Archive for Turkey – Page 7

A Week’s Escape on a Mediterranean Yacht (8 Days)

by kathy
February 28th, 2014

A Grand 8-Day Honeymoon Wishes Vacation
Including a 4-Day Mediterranean Gulet Cruise –
Thursday Arrival to Istanbul

Isn’t this the escape you really want?

Sailing on a Gulet

Sailing on a Gulet
By Aw58, via Wikimedia Commons

Just imagine! Thursday you arrive in Istanbul, and on Friday you’re on a private yacht cruising the Mediterranean. Yes! It’s that easy with our 8-day Turquoise Coast getaway. You’ll cruise for four days (three nights) aboard a comfortable, romantic gulet, the traditional wooden sailing vessel used for centuries along Turkey’s pine-fringed Mediterranean coast.

You’ll also spend four nights in exotic Istanbul to see its imperial palaces, world-class museums, chic restaurants, bazaars and boutiques. Your accommodations? An Ottoman-style mansion inn. We’ll even give you the award-winning Lonely Planet guidebook to Turkey.

Video by David Andrews

Tour

DAY 1 – Arrival Istanbul: Thursday
Arrive Istanbul Thursday or Friday, or choose your own arrival date subject to availability. Our local representative will meet you after you clear customs and passports formalities, and escort you to your hotel by the airport or downtown Istanbul.

Day 2 – ISTANBUL – BODRUM
Board your Gulet Cruise – Group Sailing – Friday (BD)
Breakfast at the hotel. Our local representative escorts you back to Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport and escorts you to the domestic terminal for your onward flight to Bodrum. Air fare is included in our rate (economy class), tax included. Bodrum was known in ancient times as Halicarnassus. Bodrum was once the capital of King Mausolus whose elaborate tomb, the Mausoleum, gave its name to all grand tombs which followed. Our staff drives you to the waterside Castle of St. Peter, built by the Crusaders in the early 1400s, where your yacht awaits you, moored beneath the castle walls. Step aboard and enjoy a welcome cocktail as you meet your captain and crew.

We will meet you with a private car/driver and a guide for an afternoon tour of Bodrum, after which we’ll return back to your gulet/yacht and the crew will be preparing the first of many delicious shipboard dinners for you. Settle in and relax: you’re a l-o-n-g way from any cares or worries here!

Day 3- KNIDOS – Saturday (BLD)
Weighing anchor at sunrise, we sail south through Gokova Bay passing close to the Greek island of Kos (Karaada) and around the Resadiye Peninsula to Knidos, famous in ancient times for its superb statue of Aphrodite sculpted by Praxiteles. We drop anchor in Knidos’s ancient harbor where you can swim, snorkel and relax where Agean waves meet with the Mediterrenean, or maybe go ashore for a tour of the ancient city (on your own). Return to the Gulet for dinner in Knidos where we remain anchored for the night.

Day 4- Mersincik, Orak Island– Sunday (BLD)
We continue our leisurely “Blue Voyage” to Mersincik. After lunch on board we continue our meandering route through these classical waters, stopping at Orak Island. The day will be filled with the pleasures of sun and sea: swimming, reading, relaxing, and enjoying a lazy shipboard lunch. Your yacht has everything you need for water sports: facemasks and flippers, sailboard, canoe and fishing tackle. We drop anchor for a calm night aboard, gently rocking in the pellucid waters of the Mediterranean.

Day 5- BODRUM & ISTANBUL – Monday (B)
Wonderfully refreshed by our voyage, we return to Bodrum harbor and tie up beneath the castle walls. Bidding farewell to our captain and crew, we drive to the airport for our flight to Istanbul, where we’ll be staying in a charming Ottoman mansion inn: Sultan Ahmet Palace, Avicenna, Arena or similar.

Day 6 – ISTANBUL– Tuesday (BL)
Let us show you the City of the Sultans! In the morning we tour the top sights including Topkapi Palace, Sancta Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Byzantine Hippodrome. After lunch, come with us for a shopping spree in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, with its 4000 shops. In the evening, use your Lonely planet guidebook to bone up on Turkish cuisine, and to locate a good little restaurant near the inn for a romantic candlelit dinner.

DAY 7- ISTANBUL – Wednesday (BL)
“Imperial Constantinople in the Belle Epoque”
(late 19th century), the exotic romance of the “Paris of the East”

Morning walking tour: We start with our guide in Karaköy where the foreign bankers and shipping companies had their headquarters, then take the Tünel up to istiklal Caddesi; stop in the whirling dervish tekke, and walk past the various old embassy buildings (now consulates), and point out the architecture. Stop for tea (included) at the famous Pera Palace Hotel.

