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      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/25/2023 - 07/09/2023

      • Max Participants: 15

      • 15 Days / 14 Nights

      Overview

      Turkey combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. Begin your trip roaming the palaces and mosques of Istanbul before journeying into the bizarre as you explore otherworldly Cappadocia. From the amazing white cliff frozen waterfalls of Pamukkale to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, Turkey will burn brightly in your memory long after you've left this crossroads of Asia and Europe. Visit Turkey with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      Our first priority is our travelers’ safety, especially so during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please click here for more details regarding our health and safety policies.

      What's Included:
      • Istanbul city walking tour
      • Dinner with Local Family in Çavuşin
      • Visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum
      • Underground city exploration
      • Catalhoyuk neolithic city visit
      • Güneysinir Community Park visit
      • Turkish Village Homestay in Güneysınır (Due to COVID we will stay in a hotel instead)
      • Afternoon boat trip (Mediterranean sea, weather permitting)
      • Ancient Hierapolis and Pamukkale entrance and guided walk
      • Ephesus entrance and visit
      • Çöp(m)adam handicraft workshop visit
      • Ottoman mansion stay
      • Troy entrance and guided visit
      • Gallipoli battlefields entrance and guided visit
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout and local guides
      • 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners – allow $275-$360 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (13 nts), simple village homestay (1 nt)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by private air-conditioned van, boat
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admission tickets
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Today is an arrival day and there are no planned activities. You are free to arrive in Istanbul at any time. Hotel check-in is 2 p.m., and luggage storage is available if you arrive before your room is ready. We HIGHLY recommend arriving in Istanbul at least a day or two before so you can see the main sights of this amazing city. We can help you sort out all of the details of an early arrival. Get the most out of your time in Istanbul by pre-booking our Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. These activities are available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, while any of the optional activities listed can be booked independently upon arrival in Istanbul. In the early evening, you will meet your tour leader and fellow group members for an important group meeting. Check the hotel notice board (or ask reception) for the exact time and location of this meeting. Afterward, there will be the option to head out for a meal together in nearby in a local restaurant. If you arrive late, your group leader will leave you a message at the front desk.

      Enjoy an orientation walk of Istanbul. Each walk varies, allowing your tour leader to show off their favorite spots around the city. Pass by city highlights such as the Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia (also known as the Aya Sofya), and the Blue Mosque. Walks may also include the atmospheric Spice Bazaar or breathtaking Grand Bazaar. We highly recommend that you actually go inside these sights, which would mean either arriving a few days early or staying a few days after the tour ends. Istanbul is a safe, tourist-friendly city. In the afternoon we will travel to Bolu, a small city where we will stop for the night to break up the long drive to Cappadocia. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle

      We will continue our drive east with a stop along the way to visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the father of the Modern Turkish Republic. The Mausoleum of Atatürk is located in Turkey's capital city, Ankara, and has become one of the sprawling city's must-see locations. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive in the region of Cappadocia where we will spend the next two and a half days exploring. There will be plenty of time to tour the area by bike, visit neighboring villages, trek regional valleys, or try a hot air balloon ride. During one of the evenings, travel to a nearby village and enjoy dinner with a local family. Enjoy seasonal homemade dishes, and talk with friendly hosts about life in rural Cappadocia. Approximate travel time: 5.5 hrs by private vehicle

      This morning we will visit the historic Göreme Open Air Museum, a complex of medieval painted cave churches carved out by Orthodox monks. Tour the more than 10 caves on site, and enjoy the color and vibrancy of many of the churches that are up to 1,000 years old. The rest of your day is free for optional activities, which are listed further below on this page. Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your tour leader on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region. If you want to go further afield, take a local bus to explore nearby villages.

      You will have another free day to explore the many sights of Cappadocia. Pre-booking is available for Cappadocia Balloon Ride and Whirling Dervishes. If you pre-booked the Cappadocia hot air balloon ride, you will be flying on Day 4 or 5 (weather permitting).

