We recently returned from a 15-day tour of western Turkey starting in Ankara and finishing in Istanbul, where we chose to stay a few extra nights. The destination was fabulous for anyone interested in culture and history. Additionally Turkey is also extremely scenic and the photography buffs in our tour group were out in full force most times. There were even areas we visited – such as Anataylia and Bodrum – that would appeal to the resort vacationer.
Our land tour was with Explore doing their “In Style” tour type, “Highlights of Turkey” tour. Accommodation was always minimally 3 star and occasionally 4 star, with a small group size of 16 persons mainly from Canada and the UK, average age 50ish. Breakfasts were included and the guide was outstanding. Most entrances were included as well. Our hotels in Cappadocia, Istanbul and Dylea were all solid 4 star and well located.
Count on Explore to deliver more of a cultural focus on their hotel choices for most nights. Many were family run and smaller hotels and all very well received these.
The food was good, but became a little repetitive after a while.
If I were to state my two favourite parts of the trip I would have to say Balloon riding over Cappadocia and shopping in Istanbul and Anataylia.
Everyone agreed it was outstanding value and it was a great destination. I hope to return in 2014 with another group.