current turkey brochure
Transcription
current turkey brochure
TOUCHDOW N TOURS TURKEY PAGE 2 TOUCHDOW N TOURS touchdown tours OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU A land rich in history, culture, and some of the best cuisine you will ever enjoy, Turkey’s beauty ranges from bustling cities to white-sand beaches and soaring mountain ranges. From the Hittites to the Lycians, the Byzantines to the Ottomans, ancient Anatolia as it was once known, can lay claim to having been ruled by and having ruled some of the world’s most powerful nations in history. Turkey’s cultural and spiritual depth can be felt in every corner of the cobble-stoned streets in Istanbul, Ephesus, Pergamum and in the towns and villages that dot the country. Whether traveling with the Sufi mystics in Konya or following the steps of St. Paul, your journey in Turkey will be highlighted by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Whilst the west coast of Turkey is surely the most popular, Touchdown Tours invites you to explore off the beaten track with us. Regions such as Xanthos in the south, which once functioned as the capital of the Lycian League and the episcopacy of the Byzantine Civilization, is now a significant UNESCO World Heritage site. Aphrodisias, named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, is an archaeological paradise with its myriad of well-preserved temples, agoras and ancient baths. Then, of course, there is the world-famous Cappadocia, with its mythical ‘fairy chimneys’ and underground city mazes will astound even the most spirited traveller. Jaqui Preketes I invite you to explore Turkey with Touchdown Tours. Managing Director AIRLINES Touchdown Tours is proud to be associated with the world’s most prestigious airlines servicing the region. EMIRATES AIRLINE Servicing over 130 destinations worldwide, Emirates has just been awarded the highly coveted ‘World’s Best Airline’ award, presented by Skytrax, in addition to ‘Best Middle East Airline’ and ‘World’s Best Inflight Entertainment’. Fly Emirates, fly in style. ETIHAD AIRWAYS Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, based in the capital of Abu Dhabi. The airline serves 92 destinations on six continents and has won multiple prestigious and coveted awards for the quality of its guest experience. Voted the World’s Leading Airline at World Travel Awards for the past four consecutive years, Etihad Airways also swept all three First Class categories – World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Seats and Best First Class Catering - in the 2012 and 2013 Skytrax World Airline Awards. QATAR AIRWAYS Qatar Airways was presented with three honors at the annual Skytrax 2013 World Airline Awards held during the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, France in June. The airline was awarded World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Lounge and, for the second consecutive year, Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East. The airline has also been named Best Airline in the Middle East for the seventh year in a row. SINGAPORE AIRLINES With 121 weekly flights from Australia, Singapore Airlines, the world’s most awarded airline, offers convenient flight connections to destinations spanning a network spread over 90 cities in 36 countries*. En route, experience unprecedented levels of comfort, savour the finest international cuisine and wine, choose from up to 1,000 entertainment options, and enjoy the inflight service even other airlines talk about. Experience the difference with Singapore Airlines, a great way to fly. *Includes destinations serviced by Silk Air, the regional wing of Singapore Airlines. touchdown tours touchdown tours GENER AL INFORMATION culture , traditions , ancient civilizations and modern skyscrapers – all this and more is yours to explore in the beautiful eastern mediterranean jewel , turkey. the only eurasian country in the world, the turkish people are known for their warm hospitality, and their love of life’s simple pleasures : family, food, music, dance and history. everywhere you go, you will have the locals calling and inviting you to sit at their table to share a mezze platter ! enjoy turkey the touchdown way! istanbul GALLIPOLI Known in ancient times as Byzantium and Constantinople, Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul, is home to Agia Sophia Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the magnificent Bosphorus Bridge connecting Europe and Asia. In the ancient bazaars, enjoy a friendly haggle with the locals over perfumes, precious carpets and simple souvenirs. The historic areas of Istanbul City are UNESCO Heritage Listed and, as such, loved by locals and visitors alike. As us about our special, Ottoman-style hotels for a truly unique experience. The Gallipoli Campaign resonates profoundly with all Australians and New Zealanders. It was the first main battle undertaken by our ANZACs, and is often considered to mark the start of a sense of national pride and consciousness in both countries. ANZAC Day remains the most significant commemoration of military casualties and veterans for Australians and New Zealanders. Touchdown Tours operates daily trips to ANZAC Cove from Istanbul, as well as special group tours to the ANZAC Day commemoration on 25th April each year. cappadocia turquoise coast Kapadokya as the locals call it, is located in central Anatolya region, predominantly part of the Nevsehir Province. The beautiful, naturally-formed ‘fairy chimneys’ also reveal some amazing Underground Cities, as well as ancient carvings from people who previously inhabited this land. Enjoy an early-morning hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia and stay in one of the many traditional ‘cave hotels’ to bring a sense of gentle adventure to your time in Cappadocia! Situated between Bodrum and Fethiye, the Turkish Coast is one of the most sought-after experiences for travellers of all ages. Deep blue seas, pristine beaches, picturesque villages and classic ruins all beckon the traveller to come and explore. One of the best ways to see the Turkish coast is by cruising the islands in a traditional Turkish gulet sailing boat. With Touchdown’s expert sailing crew, see the coast from a new and fun perspective! 3 touchdown tours ISTANBUL CITY BREAK 4 days - 3 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrive and transfer to your hotel for overnight. Day 2: Istanbul Visit Topkapi Palace, Saint Sophia Basilica/ the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and spend some time haggling with the locals at the famous Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul. (B/L) Day 3: Istanbul (Bosphorus Cruise) Enjoy a half-day tour of Dolmabahce Palace or a cruise on the Bosphorus (weather permitting). Explore the city during a free afternoon. Optional Evening Tour: Traditional dinner and Turkish belly dancing show. (B) Day 4: Istanbul Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B) Big Bus sightseeing tour of Istanbul With magnificent views from an open top bus, Big Bus Tours Istanbul is the perfect introduction to a city that strides two continents - Europe and Asia. This carefully designed tour takes you to the major landmarks and historic sights on both continents, while your personal recorded commentary explains the history and culture of this beautiful city. From the moment the bus departs you will experience a real mix of culture where east meets west. Tour highlights include the journey from Europe to Asia across the Bosphorus Bridge, the Blue Mosque, Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower and much more. Don’t forget your camera to help capture some memorable moments. 