      Depart Cappadocia to the town of Derinkuyu. Here we visit one of the underground cities (there are approximately 30 in the region) that were famously used as hiding places for Christians escaping the persecution of the Roman Empire between the fifth and tenth centuries. See how people transferred their surface lives to this underground world – there are cellars, rooms for food storage, kitchens, churches, stables, wine and oil presses, and shafts for ventilation. Have a quick lunch before journeying to the region of Konya. In Konya, opt to visit the Mevlana Museum and the mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic, to learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes. We will then visit the Neolithic proto-city settlement of Catalhoyuk. There are no streets, and houses are closely clustered with rooftop access for travel. Witness the cultural evolution from the first settlers in 7500 BC to the remnants of the urban center we see today. We'll then continue our drive to our village homestay where we will have the opportunity to learn about local Turkish life. We will first visit the Güneysinir Community Park. Located in a region prone to drought and economically-dependent on agriculture, Güneysinir is in need of diversified opportunities. Our partner G Adventures is investing in an almond plantation that doubles as a community park. While the park will be a beautiful place for travelers and locals to visit, it will also provide a source of shade and water retention, as well as a reliable source of income for the community. Afterward, enjoy a home-cooked meal before settling down for the night. Bathroom facilities and sleeping arrangements are multi-share. Approximate travel time: 4-4.5 hrs, including stops

      We will start off early and arrive in Antalya around lunchtime. With a free afternoon, wander the charming cobbled hillside streets of the district of Kaleici, a great place to stop and have a drink with amazing views of the marina below. For a break from the hustle and bustle, head for the greenery and teashops at one of Antalya's beautiful parks or catch some sun at a nearby beach. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs by private vehicle

      Spend the afternoon onboard a boat in the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner before disembarking the boat and driving to our hotel for the evening. Drive to the beautiful coastal village of Demre for lunch. After, board our boat for an afternoon on the Mediterranean Sea. The boat trip includes sailing around Kekova Island, with plenty of time to enjoy the sunshine and scenery. We'll have the chance to get off the boat and climb a hill to reach a medieval castle used by the Byzantines in Simena, a beautiful ancient city that dates back to the fourth century BC. Find ruins of a Roman settlement, including a small amphitheater. Take a few moments to look out at the gorgeous view of the quiet harbor below. Later, walk to Simena Castle to enjoy the views and archaeological ruins. Then opt to go for a swim in the crystal clear waters or just relax on deck. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle

      Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Opt for a morning swim and some relaxation before returning to Demre and continuing on to the coastal town of Kaş. Spend some time in the afternoon exploring the cafés lining the cobblestoned streets of Kaş. Approximate travel time: 45 minutes by private vehicle

      Leave the beautiful sea behind and head to Pamukkale, passing through fruit orchards on the way. We will tour the white cliffs of Pamukkale to learn about this World Heritage-listed site and natural wonder. Made up of 17 hot water springs, the cliffs are formed when the calcium carbonate hardens with time. Explore the ancient site of Hierapolis built on top of the white "castle." See the large, ancient baths within the city (thought to be evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC). Afterward, we will continue driving to Selçuk. Approximate travel time: 8 hrs by private vehicle

      This morning we will tour the ruins of ancient Ephesus to get a feeling of what life must have been like during Roman times. Take in its massive, well-preserved theatre, which dominates the view down Harbour Street. See the two-story library, whose façade has been carefully reconstructed from all original pieces. Built in AD 125, it once held nearly 12,000 scrolls. After, head to town and enjoy some free time to explore. Opt to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey, or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Or catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (5 miles away) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach.

      This morning we'll drive to the city of Ayvalik. Visit the G-supported çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation. All products are made out of recycled goods and making a purchase will directly support the local women who work in the workshop and over time has contributed to over 500 women who have been part of the project. Ayvalik's blend of Ottoman architecture, cobblestoned streets, and attractive harbor make this stop a highlight. The beach of Sarimsakli is a quick bus ride away and the harbor in town offers short cruises. After exploring, head down to one of the waterside restaurants for a sunset drink or meal. Then enjoy the hospitality and beautiful views from the family-run pension in a restored Ottoman mansion. Approximate travel time: 2.5 hrs by private vehicle

      This morning we'll drive to historic Troy, made famous by Homer’s “Iliad,” (and more recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt). Tour the city that, for centuries, was regarded as just a myth, until its ruins were found in the mid-19th century. Imagine what a great city this must have been while taking a tour of the remains. Don't miss the chance to have a photo taken with the Trojan horse. We will then continue on to the port city of Çanakkale. Approximate travel time: 3-3.5 hrs by private vehicle

      Travel by ferry to the Gallipoli peninsula, where we will have an early morning guided tour of the site of a dramatic series of World War I battles. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers. Afterward, continue on to İstanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last-minute shopping. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs via ferry (30 mins) and private vehicle (4.5 hrs)

      You are free to depart at any time today. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is normally mid-morning, but luggage storage facilities are available. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO trips in the same year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs). If you don’t see a program that interests you that pairs with this trip but still would like to extend your time abroad, let us know. We will work with you to find a non-teacher trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Even better, if you are an educator we can still offer you a discounted price on the trip you choose!

