Turkey: Troy & the Turkish Riviera - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What age range is this tour designed for?

  This tour is designed for 18-to-Thirtysomethings, with a minimum age of 18 and a maximum age of 39.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum number of travellers on this tour is 18.

• What are the main highlights of the Turkey: Troy & the Turkish Riviera tour?

  The main highlights include an epic boat trip along the coast of Kekova, relaxing in the legendary ancient baths of Pamukkale, exploring the cobbled streets of Ephesus, and visiting Troy, the one from Homer’s 'Iliad'.

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

  You will stay in simple hotels for 9 nights. The accommodation selection focuses on location, character, and cleanliness. It can be a mixture of hotels, hostels, and private rooms in local households. Please note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning, but hotels will typically provide a fan upon request.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 9 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

• How will we travel between destinations on this tour?

  Travel between destinations and to/from included activities will be by private vehicle, local bus, boat, and walking.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your booking agent for further details regarding flights.

• 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. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included activities.

• What currency is used in Turkey, and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are available in main cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. It's advisable to carry both card types. Cash is recommended for situations where ATMs are not accessible, and Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange. For US Dollars, ensure notes are new and in good condition (post-1996).

• Are there any specific health considerations for travel in Turkey?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Turkey. You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes. Please note that tour leaders are prohibited from administering any medication.

• What are the general safety tips for this tour, especially during free time?

  Always use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings, especially in major cities. It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities, and it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis for night excursions.

• What activities are optional and not included in the tour price?

  Optional activities include swimming in an Ancient Pool in Pamukkale (340TRY per person), a Pide Lunch & Demonstration in Selçuk, and a Guided Tour of the Gallipoli Battlefields (900TRY per person).

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, there is no single supplement for group trips. Solo travelers will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What are the tipping guidelines in Turkey for this trip?

  It is customary to leave a small tip (around 10% of the bill) for service providers like waiters. Tipping drivers is recommended at €15-20 per week. For your CEO (Chief Experience Officer) or skipper, a guideline of €6-8 per person per day is suggested, as an expression of satisfaction.

• What emergency funds should I have access to?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used for unforeseen circumstances.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the nearest laundromat. It's suggested to bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• Who will be leading the group throughout the tour?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will be with you throughout the entire tour, including acting as a tour guide for ancient sites visited in Turkey.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Resources are available on their LGBTQ+ page, and the Equaldex tool is recommended for specific destination information.

• What is Planeterra, and how does it relate to the tour operator?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.