4 The hop-on, hop-off facility will enable you to get on and off the bus at many attractions and places of interest. The Big Bus sightseeing tour is a safe and relaxing way to discover this great city; the perfect introduction to Istanbul and a fun day out for everyone. touchdown tours LEGENDS OF TROY & GALLIPOLI 4 days - 3 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour including: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque/ St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Istanbul Morning visit to Troy with its famous wooden horse. Drive back to Istanbul. End of services. (B) DESTINATION ISTANBUL 7 days - 6 nights overnight in Pamukkale. (D) Transfer: A/C vehicle. Driver pick-up and transfer to hotel in Pamukkale. Day 2: Pamukkale – Kusadasi Early morning visit to the unique Cotton Fortress, the white calcium cascades, and also pay a visit to one of the first modern spa centres of the ancient world, Hierapolis. Drive to Kusadasi. Dinner and overnight. (B/D) Day 1: Marmaris to Pamukkale Upon arrival into Marmaris, transfer to hotel in Pamukkale. Check in and enjoy a lazy afternoon. Tonight you will meet your guide at the hotel as s/he arrives with your travel companions from Cappadocia. Dinner and traditional local village then tour Troy with its famous wooden horse and continue on to Canakkale for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 5: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Istanbul Morning departure for Gallipoli to visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair. Drive to Istanbul for overnight. Enjoy a farewell Dinner. (B/D) Day 3: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Full day tour of the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s Cottage. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi. Afternoon Optional: Tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Istanbul Half day tour to include: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. This afternoon Optional Tour of Spice Market and half-day Bosphorus cruise. Overnight in Istanbul. (B) Day 4: Pergamum – Troy – Canakkale Visit the ancient Greek medical centre Asclepion in Pergamum. Enjoy lunch at a Day 7: Istanbul – Return Transfer to airport for your onward flight, or extend your stay in this bustling city. (B) 5 touchdown tours GLORIES OF TURKEY 14 days - 13 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. St. Mary’s cottage. Visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon -Optional: Tour of Sardis or Sirince. (B/D) Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour - Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of our hotel. (B/D) Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday, as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. Not listed in 2014 guide but may still be applicable. Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village and then tour the ancient Greek medical centre, Asclepion in Pergamum. Continue to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and Day 7: Pamukkale – Perge – Antalya Morning drive to Antalya, arrival at mid-noon. Visit the ancient Greek city of Perge. Relax in the afternoon by the Mediterranean coast. (B/D) Day 8: Antalya: Optional Tour of Phaselis or Yacht Cruise Today is a free day with choices of Optional tours of Phaselis, a coastal ancient city or a lazy yacht cruise along Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. Dinner at a special local restaurant. (B/D) Day 9: Antalya – Aspendos – Konya After breakfast depart for Konya. En route visit the famous theatre in Aspendos. Visit Mevlana Mausoleum and Karatay Koran School. Overnight in Konya. (B/D) Day 10: Konya – Cappadocia Morning departure for Cappadocia. On the way visit 13th Century Agzikarahan 6 Caravansaray, the land of Fairy Chimneys. Visit the famous underground city of Sarhatli before checking into your hotel. Local dinner in a restaurant and overnight in Cappadocia. Tonight Optional: Whirling Dervishes performance. (B/D) Day 11: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional: Balloon Tour. Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves with the sunrise of Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos, Pasabagi, Red Valley, and have a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. (B/D) Day 12: Cappadocia – Ankara Morning departure to Ankara through salt lake area, Afternoon tour of the Ataturk Mausoleum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum. (B/D) Day 13: Istanbul After breakfast take a scenic drive to Istanbul. Afternoon Optional: Half day Bosphorus cruise, including last minute shopping in the Spice Market. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner with your new friends. (B/D) Day 14 Wed: Istanbul | Transfer to the airport. (B) touchdown tours WESTERN TURKEY 8 days - 7 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour includes: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) of Sirince. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village in Asclepion. Tour the ancient Greek medical centre in Pergamum and continue on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of our hotel. (B/D) Day 7: Hierapolis – Marmaris Motor south to the resort city of Marmaris. Afternoon at your leisure. (B/D) Day 8: Marmaris Our services end after breakfast. (B) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage. Visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon Optional: Tour Morning complimentary transfer to Marmaris Pier for travellers who wish to take a ferry to Rhodes. Note: • This is a good itinerary for connecting to the Greek Islands via Rhodes or for joining a Turkish coastal cruise. • Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. TASTE OF TURKEY 10 days - 9 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour includes: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque/St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli, Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse, before arriving into Asclepion. