LEGENDARY TURKEY From Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast September 5 – 19, 2013 15 days from $4, 392 — Land, Air & Crui se Inclusiv e
presents...
Optional Post-Tour Extension: Cappadocia & Ankara
Exotic sights, scents and sounds reign in this fascinating land where Europe and Asia meet. From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic Turquoise Coast where we board a privately chartered yacht for a distinctive four-day voyage, Turkey engages and beguiles, offering us an unparalleled small group travel experience.
Itinerary — September 5 — 19, 2013 Thursday, September 5 — Depart U.S. this evening for Istanbul, Turkey Friday, September 6: Arrive Istanbul After arriving in Istanbul, we will transfer to our hotel, located near Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. Please note that as guests’ arrival times may vary greatly (from morning to late afternoon), no group activities or meals have been planned for this day. We are free to explore the bustling area around Taksim Square or simply relax after our overseas flights. Dinner tonight is on your own. Accommodations: Hilton Istanbul Hotel Saturday, September 7, Istanbul It’s our first full day in Istanbul, and there’s much on the agenda, beginning with an informative briefing about our journey ahead. This legendary city, divided by the Bosphorus, separates Europe from Asia, and makes this a place where East and West meet in a fascinating melding of cultures. We set out on a walking tour along lively pedestrian Istiklal Street, lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and late Ottomanera buildings. We see the acclaimed mosaics and frescoes at Chora Church (now Kariye Museum) then take a panoramic drive along Istanbul’s Old City walls. Next we take a short walk through Balat, the traditional Jewish quarter, to the Spice Market, with its exotic spices, nuts, and dried fruits from around the world. After lunch on our own here, we take a private cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. This evening we take a short walk to a local restaurant where we dine on traditional Turkish cuisine during our welcome dinner. Accommodations: Hilton Istanbul Hotel; Meals: B, D
Sunday, September 8: Istanbul This morning we cross over Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn, and tour Old Istanbul, home of splendid mosques and magnificent palaces. Our first stop here: the ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races once took place. Then we visit the renowned Museum of Turkish & Islamic Art housing artifacts from the Ottoman (14th to 20th centuries), Seljuk (11th to 13th centuries), and earlier periods beginning in the 8th century. In the restored Palace of Ibrahim Pasha, the museum displays both everyday items and ancient pieces of art including carvings of wood, glass, and stone. We continue on to the marvelous Blue Mosque, topped by six slender minarets. Inside is one of the world’s great collections of blue Isnik tiles (20,000 of them), along with 260 stained glass windows. After lunch at a local restaurant we continue on to famed Hagia Sophia, which was the world’s grandest Cathedral when it was built in 537 CE; it was converted into a mosque in the 15th century and is now a museum. Tonight you have your choice of many excellent restaurants for dinner on your own. Accommodations: Hilton Istanbul Hotel; Meals: B, L
Monday, September 9: Istanbul This morning we tour splendid Topkapi Palace, dramatically set on a promontory with remarkable views over the Bosphorus. This vast palace, the home of Ottoman sultans, once housed as many as 4,000 royals, couturiers, and hangers-on. Among other magnificent artifacts on display here we see priceless paintings, jewel-encrusted swords, and delicate porcelains. Our next stop is the vast Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets with some 5,000 shops and stalls selling goods of all kinds, including jewelry, pottery, leather, and Turkish delicacies. The remainder of the day and evening is free for independent exploration. Accommodations: Hilton Istanbul Hotel; Meals: B Tuesday, September 10: Istanbul/Gallipoli/Assos We rise early to begin our full day of travel to the northern Aegean Coast for a brief visit of Gallipoli, where in 1915 Allied troops faced the Turkish army led by Lieutenant-Colonel Mustafa Kemal, also known as Ataturk, the man who later became the leader of modern Turkey. Large numbers of casualties were suffered here, and we pay our respects to those who gave their lives as we visit ANZAC Beach Cemetery. Then we travel across the Straits of the Dardanelles to Troy, once believed to have existed only in Homer’s epic poem. But Heinrich Schliemann discovered the real Troy in the 1870s; indeed excavations have revealed the remnants of at least nine civilizations here dating back 5,000 years. After an exploration of the ruins and relics here, we continue on to Behramkale, ancient Assos, where we spend the night. Accommodations: Nazlihan Hotel Please note: Because of the Nazlihan Hotel’s small rooms and limited space, and in addition to your one piece of checked luggage, you will need to bring a smaller, soft-sided “carry” bag for your overnight stay in Assos. This additional bag should be small and flexible enough to fit inside your checked luggage. Meals: B, L, D
