Turkey

Turkey bridges the gap between Europe and the Middle East, with glorious sunshine, brilliant beaches, and tons of history and culture to discover. Explore the quintessential cosmopolitan capital Istanbul, view bizarre rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’ in Cappadocia, bathe in the warm waters which trickle down the hillside of Pamukkale and examine the ancient remains of this Roman spa city; or just relax on the idyllic beaches of the Mediterranean.

In the Turkish Riviera, Bodrum’s bejewelled harbour has witnessed fleets of empires past mingle over countless generations, culminating in a vibrant fusion of culture and cuisine that endures to this day. Explore local culinary secrets in a private cooking demonstration, learning how hand-pressed olive oil has bound this cosmopolitan fusion of flavours together throughout the centuries.

Intriguing Istanbul is where Asia and Europe collide. The skyline is dominated by minarets and mosques, while in the heart of the walled Old City lies the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, where you may meet local artisans, sip Turkish coffee and haggle over the price of onyx jewellery or silk carpets.

Glide peacefully over the extraordinary ‘fairy chimneys’ of Cappadocia on a dawn hot air balloon ride getting a bird’s-eyeview of the unique rock formations that punctuate the honeycomb hills of this volcanic region. Marvel at the natural pillars of Monks Valley bathed in an orange hue and float over rock-cut mosques and monasteries, and abundant orchards and vineyards.

Experience the warmth of Istanbul’s hospitality and its rich heritage when you visit a local coffee house. See how finely ground arabica beans are painstakingly brewed in cezves (small copper pots) and lovingly poured into pintsized porcelain cups; enjoy insights revealed by your guide on Turkey’s enduring coffeehouse culture as you sip the perfect demitasse of foamy kahve.

Join local villagers for a traditional Turkish dinner in a family garden. After a visit to a mosque you’ll sit down to a meal cooked from fresh produce and learn more about life along the Aegean coast. During the evening, artisans will be on hand to show you the intricacies of silk carpet weaving.

Flanking an azure Aegean bay, Izmir’s bustling bazaars belie the weight of antiquity hidden just below the port city’s surface. Delving into the depths of a vast archaeological site, your guide reveals the Ionian ruins of Ephesus, the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Marvel at sprawling frescoes frozen in time, their fascinating scenes of daily life affording insight into an empire lost to the ages.

11 days from $13,105 pp Arrive Istanbul (3N) – Yeşilyurt (1N) – Izmir (2N) – Cappadocia (2N) – Depart Istanbul (2N) A melting pot of cultures, Turkey is fascinating and exotic. With a 10,000-year-old history and more than 40,000 ancient sites, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited regions in the world. Discover its rich history, culture and beautiful landscapes as you journey from the delights of Istanbul to Gallipoli and on down the Aegean coast exploring archaeological sites and into the interior to the magical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

Our complete range of tailor-made journeys can be viewed on our website and all can be personalised to your individual requirements. Visit www.abercrombiekent.com.au to find out more.