QUOTE
Turkish Treasures: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Landscapes
Prepared for:
Carolyn Grainger
Proposal Date: August 19, 2024
Valid until: September 19, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to plan your trip
Experience the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Turkey on this two-week journey. From the ancient wonders of Istanbul to the breathtaking scenery of Cappadocia and the sun-soaked beaches of Antalya, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Turkey’s diverse heritage. Explore iconic landmarks, enjoy local traditions, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this captivating country. Whether it’s soaring over fairy-tale landscapes in a hot air balloon or strolling through bustling bazaars, this trip promises unforgettable memories at every turn.
Activities & Attractions
Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque: Explore iconic religious landmarks, rich in history and architecture.
- Grand Bazaar & Spice Market: Discover vibrant markets with a variety of local goods.
- Topkapi Palace: Visit the historic palace of Ottoman sultans.
- Basilica Cistern: Explore the underground water reservoir with impressive columns.
- Suleymaniye Mosque: Visit one of Istanbul’s largest and most beautiful mosques.
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: Enjoy scenic views of Istanbul from the water.
- Dolmabahce Palace: Tour the lavish palace that was home to Ottoman sultans.
- Bosphorus Boat Tour: Take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
Cappadocia
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience breathtaking views of Cappadocia’s unique landscape at sunrise.
- Göreme Open-Air Museum: Explore ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes.
- Underground Cities: Discover the ancient subterranean cities, like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli.
Antalya
- Perge: Visit the ancient ruins of a significant Roman city.
- Düden Waterfalls: Explore the scenic waterfalls located near Antalya.
- Aspendos & Side: Day trip to explore ancient Roman sites, including a well-preserved theater.
- Turkish Bath (Hammam): Experience a traditional Turkish bath for relaxation.
Kusadasi/Ephesus
- Ephesus Ruins & House of Virgin Mary: Visit one of the best-preserved ancient cities and a significant religious site.
- Sirince Village: Explore a charming village known for its wine and traditional houses.
Istanbul with family
- University Visit.
Trip Details
Accommodations
10 people in the group, and assuming a mix of double and triple rooms:
- Double Rooms: 3 rooms (for 6 people)
- Triple Rooms: 2 rooms (for 4 people)
- Istanbul: 5 nights, 4-star central hotel
- Cappadocia: 2 nights, boutique cave hotel
- Antalya: 3 nights, beachfront resort
- Kusadasi: 2 nights, seaside hotel
- Istanbul (Return): 2 nights, same 4-star hotel
Meals
- Istanbul: Daily breakfast at hotel, select dinners included (e.g., welcome dinner, farewell dinner)
- Cappadocia: Breakfast at hotel, 1 traditional dinner included
- Antalya: Breakfast at hotel, 1 seaside dinner included
- Kusadasi: Breakfast at hotel, 1 sunset dinner included
- Istanbul (Return): Breakfast at hotel, 1 family dinner included
Lunches: On your own, with recommendations provided for local spots.
Transportation
- Ottawa to Istanbul: Flight via Toronto
- Istanbul to Cappadocia: Domestic flight
- Cappadocia to Antalya: Domestic flight
- Antalya to Kusadasi (Ephesus): Domestic flight to Izmir, then transfer
- Kusadasi to Istanbul: Domestic flight
- Istanbul to Ottawa: Flight via Toronto
Local Transport: Small bus with a guide for local travel and excursions.
Additional Personnel
1 Evolve Tours Guide
Exclusives
- Creative trip programming and leadership activities
- Optional Videography and Photography
- Forever Green by Evolve Tours- Carbon Offset this whole trip (ask for details)
Insurance
All Inclusive Insurance ( Medical, Cancellation, interruption and baggage coverage) Available for purchase . Pricing depending on ages and makeup of group.
Package Price is based on
Price per person
$6700
- Prices subject to availability and change until contract signed
- Total Package price may vary if number of paying customers changes
- Does not include airline baggage fees if applicable
- Tips for drivers and guides are appreciated
- This quote expires September 30th, 2024
TICO #: 50017336
Itinerary
Day 1:
Departure from Ottawa
- Fly from Ottawa to Toronto.
- Connect from Toronto to Istanbul.
Day 2:
Arrival in Istanbul
- Arrive in Istanbul, transfer to the hotel.
- Evening: Relax and welcome dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant.
Day 3:
Istanbul
- Morning: Visit Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
- Afternoon: Explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.
- Evening: Dinner cruise on the Bosphorus.
Day 4:
- Morning: Tour Topkapi Palace.
- Afternoon: Visit Basilica Cistern and Suleymaniye Mosque.
- Evening: Free time for shopping or exploring local cafes.
Day 5:
Istanbul to Cappadocia
- Morning: Flight to Cappadocia.
- Afternoon: Check into cave hotel and visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum.
- Evening: Traditional Turkish night show with dinner.
Day 6:
- Early Morning: Hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia.
- Afternoon: Explore underground cities (Derinkuyu or Kaymakli).
- Evening: Relax at the hotel or explore local shops.
Day 7:
Cappadocia to Southern Turkey (Antalya)
- Morning: Flight to Antalya.
- Afternoon: Check into the hotel and relax by the beach.
- Evening: Stroll through the old town (Kaleiçi) and dinner by the harbor.
Day 8:
Antalya
- Morning: Visit the ancient city of Perge.
- Afternoon: Explore the Düden Waterfalls.
- Evening: Dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Day 9:
Antalya
- Morning: Day trip to Aspendos and Side.
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or hotel pool.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath (Hammam).
Day 10:
Antalya to Ephesus (Kusadasi)
- Morning: Flight to Izmir and transfer to Kusadasi.
- Afternoon: Visit Ephesus ruins and House of Virgin Mary.
- Evening: Relax at the hotel or explore Kusadasi town.
Day 11:
Kusadasi
- Morning: Visit Sirince village.
- Afternoon: Explore local markets and relax at the hotel.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner by the sea.
Day 12:
Kusadasi to Istanbul
- Morning: Flight back to Istanbul.
- Afternoon: Visit Dolmabahce Palace.
- Evening: Free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Day 13:
Istanbul
- Spend the day exploring Istanbul
- Visit her university, and have lunch at her favorite local spot.
- Evening: Family dinner at a special restaurant
Day 14:
Istanbul
- Morning: Bosphorus boat tour.
- Afternoon: Free time to explore any missed attractions or relax.
- Evening: Farewell dinner.
Day 15:
Departure from Istanbul
- Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Toronto.
- Connect from Toronto to Ottawa.