Wednesday, September 11: Assos/Pergamum/Izmir This morning we depart for Pergamum, once one of the richest small kingdoms in Asia Minor, which housed one of the world’s largest collections of books. Here we visit the magnificent Acropolis, which contains the ruins of Pergamum’s acclaimed 200,000-volume library, so large it challenged the world’s greatest library in Alexandria, Egypt. In fact, the Egyptians were so afraid that Pergamum would attract scholars away from Alexandria that they cut off the area’s supply of papyrus, forcing the invention of pergamen (Latin for parchment), made from animal hides rather than papyrus reed. Along with the library, the Acropolis also boasts a great theater seating 10,000 and the marble-columned Temple of Trajan. Below the theater lie the ruins of the Temple of Dionysus along with the Altar of Zeus, in a marvelous setting shaded by evergreen trees. Much of Pergamum has been lovingly restored; it is now considered one of the premier ancient sites in Turkey. After enjoying our lunch in a typical Turkish kebab restaurant, we continue on to Asclepieum, a sanctuary and healing center built in the 4th century BCE in the name of Ascelepius, god of healing. Later this afternoon we travel to Izmir and our hotel, where we dine together tonight. Accommodations: Swissôtel Grand Efes; Meals: B, L, D
Thursday, September 12: Izmir/Ephesus Today we visit Ephesus, perhaps the world’s best-preserved ancient city. In Roman times, Ephesus was the provincial capital of Asia, with a population of 250,000 at the height of its glory. An important Christian community arose here, and Ephesus was visited by St. Paul, who later wrote one of his epistles to the Ephesians. Perhaps its greatest claim to fame is the fact that Ephesus once housed the Temple of Diana, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today the magnificently preserved ruins attract visitors from across the globe. A full day of touring here includes the immense theater that holds 24,000 people and is still used today. We’ll walk along the Sacred Way, where the rich once lived and where an ingenious water and sewer system was constructed beneath paving stones of marble; see the Temple of Hadrian, a Corinthian-style building with the head of Medusa on the porch to keep away evil spirits; and admire the Library of Celsus, which once held 12,000 ancient scrolls. Before enjoying lunch in the beautiful rustic village of Sirince, we’ll visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, filled with statuary, ancient relics, mosaics, and artifacts excavated from the site. We return to Izmir late this afternoon and enjoy an evening at leisure. From our well located hotel, we have our choice of several local restaurants all within a short walking distance. Accommodations: Swissôtel Grand Efes; Meals: B, L
Friday, September 13: Izmir/Göcek Today we continue our journey south, stopping along the way to see a demonstration of the ancient art of carpet weaving at a local factory. Then we’ll stop in a local village for lunch before we continue on to Göcek, arriving late this afternoon in the serene port town set at the most inland point of the Gulf of Fethiye. Here we board our 14-guest gulet, a replica of a traditional Turkish fishing boat. Today’s gulets are built with modern comforts in mind, containing small but cozy cabins with private bath and shower, public areas, and broad decks in an area approximately 85 feet long and 21 feet wide. Beautiful craftsmanship combined with ancient artistry makes the gulet the perfect vessel in which to cruise the waters of the Turquoise Coast. After settling in to your cabin, you’ll enjoy your first dinner on board, prepared by the ship’s crew with fresh local ingredients. Tonight you may wish to join others sleeping on deck under the stars. Accommodations: Gulet
Our Private Turkish Gulet
This tour includes a four-night cruise aboard a privately chartered gulet yacht. Gulets are teakwood with a broad sun deck plus both indoor and outdoor dining areas. Cabins are small but comfortable, with private facilities.