Walk at least as far as Galatasaray Square, and have lunch in the Çicek Pasaji (Flower Passage); then walk up to Taksim Square and be picked up for the afternoon tour.

In the afternoon the tour visit Yildiz Palace Park and the Ihlamur Kasri, a mini-palace south of Yildiz, and finish up with a visit to the Military History Museum in Harbiye in time to hear the “Mehter,” or Ottoman military band (mid-afternoon).

Then go on a shopping spree at the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar. Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 8- RETURN HOME – Thursday (B)
Our local representative escorts you to the airport for your flight home, completely refreshed, and with memories to last for years. What a difference a week away can make!

RATES per person
Istanbul / Istanbul
Ottoman Mansion Boutique Style Hotels in Istanbul
Arena, Armada, Blue House or similar
For private Minimum 2 guests (supplement applies)

Apr – Oct
Double
US$ 2560
Single
US$ 4125

RATES per person
Istanbul / Istanbul
Five Star Deluce Hotels in Istanbul
Hyatt Istanbul, Conrad Istanbul or similar
For private Minimum 2 guests (supplement applies)

Apr – Oct
Double
US$ 3810
Single
US$ 5050

YOUR OWN PERSONAL YACHT
Two travelers can have their own private yacht, with no other passengers aboard, for a supplemental payment of $800 per person added to our normal gulet cruise rates.

 WHEN TO GO
You can get away to a Mediterranean yacht cruise any Thursday from mid-April through October, departing from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. Would you like a private yacht? We’ll be happy to arrange it, just for you, on any date. Also, please call us for discounted airfares from your home airport to JFK

BODRUM OR MARMARIS? Yachts may depart from either Bodrum or Marmaris, depending upon availability.


Your Mediterranean Yacht Escape Includes …

  • Private guided tour of Bodrum as per itinerary, including all entrance fees and lunch at a local restaurant including a large bottle of water, tea or coffer and one soft drink or fruit juice
  • Domestic airfares within Turkey, including all taxes
  • A 4-day (3-night) cruise aboard a Turkish gulet, staffed by a licensed captain and crew
  • Istanbul accommodation at an Ottoman-style inn or a stay in a hotel such as Conrad, Hyatt or similar, including continental breakfast, tax & service charges
  • All meals aboard the yacht, and other meals as listed (cB = continental breakfast; B = Breakfast; L = set-menu lunch; D = set-menu dinner).
  • All transfers ( private basis) in Turkey (between airport, hotel, yacht, etc.), including portage
  • Private guided sightseeing tour in Istanbul, as per itinerary including lunch at a local restaurant including a large bottle of water, tea or coffer and one soft drink or fruit juice
  • Admission fees for the listed tours of Istanbul and Bodrum

What’s not included …

  • Visa Fee: (procure yours online in advance of travel at www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ )
  • International air fare from / to your home country
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Gratuities to guides, drivers, captain and crew (at your discretion)
  • Meals and drinks not litsed above
  • Yacht / Gulet shore excursions, we’ll be glad to add them if you wish for an additional fee
The Ultra Deluxe M/S Myra Luxury Yacht Gulet

Click here for details, photos and spec’s
Total cost for Charter for one week (exclusive use for you and your party): $10,100 USD – subject to change depending on the season. Half board is an additional $600 USD per person for the one week.

Why Turkey for your honeymoon or special anniversary?

Romance! Sultans, palaces, a sumptuous culture and cuisine, and a warm welcome. Fascinating ancient-modern cities, broad sandy beaches, beautiful mountains—lots to see and do…and beautiful places to do nothing at all, if that’s your preference. Turkey is the 6th most popular travel destination in the world with top-class hotels and services, and an honestly warm welcome for travelers on honeymoon (“balayi” in Turkish). Istanbul, Biblical Ephesus, and the Turkish Riviera along the Mediterranean coast are the most popular honeymoon destinations. Imagine: Aphrodisias, City of the Goddess of Love, and the Temple of Apollo at Sidé where Anthony and Cleopatra met for a romantic tryst! Travel in Style can help you plan your Turkish Delightful trip in every detail.

Add a Hamam / Spa Experience to your tour

Add a Hamam / Spa Experience to your tour

Categories gulet group, Turkey

Your Own Private Gulet Yacht

by kathy
February 28th, 2014

Cruising the Turkish
Mediterranean Riviera

Fishing from a Gulet

When you reserve your cabin on one of our Turkish gulets, you will share the yacht with other travelers who have also reserved cabins. If you’d rather have a yacht all to yourself, we’ll make it easy for you.