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please click here to go to our general FAQ, which has essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Turkey
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important for you to visit our Terms and Conditions page before signing up for this program.
      Cancellation policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your written cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105. Verbal cancellation requests will not be honored.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to departure, all your program fee payments will be refunded besides your $350 deposit which is kept on file for future use
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to departure, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit is kept on file for future use
      • If you cancel within 30 days of departure, you will receive no refund, but your deposit is kept on file for future use
      Group Leader Description
      All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Fitness Level
      This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.
      Single Travelers
      Half of the people that travel with GEEO are traveling by themselves, so please don’t worry if you have no one who can join you on your trip. Our pricing is based on double occupancy, in other words, two people to a room. You never have to pay for a single room unless you want one. GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender. Most of our trips have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that will allow you to have a room to yourself. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please click here where you can look up your trip in the extra services spreadsheet. Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single accommodation for all night stops, with the following exceptions: Night 6 local village stay and Night 12 in Ayvalik.
      About Accommodation
      On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Below are details on some of our unique accommodation experiences on this itinerary. Day 6 Village Stay: During our village stay, we aim to give you the experience of life with a local family. We use two houses with each room sleeping up to three people and sharing the family bathroom. All bedding is provided. In the evening we gather together to enjoy a meal of fresh, local produce with the menu dependent on what is in season. Day 12 Ayvalik: Located in a restored Ottoman house, our family-run pension is always a highlight for our travelers. This accommodation has shared bathroom facilities and some rooms may be multi-share.
      Joining Instructions
      Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned. Upon arrival to the city on Day 1 (or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us), please make your way to the joining hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon). Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note at reception from your tour leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on Day 1 (usually between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.), where you will get a chance to meet your tour leader and other travelers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you miss the Welcome Meeting, your tour leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need and with instructions for the next morning. A metered taxi from Istanbul Airport to the hotel will cost around: Yellow Taxi: 180-200 TRY (Around 22-25 USD) Turquoise Taxi: 200-220 TRY (Around 24-27 USD) Black Luxury Taxi: 350-370 TRY (Around 40-43 USD) It is possible to take the shuttle bus "HAVAIST" from the Istanbul Airport to the old city. The closest HAVAIST stop to our hotel is BEYAZIT. Our hotel is around a 20-25 min walk from BEYAZIT SQUARE. From BEYAZIT SQUARE, you can follow the tram line and walk through CEMBERLITAS, SULTANAHMET, and GULHANE tram stops. After the GULHANE tram stop, you will see the tram line is making a left. But you will need to continue walking straight and follow TAYA HATUN SOKAK to the end. Once you reach the end, a new street starts to the left, called ISTASYON ARKASI SOKAK. The hotel will be on this street, on your left after the Police Station. You can find the bus schedule from here https://www.hava.ist/en If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, Istanbul airport are no longer permitted to present branded/company signs. At the Istanbul Airport (IST) G Adventures has been allocated characters "M55." Since welcoming staff are not allowed to the airport, to get to M55, you need to exit the airport from GATE 13. If you are arriving to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) airport G Adventures has been allocated characters "M55" and they will be waiting under column number 13 after exit. The holder of this sign will be responsible for transferring you to your first accommodation. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please call the emergency number.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Representative (Turkey) During office hours: + 90 212 296 80 36 After hours emergency number +447817262559 (Yavuz) G Adventures Turkey Manager - Yavuz (Istanbul Turkey) Emergency number: +447817262559 If you are unable for any reason to contact G Adventures’ local office, they have a toll-free line within North America which will connect you directly with their Toronto office: 1 888 800 4100