yacht; Meals: B, L, D
Saturday, September 14: Cruising – Aga Limani/Cleopatra Baths Our route for the next few days is along the coastline that Mark Antony is said to have given Cleopatra as a wedding gift. Named for the brilliant color of its waters, the Turquoise Coast is nature’s gift to all those who travel here. The swimming is glorious, in crystal clear waters that afford views into the depths. With the scent of eucalyptus perfuming the air, and forested mountains as our backdrop, we begin our “Blue Voyage” by traveling this morning to the hidden cove of Aga Limani where an optional hike of approximately three hours along an herb-scented trail brings us to Lydea, a littleknown Greco-Roman site. The hike concludes at the Sunken Baths of Cleopatra, built in a breathtaking inlet by Mark Antony for the last Egyptian pharaoh. Please note that parts of this hike can be strenuous, and the trail has a fair amount of gravel and rock. Please consult with your tour director if you have concerns about your ability to participate safely on this hike. If you prefer a less strenuous day, you can choose to stay on board the gulet as it sails to the Sunken Baths to meet up with the hikers. There’s plenty on board with which to keep occupied, including games, cards, or simply chatting with your fellow guests. Accommodations: Gulet yacht; Meals: B, L, D Sunday, September 15: Cruising – Dalyan River This morning we disembark and drive to Dalyan, an environmentally protected area where we board a small skiff for a trip through an intriguing maze of channels. At the Lake of Koycegiz, we see our first Lycian rock tombs. These relics, which stretched along the Mediterranean coast from Koycegiz in the West to Antalya in the East, are the few remaining artifacts of this great culture. After lunch in a local restaurant, we drive to our gulet in Fethiye Bay where we anchor for the night. Accommodations: Gulet yacht; Meals: B, L, D Monday, September 16: Cruising – Gemiler/Kayakoy Today we sail to our next anchorage, Gemiler Island, where we disembark for a tour of the 6th-century Byzantine monastery here. After lunch on board, we disembark and drive to the Greek “ghost town” of Kayakoy, deserted after World War I and the Turkish War of Independence. Residents abandoned approximately 2,000 stone houses that are now restored and preserved as a historical monument. We’ll explore the town and its two churches, which still retain some of their painted decoration and mosaic floors. Later we return to our gulet and remain anchored in Gemiler tonight, our last night on board. Accommodations: Gulet yacht; Meals: B, L, D
Tuesday, September 17: Fethiye/Antalya This morning we sail to Fethiye, where we disembark, bid farewell to our gulet crew, and set out by motor coach through the Taurus Mountains for Antalya. After stopping for lunch en route, we reach the seaside city mid-afternoon and visit the acclaimed Archaeological Museum which chronicles the history of the area through a wealth of ancient artifacts discovered locally. Of special interest here is the “God Gallery” housing statues of 15 gods from Aphrodite to Zeus. Dinner tonight is on your own. Accommodations: Rixos Antalya Downtown; Meals: B, L
Wednesday, September 18: Antalya/Perge This morning we set off for a tour of the once-thriving Roman city of Perge, which reached its pinnacle during the era of Alexander the Great. Among the outstanding ruins here are the ancient shopping arcade, the awe-inspiring 12,000-seat stadium, and a 15,000-seat theater. Then we return to Antalya for a walking tour of its charming Old Town, including the extravagantly carved Hadrian’s Gate and the lovely Yivli (“fluted”) Minaret. This afternoon at leisure before we gather for tonight’s farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Accommodations: Rixos Antalya Downtown; Meals: B, D Thursday, September 19: Depart for U.S. If you are returning today to the United States, you will transfer early this morning to the airport for your connecting flight to the U.S. If you are joining the optional extension to Cappadocia and Ankara, please see next page. Meals: B
Tour Highlights Exotic Istanbul, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia, Private Bosphorus cruise, WWI battlefield of Gallipoli, Ruins at Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, 4-night “Blue Voyage” aboard privately chartered gulet yacht, Cruising to secluded coves that few see, opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, Sunken Baths of Cleopatra, 6th-century Byzantine monastery on Gemiler Island, Ancient sites of Perge, Aspendos, Myra, Three-night stay in Mediterranean resort of Antalya. Accommodations include: Istanbul: Hilton Istanbul Superior First Class Assos/Troy: Nazlihan Hotel Not Rated Izmir: Swissotel Grand Efes Deluxe Turquoise Coast: Gulet Yacht Not Rated Antalya: Rixos Antalya Downtown Deluxe Ratings are based on the Hotel & Travel Index, a travel industry standard reference. Unrated accommodations may be too small, too new, or too remote to be rated.