Video by borasamman

YOUR OWN PERSONAL YACHT
Two travelers can have their own private yacht, with no other passengers aboard, for a supplemental payment of $ 800 per person added to our normal gulet cruise rates.

A PRIVATE YACHT FOR FOUR
Organize a group of four travelers, and we will provide your group with a private gulet exclusively for the four of you — no other passengers will be aboard. You’ll love the extra room and privacy! We’ll even throw in private airport transfers by private, chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned car or minivan at no extra charge. Also, you can plan your departure for any day; it needn’t be on a Thursday or a Friday. The supplement for this service is US$ 800 per person added to our normal rates.

FOR SIX? EVEN BETTER!
If you organize your own group of six travelers, we’ll give you all the same services as “A Private Yacht for Four,” but you need pay only our regular rates — you need not pay any supplement at all!

Your Own Private Gulet Yacht

Surgun D Gulet
Yaselam Gulet
Palmyra Gulet
Sardunya Gulet
The Ultra Deluxe M/S Myra
Categories Turkey

About Turkish Gulets

by kathy
February 28th, 2014
Gulet, a two-masted cruise ship; Bodrum, Turkey By Georges Jansoone, via Wikimedia Commons

Gulet, a two-masted cruise ship; Bodrum, Turkey
By Georges Jansoone, via Wikimedia Commons

The gulet (goo-LEHT) is a Turkish coastal motor-sailer handcrafted of wood by master boatbuilders in the traditional fashion. The original design has been adapted to accommodate passengers in ample comfort, and all systems have been modernized. These boats are not sleek racing craft, but broad, comfortable, picturesque cruising yachts, with plenty of deck space for reading, relaxing, chatting, dining and dozing.

YACHT DESIGN
Our gulets are 60 to 80 feet long and 15 to 18 feet wide, with four to eight double cabins for passengers, and separate crew’s quarters. A four-cabin gulet can accommodate six to eight passengers; a six-cabin gulet eight to ten passengers; an eight-cabin gulet 12 to 14 passengers.

There’s a large interior salon with a kitchen and bar towards the stern, and meals are served on the roomy stern deck, shaded by a broad sailcloth awning. The sails are unfurled whenever the winds are suitable, and the powerful but quiet diesel engine guarantees dependable cruising speeds at all times. Each yacht is equipped with VHF ship-to-shore radios and modern navigational aids and equipment.

Master boatwrights craft a new gulet.

Master boatwrights
craft a new gulet.

CAPTAIN & CREW
Each yacht is under the command of a licensed, experienced captain, assisted by one or two crew members and a skilled cook. The number of crew members depends upon the number of passengers.

PRIVATE CABINS
Each double cabin has double bed, a bathroom with shower and toilet, and 12/24-volt electricity. A limited number of cabins can be modified to accommodate single beds (an upper bunk is inserted).

CLIMATE CONTROL
Our yachts depend upon sea breezes (not air conditioning) for cooling. Sleeping on the ample decks is an attractive option anytime, but may only be necessary for comfort on a few exceptionally warm nights in August and early September.

WEATHER
No one can guarantee the weather, but in general, you’ll find these Mediterranean conditions on the western Turquoise Coast in the region of Bodrum and Marmaris:

May, June & October: warm to hot days, cool and pleasant evenings, cool but refreshing water temperatures for swimming and water sports, rain and cloudy days unlikely except in early May and mid to late October.

July, August & September: bright, sunny, hot and sometimes humid days, warm evenings, warm water for swimming, virtually no rain, occasional clouds passing.

YOUR FELLOW PASSENGERS
When you reserve a cabin for one or two travelers on one of our Turkish gulet cruises, you will share the yacht with other travelers who have reserved cabins.

YOUR OWN PRIVATE YACHT
If you would prefer a private yacht just for yourselves (or for your group), we’ll make it easy for you to have. See [Your Own Private Yacht.]

Transfers: It takes 2 hours and 20 minutes between Kas and Dalaman Airport.
Between Dalaman Airport and Marmaris it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.
As a thank-you gift for your paid trip reservation, we will send you a  copy of “Turkey: Bright Sun, Strong Tea,” a humorous travel memoir  written by Tom Brosnahan, one of America’s most prominent travel  writers. Brosnahan has written travel guidebooks to Morocco, Tunisia,  Egypt, Israel and Turkey, so he knows the Mediterranean well. “Bright  Sun, Strong Tea” is the story of his discovery of this wonderful area,  and how he came to write so many guidebooks about it. It’s perfect on-the-plane or end-of-the-day travel reading, and we’ll send it to you with our compliments. To read excerpts of the book, or to order additional autographed copies, click here.