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and downstairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. (No XXL ones please!) A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Health & Safety (Required!)
      • N95/KN95 Face masks (At least three per week)
      • Hand sanitizer
      • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
      • Quick Covid Test/Antigen Tests (At least 5, and for longer trips, 3 per week of travel)
      Suggested Checklist
      • Fleece top
      • Light windproof/waterproof jacket (Chances are it won’t rain much)
      • Sun hat
      • Personal clothing for mild to hot weather (t-shirts, shorts, etc.); for women, we recommend having at least a few outfits that cover knees and shoulders.
      • Daypack
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Bathing suit
      • Travel towel
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Watch or alarm clock
      • Clothes for religious sites – knees and shoulders must be covered
      • Shawl or scarf- needed for mosque visits, but you can buy in Turkey
      • Flashlight (If your smartphone has one you can use that)
      • Toiletries (Your hotels will have soap and shampoo)
      • Camera
      • First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
      Optional Checklist
      • Lightweight silk sleep sheet
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Water bottle
      • Phone/Tablet for internet (Most hotels have WiFi)
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Ear Plugs
      • Snacks (Packing a few granola bars is a good idea. You can buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy here.)
      • Ziplock bags for wet clothing
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/Baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Travel insurance (with photocopies)
      • Airline tickets (with photocopies)
      • EUR/USD cash
      • Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
      • G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group (This is sent 10-30 days before departure)
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. If you want to do your own laundry, we suggest you bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO trips require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double-check the information we provide below by searching here. Passengers traveling to Turkey for tourism must purchase an electronic visa prior to entering the country. This electronic visa has replaced the “sticker” and “stamp-type” visas issued at Turkish points of entry. This e-visa can be obtained by visiting the website: www.evisa.gov.tr. Your passport must be valid for 6 months on the date that you enter Turkey. The length of validity of your visa is dependent on your nationality but is commonly 3 months.
      Money Exchange
      The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Almost all local purchases in Turkey (meals, souvenirs, optional activities, etc) will be paid for in TRY ATMs are found within main cities in Turkey and will generally accept debit cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if at all possible as, while there is no hard and fast rule, some banks seem to only work with one brand of card. Please note, your bank will charge a fee for overseas withdrawals. Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange into Turkish Lira. Please note - while you should bring some cash with you for emergency situations, carrying cash only is a high safety risk. Money on ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix. Cash advances can also be made with some banks but are time-consuming and tend to have high fees attached. Credit cards are sometimes not accepted in Turkey - however, they can be used at some larger stores if shopping for big items such as carpets. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
      Tipping
      Turkey has a strong tipping culture – it is customary and even expected to tip small service providers such as restaurant and bar waiters, hotel staff, reception, cleaning personnel, bell boys, and taxi and van drivers. Also, at the end of your trip, if you felt your G Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is also expected and appreciated. The precise amount is entirely a personal preference, however, $25-30 USD per person per week can be used as a general guideline.
      Vaccinations
      We legally cannot give you any medical advice. It is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available 60 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. We advise that you wait until this trip is confirmed before booking non-refundable and non-changeable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Istanbul, which would usually mean departing the U.S. on the prior day. You can arrive at any time you choose. You can depart any time you wish on day 15 of the trip or beyond.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers. The adapter is the plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two to three-pronged power cord to match the prongs required by the local outlets. The transformer changes the local voltage to that required by your device. Turkey uses a European-style two circular prong plug. Their voltage is 230 Volts. U.S. outlets are 120 Volts. Most new devices (phones and laptops) can handle the different voltage rates, but some devices only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device to see what voltage range it handles. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity. For example, “Input: 100 – 240V” means that it will work on voltages from 100V to 240V. If your transformer can’t handle the different voltage, you’ll need to purchase a voltage converter. You can find world regional voltage converters power packs at various vendors.