Your Tour Price Includes
Small group size limited to 24 guests
Round-trip air from RSW, JFK, ORD
13 nights’ accommodations including 4 nights aboard a privately chartered gulet
30 meals: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners
Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
Services of a private Tour Director
Private motor coach transportation
Luggage handling for 1 bag per person
Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
Excursion is limited to 24 travelers. Reserve Early! Questions? Contact: The Renaissance Academy 1010 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 239-434-4737; E-mail: jguerra@fgcu.edu
CAPPADOCIA & ANKARA—Optional Post-Tour Extension 5 days / 4 nights for $995; Single Supplement $195
3 nights in Cappadocia at Uchisar Kaya Hotel (First Class); 1 night in Ankara at Ankara Hilton (Deluxe) 11 meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Extensive sightseeing; Services of a private Tour Director; Private motor coach transportation Gratuities for dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
Thursday, September 19: Transfer to Cappadocia Guests who are joining our optional extension to Cappadocia and Ankara will have a full-day motor coach transfer via historic Konya, where we’ll stop for a visit to the Mevlana Museum, home of Turkey’s renowned Whirling Dervishes – a mystic order whose members dance wildly to free themselves from earthly bondage. We’ll have lunch here before continuing on to Cappadocia in central Turkey. Renowned for its awe-inspiring natural rock formations – which were utilized for everything from housing to churches and even complete underground villages – Cappadocia is as magical today as it was when early farmers discovered the fertile powers of the volcanic ash that covered the area thousands of years ago. Cappadocia became a haven for the first Christians, who ultimately carved more than 3,000 churches in the porous rock, painting many of them inside with splendidly preserved scenes from the Old Testament. We reach Cappadocia late this afternoon, and enjoy a buffet dinner this evening at the hotel. Meals: L, D Friday & Saturday, September 20 & 21: Cappadocia For the next two days, we’ll explore more of this unique region. We tour the rock churches of the Goreme Valley, including the open-air museum with 8th-century murals; and the refuge of Kaymakli, which was constructed over a period of centuries and provided a safe haven for Turks during times of war and conflict. A maze of tunnels reaching four stories deep, this underground city held as many as 3,000 people who were able to breathe thanks to a ventilation system that allowed fresh air into the complex structure. We also visit the vast Zelve Valley complex of caves laced with dwellings, churches, and public spaces where villagers lived until just 50 years ago; and marvel at the fairy tale chimneys at Pasabag; and the troglodyte villages of Cavusin and Uchisar. During a stop in the charming town of Avanos we watch local craftspeople as they practice their arts, which include fashioning beautiful hand-colored pottery; and weaving rugs of natural colored wool, a regional specialty that has been perfected by the Turks over many hundreds of years and continues to be passed down from generation to generation. We dine both evenings at the hotel. For those who wish, an optional early morning balloon ride is available on Saturday (at additional cost). The ride offers an unparalleled view of the lunar-like landscape and may be reserved on-site during your stay. At the time of printing, the cost of the balloon ride is approximately $225 per person. Meals: B, L, D Accommodations in Cappadocia: Uchisar Kaya Hotel—Located near the town center of Uchisar, close to shops and restaurants, the 73-room Uchisar Kaya Hotel is partially carved from the rocks of Cappadocia. The hotel offers a restaurants and bar, Internet access, laundry and dry cleaning services, fitness center, sauna, Turkish bath, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and outstanding views of Cappadocia’s Goreme Valley. Guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, mini-bar, TV, and phone. www.uchisarkayahotel.com
Sunday, September 22: Transfer to Ankara This morning we board a motor coach for the half-day transfer to Ankara, Turkey’s capital. Upon arrival we visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, where we will gain insights into Turkey’s fascinating past. One of the exhibits dates back to the earliest known human community, and takes us through civilizations that include the Urartu, Hattie, Hittite, Phrygian, and Assyrian. The building itself dates from the 15th century, and is a restored covered market. As we tour the museum, we will bring together all we have learned about Turkey and its people during our 2½ weeks of traveling. Tonight we gather one last time for a farewell dinner at the hotel. Meals: B, D Accommodations in Ankara: Ankara Hilton—This modern tower hotel in the center of the city offers a host of amenities including a restaurant and two bars, fitness center, Turkish bath, sauna, Jacuzzi, shopping center, beauty salon, Internet access, laundry and dry cleaning services, safe deposit boxes, and indoor pool. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities, mini-bar, TV, and phone. www.hilton.com