Surgun D Gulet
Yaselam Gulet
Palmyra Gulet
Sardunya Gulet
The Ultra Deluxe M/S Myra
Categories Turkey

Grand Tour of Croatia
and a Foray Into Istanbul

by kathy
February 24th, 2014

Mediterranean Honeymoon Wish Tour

All in 14 Days – This is a Private Tour
Choose Your Own Arrival Date

Couple Enjoying their honeymoon in Croatia

A private tour featuring highlights of Istanbul, the city of Sultans, as well as highlights of the true Mediterranean paradise of Croatia — touring Mostar, Split, Zadar and Sarajevo; Osijek, Zagreb, Plitvice and Dubrovnik. This tour includes a private guide and private air-conditioned vehicles.

Tour

DAY 1: ISTANBUL – Daily – Private Tour – Choose Your Own Dates
Our local rep. will meet your flight or cruise line (Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises or other Mediterranean cruises), and escort you to your boutique Ottoman style hotel: Arena, Blue House, Sultanhan or similar.

Our representative, who sees you to your hotel, will be happy to answer any questions you may have about getting to know the city. As you ride into the great metropolis from the airport two thousand years of history are revealed: towering Roman walls, ancient Byzantine churches, and slender minarets framing the bulbous domes of graceful mosques. These ancient monuments float on the skyline of a bustling modern metropolis of ten million people. A welcome fruit basket in your room awaits you with our compliments.

DAY 2: ISTANBUL (BL)
The center of ancient Constantinople and Istanbul was on Seraglio Point framed by the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. We will visit the Blue Mosque which was built by Sultan Ahmet III to challenge the architectural primacy of neighboring Sancta Sophia. We then walk next door to compare achievements in Justinian’s great Sancta Sophia. Right behind Sancta Sophia is our next stop, sumptuous Topkapi Palace – the sultans seraglio for centuries, filled with breathtaking exhibits of priceless jewels, golden thrones, delicate colored tiles, and lavish court costumes. After lunch in a local restaurant we finish up in the bustling Grand Bazaar where you can find jewelry, carpets, goat-hair rugs, hand-painted ceramics, copper and brass in labyrinthine streets holding nearly 4000 shops.

DAY 3: BOSPHORUS (BL)
Istanbul’s history was formed by the Bosphorus, the winding strait that separates Europe and Asia, connecting the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Now, as in ancient times, it is a maritime vital link between the countries bordering the Black Sea and those of the rest of the world. Today we take a leisurely cruise northward along this historic waterway. Along its shores are ranged palaces great and small – Topkapi, Dolmabahçe, Beylerbeyi, Küçüksu, and Hünkar Iskelesi. Four great fortresses rise on the hills, reminding us that to control the Bosphorus was to control the destinies of nations. Our afternoon cruise (morning cruise for the October-April season) of two continents, crossing from Europe to Asia and back, includes visits to the Navy’s Museum (our focus is to marvel at  some of the magnificent Imperial boats used by the Ottoman Sultans), the Bosphorus Bridge, Çamlica Hill lookout, and stupendous Dolmabahçe Palace. Lunch is included at a charming local restaurant. Hotel room amenity: Complimentary Turkish Lokoom pastries.

DAY 4: ISTANBUL – DAY AT LEISURE  (B)
Istanbul is all yours. A full day at leisure, any way you like it. Grab your  guidebook to Istanbul and stroll along the restored 19th-century thoroughfare of Istiklal Caddesi, once known as the Grand Rue de Péra. Search for spices and folk remedies in the Egyptian Bazaar. Admire the medieval mosaics in the city’s many Byzantine churches. Shop in the chic boutiques around Taksim Square. Climb the Galata Tower, built by the Genoese six centuries ago, for a panoramic view of Old Istanbul.

Day 5: ISTANBUL BELLE EPOQUE (BL)
Cooking class then tour: “Imperial Constantinople in the Belle Epoque” (late 19th century), the exotic romance of the “Paris of the East” (BL)

Cooking Class in IstanbulThis morning we’ll venture where few ordinary visitors ever tread… Cooking Ala turka: Half-day Turkish cooking classes and restaurant. Learn how to cook authentic Turkish foods in-between visiting Istanbul’s many sights. Classes are generally held from 10:30 to 14:30. We prepare five typical Turkish dishes in a group of 6-10 persons and then have them for lunch in our restaurant. You will have aprons at your disposal and you will get the recipes to take with you. Private classes are held as well (supplement applies). For private groups, evening classes can be considered as well, starting at 16:30, with dinner served from 19:00 to 21:00: Cooking with Chef Eveline Zoutendijk.

