Absolute Turkey - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This comprehensive tour combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. Highlights include exploring the palaces and mosques of Istanbul, the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, the white cliff waterfalls of Pamukkale, the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy, an afternoon boat trip on the Mediterranean, and a guided visit to the Gallipoli battlefields. You will also enjoy unique local experiences like dinner with a family and a village homestay.

• How large will the group be?

  The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers, with an average of 10 participants.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in small family-run hotels or pensions for 13 nights, and experience a simple village homestay for 1 night. Accommodations are typically clean, safe, and centrally located, though some may lack elevators or air-conditioning. The village homestay offers a unique immersion into local life, with beds on the floor and shared family bathrooms, and includes a home-cooked dinner.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 14 breakfasts and 3 dinners.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the trip?

  Transportation throughout the tour will primarily be via private air-conditioned van, with a boat trip included for an afternoon on the Mediterranean Sea, and various walking tours.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, except for specific combo tours traveling between different countries where they might be noted as included.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  If required, all local flights are included in the cost of your tours unless otherwise noted. Passport information is needed at the time of booking for these tickets, which are issued locally.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects is strongly recommended.

• What is the minimum and maximum age to join this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may join if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers do not incur an extra cost; accommodation is shared with someone of the same sex. For the village homestay on Night 6, this policy still applies.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is advisable to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that may alter the planned route.

• What is the local currency and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are widely available in main cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. It's recommended to carry both. Cash (Euros, British Pounds, US Dollars) can be exchanged, but US Dollar notes should be new and in good condition. A mix of ATM cards and some cash is ideal. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates online.

• What are the general safety and security considerations for this trip?

  In major cities, exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It's recommended to travel in small groups and use taxis for nighttime excursions. Always secure valuables in a neck wallet or money belt. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety and will accompany you on included activities. For optional activities, use your own judgment regarding safety and operators.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially at religious sites?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, modest dress is required; shoulders should be covered, and short shorts or skirts are not appropriate. In less touristic areas, local dress is generally more conservative, and loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended for both men and women. Your CEO can provide specific advice.

• What health considerations should I be aware of?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Turkey. Consult your travel doctor for up-to-date vaccination and medical travel information well before departure. Carry a first aid kit and hand sanitizers. Be aware that the tour may traverse remote areas away from medical facilities, and leaders cannot administer medication.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include the Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, visits to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Galata Tower in Istanbul. In Cappadocia/Göreme, you can opt for a Hot Air Balloon Ride, Turkish Night, Whirling Dervishes, Turkish Bath, or visit a Pottery Center. Other options include an Antalya Hammam, Hierapolis Archeological Museum or swimming in an Ancient Pool in Pamukkale, a Selçuk cooking class, St. John's Basilica, Mosque of Isa Bey, or a visit to Şirince village. In Istanbul, Dolmabahçe Palace, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and Basilica Cistern are also optional.

• When can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Your CEO can also advise on the nearest laundromats. Bringing your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal laundry.

• Who will be leading the group?

  A dedicated CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will lead the group throughout the tour, acting as your main point of contact and guide.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities benefit from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. This tour includes 'G for Good' moments, such as a visit to the Çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation and a Turkish Village Homestay in Güneysınır, which directly support these initiatives. 100% of donations to Planeterra go directly to their projects.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  It is customary in Turkey to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service (10% of your bill). Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. As a guideline, recommendations for tipping drivers would range from €15-20 per week, and for your CEO/tour guide, €6-8 per person per day is appreciated.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Absolute Turkey' tour?

  This comprehensive tour allows you to discover historic cities and ancient ruins like Ephesus, marvel at the extraordinary scenery of Cappadocia, enjoy dinner in a local family home, relax on an afternoon boat trip, and experience living like a local in a Turkish village.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions for 13 nights, along with a unique experience of a simple village homestay for 1 night. Note that for the village homestay, beds are on the floor, and you'll share a family bathroom.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 14 breakfasts and 3 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 15 travelers, with an average of 10.

• What modes of transportation are used on this tour?

  Transportation includes a private air-conditioned van, boat, and walking.

• Are international flights to and from Turkey included?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Some combo tours may include international flights, but for this trip, they are not.

• Are domestic flights within Turkey included?

  If required, all local flights are included in the cost of your tours unless otherwise noted. It is important to provide your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation, has been sighted by your leader.

• What should I know about currency and payment methods in Turkey?

  The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are available in main cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. It's advisable to carry some cash for situations where ATMs are not accessible, and Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easily exchangeable. Ensure USD notes are new and in good condition.

• What is the tipping etiquette in Turkey for this tour?

  It is customary to leave a small tip for service providers like waiters (10% of your bill). Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of your tour. Recommendations for tipping drivers range from €15-20 per week, and for your CEO/tour guide, €6-8 per person per day is a guideline.

• Are there any age restrictions for participants?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the recommended dress code, especially for religious sites?

  While visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. In non-touristic centers, loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended as a matter of respect.

• What are the general safety guidelines for this trip?

  In major cities, be aware of your surroundings and mind personal belongings. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. The CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and consider staying in small groups or taking taxis for night excursions. Avoid protests and demonstrations. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating tourism income for local communities. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower local people, including Indigenous populations and women. The tour operator covers all of Planeterra's operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to their projects.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will be with you throughout the tour.

• Are there any health recommendations or requirements for this tour?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Turkey. You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, as well as personal medical requirements, is recommended. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs.

• When and where can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the nearest laundromat. It's suggested to bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• What are some of the optional activities available on this tour?

  Optional activities include the Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, Topkapi Palace Visit, Hagia Sophia Visit, Galata Tower, Cappadocia Balloon Ride, Whirling Dervishes, Turkish Bath, Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, swimming in an ancient pool in Pamukkale, Selcuk cooking class, St John's Basilica Visit, Mosque of Isa Bey Visit, and a visit to Şirince Village.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  The tour is designed for shared accommodation and does not involve a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.