 Our unique small group tours (10 to 14 travellers) offer a rich and rewarding experience, venturing into the fascinating history and culture of Turkey. Travelling to the region for the past sixteen years we have built up a network of highly qualified friends and colleagues who help make the tours so special.
On our visits to the DOBAG villages we are accompanied where possible by Dr Boehmer or Dr Serife Atlihan from Marmara University. For the part of the tour that takes us to the many splendours of Turkey we have an excellent university educated English speaking Turkish guide. In addition we personally lead all of our tours.
 We travel in a comfortable air conditioned coach and stay in good quality hotels with private facilities, chosen for their location and typical Anatolian style.
The tours are planned to allow for a meaningful experience. We do not rush and there is ample free time for shopping and exploring the many fascinating destinations. |
About the tour
 Our
tour begins and ends in Istanbul and in between explores
the story of this fascinating country through its people,
spectacular architecture and ruins, simple villages, modern
cities, artistry, culture and unique landscapes. Because of its strategic location at the intersection
of Asia and Europe, Anatolia has been a cradle for several
civilisations since prehistoric ages; from Neolithic settlements
like that of 7000 BC Catalhoyuk, through the bronze and
iron ages, Hellenistic and Roman empires, to the Byzantine
and Seljuk tradition of the middle ages. The conquest of Anatolia by Turkic peoples coming from
the east in the 11th century was gradual and culminated
in 1453 with the vanquishing of Constantinople (modern Istanbul).
The vast, multi-ethnic Ottoman Empire was to last for six
centuries until World War 1, after which the modern Turkish
Republic was formed.
DOBAG Villages
 A unique aspect of the tour is our exploration of the villages involved in the DOBAG project.
Situated in western Turkey, the villages are not open to tourists, and visitor access is only possible in the company of authorised and invited people.
This is to protect the privacy and traditional way of life of the villagers. Over fourteen years, we (Terry & Pam Hoyne), as the authorised Australian DOBAG dealers, have built up a warm relationship with the weavers and their families and are privileged to be welcomed into their lives.
We share meals with the village people, watch a natural dyeing demonstration, home weaving and spinning, and gain a first hand insight into the daily lives of the weaving families, including an overnight stay.
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“One
of the best possible ways to visit and enjoy old and new Turkey:
among a small group of like-minded people. Archaeology, textiles,
lovely hotels and gourmet eating. The best of Turkey in three
weeks and at a very reasonable price. Best holiday ever!”
Steve Hopcraft - NSW
‘What a wonderful tour it was! A marvellous group,
and superb planners and organisers. We loved every bit of
it from exotic, beautiful Istanbul through the ruins of ancient
civilisations to the fantasy world of Cappadocia; and above
all visiting the DOBAG villages and meeting the village people.
Completely different from the usual package tour.” David & Valerie Krantz – WA “The trip exceeded our expectations in every way, especially
the organisation and care shown by Pam and Terry. Visiting the
DOBAG villages was one of many highlights of an extremely interesting
and very relaxing holiday. Just wonderful! Thank you! “
Shayne & Paul Carter – WA |
Dates:
7 May - 25 May 2010
(19 days 18 nights in Turkey)
Price: $7200 (Land content only)
Single supplement $1160
Airfare available through Harvey World Travel Garden City Booragoon.
Type of touring:
Long distance coach travel.
Type of accommodation: We stay in good quality 3 and 4 star hotels. Where possible, these hotels have been chosen for there character and typical Anatolian style.
Fitness level required: Some days involve extensive outdoor walking, steps and uneven ground. If you have any doubts about your ability to manage the tour please contact us to discuss your situation. |
| Visits include:
Istanbul, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Bosphorous Cruise, ANZAC Cove, Troy, Pergamum, Villages of the DOBAG Project, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Pamukkale, Catal Hoyuk, Sultan Han, Cappadocia, Grand Bazaar, Spice Market, Chora Church.
Overnight Stays:
Istanbul (3 nights), Canakkale (1 night), Assos (2 nights), Orselli Village (1 night) Selcuk (2 nights) Pamukkale (1 night), Konya (2 nights), Cappadocia (3 nights), Istanbul (3 nights).
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