Later in the day there will be a walking tour. We start with our guide in Karaköy where the foreign bankers and shipping companies had their headquarters, then take the Tünel up to istiklal Caddesi; stop in the whirling dervish tekke, and walk past the various old embassy buildings (now consulates), and point out the architecture. Stop for tea (included) at the famous Pera Palace Hotel. Walk at least as far as Galatasaray Square, and the Çicek Pasaji (Flower Passage); then walk up to Taksim Square and be picked up for the tour  of : Yildiz Palace Park and the Ihlamur Kasri, a mini-palace south of Yildiz, and back to your hotel.

DAY 6: ISTANBUL – Dubrovnik (BD)
There are many more things to see and do in this fascinating city, but they will have to wait for your next visit. After breakfast, our local representative will escort you to the airport for your flight to Dubrovnik –until next time! Air fare from Istanbul to Dubrovnik is included in our rate in economy class with tax.

Arrive Dubrovnik: Our local-based local rep. will meet you at the international airport, assist you with the formalities, and see you to your charming and comfortable hotel. Check in, relax, then take a stroll through the lively streets. Browse for treasures and curios, savour a coffee or aperitif at a terrace café, or enjoy a fine meal in one of the old districts. Dinner is included tonight and overnight in Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik area.

DAY 7: Dubrovnik – Mostar – Sarajevo (BD)
Morning departure to Mostar, city of bridges, where the travellers from the south reaches the first glimpses of the continent beyond. Orientation walk with your tour leader in Mostar and free time for lunch. Departure to Sarajevo, the Capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo is one of the most historically interesting cities in Europe. It is the place where the Western & Eastern Roman Empire split; where the people of the Eastern Orthodox east, the Ottoman south and the Roman Catholic west met, lived and warred. It has been an example of historical turbulence and the clash of civilizations, as well as a beacon of hope for peace and tolerance through multi-cultural integration. City tour of Sarajevo upon arrival. Dinner and overnight in Sarajevo/Sarajevo area.

DAY 8: Sarajevo – Osijek (BD)
Morning departure to Osijek, the largest city in eastern Croatia, beautifully settled on the banks of Drava river. Osijek remains a popular tourist destination for its Baroque style, open spaces and ample recreational opportunities. The abundance of game and agriculture has made Osijek the country’s semi-official gastronomical capital. City tour of Osijek includes the Cathedral and the Tvrdja (Old Fort). Dinner and overnight in Osijek/Osijek area.

DAY 9: Osijek – Zagreb (BD)
Morning departure to Djakovo. The first thing you see when approaching Djakovo from either side is the brightness of the bricks of the two towers and cupolas of the most beautiful cathedral in the area from Venice to Istanbul. After the visit, departure towards Zagreb followed by a visit to the Etno Village of Stara Kapela for a snack (no drinks included). Upon arrival go on a sightseeing tour of Zagreb, the Croatian capital city, during which you will have the occasion to see the fortified Upper Town, the city’s historical center, St Mark’s church with multi-colored roof, the Cathedral, Croatian National Theatre and University. Dinner and overnight in Zagreb/Zagreb area.

DAY 10:  Zagreb – Plitvice – Zadar – Thursday (BD)
Morning departure to Plitvice National Park, inscribed on the List of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Tour of the 16 crystal – blue lakes cascading into 92 spectacular waterfalls. Walk on the wooden promenades to view majestic waters where every turn leads to a breathtaking scenery and yet another waterfall. Surrounded by dense woods Plitvice lakes are a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. Departure to Zadar. Dinner and overnight in Zadar/Zadar area.

Video by pacificmovies

DAY 11: Zadar – Split (BD)
After breakfast go on a guided tour of Zadar through the Roman Forum from the 2nd century BC, passing by the 9th century pre-Romanesque church of St. Donatus as well as St. Anastasia church. Departure to Trogir.
Lunch break in Trogir. Departure to Split. Upon arrival, city tour of Split, covering the Diocletian’s Palace inscribed on the UNESCO’s List of World Cultural Heritage, the Peristyle, Jupiter’s Temple and the Cathedral. Dinner and overnight in Split/Split area.

DAY 12: Split – Dubrovnik (BD)
Morning departure to Dubrovnik, driving along the Makarska Riviera. Upon arrival, city tour of Dubrovnik, inscribed on the List of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO with the visit of the Cathedral./no entrance to Treasury/
Dinner and overnight in Dubrovnik/ Dubrovnik area.

