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CAPPADOCIA, ONCE IN A LIFE TIME EXPERIANCE
Summary
Cappadocia, meaning “Land of Beautiful Horses,” is an enchanting land in the center of Turkey. Out here in Turkey’s countryside, you will have moments of great peace and tranquility with gorgeous, dreamlike nature all around to keep you company.
Out here, you will see nature like you never have before. Cappadocia is home to a myriad of incredible natural rock formations eroded into beautiful, jaw-dropping shapes and structures that will amaze your eyes. From the fairy chimneys to the snowcapped Mt. Erciyes on display, we will have plenty of opportunities to see these up close and personal, throwing more than a few Kodak moments in our itinerary of course.
People have called this land home for hundreds of years, finding natural shelter as early as 1600 BC; people inhabited the caves of Cappadocia until as recent as the 1960s. The Ancient Hittites settled here first, developing cities out of the natural rock formations and in the underground. The Romans made it a province in the first century, and the Byzantines inherited it after Rome’s demise. Christianity spread throughout Cappadocia, as it is a peaceful place to pray and devote oneself to meditation and contemplation. Byzantine Christians converted little caves into mini cathedrals and churches, carving altars and painting frescoes of Jesus Christ, saints, interpretations of God, and Biblical events all over the walls and ceilings. The images are still here today, perfectly preserved. These churches contain rare images and depictions of Christianity that you will be lucky enough to see.
In the 1000s, invading Turks took Cappadocia and other parts of Turkey. In the 1300s, the tribe that became the Ottoman Empire took the land, and it stayed under their control until the Empire’s deposition. Since then, it has been a mainstay in the modern Republic of Turkey.
Cappadocia is a prime hiking location in Turkey. The area is a geologist’s paradise and a backpacker’s dream. We provide the opportunity to go on a hike unlike any other, giving you more than just glimpses of its natural beauty. Nestled comfortably in the gorges and cliffs, you will get a sense of the world at its most organic, feeling enraptured and believing you have laid eyes on Heaven.
You’ll also love the food and drink out here. At one point, you will walk into a local home and enjoy a fresh home cooked meal, tasting homemade, original Cappadocian recipes. Moreover, as this is wine country, you’ll also sample some of the best wines out there.
On our tour, we give you the chance to see wonders of both nature and human civilization. We see the open-air museums, unbelievable rock formations, mountains and fairy chimneys, as well as local villages, Christian frescoes, an ancient Hittite city, amazing food, and even a Whirling Dervish ceremony, among other things!
Cappadocia is a unique, magical place, and on our tour of it, we show you the magic that sits out in the open, as well as provide opportunities very much off the beaten trails.
Feel free to glance at pictures of our experiences in Cappadocia!
Facts
Hike Our hike will last about two hours and takes place in a Cappadocian valley. We pass by some lovely fairy chimneys, caves, and rock formations, so do bring a camera for some great Kodak moments!.
As it may be muddy or slippery, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes or boots—any shoes with a good grip of the ground. The hike is basic, but has its moments of difficulty, such as hefty slopes downhill.
On the hike, we’ll move at your pace, whichever you see fit.
We provide the essentials, such as a rope and a first aid kit.
We are experienced hikers, so you’re in good hands with us!
What’s a Whirling Dervish?
During our stay, you’ll have the chance to witness a real Whirling Dervish ceremony. This Dervish ceremony is not like any other you would see, however. As opposed to a performance or source of entertainment, Whirling Dervishes participate in this ritual everyday, even when no one is watching. They show their devotion, faith, and love for their Creator and this world by harmoniously whirling and chanting praises to calm tunes. This is a part of the Sufi Order, a mystical sect of Islam. The space is intimate, as they do a great job at creating a peaceful, relaxed environment while sharing their ritual. You must see this while in Cappadocia, as it will expose you to a unique aspect of Islamic culture going back centuries.
Weather and Climate Cappadocia is much drier than Istanbul, as it is a desert area and far inland. Naturally, we’ll have plenty of water on our stay to compensate. Bring sun block just in case—we spend a lot of time outside!
Itinerary
1st Day
Saturday morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia airport in Nevşehir, Central Turkey.
Transfer to Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can enjoy the fantastic rock churches carved into caves and the beautiful frescoes that have decorated their walls for centuries. You will recognize famous biblical stories on the walls and ceilings, many from Jesus Christ’s life. These views are rare and special artistic feats.
After lunch, we'll have our photo ops along the Cappadocian Caldera, witnessing the results of erosion on the whole area. The views of hundreds of miles of land will take your breath away.
At night, we are invited to a folkloric dance in a rock cut club!
