Join your host, Jeremy Harrington, on a 16 day tour. Jeremy is an Expedia® CruiseShipCenters® Franchise Owner with a passion for, and extensive history of, creating unique and exclusive travel experiences.

This hosted small group tour combines the convenience of European travel with the rich traditions of the Middle East. Cosmopolitan cities brimming with modern delights, archaeological sites filled with ancient splendour, curious landscapes straight out of a storybook and picture-

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THE TREASURES & WONDERS OF TURKEYM A Y 7 – 2 2 , 2 0 1 6

perfect coastlines frequented by the jet-set are only the beginning. You’ll marvel at Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, Cappadocia’s “fairy-chimney” landscape, the Ancient Greek sites of Troy and Ephesus, the ancient Roman city of Perge, and the azure water of the Mediterranean.

Experience legendary Turkish hospitality first-hand. This is tantalising Turkey! You won’t forget travelling through this

exotic land which sits at the crossroads of Asia and Europe.

*All prices are per person in US dollars and based on double occupancy for the first and second passengers only, on specific room categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. Additional restrictions may apply. Contact your Expedia CruiseShipCenters Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Airport transfer for those arriving with the main group • Accommodation & transportation

Breakfasts & dinners as specified • Admission to all attractions as per the detailed itinerary

English-speaking professional private tour guide • Single supplement US $760

$3,490* per person

Arrival Date: May 07, 2016 - Saturday

Pick-up: TBA – Istanbul Ataturk Airport – International

Terminal Drop-off : TBA – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

MAY 07 Arrive in one of the most important and inspiringly beautiful cities in world history: Constantinople! Our representative will welcome you at the Istanbul Ataturk Airport for a private transfer to your hotel. Enroute you can enjoy an introduction to this fascinating city where continents collide. Check-in and relax while our representative delivers a brief introduction to the charms of the city. Overnight at Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul.International Flight Schedule for May 07, 2016: TBA (own arrangements).

Tour Date : May 08, 2016 - Sunday

Pick-up: 9am – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

MAY 08 Meet your private guide in the hotel lobby to start the exploration at Dolmabahce Palace. The Turkish nation takes special pride in this exceptionally majestic edifice which was built in the mid-19th century by the commandment of Sultan Abdul Mecit I, a true art lover with high taste. The architect was Sarkis Balyan who signed many other impressive buildings of 19th century Istanbul. Maintaining its authentic interior décor composed of French Baccarat and Czech Bohemian Crystals, Hereke Rugs and European furniture, Dolmabahce Palace can very well be named as the Turkish version of Versailles Palace.

During the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire was struggling both politically and economically and was considered by the European states to be a weak neighbor. In an attempt to prove to the European states that the Ottoman Empire was still prestigious and strong, Dolmabahce Palace was built with extreme luxury.

The exploration continues into the bustling atmosphere of the Spice Market, dating back to the 17th century. This amazing market continues to be the most popular bazaar for the locals to find fresh ingredients for their cultural dishes. Led by enchanting smells through the aisles of the market, you will find an opportunity to observe the locals and be greeted by eager merchants competing to show you their dazzling displays.

Stroll through the famed Hippodrome Square which was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople, hosting chariot races until the Middle Ages. The Roman Hippodrome displays the famous Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column dating back to 5th century BC.

Carry on to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest Christian shrines ever built in history. Adorned with rich mosaic murals and colossal columns, it is an exposition of divine serenity. Saint Sophia is a true world heritage site that has accommodated various faiths throughout the different periods of history and is currently operating as a museum displaying Byzantine art and architecture embellished by Ottoman taste.

Listen to the in-depth lectures of your private guide to understand the administrative difficulites of protecting Constantinople.

As a city that was defended by its “inaccessible” fortifications, Constantinople needed to have endless water supplies to enable its inhabitants to resist sieges. To serve this purpose, a large number of

underground water reservoirs were built through various neighborhoods of the city such as the underground Cistern known by the locals as the Sunken Cistern. The impressive structure built in 6th century with 336 columns erected underneath the streets of the Old City was ample space to store water and is now operating as a museum and a venue for cultural activities. Enjoy your Welcome Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant with the magnificent view of the Golden Horn. Overnight at Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul.