Monday, September 23: Depart for the U.S. Early this morning, you’ll transfer to the airport for your connecting flight to the United States. Meals: B
LEGENDARY TURKEY 2013 Accommodations Hilton Istanbul Hotel www.hilton.com Perched on a hill in the heart of Istanbul overlooking the Bosphorus, Hilton Istanbul offers such amenities as four restaurants, three bars; Fitness Center, outdoor pool, Turkish bath, walking track, and squash and tennis courts; safety deposit boxes; Internet access; laundry and dry cleaning services; gift shop; and newsstand. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, mini-bar, in-room safe, TV, and phone. Nazlihan Hotel www.assosedengroup.com This rustic harbor front hotel is in a remote and dramatic Aegean setting. The hotel has two restaurants and a bar. Airconditioned guest rooms are decorated in authentic Turkish décor and include private bath with hair dryer, mini-bar, TV, and phone. Please note that guest rooms are quite small (please see Day 5 in the itinerary regarding the use of an overnight bag), and there is no elevator. Lodging alternatives are limited in this region of Turkey; while your one-night stay in this unique location should be quite enjoyable, the amenities (and overall quality) at the hotel will be lower than elsewhere on your tour. Swissôtel Grand Efes www.swissotel.com Centrally located in downtown Izmir and surrounded by landscaped gardens, the Swissôtel Grand Efes overlooks Kordon seafront promenade and the Aegean coast. This contemporary hotel offers two restaurants, bar, and café; fitness center; spa with steam bath, Turkish bath, salt pool, and Jacuzzi; wellness center; shopping arcade; Internet access; laundry services; tennis courts; and indoor and outdoor pools. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.
Gulet Yacht A beautifully crafted motorized sailing vessel built of teak wood with a pointed fore and round aft, a private gulet yacht is the most authentic and relaxing way to cruise the Turquoise Coast. A large foredeck gives everyone ample space to sit and watch the Mediterranean coastline; in the evening, you may choose to stay up here and sleep under the stars. Dinner each evening is outside on deck under cover, as the ship’s cook prepares meals praised for their quality and freshness. All guests stay in small private cabins, each equipped with a shower and toilet (you may wish to pack a washcloth). On board, you’ll also find swimming and snorkeling equipment, perfect for late afternoon dips after you’ve anchored for the day. Since space is limited aboard the gulet yachts, suitcases must be placed under beds or in irregular spaces. It would be very helpful if your luggage is flexible (duffel bag variety) rather than hard-sided. Guests are asked to wear clean, softsoled shoes aboard ship in order to prevent scuffing of the ship’s hardwood floors (these should be a different pair than what you wear when out exploring during the day-boat or deck shoes, tennis shoes, sandals, or slippers). Additionally, based on environmental regulations, toilet paper cannot be flushed (it is placed in waste receptacles which are emptied by the crew). Electricity on board is provided by a generator and thus the amount of hot water may be limited during busy periods (especially in the morning). Average Length: 88 feet
Average Width: 21 feet
Sails: Mainsail, Genoa
Motor: MAN 350HP
Please note that, while the gulets are built to reflect the design of traditional Turkish fishermen’s sailing vessels, their primary means of movement is by motor. The actual amount of time spent under sail may be very limited and is often based on local weather conditions and the captain’s discretion. Rixos Antalya Downtown www.rixos.com Surrounded by spacious gardens and standing across from Konyaalti Beach, Rixos Antalya Downtown overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and Taurus Mountains. The hotel is fully equipped with a restaurant and several bars; Internet access; laundry and dry cleaning services; market; fitness center with spa, Turkish bath, sauna, massage treatments, and Jacuzzi; health center; outdoor pool; and access to a private section of Konyaalti Beach. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, TV, and phone.