Overnight in our hotel
2nd Day
In the morning, you have the option of taking a hot air balloon ride. People flock to this region specifically for this experience. You’ll watch the sun rise over the Cappadocian hills and valleys, feeling like you are gazing over the creation of the world.
Once out and about, we'll have a panoramic valley hike. Hiking shoes or boots are recommended.
Afterwards, we'll drive to Avanos Town, which has been a hot spot for pottery since the ancient Hittites. Pottery is an ancient craft the Cappadocians have mastered for centuries. We will watch a pottery making demonstration over a glass of tea, as well as have opportunities to buy, perhaps at a discounted price.
At night, there will be an optional Whirling Dervish Ceremony in a 13th-Century-Ceravansarai. This is a special, mystical Islamic ceremony.
Overnight in our hotel
3rd Day
In the morning, we'll check out of our hotel and walk through the beautiful Mustafapasa village. For lunch, we are invited to a village home to taste the organic, indigenous food of Cappadocia.
After lunch we’ll roam through the ancient city of Kaymaklı, an underground metropolis the ancient Hittites called home. We’ll feel like the ancients and imagine how on Earth they survived for so long underground by exploring the elaborate systems and infrastructure they planned down here.
Upon completion, we’ll fly back to Istanbul.
ıstanbul , ONCE IN A LIFE TIME EXPERIANCE
Summary
A city of prime importance throughout time, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, with a population of 17 million people (and only growing more). It is one of the only cities in the world to stretch over two continents. Whether you are on the Asian or European side of it, the city’s charm will enthrall you.
This city’s roots lie in ancient Greece, as it was settled by Greeks and called Byzantium. Located on the Bosporus just south of the Black Sea, it was an excellent spot for traders from the North, South, East, and West.
In the 300s AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine chose here as the new capital of his Empire; hereafter, it was called Constantinople, and served as the capital of the Romans and the subsequent Byzantine Empire. As the Byzantines were proud Christians, Constantinople was the center of the Christian faith for a thousand years.
In 1453, the Ottomans Turks conquered Constantinople. They converted the city into the capital of their Muslim Empire, hence why to this day you find mosques in every direction you turn. It was their capital until the Ottoman Empire’s defeat and deposition after World War I. As part of the adjustment from Empire to nation-state, the new Turkish republic moved the capital out of Istanbul; it was replaced by Ankara. Since then, Istanbul has continued to be the largest city in Turkey and is adored by its citizens.
Istanbul contains endless attractions from the Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman times, displayed in the art and architecture preserved across the city. On our tour, you will encounter the excellently maintained churches, mosques, and other structures that transcend time and remain wonders to this day. But we won’t stay in the past for too long; we will also expose you to contemporary Istanbul, the cosmopolitan centers, and opportunities for shopping and fun…Istanbul-style.
Facts
Facts & FAQs -this tab covers cultural norms, recommendations on what to bring, explanation of sites, and further explanations of Istanbul
Istanbul is a magical city whose mysteries, histories, and charm dazzle all of its citizens and visitors. Although most things you stumble upon are probably hundreds of years old, it is a thriving, modern metropolis, with skyscrapers, billboards, and a subway system. Unlike most cities, though, it doesn’t exactly have a center of town, but rather contains many small neighborhoods that collectively make Istanbul what it is. It also has three bodies of water (the Sea of Marmara, the Bosporus, and the Golden Horn), so there will be plenty of opportunities to walk along it and take a pleasant boat ride between the two continents.
It is also home to so many different types of people. You’ll see all kinds here: Middle Easterners, Turks, Africans, Asians, Westerners, etc. You will hear and see English, as many people know a few words here and there. If you’re interested, please refer to the Survival Turkish tab to get a sense of what words you’ll hear. It can’t hurt!
A few things to keep in mind:
Istanbul is one of the safest cities in Europe. People are friendly, honest, hilarious, and welcoming. The politics are absolutely stable. You will see pictures of a very special, particular man all across town: in public places, restaurants, and any other establishment. You’ll also see his signature on windows, car bumpers, and more places. That man is Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first president of the Turkish Republic. He is the most celebrated figure in Turkish history, and the Turks take great pride in the work he did to make the nation what it is. His last name, Ataturk, literally means “Father of the Turks,” or “First Turk.”
Religion: Although secular since 1923, Islam can be felt all over the city. You will see a mosque in almost every direction you turn. Many women choose to wear the hijab, a veil that covers the head and neck, and many people dress conservatively. In mosques, all women are required to wear a scarf over their head, so when we visit a mosque or two, ladies bring one along! You will hear the Call to Prayer several times throughout the day. Practicing Muslims pray five times a day. To bring the community together, an official called a muezzin sings a gorgeous melody from the mosque that reminds everyone it is time to pray. It’s always such a pleasure to hear, as it makes you feel a part of their community. It is a densely populated city, so be prepared for large crowds! People are incredibly kind here. It’s part of what they call the “Turkish hospitality.” People will take care of you well at restaurants and in hotels. In the Grand Bazaar, many vendors speak English, but for a product, they often start with a high asking price.