Tour Date: May 09, 2016 - Monday

Pick-up: 9am – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

MAY 09 The Blue Mosque is probably one of the most famed masterpieces of Ottoman religious architecture. Standing in great prestige with its six minarets and perfectly proportioned dome, it is named after the turquoise tiles made of quartz minerals. Ottoman Sultans preferred to pray in this timeless shrine due to its incomparable beauty, until the empire collapsed after World War I.

Continue touring to the magnificent home of the Ottoman Sultans, Topkapi Palace. Located on the very cape of the peninsula where Constantinople was founded, Topkapi Palace was built as the administrative center when the city was conquered by Ottoman Turks in 1453 AD. Enjoy a tour of the palace, as well as the Harem where Sultan lived with his family. There is a strong impact of oriental motifs and patterns that is best reflected by the beautiful Iznik tiles adorning the walls of the Harem.

Leaving the Harem through the “Golden Corridor”, you will reach the inner courtyard to visit the Treasury that displays exclusive examples of jewelry and accessories worn by the Sultans or given as gifts to ambassadors.

Next is the Grand Bazaar, one of the earliest shopping malls ever built. Istanbul has been the center of commerce and trade between the Orient and the Occident even before the arrival of Ottomans. Nuru Osmaniye District (Glamour of the Ottomans) was where merchants had warehouses of brass, copper, rugs and tiles to export to Venice and Genoa. Today, Nuru Osmaniye District is where you can find the most reputable stores

with wide collections of jewelry, antiques and oriental rugs. Breathe in the vivacious atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar while sipping a strong Turkish coffee.

Continue on to Galata, the neighborhood that hosted non-Muslim European communities migrating to Istanbul during 18th and 19th

centuries. Watch the skyline of Istanbul from the peak of 13th century Galata Tower built by the Genoese merchants to watch for ships arriving loaded with goods for the markets.

Tour the European district of Beyoglu (Pera), once the final station of the Orient Express. Sense the ambient nostalgia as you explore Passage Des Fleurs and Passage d’Europe. Overnight at Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul.

Tour Date : May 10, 2016 - Tuesday

Pick-up: 9am – Sultanhan Hotel, Istanbul

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Almira Hotel, Bursa

MAY 10 After breakfast transfer to Fast Ferry Terminal bound for Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. En-route you will visit Iznik (Ancient Nicea). See the many amazing Ottoman edifices including the mausoleums of the early Ottoman Sultans, the Green Mosque and the Great Mosque. The Great Mosque, built in 1396, is very unique and includes twenty domes and a water fountain. Bursa, famous for its thermal baths, is also the heart of the country’s silk industry. One of the oldest market courts is Koza Han, once the major center of Turkey’s silk trade. Overnight at Almira Hotel, Bursa.

Tour Date: May 11, 2016 - Wednesday

Pick-up: 9am – Almira Hotel, Bursa

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Kervansaray Hotel, Assos

MAY 11 Meet your private guide in the hotel lobby after breakfast to board your luxury vehicle for Canakkale. You will reach the land of Gallipoli peninsula by noon. After a short break at the town of Gallipoli, continue on to see the Gallipoli Anzac war fields and memorials of World War I. Begin your exploration of the Cape Hellas Memorial built for the missing Australian and British soldiers. The memorial is located on one of the landing zones of Anzac in 1915. Anzac Cove was where troops of commonwealth forces initiated the landing which was to last for ten months. Explore Shrapnel Valley near the major Australian memorial, Lone Pine. At nearby Kanlisirt, Bloody Ridge, there was a terrible battle where

thousands were slaughtered. After visiting the Lone Pine Memorial, head to Conk Bayiri where Anzac and Turkish boys competed with each other to show Godly courage. Today at Conk Bayiri is the New Zealand, Chunuk Bair Memorial. Conclude your exploration of the battle fields at the local War Museum to see old letters, uniforms, bullets and artillery.

