Absolute Turkey: Winter - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What should I know about traveling during Ramadan?

  According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan occurs at specific times (e.g., March 11th - April 8th 2024, March 1st - March 29th 2025). During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. While there may be some limitations to services or disruptions to schedules, tours generally operate effectively, and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. Travelers are asked to display increased cultural sensitivity, wear loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2, which generally indicates an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without aid, climb stairs, and carry their own luggage.

• How does traveling during winter affect the tour experience?

  Traveling during the winter allows you to see Turkey's incredible sights without battling the large crowds often present in warmer months. This can offer a more unique and intimate experience, with the possibility of seeing sites like Cappadocia covered in snow.

• Are there laundry facilities available on the tour?

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

• Can solo travelers expect to have their own room?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What safety and security precautions should I be aware of?

  In major cities, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings. It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. At night, it's advisable to stay in small groups and use taxis. Avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are gathering.

• What are the health considerations for traveling in Turkey?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water. You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements is recommended. For legal reasons, tour leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• What are the dress code expectations for visiting religious sites and local areas?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders and ensuring shorts or skirts are not too short. In general, outside of major cities and tourist centers, local dress is more conservative, so loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders are recommended out of respect.

• Is tipping expected in Turkey?

  Tipping is customary in Turkey and is an expression of satisfaction with service. For waiters, a small tip of 10% is common. Recommendations for tipping drivers range from €15-20 per week, and for your CEO, a guideline of €6-8 per person per day can be used.

• What is the local currency and how should I handle money?

  The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are widely available in main cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. It is recommended to travel with both an ATM card and some cash for emergencies. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange. When bringing US Dollars, ensure notes are new and in good condition.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

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

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include an Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, a Whirling Dervishes performance, a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia (290EUR), an Antalya Hammam, a visit to the Antalya Archaeological Museum (15EUR), a visit to Saint John's Basilica (6EUR), and a visit to the Mosque of Isa Bey (Free).

• What is the minimum age to participate in this trip?

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

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout the trip. Additionally, local guides are utilized in specific areas where their specialized knowledge enhances the experience.

• What is the maximum and average group size for this tour?

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

• What transportation methods are used on the tour?

  This tour uses a mix of private and public transport. Public buses in Turkey are very comfortable, offering air-conditioned 'Greyhound' type coaches with reclining seats. You may also be served a drink and light snack during bus travel.

• What kind of food can I expect to eat in Turkey?

  Turkish breakfasts typically consist of fresh white bread, slices of tomato, cucumber, white and yellow cheeses, olives, jam, and honey, served with tea. Lunches are often simple, on-the-go options like gozleme (savory crepes), chorba (lentil soup), doner kebabs, or pide (Turkish pizza). Dinners often begin with mezes (small taster dishes) followed by main courses like fresh seafood or various kebabs. Desserts like baklava are also popular.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour price includes 14 breakfasts and 2 dinners.

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

  You will stay in small, family-run hotels or pensions for 14 nights, with the exception of the starting and finishing hotels which are often larger city hotels. These accommodations are clean, safe, simple, and in convenient central locations. Some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include discovering historic cities and exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, marveling at the extraordinary scenery of Cappadocia, and enjoying dinner in a local family home.

• What is the overall experience of the Absolute Turkey: Winter tour like?

  On this winter edition, you'll see Turkey's incredible sights without battling the crowds. The trip involves exploring palaces and mosques in Istanbul, otherworldly Cappadocia, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and bustling bazaars. Local Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will guide you to hidden gems.