We’ll help you out with talking them down though
For public transportation, Istanbul has an organized bus system, tram route, and ferries between the Asian and European side.
There are also taxis (spelled taksi), but the traffic is busy!
You will drink a lot of tea (called çay (pronounced like chai) here), so be prepared. Çay is a national drink, and you will see it everywhere in these curvy glasses; we here have drank çay out of these since Ottoman times.
Cats and dogs roam around the streets. They are treated like family. It is okay to pet and feed them. Many have tags behind their ears indicating that they have been vaccinated.
Itinerary
1st Day : Byzantium Istanbul
We'll start in Sultanahmet, an area in what we call “The Old City.” We’ll see the Byzantine Hippodrome, which functioned as the forum in Byzantine times.
We will also experience the Hagia Sophia, a 1500-year-old structure that functioned as a Christian Cathedral for a thousand years. In 1453, it was converted into a mosque and served Islam for five hundred years. Since 1935, it has been a museum open to visitors. You can see Christianity and Islam coexisting inside.
Afterwards, we'll proceed to 6thC. Basilica cistern. This magnificent underground water reservoir contains columns from antiquity and sculptures of mythology.
Local lunch will be followed by Chora Church, built in Byzantine times. This small church in this tranquil neighborhood of Edirnekapı holds one of the most beautiful examples of a Byzantine mosaic.
2nd Day : Ottoman Heritage
We'll start our day with the Blue Mosque and explore its 17th C. Iznik tiles. This mosque, with its 6 minarets, is one of the best examples of Islamic Architecture. It was built to compete with the Hagia Sophia and also draws influence from it. Ladies, bring a scarf for your head!
We will then proceed to the Topkapı Palace, which inspired Mozart to compose "The Abduction From the Seraglio.” Millions watched Melina Mercouri in the film "Topkapi" and learned about the famous dagger. This palace was where the Ottomans sultans lived and ruled for over 400 years. We will see the sultans’ bedroom, council rooms, library, courtyards, and more. Additionally, we'll wander through the maze of the Harem and learn stories of the eunuchs and concubines. We will also see the Weapons and Relics rooms, which house relics, possessions, and weapons of influential figures in history. Here, you’ll see the Prophet Mohammad’s swords and clothes, Ottoman armor, possessions of Abraham, and other incredible items that will bring you closer to the past. You will learn a great deal about Islam and its role in the Ottoman Empire in the process.
Our lunch will be in the palace gardens overlooking the Bosporus.
Dinner on your own
3rd Day : Bosporus Expedition
We'll take a public ferry along the Bosporus, cruise till the very end of it closer to the Black Sea, explore an old fishing village where we will have lunch, and cruise back to the old city.
After our cruise, we can do what you’d like. We can ferry over to the Asian side of Istanbul and spend the night in Asia, or we can frolic through contemporary Istanbul. Your choice, depending on what you feel!
Dinner on your own.
4th Day : 15th C. Shopping Malls of Istanbul
Today, we'll fly by the seat of our pants and get lost in the back streets of the Old Town of Sultanahmet. While here, we’ll shop until we drop in the Grand Bazaar, a 15th C. mall of 3000 shops. Vendors will try and sell you everything from porcelain to rugs to shirts to jewelry. It’s like a maze, but the thrill of shopping here is incredible. Finding our way to the Spice market, you will experience the largest local textile district of Mahmutpaşa.
We'll than visit Rüstem Paşa Mosque built by Architect Sinan, the most prominent Ottoman architect. We’ll also have an optional visit to Süleymaniye Mosque, the largest mosque in Istanbul commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
Dinner on your own.
5th day: Contemporary Istanbul
Let’s explore the modern face of Istanbul, its fashion centers and downtown. While most things you stumble upon are most likely hundreds of years old, Istanbul is a thriving modern metropolis as well.
A Dolmabahçe Palace visit is suggested. This is the last, most modern Ottoman palace. Call it the Versailles of Istanbul, as you can see the French and 19thC. Western European influence here. It also contains the 2ndlargest chandelier in the world, and is where President Mustafa Kemal Atatürk lived until his death.
In the afternoon, we'll stroll around Pera and Galata districts, which house 18th c. architecture of the late Ottoman Era. This is also a historically European section of Istanbul. You’ll witness the Galata Tower, a structure standing since the 1300s, as well as great local music opportunities.
Of course, we can play around with our schedule and adjust it as you’d like