      Expectations
      Before you decide on traveling with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
      • The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury. Sometimes the accommodation is not air-conditioned.
      • You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
      • Many of our programs occur in locations where it is very hot during the day. Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks.
      • We recommend always carrying snacks with you as meals can be far apart.
      • Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
      Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
      Itinerary Disclaimer
      While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
      Weather
      Turkey’s climate varies by region, but summer means hot sunny weather all around. On the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts temperatures will typically be in the 80s F, whereas in Cappadocia and other central parts of Turkey the highs are typically over 100 F.
      Food
      Breakfast: Many breakfasts are included as part of your tour. Turkish breakfasts are very different from your usual cereal and toast morning fare - when was the last time you had olives for breakfast? They pretty much universally consist of large slices of fresh "french style" white bread accompanied by slices of tomato, cucumber, white and yellow cheeses, olives, jam, and honey. This is accompanied by tea (which a Turk would always choose!) or coffee (which is pretty much always instant coffee). You will of course want to sample the famous Turkish coffee, but it is usually taken after a big lunch or dinner, or in the late afternoon with a pastry. While we think these breakfasts are absolutely delicious, some travelers do find them a bit repetitive and enjoy buying market fruit the day before and eating this for breakfast. Lunches: ...will usually be simple and on the run. They are a great chance to try Turkey's delicious and healthy array of "fast foods". This may include, "gozleme", a type of Turkish savory crepe, "chorba", delicious lentil soup, and of course doner kebabs in both beef and chicken varieties. You won't want to miss the chance to try "pide", Turkish pizza, and lahmucan- thin crust pizza you fold greenery into You may also find "kumpir", Turkish stuffed potatoes. Dinner: Most Turks start their dinners with a couple of mezes- small taster dishes such as grilled octopus, aubergine salad, and many more. You could also choose a soup made of fresh local ingredients. Main courses tend to be based around fresh seafood if you are near the coast (expect to pay around 15 lira for a whole fish)or the ubiquitous kebab- skewers of charcoaled meat which comes on bread with salad. There are plenty of variations of the kebab-many regions have their own specialty so be sure to ask your leader. Desserts: Yum- it's all about the sugar. Baklava (about 2 TKL a piece for the good stuff) is something of a national obsession and it is believed the best comes from the East. There are endless varieties of pastries and milk-based deserts available and you are sure to spend at least some time in a Turkish bakery taste testing. Snacks Don't miss munching on a simit, a Turkish pretzel, or perhaps some grilled sweet corn to get you through between meals. Drinks: Tea, served in small tulip glasses, is the number one beverage of choice in Turkey. It is freshly brewed and a tea bag is a rare thing. Turkish coffee is a wonderful thing to try. The national beer is named Efes and is very good (usually 4-5 TKL a bottle) Wine is made in Turkey and is getting better every year. Expect to pay around 6-7 liras for a glass in a restaurant. Water is approximately 1 TRL for a 1.5-liter bottle, soft drinks and juices are around 2-3 TRL. Eating is a big part of traveling. Traveling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your tour leader will be able to suggest your favorite restaurants during your trip.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. Breakfasts and a few dinners are included in this trip, giving you the opportunity to eat out according to your own resources. The prices below are in U.S. Dollars and are rough estimates on which you can budget your trip.
      Tour Company Fee
      See our price in the top right corner
      Optional Activities
      $200-$500 USD
      International Airfare from the U.S.
      Roughly $800-$1,700 USD If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
      Insurance
      $67-$200 USD Please note: it is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as well.
      Tipping
      $50-$60 for your tour leader, $30-$50 for drivers, $30 for other tips such as local guides, waiters, musicians, bathroom attendants, luggage porters, waiters, etc.
      Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
      $275-$360 USD
      Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
      Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      Airport and Departure Taxes
      This is usually included in your flight price.
      Vaccines
      $0-????
      Visa
      $50 USD for Americans.
      Souvenirs
      $0-????
      Non-Educator Donation
      $100 USD (Suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities Booked In Advance