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Greek medical centre in Pergamum and continue on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage. Visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon Optional: Tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of our hotel. (B/D) Day 7: Hierapolis – Gocek or Fethiye Visit the Hierapolis Roman health spa ruins and then motor south to the resort city of Gocek or Fethiye to board a gulet yacht. (B/D) 7 Day 8: Yacht cruise (Lycian coast) Sail across beautiful bays surrounded by high-forested hills. (B/L/D) Day 9 Fri: Yacht Cruise (Lycian coast) Continue cruising the Mediterranean coast. Explore nearby Lycian ruins, swim or simply relax. (B/L/D) Day 10: Marmaris End your cruise with breakfast in Marmaris. (B) Transfer: An A/C vehicle. Pick-up and drop off at your Gulet or your hotel in Marmaris. Note: • This is a good itinerary for connecting to the Greek Islands via Rhodes. • Contact Touchdown Tours for excellent rates on ferry crossings from Marmaris – Rhodes Bodrum – Kos Cesme – Chios touchdown tours BEST OF TURKEY 12 nights - 13 days Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour - Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli and visit to Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse, before arriving into Asclepion to enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Greek Medical Centre in Pergamum and continue on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage and visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon - Optional Tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of your hotel. (B/D) Day 7: Pamukkale – Perge – Antalya Morning drive to Antalya, arrival at mid-noon. Visit to the ancient Greek city of Perge. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the Mediterranean coast. (B/D) Day 8: Antalya: Optional Tour of Phaselis or Yacht Cruise Day at leisure with choices of optional tours of Phaselis, a coastal ancient city or a lazy yacht cruise along the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. Dinner at a special local restaurant. (B/D) Day 9: Antalya – Aspendos – Konya After breakfast depart for Konya. En route visit the famous theatre in Aspendos. Visit 8 Mevlana Mausoleum and Karatay Koran School. Overnight in Konya. (B/D) Day 10: Cappadocia Morning departure for Cappadocia, the land of Fairy Chimneys. Visit the famous underground city of Sarhatli and visit a regional carpet production centre. Local dinner in a restaurant and overnight in Cappadocia. Optional: Whirling Dervishes performance. (B/D) Day 11: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional: Balloon Tour. Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves with the sunrise of Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos, Pasabagi, Red Valley, and have a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. (B/D) Day 12: Cappadocia – Ankara Morning departure to Ankara through salt lake area. Afternoon tour of the Ataturk Mausoleum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum. (B/D) Day 13: Ankara – Return Transfer to airport. (B) touchdown tours CLASSICS OF TURKEY 11 days - 10 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Istanbul - Ankara This morning, optional tour of St. Sophia and Bosphorus Cruise. Afternoon departure for Ankara around 15:00hrs and late arrival into Ankara. (B/D) Day 4: Ankara - Cappadocia Morning departure to view the Hittite artifacts at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, father of modern Turkey. Visit the underground city of Sarhatli. Drive to Cappadocia, touring a 13th Century caravan en route. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy an optional Whirling Dervishes performance. Overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 5: Cappadocia Early morning optional balloon tour. Experience the thrill of floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves with the sunrise over Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos, Pasabagi, the Red Valley, and take a very brief pottery workshop in a cave. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 6: Cappadocia - Pamukkale Drive to Pamukkale. En route visit the famous mausoleum of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana. Drive to Pamukkale. Dinner and overnight. (B/D) Day 7: Pamukkale – Kusadasi Today is the day to pay an early morning visit to the unique Cotton Fortress, the white calcium cascades, and also one of the first modern spa centres of the ancient world, Hierapolis. Drive to Kusadasi. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi. (B/D) 9 Day 8: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House Kusadasi Full day tour of the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s Cottage. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi. Afternoon optional tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 9: Pergamum – Troy - Canakkale Visit the ancient Greek medical centre, Asclepion in Pergamum. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a local village. Tour Troy with its famous wooden horse and continue onto Canakkale for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 10: Dardanelles – Gallipoli Istanbul Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair. Enjoy a farewell dinner. Return to Istanbul and overnight. (B/D) Day 11: Istanbul - Return Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B) touchdown tours HIGHLIGHTS OF TURKEY 9 days - 8 nights tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkle, Gallipoli area. Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Chunuk Bair, Lone Pine Cemetery and Gabate War Museum. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse before arriving in Asclepion. Enjoy lunch with the locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Greek Medical Centre in Pergamum and continue on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour to include: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage. Visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon -Optional: Tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of our hotel. (B/D) St Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day Day 7: Pamukkale – Perge – Antalya Morning drive to Antalya, arrival at mid-noon. Visit the ancient Greek city of Perge. Relax in the afternoon by the Mediterranean coast. (B/D) Day 8: Antalya Today is a day at your leisure with choices of Optional tours of Phaselis, a coastal ancient city or lazy yacht cruise along the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. (B/D) Day 9: Antalya Transfer to airport. (B) Note: • Resort Extension with Golf Facilities: You can extend your stay for a week at Barcelo Tat Beach Golf resort in Belek, (20 miles east of Antalya). • Special rates on Optional Tours in Istanbul, such as - Half-day Bosphorus Cruise - Evening belly-dance show with dinner - Walking tour of Istanbul ANCIENT WONDERS 6 days - 5 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full Day Tour - Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli and visit to Anzac Cove Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, Gabatepe War Museum then across the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit the ancient city of Troy with its famous wooden horse, before arriving in Asclepion. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Continue to the ancient Medical Centre in Pergamum and then on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage and visit a regional rug production centre. Afternoon Optional: Tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Return – Transfer Morning transfer to Kusadasi Pier to catch ferry or cruise. (B) Note •This is an excellent itinerary for connecting to Greece. Clients can join a cruise, catch a flight to Athens or take a ferry to Samos. •Sunday departure tours in May, Sep and Oct will visit St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul which is Monday as it is closed but on Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area. 10 touchdown tours ANZAC SPECIAL 2 days - 1 night Day 1: Morning pick up from your hotel and drive to Gallipoli and visit Kabatepe Museum, Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, The Nek, 57th Regiment, Chunuk Bair later cross the Dardanelles, dinner and overnight at Canakkale hotel. (L/D) Day 2: Morning visit Troy home of the “Trojan Horse” and “Helen of Troy” and departure for Istanbul and transfer to your hotels. (B) Included Services • Hotel transfers in Istanbul. • Transportation with Deluxe Mercedes airconditioned vans. • Sightseeing with expert licensed English speaking guides. • All entrance fees. • One night Superior First Class Hotel in Canakkale • (Kolin Hotel) with dinner and breakfast. Excluded Services • Personal expenses • Customary tips • Drinks Note: • Regular tour which departs every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 01 Apr to 15 Oct 2014 (except 23-27 Apr). • Tours returning to Istanbul available. CAPPADOCIA TOUR (K AYSERI – K AYSERI) 2 days - 1 night Day 1: Arrive to Kayseri Arrival into Kayseri Airport to pick up from your Cappadocia hotel. Hike downhill in Rose Valley and explore some older churches. Arrive in Cavusin Village, an old Seljukian and Ottoman village. Visit the Cave Mosque. After lunch, continue onto Kaymakli Underground City where early Christians hid from persecutors. See Ortahisar with its magnificently-preserved castle. Overnight in Cappadocia (B/L) After lunch, visit Pigeon Valley near Uchisar. Continue on to the Open Air Museum in Goreme and visit the early Christian churches decorated with unique frescoes depicting various scenes from the Bible. Time to shop Day 2: Cappadocia Sightseeing/Return Optional Hot Air Balloon tour. Depart from the hotel at 09.30–10.00 and visit Imagination Valley where animal-like natural formations such as camels and fairy chimneys are abundant. Drive on to Pasabagi in the Zelve region, where monks used to live in seclusion in rock cut caves. Proceed to the pottery town of Avanos where Kizilirmak (Hallys, the longest river in Turkey) meanders, leaving the red clay on its banks which has been the raw material of pottery for centuries. 11 at the local markets and stalls for the wellknown merits of the area. Transfer to the airport in Kayseri or Nevsehir for your onward flight. (B/L) Departs Daily touchdown tours Gulet Cruises 8 DAYS – 7 NIGHTS marmaris Day 1: Marmaris Dinner on board and overnight stay at Marmaris Port. (D) Day 2: Ekincik Gulf – Dalyan Move towards Ekincik Gulf. You will be taken from your yacht by a small boat called “piyade” and arrive at Caretta-Caretta (turtle) Beach where we will take a swimming break. A fishing village called Dalyan will be our final destination before we return to our yacht. Overnight in the Gulf of Ekincik. (B/L/D) Day 3: Oludeniz (Dead Sea)–Gemiler Island Travel to the world-famous Oludeniz Bay. Dinner and overnight stay will be in the Gemiler Strait. (B/L/D) Day 4: Turunc Pinari – Fethiye Cruise to Turunc Pinari for lunch and a swimming break. Arrive at Fethiye Harbour. Fethiye stretches in a half circle along the bay, protected by 12 Islands. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Fethiye Harbour. (B/L/D) Day 5: Gocek Gulf (Yassıca Islands)– Tersane Island–Bedri Rahmi Bay Cruise to world-famous Gocek Gulf. Anchor – fethiye – marmaris at Tersane Island for tea-time and swim break. This naturally protected harbour was used as the shipyard in Byzantine and Ottoman times. Anchor at Bedri Rahmi Bay. (B/L/D) • • • • • Day 6: Gocek Gulf (Manastir–Aga Limanı) Cruise to Manastir (Monastery) Bay. This place is also known as Cleopatra Bay or Sunken Bath Bay due to the beautiful underwater ruins of an old bath. Cruise to Aga Limani for dinner and anchor overnight. (B/L/D) Price Excludes: • Shore Excursions • Drinks • Customary tips to Cruise Crew Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily Welcome cocktail Fully qualified crew Harbor expenses Local VAT taxes Day 7: Kumlubuk – Cennet Island – Marmaris Cruise to Kumlubuk Bay. Anchor at Cennet Island for our last swimming break and lunch. Enter Marmaris Harbour by 4 pm. Guests may go to the city centre and experience the lively night life. (B/L/D) Day 8: Marmaris Guests will leave the boat with precious memories by 10:30am, after breakfast. Included Services • 3 or 7 nights accommodations aboard the yacht in double cabin • 4 or 8 days of cruising/sailing Mini Cruise 4 days 3 nights • Choose a shorter version of this cruise, Marmaris to Fethiye (day 1 – 4) or Fethiye to Marmaris (day 5 – 8). Turquoise Coast 11 days - 10 nights Day 1: Kusadasi Meet at Kusadasi Port. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the Aegean coast and overnight in Kusadasi. (B/D) Day 4: Pamukkale – Bodrum Drive to Bodrum to visit the Castle of St. Peter and the renowned Underwater Museum. Dinner and overnight in Bodrum. (B/D) Day 2: Ephesus & St.Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, explore 2,000 year-old marble streets, a theatre, the Library of Celsius, a gymnasium and Hadrian’s Temple. See St. Mary’s stone cottage. Visit a regional rug production centre. Join an optional afternoon tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 5: Bodrum – Marmaris Late morning departure to the foundations of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Dinner and overnight in Marmaris. (B/D) Day 3: Kusadasi – Pamukkale Visit Pamukkale, the Cotton Fortress with white lime cascades formed by hot mineral springs. Visit Hierapolis and enjoy a swim in your hotel’s thermal pool. (B/D) Day 7: Marmaris – Kalkan Arrive at Dalyan village and take a river boat to tour the famous mud baths with hot, sulphur springs. View the Ancient Kings’ Tombs of Caunos City. Continue and Day 6: Marmaris Enjoy a day at leisure in the lovely town of Marmaris. Or take an optional day tour to Rhodes. Dinner and overnight in Marmaris. (B/D) 12 overnight in Kalkan. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D) Day 8: Xanthos – Patara – Kalkan Visit the ancient cities Xanthos and Patara. Dinner and overnight in Kalkan. (B/D) Day 9: Kalkan – Myra – Antalya Visit the famous Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) in Demre and take boat trip to Kekova (Sunken City). (B/D) Day 10: Perge –Aspendos – Antalya Full day tour of the ancient Greek city of Perge and the famous Roman theatre in Aspendos. (B/D) Day 11: Antalya Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (B) touchdown tours WONDERS OF TURKEY 8 days - 7 nights Day 1: Antalya Arrival and transfer to hotel. Tonight meet fellow tour companions and your guide. Relax in the afternoon by the Mediterranean coast. (B/D) Day 2: Antalya Day at leisure with choices of Optional tours of Phaselis, a coastal ancient city or a lazy yacht cruise along the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. (B/D) Day 3: Antalya – Aspendos – Konya After breakfast depart for Konya. En route visit the famous theatre in Aspendos. Visit Mevlana Mausoleum and Karatay Koran School. Overnight in Konya. (B/D) Day 4: Konya – Cappadocia Morning departure for Cappadocia. Visit 13th Century Agzikarahan caravansary, the land of Fairy Chimneys. Visit the famous underground city of Sarhatli and a regional carpet production centre. Dinner in a local restaurant and overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 5: Cappadocia After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos, Pasabagi, Red Valley and have a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. (B/D) Day 6: Cappadocia – Ankara Morning departure to Ankara through the salt lake area. Afternoon tour of the Ataturk Mausoleum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum. (B/D) Day 7: Ankara – Istanbul After breakfast take a scenic drive to Istanbul. Afternoon Optional: Half day Bosphorus Cruise, including last minute shopping in the Spice Market. Farewell dinner. (B/D) Day 8: Istanbul Transfer to the airport. (B) Early Morning Optional: • Balloon Tour. Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves under the sunrise of Cappadocia. Evening Optional: • Day 4 Whirling Dervishes performance. 13 touchdown tours TURKISH EXPRESS 9 days - 8 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour includes: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Istanbul – Ankara Optional morning tour of St. Sophia and Bosphorus cruise. Afternoon departure for Ankara around 15:00 hrs(subject to change) and late arrival in Ankara. (B/D) Day 4: Ankara – Cappadocia Morning departure to view Hittite artefacts at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, father of modern Turkey. Drive to Cappadocia, touring a 13th Century caravan inn en route. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 5: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional: Balloon Tour. Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves with the sunrise of Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos,Pasabagi, Red Valley, and have a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 6: Cappadocia – Pamukkale Drive to Pamukkale. En route visit the famous mausoleum of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana. Drive to Pamukkale. Dinner and overnight. (B/D) Day 7: Pamukkale – Kusadasi Today is the day to pay an early morning visit to the unique Cotton Fortress, the white calcium cascades, and also one of the first modern spa centres of the ancient world, Hierapolis. Then drive to Kusadasi. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi. (B/D) Day 8: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Full day tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s Cottage. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi. Afternoon Optional: tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 9: Kusadasi Return Transfer to pier. (B) Note: • This program can also be combined with Louis Cruise Line 7 day Greek Island Cruise program to and from Istanbul. 14 touchdown tours GLORIES OF turkey & greece 16 days - 15 nights Day 1: Istanbul – Arrival Arrival and transfer to hotel for a welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour of Istanbul including Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Covered Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, before crossing the Dardanelles. Overnight in Canakkale. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Greek medical centre, Asclepion, in Pergamum and continue onto Kusadasi where you will overnight. (B/L/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage, where she spent the last years of her life. Afternoon Optional Tours to Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale, where you will see the famous white lime cascades. Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools at our hotel. (B/D) Day 7: Hierapolis – Marmaris Morning transfer to the southern resort city of Marmaris. Afternoon - at your leisure. (B/D) Enjoy the nightlife of Mykonos. Day 8: Marmaris – Rhodes Morning transfer to the port of Marmaris for hydrofoil trip to Rhodes, Greece. Arrive and transfer to your hotel and overnight. (B) Day 13: Mykonos Explore the many beaches of Mykonos and absorb the ambiance of this Cycladic Island during this day at leisure. (B) Day 9: Rhodes A day of leisure - you may visit Old Rhodes Town or take an Optional tour to the Acropolis of Lindos. (B) Day 14: Mykonos – Athens Morning is at your leisure. Board a ferry to Athens. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy an optional dinner with folk dancing or visit the quaint Plaka area. Day 10: Rhodes – Santorini Transfer to the airport for your flight to Santorini. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for overnight. Day 11: Santorini A free day to visit one of the many villages of Santorini, perched on top of the volcano, or enjoy a sun-soaked afternoon on the beach. (B) Day 12: Santorini – Mykonos Transfer to the pier for a hydrofoil or ferry ride to Mykonos. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. 15 Day 15: Athens Tour Athens’ famed Acropolis with its breathtaking view and renowned Parthenon, followed by a visit to the world famous New Acropolis Museum. On your own, explore the Plaka with its open-air taverns and traditional shops. (B) Day 16: Athens – Return After breakfast this morning, one of our colleagues will escort you to the airport for your onward flight. (B) touchdown tours BEST OF turkey & greece 11 days - 10 nights Day 1: Istanbul – Arrival Arrival and transfer to hotel for a welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour of Istanbul including Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Covered Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles. Overnight in Canakkale. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Medical Centre, Asclepion, in Pergamum and continue onto Kusadasi for overnight. (B/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage, where she spent the last years of her life. Afternoon Optional Tours to Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Ephesus – Greek islands Cruise After breakfast, transfer to the port and embark on your glorious cruise for 3 days around the spectacular Greek Islands. Cruise Line: Louis (Standard Inside Cabin Cat LA) (B/D) Day 7: Cruise – Rhodes Morning arrival in Rhodes, the island of Roses. Full day to explore on your own. Optional: sightseeing tours, or a taxi ride to one of many nearby beaches for a swim in the crystal clear Aegean waters. (B/L/D) Day 8: Cruise – Santorini – Heraklion Morning visit to Heraklion, Crete where you may discover the town on your own or join an optional excursion to the Palace of Knossos. Next stop - Santorini, where you are free to explore the land of the fabled Atlantis. (B/L/D) Day 9: Athens Disembarking from cruise and transfer to your Athens hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the sights of the bustling city of Athens, named after the ancient Greek Goddess, Athena. (B) Day 10: Athens Morning city tour of the world-famous 16 Acropolis with its spectacular views and site of the renowned Parthenon, followed by a visit to the New Acropolis Museum. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Athens. (B) Day 11: Athens Begin a Classical Tour of mainland Greece or transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B) touchdown tours AUTHENTIC ADVENTURE WITH OPTIONAL BLUE CRUISE EXTENSION - GROUP SIZE: APPROX. 8 TO 22 (MIN 2) historical and boutique hotels Our trip covers what is perhaps the most beautiful part of the Turkish Mediterranean coast, exploring classic sites and seascapes on easy walks. A relaxing and enjoyable holiday in quaint and historical towns with carefully selected hotels which have been restored with traditional, local architecture that is unique to each town or village. Shopping options include local rug cooperatives, a pottery making workshop, vineyards, onyx factories and first hand interaction with the local, friendly Turkish people. Day 1: Istanbul – Arrival You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the old part of Istanbul. Overnight at a historical hotel in the old city area of Istanbul. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Half-day sightseeing tour of St. Sophia and the Hippodrome. Afternoon - optional Bosphorus Cruise and Spice Market Tour. (B) Day 3: Istanbul Morning visit to Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Optional Tour : Tonight, join our Turkish dinner and enjoy local belly dancing and folk dancing entertainment. (B) Day 4: Gallipoli – Troy – Assos Morning departure for Gallipoli. En route, visit an old vineyard (Suvla Vineyard) and wine cellar where you will taste the famous Turkish wines. Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair. Head across the Dardanelles to Canakkale visiting Troy on the way. Continue onto Assos to enjoy dinner and stay overnight. (B/D) Day 5: Kusadasi via Pergamum Morning drive through the olive forests and stop by an olive museum. Later, visit an Ethnographical Museum in Tahta Kuslar (wooden birds) village. Enjoy lunch with the locals in a traditional village. Later the ancient Medical Centre Asclepius in Pergamum. Overnight in Kusadasi. (B/L/D) Day 6: Ephess – St. Mary’s Cottage Morning tour of the glorious ruins at Ephesus. Explore 2,000 year-old marble streets, theatres, the Library of Celsius, a gymnasium and Hadrian’s Temple. Take a short drive to see St. Mary’s stone cottage where she stayed later in life, accompanied by St. John. Continue to a regional rug production centre to have a first-hand experience of this unique art form. Optional tour: the traditional village of Sirince. Overnight in Kusadasi. (B/D) Day 7: Kusadasi - Cappadocia Early morning flight to Kayseri and then a short drive to the “moon-like” landscape of Cappadocia. Drive to Soganli Valley, inhabited since the earliest days of the Christian era and its churches with inscriptions giving the exact dates of construction. This has helped to provide scholars with valuable clues to help date other churches in Cappadocia. Soganli, like other valleys in Cappadocia, exemplifies the harmony between man and nature. Optional Tour: Whirling Dervishes Performance in an authentic cave setting. (B/D) Day 8: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional : Hot Air Balloon Tour. Experience floating above volcanic valleys, chimneys and caves as the sun rises over Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit the Byzantine-frescoed chapels at Goreme. Continue onto Ozkonak, see Pigeon Valley at Avcilar, the eight-storey underground city, as well as a local pottery making village, Avanos. Finally, visit the home of a traditional Turkish family. Dinner will be taken in a traditional local restaurant in Cappadocia (Cultural Museum Restaurant, built within an old Turkish home and incorporated in the Ethnographical Museum). Overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D) Day 9: Cappadocia - Antalya Set out for Antalya through the Taurus Mountains and visit Aspendos, the Roman City at the foot of the mountains, before heading onto Perge. Lunch is included and will be served in a casual style at a traditional village restaurant. Overnight in Antalya. (B/L/D) Day 10: Antalya Museum of Antalya, combined with a cruise on the old Roman Yacht Harbour. (B/D) Day 11: Myra – Finike - Kalkan Morning drive to Myra to visit the church, home to St. Nicholas and the ancient city of Myra. Overnight in Kalkan. (B/D) Day 12: Kalkan – Fethiye - Return Morning drive to Fethiye and visit Lycian tombs. Transfer to Dalaman Airport for your afternoon flight to Istanbul (flight ticket is not included – please contact Touchdown Tours for special fares). 17 Optional Blue Cruise Extension • Day 12: Kalkan – Fethiye Cruise An early morning drive to Fethiye to board the traditional Turkish vessel, known as the gulet at 10.30am. In the afternoon, visit the unique and beautiful islands before finally hoisting at Gocek Island. Lunch and swimming break then cruise to the Yassaca Islands to spend the night and cherish the wonderful scenery. (B/L/D) • D ay 13: Bedri Rahmi Bay – Domuz Island – Aga Limani Cruise After breakfast we will cruise to Bedri Rahmi Bay named after a famous Turkish artist who set voyage on one of the first “Blue Cruises” in Turkey. Head to Domuz Island for a swim and anchor in Aga Limani for dinner and overnight on board. (B/L/D) ay 14: Kumlubuk – Cennet Island – • D Marmaris Cruise Cruise to Kumlubuk Bay early in the morning. Breakfast will be served in Kumlubuk Bay. Anchor at Cennet Island for last swimming break and lunch. Enter Marmaris Harbour by 16.00. Overnight in Marmaris. Guests wishing to see more of Marmaris are recommended to go to the city centre and experience the lively nightlife. (B/L/D) • Day 15: Marmaris Disembark and transfer to Dalaman Airport. touchdown tours GLIMPSE OF THE EAST 14 days - 13 nights Day 1: Istanbul Arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2: Istanbul Full day tour to include: Topkapi Palace (excluding harem), Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Optional: Dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) unday departures in May, Sep and Oct will visit S St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul not during the full day tour of Istanbul, as it is closed on Mondays, but rather on the Tuesday before departing for Canakkale, Gallipoli area.) Day 3: Gallipoli – Dardanelles – Canakkale Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale for overnight. (B/D) Day 4: Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi Visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Before arriving in Asclepion, enjoy lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Then continue to visit the ancient Greek medical centre in Pergamum. Continue on to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/D) Day 5: Ephesus & St. Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage and visit a regional carpet production centre. Afternoon - optional tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6: Kusadası – Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale (white lime cascades). Visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools of your hotel. (B/D) Day 7: Pamukkale – Perge – Antalya Morning drive to Antalya, arrival at mid-noon. Visit the ancient city of Perge. Relax in the afternoon by the Mediterranean coast. (B/D) Day 8: Antalya: Optional Tour of Phaselis or Yacht Cruise Today is a free day with choices of optional tours of Phaselis, a coastal ancient city or a lazy yacht cruise along the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. (B/D) Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves with the sunrise of Cappadocia. After breakfast, visit Goreme, Avanos, Pasabagi, Red Valley and have a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. (B/D) Day 12: Cappadocia – Mt. Nemrut Departure at 8:30am from Göreme. Stop by the 13th Century Seljukian caravansarai Karatayhan. After lunch drive to Kahramanmaras and stop there to have the worldwide famous ice-cream in a cafe. Drive to Kahta and check- in to hotel. (B/D) Day 10: Konya – Cappadocia Morning departure for Cappadocia. On the way visit 13th Century Agzikarahan caravansarai, the land of Fairy Chimneys. Visit the famous underground city of Sarhatli. Local dinner in a restaurant and overnight in Cappadocia. Tonight Optional: Whirling Dervishes performance. (B/D) Day 13: S. Urfa & Harran Drive up to mountain is at 3 o’clock a.m. Climb the mountain to watch the sunrise between the colossal statues of the king and gods. After sunrise visit the ruins of Mt Nemrut. Free time to walk around then drive back to Kahta. Arsemia and a Roman bridge of Cendere and tumulus blackbird (Karakus) are also included. Arrival into Kahta to have breakfast and relax. Drive to Sanlıurfa city, Prophet Abraham’s cave and the pools of holy carp surrounding it. Head to Harran, a village of spellbinding mud-brick beehive houses where Abraham spent the last years of his life as mentioned in the book of Genesis. Overrnight in Sanlıurfa City. (B/L/D) Day 11: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional: Balloon Tour. Day 14: S. Urfa & Harran Transfer to Sanlıurfa or Gaziantep airport. (B) Day 9: Antalya – Aspendos – Konya After breakfast depart for Konya. En route visit the famous theatre in Aspendos. Visit Mevlana Mausoleum and Karatay Koran School. Overnight in Konya. (B/D) 18 TOUCHDOW N TOURS Turkish Odyssey 18 days - 17 nights Day 1 Sun: Istanbul Arrival. Meet and transfer to your hotel. Welcome briefing. Day 2 Mon: Istanbul Full day tour including a visit to Topkapi Palace Museum, residence of the Ottoman Sultans between the years 1453–1852 (excluding harem). Visit the Hippodrome, once the centre of life where chariot racing and other public events took place. Tour the Blue Mosque built between 1609 and 1616, famous for its blue ceramic tiles. Last stop is the famous Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest and oldest covered market with over 60 streets. Join an optional dinner with belly dancing entertainment. (B) Day 3 Tue: Istanbul – Gallipoli – Troy – Assos Morning departure for Gallipoli. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair. Cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale to visit Troy with its famous wooden horse. Continue to Assos for overnight. (B/D) Day 4 Wed: Assos – Pergamum – Kusadasi Breakfast. Departure for Pergamum. Arrival into Asclepion. Enjoy a lunch with locals in a traditional local village. Tour the ancient Greek medical centre, Asclepion in Pergamum and continue to Kusadasi for overnight. (B/L/D) Day 5 Thu: Ephesus & St.Mary’s House – Kusadasi Tour the famous ruins of the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, an important cultural centre of the ancient world. Explore 2,000 yearold marble streets, a theatre, the Library of Celsius, a gymnasium and Hadrian’s Temple. Take a short drive to see St. Mary’s stone cottage where it is believed the Virgin Mary spent her last years accompanied by St. John. Continue to a regional rug production centre to have a firsthand experience of this unique art form. Optional: Join an afternoon tour of Sirince. (B/D) Day 6 Fri: Kusadasi – Pamukkale Drive through lush valleys to Pamukkale, the Cotton Fortress with white lime cascades formed by hot mineral springs. Visit ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis and enjoy a swim in our hotel’s thermal pool. (B/D) Day 7 Sat: Pamukkale – Bodrum After breakfast drive to Bodrum to visit the Castle of St.Peter and the renowned Underwater Museum that was awarded the best Underwater Museum of the World in 2000s. Dinner and overnight in Bodrum. (B/D) Day 8 Sun: Bodrum – Marmaris After breakfast, late morning departure to see the ancient ruins at Halicarnassus, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Depart to Marmaris. Rest of the day at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Marmaris. (B/D) Day 9 Mon: Marmaris Enjoy a day at leisure in the lovely town of Marmaris or an optional day tour to Rhodes, Greece. Dinner and overnight in Marmaris. (B/D) Day 10 Tue: Marmaris – Kalkan After breakfast, depart for Dalyan. After arrival, take a river boat tour to the famous mud baths with sulphur hot springs. View the Ancient Kings’ Tombs of Caunos City. Finally have a relaxing swimming break at Iztuzu Beach (also known as Turtle Beach), which is a natural shelter and breeding site for Blue Crabs and nearly extinct Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta Caretta). Continue and overnight in Kalkan. Optional: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D) Day 11 Wed: Xanthos – Patara – Kalkan Visit the ancient cities Xanthos and Patara. Rest of the day at leisure. Optional: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Kalkan. (B/D) Day 12 Thu: Kalkan – Myra – Antalya After breakfast depart for Antalya. En route visit the famous Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) in Demre. Boat trip to Kekova (Sunken City), then continue to Antalya for dinner and overnight. (B/D) Day 13 Fri: Perge –Aspendos – Antalya Full day tour of the ancient Greek city of Perge and the famous Roman theatre in Aspendos. Dinner and overnight in Antalya. (B/D) Day 14 Sat: Antalya – Konya – Cappadocia Early morning departure for Cappadocia. En route visit the famous mausoleum of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana and the underground city of Saratli. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. (B/D). Optional: Join a Whirling Dervishes performance. Day 15 Sun: Cappadocia Early Morning Optional: Hot Air Balloon Tour. Experience floating through volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys and caves at sunrise. Breakfast. Visit Goreme, a historical region of Turkey, located among the rock formations, which was first settled back in the Roman period. Many rock churches can still be seen today, as Christianity was then the prevailing religion. Continue to the town of Avanos renowned for its high quality earthenware. Also visit Pasabagi, Red Valley and attend a brief regional pottery workshop in a cave. Dinner at a special local restaurant. (B/D) Day 16 Mon: Cappadocia – Ankara – Safranbolu Early morning departure to the capital city of Ankara through the salt lake area. En route visit a 13th Century caravanserai. Enjoy an afternoon tour of the Ataturk Mausoleum and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, a historic caravanserai, holding artefacts up to 7500 years old, including the most extensive and valuable collection of Hittite artifacts in the world. Continue to Safranbolu for dinner and overnight. (B/D) Day 17 Tue: Safranbolu – Istanbul After breakfast visit the old part of Safranbolu then continue to Istanbul. In the afternoon, join an optional half-day St. Sophia & Bosphorus cruise enjoying the strait that separates Asia and Europe. Its shores are lined with fine neighbourhoods, Ottoman palaces, fortresses, old wooden villas, hotels, parks and gardens, restaurants and cafés. Finish your last minute shopping at the Spice Market filled with the fragrances of the exotic east. Enjoy a farewell dinner. (B/D) Day 18 Wed: Istanbul Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (B) Trade reservations and enquiries: 488 High Street, Northcote VIC 3070 Tel: (03) 9482 5215 Fax: (03) 9482 5216 Toll Free: 1800 657 441 Email: [email protected] www.touchdowntours.com.au Conditions The following information is very important. Please read carefully. By paying your deposit, we understand that you have read and accept these conditions. RESPONSIBILITY: Touchdown Tours and/or their agents give DEPOSIT & BALANCE: A non-refundable deposit of $250 per person within 7 days of booking. Balance is due 45 days prior to departure from the country of origin. Reservations made within 30 days of departure require a guarantee of full payment at the time of booking. made by them are made by them as agents for the passenger, upon AIRFARES: Minimum $500 per person land/cruise content from Touchdown Tours brochures must be purchased to be eligible for wholesale fares. All airfare conditions must be adhered to. AIRLINE SCHEDULES: Airline’s schedules are subject to change with resultant changes in holiday itineraries and durations which could involve passengers in additional costs. PASSPORTS, VISAS, VACCINATIONS & BAGGAGE: Your travel agent will have full details of current requirements. These conditions change without notice and it is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure they comply with regulations. notice that all tickets, vouchers and coupons issued by them and all arrangements for transport, conveyance or hotel accommodation the express condition that they shall not be liable for any injury or damage which may be occasioned by reason of defect in any vehicle or through the acts of default of any vehicle, or through acts of default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger, or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour otherwise in connection therewith, or of any guest-house or hotel proprietor or employee. The aforesaid carrier and/or agents can accept no responsibility for losses or accidental expenses due to delay or changes in schedules, hotel overbooking or defaults, sickness, weather, strikes, war, quarantine or other causes. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passengers. Baggage is at owner’s risk throughout the tour. Small articles (coats, wraps, umbrellas etc.) are entirely under the care of the passengers. AMENDMENT FEES: Any amendment of itinerary by clients after acceptance will incur amendment fees. After full payment, changes will incur a fee of $75 per person in addition to any fees charged by suppliers. The right is reserved to decline to accept or return any person as a CANCELLATIONS: Written instructions only will be accepted to cancel reservations. Cancellations outside 45 days of departure: Deposit will be forfeited. Cancellations between 44 – 22 days of departure : 30% of the total booking, or full deposit, whichever is higher. Cancellations between 21 – 14 days of departure: 50% of the total booking, or full deposit, whichever is higher. Cancellations within 14 days or less of departure: 100% of the total booking. Above penalties are in addition to fees charged by suppliers. ground transportation, meals, sightseeing, luggage, tips and taxes, INSURANCE: We strongly recommend full insurance against cancelation charges, baggage loss, medical and other unforeseen expenses. UNUSED SERVICES: No refund is given for services not utilized. Hotels specified in the brochure may be altered for similar if necessary. NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE: All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry, beverages, excess baggage, gratuities etc. CRUISES: Fully air-conditioned cruise ships, all cabins with private facilities. Rates based on a minimum rate of two lower-berth inside cabins. Cruise company reserves the right to alter itineraries and/or change vessels should this become necessary without prior notice. Touchdown Tours will not be held accountable for such changes. member of any tour or to cancel the tour. All tours and arrangements in this brochure are subject to the General Conditions as specified by each individual supplier such as Touchdown Tours and pertaining to deposits and cancellations. Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, wines, mineral waters, passport fees, airport taxes etc. are not included in tour prices. Airlines are responsible only for the air travel portion of this programme in accordance with the terms and conditions of their individual passage contracts and are subject to applicable laws, treaties and regulations governing air transportation.The aforementioned conditions shall also apply in regard to any other means of transportation in connection with the programme. The usual passage contract is used by airlines and the passengers and, in purchasing a passage contract as part of this programme, the passenger acknowledges and accepts the foregoing conditions Airlines are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their aircraft. Passengers travelling on fares which have restricted conditions must at all times comply with these conditions. All prices quoted are current at the time of printing. Should the exchange rates fluctuate or ground/airline costs increase, you will be required to pay any such increase. Prior to departure. Printed May 2014.