Eastern Turkey & Georgia Discovery - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include taking in the vast beauty of Lake Van, visiting the ancient funerary monument Karakus Tumulus, soaking in panoramic views from the Metekhi Church and Narikala Fortress, and participating in hands-on Khinkali and Terragarden cooking experiences. The tour also steps into history at the Karakus Tumulus and Metekhi Church, marvels at breathtaking landscapes of Mardin and Martvili Canyon, and allows you to savor rich regional cuisine.

• What is the overall style or focus of this tour?

  This is a Classic style adventure focused on venturing off the beaten path into the heart of Turkey and Georgia. It emphasizes immersive experiences, stepping into history, marveling at landscapes, savoring regional cuisine, and connecting with locals.

• Which countries are visited on this tour?

  This tour visits Turkey and Georgia.

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

  You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions for 13 nights, which may vary in standard and facilities (some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff). These accommodations are locally-run, often with traditional character, and are in excellent central locations. The start and finish hotels may be larger city hotels. Overall, they offer clean, safe, and simple lodging in convenient locations.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation on this trip primarily includes plane for internal flights, private vehicles for most included activities and travel between destinations, boat for specific excursions, and walking tours.

• Are international flights included?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. On some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour.

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

  Yes, this tour includes internal flights. Domestic flights in Turkey have a carriage allowance of 15 kg (33 lbs) for check-in and 8 kg (17.5 lbs) for carry-on.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied is 18. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12. The maximum age for participants is 100.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 16 participants, with an average group size of 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, without an extra single supplement. However, some independent trips are designed differently and may require a single trip price for solo travelers.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of travel insurance. The policy must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are also strongly recommended.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  While there are no specific health requirements, inoculations may be required for the countries visited. It is recommended to consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. Protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio is generally advised. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is also suggested, especially since you will be in remote areas away from medical facilities at times.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables like passports, tickets, and cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also advisable. Your group leader can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis for night excursions. Water-based activities carry inherent risks; participate only when accompanied by a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk. Always check your government's travel advice before departure.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  You should dress modestly. Loose, lightweight, and long clothing is practical, and short shorts or skirts should be avoided. In areas outside of capital cities and main tourist centers, local dress is often more conservative. Both men and women should be aware of this and are recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered. Your CEO can offer more specific advice.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  While not compulsory, tipping is expected as an expression of satisfaction. It holds significant importance for local people assisting you. Tipping local guides is recommended, ranging from 3-5 USD/EUR per person per day. Your CEO can collect money for group tips. At the end of the trip, if you are satisfied with your CEO, a tip of 20-25 USD/EUR per person per week is a guideline.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include visiting the Latifiye Mosque and Tellallar Bazaar in Mardin, and the Kars Museum in Kars.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They connect underserved local communities to tourism benefits by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, empowering indigenous people, women, and youth, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation directly supports Planeterra projects.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you cannot commence your trip as scheduled, refer to the emergency contact details provided in your dossier and contact us immediately. If you have a pre-booked transfer and your representative doesn't arrive within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to your starting hotel and apply for a refund of the transfer cost upon your return.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  In an emergency, first call the Local Representative or Local Office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. For flight schedule changes within 48 hours of arrival, call the emergency contact number to advise of new flight information. Emergency contact numbers include the tour operator Emergency Line (+44 1858 378 000) and local transfer company numbers for Turkey (+90 539 424 42 48) and Armenia (+374 77 88 74 44).

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry at times, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• Who will be leading the group?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will lead the group throughout the tour.

• Will I get my own room if I book the 'My Own Room' option?

  Yes, if you have booked the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on that page can be particularly helpful.