DAY 13: Dubrovnik (B)
Breakfast is always included at the hotel. Full day at leisure to explore Dubrovnik as you wish on your own.

DAY 14: Dubrovnik – departure (B)
Transfer to Dubrovnik airport. Bon Voyage! Happy to add extra days in Dubrovnik upon request.

Rates are per person in USD $
Sample Hotels (or similar): Three and Four star hotel accommodation, listed below.

Triple Occupancy
 In double occupancy. In single occupancy.
USD $ 6265.
USD $ 6375.
USD $ 7425.

Rate includes:

  • Meals as indicated, with preset menu (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
  • Air fare between Croatia and Turkey, in economy class tax included.
  • Local private guided sightseeing in Istanbul and Croatia as per itinerary including all entrance fees.
  • All airport transfers always with a private air-conditioned vehicle and a private chauffeur.
  • Accommodations with breakfast (B) as indicated below, or at comparable properties, according to availability. Three and four star hotels (or similar):
    • Dubrovnik – Hotel Argosy or Tirena
    • Sarajevo (BiH) – Grand hotel Sarajevo
    • Vukovar – Hotel Lav
    • Zagreb – Hotel Astoria
    • Zadar – Hotel Porto or Donat
    • Split – Hotel Katarina, Radisson Blu Split Hotel or Dalmina Hotel Split, or similar.

Not Included:

  • International air transportation from/to your country
  • Any meal not specifically mentioned
  • Beverages, and personal expenses
  • Gratuities for local personnel
  • Travel insurance
  • Airport taxes
  • Croatia visa fee when/if required for Croatia (depending on your nationality)
  • Turkey Visa Fee: in cash upon arrival,or from any of the Turkish Consulates
Categories Croatia, Turkey

From Istanbul to Venice Tour

by kathy
February 24th, 2014

Your Adriatic Vacation Includes
Croatia – Venice – Istanbul – Bosnia and Slovenia

A Grand 17 day tour
from Istanbul, Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split
Plitvice Lakes and Ljubljana to Venice

This is a Group Tour
Sebilj fountain in the center of Baš?aršija square, Sarajevo. Photo by Daniel Wabyick, San Francisco, via Wikimedia Commons.

Sebilj fountain in the center of Baš?aršija square, Sarajevo.
Photo by Daniel Wabyick, San Francisco, via Wikimedia Commons.

Tour

DAY 1: ISTANBUL – Tour starts Weekly In Istanbul – Thursday ( May – Oct)
Our local rep. will meet your flight or cruise line (Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Crystal Cruises or other Mediterranean cruises), and escort you to your hotel in Istanbul: Crystal Hotel or similar (First class 4-star).

DAY 2: ISTANBUL – Friday (BLD)
We dive right into this fascinating city with visits to its top sights: Topkapi, the palace of the Sultans for centuries; Hagia Sophia, the greatest church in Christendom for a thousand years; the Blue Mosque, with its exquisite blue tiles; the Byzantine Hippodrome, scene of chariot races and gladiator combat and the eerie Sunken Palace cistern beneath it. Then we will go on a shopping spree at the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Grand Bazaar in Instanbul

Grand Bazaar in Instanbul

Day 3: Istanbul / Zagreb – Saturday (BD)
Our local rep. will escort you to the Istanbul airport for your flight to Zagreb (Istanbul / Zagreb air fare is included in economy class with taxes). Breakfast is included, of course, at your hotel in Istanbul. Upon arrival in Zagreb, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The the remainder of the day is at leisure. Evening welcome dinner at the hotel in Zagreb (D = Dinner).

Day 4: Zagreb – Sunday
A morning sightseeing tour will take you along the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the winding streets of the old town or take an optional excursion to the countryside. (B = Continental or buffet breakfast)

Day 5: Zagreb to Sarajevo – Monday
Journey south out of Croatia to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After checking in at the hotel, relax and enjoy dinner. (B, D)

Day 6: Sarajevo to Dubrovnik – Tuesday
Sarajevo has been influenced by a number of cultures and civilizations. On your city tour visit the picturesque Turkish bazaar “Bas Carsija”, the Husref Bay’s Mosque, Olympic Stadium and Sarajevo Gavrilo Princip Museum. Then continue your trip through the mountains and along the gorge of the Neretva River to Mostar. Here you will  see the remains of the Turkish quarter and the reconstruction efforts to the 16th century stone bridge. Travel on to Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Video by yurmovies