Legendary Turkey: From Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast Enclosed is my/our non-refundable deposit for $__________($750 per person) for _____ person/people on the “Legendary Turkey” tour departing the USA on September 5, 2013. I/we understand the final payment is due on or before June 2, 2013. Your deposit may be paid by American Express, Discover, MasterCard, VISA, or personal check. This excursion is limited to 24 participants. Please mail this completed form as soon as possible to: The Renaissance Academy of FGCU, Attention: John Guerra, 1010 5th Ave South, Naples, FL 34102. (PRINT CLEARLY)
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I/We wish to reserve an AIR, LAND & CRUISE Package for $4,392 pp (Roundtrip air from NYC; including taxes and fee) I/We wish to reserve an AIR, LAND & CRUISE Package for $4,692 pp (Roundtrip air from Chicago; including taxes and fees) I/We wish to reserve an AIR, LAND & CRUISE Package for $4,792 pp (Roundtrip air from Ft. Myers; including taxes and Fees) I/We wish to reserve a LAND & CRUISE ONLY Package for $3,495 per person I prefer single accommodations for an additional cost of $995 (Single accommodations are limited) I/We wish to reserve the Post-Tour Cappadocia & Ankara Extension for $995 per person ($195 single supplement) I have the following special requirements (including dietary): I am travelling alone but will share a room with ____________________________________________ I/We wish to reserve a Trans-Atlantic Business Class upgrade (price available upon request and subject to change)
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PLEASE ENCLOSE A PHOTOCOPY OF YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOUR DEPOSIT IMPORTANT: THIS IS A MODERATE EXERTION TOUR. PARTICIPANTS MUST BE ABLE TO WALK, STAND AND CLIMB STAIRS WITHOUT DIFFICULTY. I understand that The Renaissance Academy of FGCU is unable to accept any person as a tour passenger who may require special attention because of a medical condition unless they have a companion traveling with them who can provide whatever services and assistance is necessary. I further understand that The Renaissance Academy of FGCU cannot accept or retain any person whose health or general deportment impedes the operation of the tour or affects the rights, welfare or enjoyment of other tour passengers. I accept sole responsibility for determining that I am in good physical and mental health and am able to participate in group touring. I further certify that I have read and agree with the General Terms and Conditions associated with this excursion.
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Legendary Turkey & the Turquoise Coast September 5 (Depart USA) – September 19, 2013 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS Please read this information carefully, as payment of a $750 deposit per person represents your acceptance of the following General Terms and Conditions. Please retain a copy of these General Terms and Conditions for your records. Tour Cost: Total tour cost, air and land from Ft. Myers, FL airport is $4,792 per person, $4,692 per person from Chicago, and $4,392 from NYC. Land-only cost is $3,495 per person. A non-refundable deposit of $750 per person is required with your signed application. Final payment in full is due on or before June 2, 2013. The single supplement is $995. Tour costs, which are based on current exchange rates and a minimum group size of 24 participants, are subject to change. Upon reservation you must provide your full legal name as it appears on your passport. In the event an airline ticket is issued with incorrect information you have provided, you will be responsible for charges associated with the ticket’s reissue. Luggage: Only one carry-on and one checked bag per person is accepted on tour. Documents: U.S. citizens must have a valid passport and visa for entry into Turkey. Visas may be obtained upon arrival at the Istanbul airport. Cost of Tour Includes: Round-trip airfare including airline taxes and departure fees (which are subject to change); 13 nights' accommodations in Superior First Class and First Class hotels, including 4 nights aboard a privately chartered gulet; 30 meals: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners; Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees; Services of a private Tour Director; Private motor coach transportation; Luggage handling for 1 bag per person; Gratuities for dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers. Cost of Tour DOES NOT Include: Roundtrip airfare from any departure point other than those listed herein; costs of passports, visas, personal expenses such as beverages, laundry, room service, and meals and beverages not specified; excess baggage fees; communication charges; gratuities to your Tour Director, which are at your discretion; optional sightseeing or shore excursions; and travel protection insurance. Cancellations: All deposits are non-refundable. If you must cancel your trip, the effective date of cancellation will be upon our receipt of your written notification. Cancellations received 95 days or more from the date of departure will be subject to a $300 processing fee plus any and all additional charges dependent upon the obligations of The Renaissance Academy of FGCU to its suppliers and the airline refund policies. Cancellations received at