Finally, visit to the legendary city of Troy. The excavations of Troy initiated the modern study of archaeology. This ancient city was witness to the battle of Achilles and Hector, the story of which is told by the famous historian Homeros in his legend Iliad. Overnight at Kervansaray Hotel, Assos.

Tour Date : May 12, 2016 - Thursday

Pick-up: 9am – Kervansaray Hotel, Assos

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Anemon Hotel, Izmir

MAY 12 Depart this morning for Izmir (approx. 5 hours), and visit the Greco-Roman city of Pergamon, famous for its Asclepion, the 19th century medical center / spa. Explore the remains of the Acropolis and see the temples of Athena and Dionysus. Overnight at Anemon Hotel, Izmir.

Tour Date : May 13, 2016 - Friday

Pick-up: 9 am – Anemon Hotel, Izmir

Drop-off : 5 pm (approx.) – Marina Hotel, Kusadasi

MAY 13 Meet your private guide in the lobby of your hotel to begin touring the world’s best preserved Roman city, Ephesus. Board your luxury minivan for a scenic ride to the small town of Selcuk, located near the house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days. In it’s place is a charming chapel, consecrated by the Pope. When you return to Selcuk, the first settlement of Ephesus, your guide will explain the history, the archaeology and the incredible richness of this ancient site. Ephesus was the capital of the province of Asia Minor, famed for its flavorsome market, political activities and immense wealth due to the important port and trading activities.

Walk the Marble Road running through the center of the city to see numerous ancient buildings in a wonderful state of preservation. The Temple of Hadrian is a unique beauty greeting you with its articulate façade built to honor the famous Roman Emperor, Hadrian during 2nd Century AD. Across the street are the Terrace Houses in the ancient prestigious residential section. Witness the flamboyant style and luxurious life of the rich Ephesians seen in handmade frescoes and mosaics. Rising in the center of Ephesus is the Library of Celsus adorned with murals reflecting the grandeur of the time. The Great Theater of Ephesus is the largest surviving Roman theater.

Continue to Sirince Village, founded by the descendants of Ephesus that fled to the mountains to protect themselves against invasions. Sirince, with it’s Greco-Mediterranean architecture, hosted Greek Orthodox inhabitants until the official exchange of citizens between Greece and Turkey 1924. The Greek inhabitants left Sirince to the arriving Turkish families. Walking through the cobble streets, you see the whitewashed wooden houses which have been turned into wine shops and cozy little restaurants. Enjoy local hospitality amid splendid views of the surrounding vineyards and fruit orchards.Overnight at Marina Hotel, Kusadasi.

Tour Date : May 14, 2016 - Saturday

Pick-up: 9am – Marina Hotel, Kusadasi

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum

MAY 14 Drive from Kusadasi to Bodrum (approx. 2,5 hours). En route, visit the ancient site, Priene, a Hellenistic city with numerous precious ruins. Explore the Greek style theatre, and the Temple of Athena known to be the best Ionic style temple ever built.

Arrive in Miletus, founded in 13th century BC, and known as the center of classical Hellenistic civilization. Miletus was the hometown for many historical figures including Thales, the Greek philosopher of 7th century BC, and Hippodamus, who developed the grid-plan city. Thales is regarded as one of the Seven Sages of Greek civilization and is remembered for arguing that water is the essence of all things. This was the first attempt to explain the physical world without reference to a supernatural power.

During Roman days, the city enjoyed a very prosperous period hosting a large Jewish population. Touring the Roman Theater one can still see the inscription stating that the front seats were reserved for Jewish notables. Contributions of important personalities from Miletus continued during the Byzantine Period when Isodorus of Miletus built the greatest Basilica of the Christian world for the next thousand years. After Miletus, you will visit the Temple of Apollo at Didyma from 6th century BC. In ancient times, the marble covered road connecting Miletus to the Temple of Apollo was prestigious and sacred, decorated with statues from the Branchide dynasty. Approaching the site, one can still notice a stretch of the ancient road connecting the temple to Miletus.