Day 7: Dubrovnik – Wednesday
There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this morning: the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 8: Dubrovnik, excursion to Montenegro – Thursday
Travel to the Republic of Montenegro. Head towards the mouth of the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in Southern Europe. See the little towns of Risan and Kotor. Then proceed to Cetinje, once the seat of Montenegrin rulers, today a city-museum. After the sightseeing in Cetinje, travel to the coast for a short stop in the villages of Sveti Stefan and Budva before returning to Dubrovnik.(B)

Day 9: Dubrovnik to Split – Friday
Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages and new resorts, to Split. Enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 10: Split to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes – Saturday
After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic activities. Scholars from around the world gather to study and paint here. Then turn inland and journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park. (B, D)

Day 11: Plitvice Lakes – Sunday
A full day to enjoy Plitvice National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Have your camera ready and take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder with 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 12: Plitvice Lakes to Opatija, Postojna to Ljubljana – Monday
Return to the coast to the beautiful bay of Kvarner and its popular resort, Opatia. An orientation tour of Opatia will present the highlights of this former Imperial resort city. After your visit here, drive across the border into Slovenia to Postojna Caves, home to one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train. Afterwards, continue to Ljubljana for dinner and overnight. (B,D)

Day 13: Ljubljana – Bled Castle – Tuesday
Morning tour of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Here, view the Central open-air Market, Baroque Town Hall, Robba’s Fountain, the Three Bridges and the Parliament. Followed by the sightseeing tour of Lake Bled features the charming town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle perched on a cliff high above the lake. Return to Ljubljana in the evening. (B)

map of Croatia

Day 14: Ljubljana, Trieste to Venice, Italy – Wednesday
Leave Ljubljana, driving south to Trieste, Italy for orientation tour and visit to Miramare Castle and its park. The Castle was built by the Hapsburg Monarchy and is situated on the cliff overlooking Adriatic Sea. Then continue on to the marvelous city of Venice. (B)

Day 15: Venice, Italy – Thursday
Today begins with a walking tour of Venice featuring the major highlights: St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower and the Bridge of Sighs. The tour ends with a visit to a glass blowing factory where you may see the demonstration of a traditional Venetian glass blowing. Balance of the day is at leisure. In the afternoon enjoy Venice at your own pace — shop or join an optional gondola ride. Farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 16: Venice – Friday
After breakfast enjoy Venice on your own as you wish. Full day at leisure to explore Venice or the neighboring islands on your own. (B)

Day 17: Departure – Venice – Saturday
After breakfast we drive to Venice airport for your flight home, Bon Voyage! (B)

Capanile Tower Venice

Capanile Tower Venice

Sample Hotels – or similar:

  • Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
  • Split: Atrium (F)
  • Plitvice: Jezero (F)
  • Zagreb: Westin (DLX) / Regent Esplanade (DLX = Deluxe)
  • Sarajevo: Hotel Europa (F)
  • Bled: Park (F) / Golf Hotel (SF)
  • Ljubljana: Union (F)
  • Venice: Bauer “Palladio Hotel & Spa” (DLX)
Rates are per person in USD
Triple Occupancy
In double occupancy.
In single occupancy.
USD $ 4301.
USD $ 4435.
USD $ 5508.


Rate includes:

  • Air fare between Istanbul and Zagreb, economy class with taxes. Ticket issued and delivered in Istanbul.
  • Local guided sightseeing as per itinerary including all entrance fees.
  • All airport transfers.
  • All listed touring, always using deluxe air-conditioned motor coach.
  • Accommodations with breakfast (B) as indicated, or at comparable properties, according to availability: First class hotels, rooms with private facilities, with service charges and hotel taxes
  • Breakfast (B) daily and listed pre-set menu dinners (D).
  • Professional Tour Director throughout.
  • Luggage handling

Not Included:

  • International air transportation from/ to your country
  • Any meal not specifically mentioned
  • Beverages, and personal expenses
  • Gratuities for local personnel
  • Travel insurance
  • Airport taxes
  • Any visa fee when /if required
Categories Croatia, Italy, Turkey

Turkey

by kathy
April 12th, 2013

Turkey, with its dramatic landscapes and disarmingly friendly people, is a land almost twice as large as California, located in the same latitudes, but washed by the warm waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Rolling steppe land and fertile river valleys are rich with fruits and nuts, wheat and corn, and plump melons. Mountain peaks are capped by perpetual snows.

