Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing around the ruins at Termessos, hot air ballooning at Cappadoccia and sharing turkish bath experience with the ladies in our group were definite highlights. Our tour guide went out of his way to show us extra things and teach us about Turkish language and culture which made it really special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zafer's expertise in archeology and ancient history as well as his ability to engage the group really made the tour. We had moments when the whole group became budding archeologists, finding pieces of old pottery, glass, carvings and metal and asking him which period it came from! He was also happy to show us additional sites, recommend activities in our free time and take us to the best shops and local bars.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Some days we have a lot of bus travel but I expected this from other trip reviews and the sites we saw were well worth it. Accommodation standards varied quite significantly in different locations, but you spend so little time at the hotel in any event. Days are packed with a full itinerary, which I loved, but others might prefer more free time.

Suggestions

I would recommend an extra day or two in Istanbul at the end of the tour.

Most Inspirational Moment

The hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia was amazing, no doubt about it, definitely worth the very early start. It was actually cancelled due to bad weather (fog) the first morning but the tour guide managed to book us in with another balloon company the next morning - thank goodness. Ephesus was another highlight, and Termessos as it was so picturesque and quiet. There were plenty of other highlights but one worth mentioning was a caravanserai that wasn't on the official itinerary but the tour guide and driver took us to break up a long drive - it's an inn for travellers and camels along the Silk Road and I really loved it as I'd never seen anything like it before.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zafer was amazing, one of the best tour guides I've had - and a few others on the tour agreed. He knows a huge amount about Turkey and Turkish history which helps make every stop interesting, he can read the crowd and knows when to crack a few jokes or get the bus singing, and he made an effort to find local cheap places for us to eat. I really appreciated his effort.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for some long drives and if you travel in Sept, variable weather from north to south - a little cooler in Istanbul but then hot hot hot down south. I recommend at least another day or two in Istanbul before and/or after the tour to make sure you have a chance to see a bit more of the city. Most of the hotels are 2-3 stars, which are totally fine, just be prepared for a few hard beds and small bathrooms that's all. Some of the sights I could've missed but that's probably because I was so spoilt by places like Ephesus and Cappadocia. But these are all little things, overall the tour was fantastic - unbelievable history, delicious food, beautiful geography, wonderful company.

Most Inspirational Moment

Cappadocia was a fascinating surreal environment, those who took the ballon ride said that the experience was breathtaking. Pamakkule was again an amazing place to visit. Whirling Dervishes are a must see. I found Gallipoli very moving.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fatih Develi was a brilliant leader. He was very knowledgable and passionate about his country. He was concerned about the group welfare, and on one occasion insisted on checking the cleanliness of a restaurant kitchen before the group sat down for a meal. He used his local knowledge to avoid crowds at various sites, especially at Ephesus where he led the group around the city when the crowds had all left.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Good quality walking shoes are helpful. Expect long hours on the road, but I found the trip an education as I had no idea about the depth of history Turkey has to offer.

Suggestions

This trip ticks many boxes if you are interested in the history and culture of this area.

Most Inspirational Moment

Truth to tell, the trip through Turkey was inspirational in so many ways. Rather like analysing a rich tapestry, one has to admire the colour, texture, content and skill of the artist(s).The lavish Islamic architecture of Istanbul's Blue Mosque amongst others has to make such buildings remarkable icons of huge historic and modern importance. The Topkapi Palace evokes a sense of the huge lavish empire which was that of the Ottomans, while the phenomena of Cappadocia with its startling landscapes and the blazing white cliffs of Pammukale leave unforgettable images in the mind's eye.Ancient monuments of World Heritage status, the poignant juxtaposition of Galipolli's natural beauty alongside memorials to the many dead on both sides in that cruel war. All was inspirational

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was a very personable and skilled young man. He was knowledgeable and at the same time keen to interact with members of the group and to show an interest in each and every one.Clearly he was well versed in the necessary skills of diplomacy and always ready to be flexible whilst ensuring that we covered the salient items of the itinerary.I feel that we learned a great deal about Turkey from one of its proud citizens.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read about the country and try to learn a few words. Locals were very warm but especially to hear a few words in Turkish from visiting tourists. Be prepared to be amazed regardless of what you have read or seen in books or films. We travelled in October. Prepare for extremes of weather.North of the Taurus Range nights were cool and required warm clothing. Once we reached the south coast we experienced weather reminiscent of an excellent British Summer. Bring your swimmies!! 

Suggestions

The hotels were at times disappointing: the best was in Fethiye, others were sometimes cramped or austere.However, relatively little time was spent in our hotels and so given the value for money, it was not too much of a problem. If you're concerned about the accommodation, get a list of the hotels where you'll be staying and see if they feature on Booking.com or Tripadvisor, for example.If you have euros take some with. Often things worked out cheaper paying in euros than in Turkish Lira and if you think on the last day that you won't be back in Istanbul before 8pm, make sure to purchase  items from the Spice Market at the start of your trip.  güvenli bir yolculuk!