      We can book the following activities in advance. Alternative Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise: $75 USD per person Go even deeper into Istanbul, discovering diverse and lesser-visited districts with your CEO, and some of the best photography spots in the city! Today we will walk along the ancient Constantinople city walls; see Istanbul's best Roman mosaics and frescoes at the Kariye Mosque (formerly the Chora Church); stroll through the photogenic Fener (Greek) and Balat (Jewish) districts, known for their colorful wooden houses; enjoy lunch together; and cruise the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Ottoman palaces and the city skyline. Please note: this is a full day (6+ hours) day excursion. Lunch is included. Your CEO will collect you from the hotel lobby at 9 a.m. Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and modest clothing/coverings for shoulders and upper legs for visiting religious sites. Selçuk Cooking Class: $20 USD per person Visit the nearby village of Selçuk and learn to cook a delicious traditional meal. Starting at the local market, you will learn about the fresh ingredients needed to create an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert! After creating your meal (with potential vegetarian options), sit down and share with the rest of the class. Whirling Dervishes: $20 USD per person Witness this spellbinding dance-like worship, practiced by followers of the Mevlevilik Sufi order.

      Optional Activities Booked On Location

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency. You do not have to decide in advance for which activities you would like to sign up. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      Istanbul
      Dolamabahçe Palace and Bosporus: €85 EUR per person Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahçe Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur. Istanbul Backstreets Walk: €67 EUR per person Follow a guide through colorful spice markets, bustling bazaars, and squares nestled in the backstreets of Istanbul. Exploring these lesser known parts of Istanbul will give you a glimpse into the daily life of a local. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: ₺60 TRY per person This museum is home to treasures from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods and boasts one of the world's largest collections of Turkish carpets. Great Palace Mosaic Museum: ₺45 TRY per person See the intricate mosaics on display from the Byzantine period, excavated from the site of The Great Palace of Constantinople. Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya): Free Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride. Topkapi Palace: 1h-2h, ₺320 TRY per person Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia, and China to Ottoman-era weaponry. Basilica Cistern: ₺190 TRY per person Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa. Archaeological Museum: ₺60 TRY per person Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks. Galata Tower: ₺175 TRY per person Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.
      Cappadocia
      Hot Air Balloon Ride (Göreme): €230 EUR per person Cappadocia is captivating from the ground, but that’s just the half of it. See the seemingly hand-painted landscapes of Cappadocia as they deserve to be seen, from the air aboard a hot air balloon. Get up early and enjoy a simple breakfast before climbing in the basket and taking to the skies in one of the most favoured places in the world to experience a hot air balloon ride. Turkish Bath: 35 €EUR per person Take along a towel, soap, and shampoo, and enjoy a scrub like no other. Then experience a traditional foam massage, included in the entrance fee. Get some tips from the friendly locals – they’ll show you the correct protocol. Make sure to check the hours as the bathhouses are strictly segregated, usually being used by men in the morning and evenings, and women in the afternoons. Turkish Night: 2h30m-3h, €35 EUR per person Attend a "Turkish night" and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal followed by local entertainment. Pottery Center: 1h-2h, Free Learn more about the infamous local art of pottery making and take advantage of the opportunity to create your own masterpiece. Carpet Demonstration: 1h-2h, Free Enjoy an informative demonstration of one of the oldest art-forms in Turkish history. Gain a greater appreciation for the labor and workmanship involved in weaving rugs and carpets as you learn about the process.
      Konya
      Mevlana Museum: Free Visit the Mevlana Museum and mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic. Learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes.
      Antalya
      Antalya Archaeological Museum: 1h-2h, ₺45 TRY per person Take in some culture at the Antalya Museum, home to 13 exhibition galleries. See a wide range of exhibits, including great reconstructions of life under the Ottoman Empire.
      Pamukkale
      Hierapolis Archeological Museum: ₺200 TRY per person This museum displays works of art from excavations at Hierapolis and towns in the surrounding area, such as jewelry, sarcophagi, and Bronze Age crafts. Housed within a former Roman Bath and gymnasium, this museum will grab the interest of art, history, and architecture lovers alike. Swim in an Ancient Pool: ₺50 TRY per person Take a plunge into an ancient swimming pool, preserved from the second century BC. Wade around in the thermally heated fresh mineral water around fallen marble columns, capitals, and plinths said to have come from the nearby Temple of Apollo. Kick back and relax, but don't forget admission is limited to two hours.
      Selçuk
      Mosque of Isa Bey: 30m-45m, Free Visit the centuries-old Isa Bey Mosque on the outskirts of Selçuk to see one of the oldest and most impressive works of art remaining in this region. Saint John's Basilica: ₺18 TRY per person View St John's Basilica, once a grand basilica in Ephesus. Constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century, it was built in where John the Apostle is said to be buried. Şirince Village: 1h-2h Head out to scenic Şirince, a Turkish-Greek village that was settled when Ephesus was abandoned; it’s now 600 strong. Wander the narrow village streets filled with people selling handicrafts, olive oil, and local wine. Selçuk Cooking Class: €18 EUR per person Visit the nearby village of Selçuk and learn to cook a delicious traditional meal. Starting at the local market, you will learn about the fresh ingredients needed to create an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert! After creating your meal (with potential vegetarian options), sit down and share with the rest of the class.
      Ayvalik
      Ayvalik Boat Tour: 2h-3h, ₺60-600 TRY per person Visit secluded bays, explore a nearby island, and, of course, have plenty of time for just relaxing and swimming in the turquoise waters. Drinks are available on board. Prices vary by season and group size.