There were three identical temples of the ancient Greek civilization; Temple of Hera on Island Samos, Temple of Artemis in Ephesus and Temple of Apollo at Didyma. Among the three edifices, the one that survives today with it grandeur and breathtaking columns is the Apollo Temple that also served as one of the biggest banks of the ancient world. Overnight at Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum.

Tour Date : May 15, 2016 - Sunday

Pick-up: 9am – Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum

Drop-off : 2pm (approx.) – Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum

MAY 15 Meet your private guide in the lobby and head to the site of King Mausoleus. During 4th century BC, Bodrum was the capital of the Kingdom of Caria ruled by King Mausoleus. The proud king had a tomb built for himself that became one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Mausoleum was destroyed by earthquakes and became building material for the Knights of St. John who built the Crusaders’ Castle at the port of Bodrum. Today there are still fragments of the famed Mausoleum which display the architecture of this marvelous monument. Enjoy an afternoon of leisure time.Overnight at Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum.

Tour Date : May 16, 2016 - Monday

Pick-up: 9am – Salmakis Hotel, Bodrum

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Atapark Hotel, Fethiye

MAY 16 After breakfast, meet your guide to drive to Dalyan through the most beautiful and fertile fields in Southwest Turkey. From Dalyan you will take a private wooden boat named “taka” across the waters of Koycegiz Lake. The first place you will visit is the sulphur baths that are known as the Baths of Cleopatra. According to tradition, the great Queen of Egypt bathed here to make her skin look more attractive. Continue on to the waters of Koycegiz Lake and the mouth of Aegean Sea, where Caretta Caretta turtles come to lay their eggs. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and cold refreshments at a cafe along the way. Return to your boat to cruise on towards ancient Caunos, known for piracy. Enjoy the rock carved tombs of the Lycian Kings dating back to 4th century BC. After touring the ruins of Caunos, return by boat to Dalyan and board your minivan to Fethiye (approx. 1.5 hrs). Overnight at Atapark Hotel, Fethiye.

Tour Date : May 17, 2016 - Tuesday

Pick-up: 9am – Atapark Hotel, Fethiye

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Atapark Hotel, Fethiye

MAY 17 Enjoy the spectacular Saklikent Gorge, the second-largest (20 km-long) in Europe and the longest and deepest in Turkey, only a 40 minute drive from Fethiye. The water level rises during the winter months so visitors can enter only in the summer. Part of the gorge is walkable after April when most of the snow from the Taurus Mountains has melted flowing to the Xanthos River.

Continue your exploration with Tlos Antique City. Most of the ancient towns of Lycia were built on the coast but Tlos was an exception, located inland, on a hill controlling the upper valley of the Xanthus River. Due to its strategic position Tlos continued to be inhabited until the early 19th century. Today it is only a small village known as Yaka and parts of the archaeological area are farmed. The whole northern side of the hill is covered with rock-cut tombs, one of which is decorated with a relief portraying the mythical hero Bellerophon.

Your last stop in Fethiye will be Cadianda, the ancient ruins of a lively and rich Lycian settlement surrounded by walls. From the theatre walls you will see the magnificent panoramic view of Xanthos valley and the Fethiye plain. Stone tombs, Five Steps Temple, Agora, cisterns that still hold water, statue bases of athletes and the theatre, constitute the main remnants of this ancient city. Overnight at Atapark Hotel, Fethiye.

Tour Date : May 18, 2016 - Wednesday

Pick-up: 9am – Atapark Hotel, Fethiye

Drop-off: 5pm (approx.) – Patara Prince Hotel, Kalkan

MAY 18 Meet your private guide in the lobby to drive to Kalkan (approx. 3 hours), en-route you will visit Patara. Some ancient sources refer to the legend that the city was established by Patarus, the son of Apollo and Lycia, a nymph of the river Xanthos. In reality, however, Lycians founded the city, and its name, as seen on inscriptions and coins, was Patara in the Lycian language. Patara derived its fame in ancient times from the oracle of Apollo. Oracles in the temple, which were kept open only during the winter months, sought answers to questions concerning the future. This city was subject to numerous invasions and sieges. Under Roman domination, Patara again became one of Lycia’s leading ports. It also won special honor during the Christian era as the birthplace of St. Nicholas.

