added a Mediterranean boat ride in Antalya, which was a nice break from the tours of ruins. Everyone fell in love with Turkey, its warm people, and its stunning scenery. Half of us also chose to add a balloon ride in Cappadocia, which was clearly a highlight. Mehmet was an incredible guide who enlightened us about the history, archeology, geology, religion, language, and social intricacies of Turkey. Everyone was fascinated with his bus talks along our route, and we were thankful to have such a brilliant guide for this challenging tour.
Amazing Natural Beauty
My boyfriend and I just came back from this tour and we were so impressed with Go Ahead and especially our tour guide Selcuk. We've never taken a group tour before and I was really nervous about being "stuck" with 20 people for two straight weeks, but everyone was so lovely, and the tour went really smoothly. We were about a generation younger than the rest of our group, but that was fine with us - I would recommend this tour to folks in their 30s, but they should know they will likely be with mostly retired folks. I got sick of the Roman ruins, but my boyfriend couldn't get enough. What I was continually amazed by was the natural beauty of the country, and the contrast from city to city - all the rock formations, the coast lines, mountains, changing weather, everything was so fascinating. The first evening we were there, I was skyping with my mom and I heard the call to prayer and I just about started crying; I just couldn't believe I was finally hearing that live and not just on TV. As I started to observe the diversity of Muslim women, I definitely gained more understanding and respect for their wearing of the hijab and burka (although those were mostly tourists, like us). Some of the hotels were a little run down, and the dinners were mostly mediocre, but the breakfasts were lovely with interesting breads and jams, and when we went off on our own for meals (and avoided tourist traps) we had wonderful experiences in cheap places with fresh, tasty food, even though we could only point and smile! (I kind of wish we had learned a bit of Turkish - I tried, but it was even harder than Czech!) One other thing to note: Of all the countries I've been to, Turkish people are by far the pushiest in trying to sell you things. It was actually pretty impressive, hearing them bark at me in English, then flawlessly switch into Korean or Spanish! But... it does get old, and I now have a lifetime supply of Pashminas.
Grand tour of turkey
Our tour director, Seljuk grew up in Turkey and answered a variety of questions in all fields. The extensions are a must along with sampling all the sophisticated food, especially vegetables and light deserts. The well located hotels were artistically designed with grand sumptuous buffets. We especially enjoyed the thermal; hot springs of Lycus River Hotel and Pamukkale pools. Cappadocia with its unique geography of fairy chimneys and underground cities and churches were profoundly enlightening. . The mosques and culture of pentatonic calls to prayer added meaning to the long richness of Turkey's ancient archeology and profound history. One could spend the rest of ones life discovering treasures of archeology enhancing knowledge of the origins of life. We dare not forget the friendly, sophisticated Turkish people- long may they remain secular tolerating faiths to capitalize on their tourism. We look forward to more trips in Turkey as we have just begun to realize their importance in earth's history. Turkey, rich in friendly people adding joy to the enlightened traveler.
Grand Tour of Turkey
This is a fantastic tour. It really made Asia Minor come alive for me. I learned alot about all the civilizations that lived in the area. Memhet was a fantastic guide.
TURKEY 2011
I ENJOYED MYSELF. THE TOUR GUIDE WAS EXCEPTIONAL. THE HOTELS WERE GOOD, AND EACH CITY AND SITE WE STOPPED IN OFFERED ITS OWN BEAUTY AND EDUCATIONAL ASPECT. I ESPECIALLY LOVED CAPPADOCCIA, PAMUKKALE, EPHESUS AND THE ACROPOLIS.
Turkey is a must see
What a great trip. Turkey is a vibrant Country with extraordinary historical roots. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I would highly recommend this tour experience to everyone.
Alexander had it right!
A trip of a lifetime. For anyone interested in the history of civilization, there is no better place to be steeped in the gorgeous remnants of hand tooled monuments to nature, temples of worship, cities of conquest and the merging of cultures. It is no exaggeration to exclaim that senses will be stimulated by a vibrant, for the most part open society, the indulgences of superior accommodations and gastronomy, as well as trade goods and accoutrements that have stood the test of millennia. In short this journey yanks you out of your dull encyclopedia into the real warp of a continuum of space and time. In the cities there was the expected helter skelter of urban life. Good walking shoes a must. ATMs de rigueur. The fact that you can't drink the tap water is just another anachronism in modern Turkey. Our trained, licensed guide was the perfect mixture of academic rectitude and lovable hedonism, and that pretty much captures the fascinating contradiction that is this country.