You’ve decided to go on your adventure to Turkey, but you want to choose your own dates and travel style. Of course! These tours are samples of what we can offer you. Feel free to change them however you wish: change the itinerary, stay longer—or less—in a destination, and add a special-interest activity to suit your dreams for a honeymoon, graduation, anniversary, birthday, family vacation or special occasion. As for style, that’s our name. Choose your comfort level, from private transfers and 5-star hotels to ultra-luxury. We know what you’ll like, and how to arrange it.
On some trips, you may want the companionship of other travelers whose interests are similar to yours. You share experiences, compare notes, and make new friends, adding to the overall value of your travel experience. When you arrive in Turkey your private car and driver will take you to your hotel and, at the end of your adventure, he’ll return you to the airport for your homeward flight. In Turkey, we can arrange deluxe motorcoach tours for you with like-minded travelers so you’ll have company on your adventure. Even with a high level of comfort and service, rates for our group tours are advantageous. When we travel, we all want to meet the local people. We can even arrange tours during which you will get to know the Turks by traveling with them. We make all the arrangements, and you travel to some sites on the luxurious motorcoaches that are the backbone of Turkey’s intercity transport system. Your English-speaking guide will translate and interpret for you so you can understand and get to know your fellow travelers—and they you. This kind of close-up cultural experience is our most affordable tour option.
Everyone dreams of the perfect getaway. We think this is it: you board your flight and within hours you’re on a spacious, comfortable private yacht on the sparkling Mediterranean after a refreshing swim, as the crew pours drinks and prepares dinner. We call it our 8-day Turquoise Coast Getaway: five days and four nights cruising Turkey’s pine-fringed Mediterranean coast, stopping to explore Greek and Roman ruins or traditional fishing villages, swimming and fishing, reading, relaxing, chatting and dining. Choose your port of embarcation from among Turkey’s best: Bodrum, Marmaris, Kas, Fethiye and more. Add a few days in Istanbul or another Turkish destination if you like—just ask!
For those with sufficient time, we offer a doubly-rich feast of art, culture and adventure: the delights of Turkey and the beauties and mysteries of Egypt. Visit the palaces of the sultans and the temples of the pharaohs. Cruise the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Nile. Sample the cuisines of Istanbul and Cairo. There may be no travel adventure more rich in art, architecture, history and scenes of romantic beauty than this. And when you Travel in Style, you follow in the footsteps of the noble adventurers of the past.
Turkey and Greece are united by the Aegean Sea. It washes their shores and offers a maritime highway between them. Great peoples have sailed the Aegean for millennia, sharing their arts, cultures and cuisines. You can do the same on our Turkey and Greece Tours, comparing and contrasting these Mediterranean neighbors, realizing that if any place has been the meeting-place of cultures, it is here: Athens, Istanbul, the Greek Islands, Ephesus, and more.
A private ultra deluxe 14 day tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus and the legendary lost city of Petra. Meet artisans and learn their crafts, hike through striking landscapes, and explore the deep history, art, culture and society of biblical Anatolia, Cappadocia; the treasures of Istanbul; Ephesus, Wadi Rum, Petra and more.
Come with us for an adventure to the top sights of Israel, Palestine and Turkey.
Port Trips, Cruise Shore Excursions and Mediterranean Luxury Day Tours. Your cruise company may provide a memorable experience while cruising, but shore excursions may be another matter. Upgrade to our private shore excursion tours for a superior experience. After landing formalities, you’ll see your name displayed by your driver, who will escort you to your private car, introduce you to your guide, and you’ll be off on an exclusive adventure, returning to your ship with stories of sights and experiences others cannot match.
House of the Virgin Mary

House of the Virgin Mary.

FREE: Visit the House of Virgin Mary and St. John’s Basilica
Add a visit to The Virgin Mary’s House/Church, near Selçuk (Seljuk) – Ephesus, to your tour program. There is no additional charge, and this optional addition also includes St. John’s Basilica. Click here for more information.
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey
Why Turkey for your honeymoon or special anniversary?
Romance! Sultans, palaces, a sumptuous culture and cuisine, a warm welcome. Fascinating ancient-modern cities, broad sandy beaches, beautiful mountains—lots to see and do…and beautiful places to do nothing at all, if that’s your preference. Turkey is the 6th most popular travel destination in the world, with top-class hotels and services, and an honestly warm welcome for travelers on honeymoon (“balayi” in Turkish). Istanbul, Biblical Ephesus, and the Turkish Riviera along the Mediterranean coast are the most popular honeymoon destinations. Imagine: Aphrodisias, City of the Goddess of Love, and the Temple of Apollo at Sidé where Anthony and Cleopatra met for a romantic tryst! Travel in Style can help you plan your Turkish Delightful trip in every detail.
Categories Turkey
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