Nearby is the ancient city of Xanthos. Xanthos, described by Strabo as Lycia’s largest city, takes its name from the river that flows beside it. Xanthos maintained its independence until 545 B.C. when it was razed by the Persian invasion. In spite of their defeat, the Xanthians’ passion for heroism and honor was immortalized in the pages of history. It is indeed a tragic tale of invasion, homicide, suicide, heroism and useless struggles and fires which destroyed the city. The remaining monuments are a Roman Theatre, an agora, a Byzantine basilica, and the famous Harpy Monument which is a family sarcophagus built on a rock dating back to 480-470 B.C. Overnight at Patara Prince Hotel, Kalkan.

Tour Date : May 19, 2016 - Thursday

Pick-up: 9am – Patara Prince Hotel, Kalkan

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Best Western Khan Hotel, Antalya

MAY 19 Drive from Kalkan to Antalya (approx. 3 hours). This city was founded by the King of Pergamon, Attalos II, as an important port controlling the southern borders of his kingdom. The city has been home to numerous civilizations including the Romans, Seljuks and finally the Ottomans.

The ancient Roman city of Perge is known for its well preserved stadium, massive Roman baths and the stunning gate of the city which dates back to the Hellenistic period. Perge is a biblical settlement that was visited by St. Paul during his apostolic journeys before continuing north.

The next stop is Aspendos, the ancient city well known for its Roman Theatre that is the best preserved Roman Theater in the world and still used for classical music events during the festival of Antalya. Continue with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Antalya, where works of art unearthed from Perge are on display. Antalya Archaeological Museum is impressive with its wide collection of Roman sculptures. Overnight at Best Western Khan Hotel, Antalya.

Tour Date: May 20, 2016 - Friday

Pick-up: 9am – Best Western Khan Hotel, Antalya

Drop-off : 7pm (approx.) – Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel

MAY 20 Leave for Cappadocia in the morning. You will drive first to Konya (approx. 6 hrs) an important post for Roman legions and for controlling the trade routes. Visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, the founder of Whirling Dervishes and the tile Museum of Karatay, the old Medrese that still maintains its superb tile decoration. Leaving Konya, you carry on your trip to Cappadocia (approx. 4.5 hrs). Overnight at Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel, Cappadocia.

Tour Date : May 21, 2016 - Saturday

Pick-up: 9am – Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel

Drop-off : 5pm (approx.) – Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel

MAY 21 Your day of exploration in this region will begin with the Monastic Center of Goreme. Goreme was founded by St. Basil as the first Monastic Center of Christianity during 4th century. Through an extensive tour of the Monastic Center that currently functions as an open-air museum, you will see the very well preserved rock-hewn churches such as Dark Church and Buckle Church decorated with colorful Byzantine frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Stop by the rock-carved natural citadel of Uchisar for a superb view. Enjoy the Three Beauties, the iconic rock formations that locals have created many legends about.

Walk through the valleys of Zelve, a town composed of hundreds of rock-carved houses occupied until 1942. In Cappadocia different religions coexisted in harmony for thousands of years and one can see churches and mosques facing each other built into the rock cliffs. During the Byzantine period, Cappadocia had hundreds of Christian hermits living in their private hermitages as well as the monastic centers where Christianity was institutionalized.

In Pasabag Valley you will see the tower shaped hermitages that look as if they have been sculptured by contemporary artists. In the afternoon, visit the famous pottery town of Avanos to observe a local weaving course and see how the locals compose their “woven poetry.” Overnight at Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel, Cappadocia.

Tour Date: May 22, 2016 - Sunday

Pick-up: TBA – Dinler Hotel / Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel

Drop-off: TBA – Kayseri Airport

May 22 Fly from Kayseri airport to Istanbul for your flight home.