Most Inspirational Moment

Discovering how hard and to what lengths the Turks (particularly the farmers and artisan workers) will go in order to earn some money. In addition, all the ancient sites we visited, the principal one must be Termessos and the hike to it.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fatih conducted the tour in a very professional manner, is extremely knowledgeable not only about the sites we visited but also about turkey itself. To sum up, his role as a guide was excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

none

Suggestions

In view of the 3,000 plus kms we did for this tour, there are a few days when a lot of time necessitated the group being in the coach but short breaks for snacks etc were always organised.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being up in a forest path, in an amazing amphitheatre looking down over the mountains; some of us chose to spend time with the person who makes Dervishes' felt hats - that was so interesting; Gallipoli which is so moving and a monument to both sides of the war - we were made to feel welcome by the Turks; having an evening with a lady in Capadocia in her own home - what an astonishing building and a nice meal.  Too many things to choose from!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kemet was wonderful.  She was well informed and kind as well as good fun.  When a restraunt was getting behind with orders, she went and helped in the kitchen so we did not have to wait too long!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Enjoy!

Suggestions

Yes -Sadly a lovely lady on our trip died (of a pre-existing illness) Exodus were so kind and thoughtful and supportive to the bereaved, our party and our guide. Our group leader was a tower of strength. This is a very rare thing to happen, but it shows when the chips down Exodus are the goods.Also, I did feel Christianity was underplayed.  I will explain - we did not get to see the famous churches in Capadocia even though they were within walking distance and we had time; we missed Mary's house though we were near it and we were taken to see the "cave of the sleepers" with no mention of the huge ruin next to it that turned out to be a very early Christian catacomb!For Exodus to consider:  I understand the tour is cutting out Konya but the Dervish history and mosque were so interesting. I am concerned that this is being replaced by more free time in Istanbul. Though to be fair, I know Istanbul and it may be that other travellers felt they did not get enough time there.  However,  I just worry that if trips are going to more comfortable hotels and having more free days, they will turn into ordinary package holidays. I am older and I choose Exodus because I like the "young" feel of trips, mixing with all ages, and I enjoy the fast pace; while I am in a country I want to see and experience everything I can.  I'm not ready for Saga yet!!!That said, I wouldn't want to travel with anyone else!

Most Inspirational Moment

Obviously Cappadocia which was more extensive than I imagined and quite mind blowing.The peace and serenity at Teremossos compared to the frantic activity at Ephesus. Arriving at Assos harbour as the sun set.The tour of Gallipoli - very moving.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Gorkhan was great. Very charming as well as good looking but also knowledgeable about every site we visited but who also understood when we wanted some quiet time on the coach.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for extensive tavelling. Read up on the sites you are likely to visit before the holiday (if you have an interest) as it is hard to assimilate all the information on site and a little background knowledge would go a long way to adding to your enjoyment.Do try the hamam in Selcuk (or any other place). It was quite an experience!Try to stay a few more days in Istanbul at the end of the trip to visit the places you didn't get around to and just to enjoy exploring - it's a grat city.

Suggestions

The trip has certainly given me the desire to go back to Turkey to explore further afield. So perhaps another trip is in order when the funds allow.

Most Inspirational Moment

All the areas visited were interesting but I particularly liked the Cappadocia area and the underground city at Derinkuyu was amazing.The story of Troy is one of the most well known and it was great to see the place after much imagining. Istanbul is a great city and you could easily spend more time there.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kiymet our tour leader was very knowlegable and informative.  She ensured that the trip ran smoothly and made time for everyone. Excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Think about when to go. It was pretty hot at times and, for me, if it had been any hotter visiting some of the sites would not have been as enjoyable.If you use the laundry service provided by the hotel at Antalya be careful, they obviously wash all colours together and some of my clothes came back prety grey.

Suggestions

Great trip, well worth going on.

Most Inspirational Moment

The ancient ruins at Troy were magnificent. To be able to visit a place with such a powerful mythological legacy is a real treat for the imagination.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader was very professional and well organised. Everything on the trip went as planned and there were no logistical hitches en-route.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The heat wasn't as bad as I anticipated, though I would avoid July and early August if possible. Also, if you are unfamiliar with Hellenistic/Roman history, some advance research will greatly enhance the experience.Turkey is not a foodie destination and much of what is on offer is quite bland. On a positive note, food is fresh and generally very local. Coffee is also an unexpected disappointment.

Most Inspirational Moment

Termessos TheaterEphesusStadium AphrodisiasIstanbul

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very nice girl and very capable, but she did tend to waffle and repeat herself. Her choice of local motorway buffets became monotonous

Advice for Potential Travellers

Avoid the restaurants in the Istanbul fish markets, they are poor value. Instead go on the Bosphorous trip to Anadolus Kavagi.The fish is beautifully cooked and presented and great value, especially the set menus

Suggestions

Allow extra time in Istanbul, it is facsinating