or within 94 days of departure are subject to the following schedule of cancellation fees: 94-65 days prior to departure - 65% of the tour cost per person; 64-30 days prior to departure - 85% of the tour cost per person; 29 days or less prior to departure – 100% of the tour cost per person. If a guest makes any changes within 94 and 30 days prior to departure to either their departure city and/or the optional post-tour extension, a $150 per person administrative fee, in addition to any fees or penalties imposed by third parties will apply. No changes are allowed within 30 days of departure. Travel Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Compare/purchase insurance at Squaremouth.com. Medical Conditions: If you or a member of your party suffer from any physical challenge or medical condition, you must check with your doctor about the advisability of traveling abroad and make this known to us before you book. We will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants, but are not responsible for denial of services by carriers, hotels, restaurants and other independent suppliers. Smoking: Smoking is NOT permitted in the hotels, on motor coaches, or other modes of transport used by the group. Responsibility-Tour Participation Contract – IMPORTANT: The Renaissance Academy of FGCU does not provide travel services or act as the agent of any provider of travel services. The liability of Florida Gulf Coast University, as a sponsor, and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc., as a tour operator, is strictly limited. The Renaissance Academy of FGCU is not responsible or liable for any of the services provided for/by Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. or any other travel agency, or for any of the services of hotels, motor coaches, trains, vessels, aircrafts or other forms of transportation that may be used in connection with the tour. Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. purchases transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant and other services from independent suppliers not under its control. All arrangements for transport, accommodations, and services are made upon the express condition that The Renaissance Academy of FGCU, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. and their affiliates shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damage, injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity of any kind occasioned by reason of any act or omission beyond its control, including without limitation, any act of negligence or breach of contract of any third party such as an airline, cruise line, train, hotel, restaurant, tour operator/supplier, ground handler, etc., including their employees, agents, servants or representatives, who is to or does supply any goods or services to the tour. Without limiting the foregoing, The Renaissance Academy of FGCU, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. and their affiliates are not responsible for any losses or expenses due to delay or changes in schedule, overbooking of accommodations, default of any third parties, sickness, weather, strikes, acts of God, acts of terrorism, war, quarantine, criminal activity, the defect of any vehicle or for any other cause beyond their control. The Renaissance Academy of FGCU reserves the right to change the itinerary of the tour or to substitute similar quality hotels or airlines without prior notice. If the tour is cancelled by The Renaissance Academy of FGCU for any reason, The Renaissance Academy of FGCU, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. and their affiliates shall have no liability beyond the refund of all tour participant deposits received by them, net of any and all expenses due to suppliers and the airline refund policies. The Renaissance Academy of FGCU, in its sole discretion, may increase the tour price in the event costs increase. The Renaissance Academy of FGCU may decline to accept or retain any tour participant as a participant on the tour at any time. Airline tickets may be sold in conjunction with the services of any airline. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers, cruise line, and other independent suppliers when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger. If you choose to make your own air arrangements, The Renaissance Academy of FGCU and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. shall not have any liability for any loss resulting from cancellation of or changes to this tour. The parties agree that Ft. Myers (Lee County) in the state of Florida shall be the venue for any disputes arising out of this tour. A signed FGCU General Release and Waiver Agreement is required from each participant prior to departure. Important Note: When you purchase a “land only” package, airport transfers and luggage handling at the arrival and departure airports at the beginning and end of the tour are not included. However, should you be at the arrival airport and departure hotel concurrent with the group of arriving Odysseys Unlimited travelers, you are welcome to transfer with the group at no charge, providing additional seating is available. However, please note that the motor coach cannot wait for you; you must be aboard when the coach is leaving. Business Class upgrades apply ONLY to the trans-Atlantic portion of your itinerary. Domestic U.S. flights are not included.