Feel the Mediterranean energy and Middle Eastern hospitality on this
11- day tour with private guides and a tailor made itinerary.

See the Best of Turkey: Istanbul, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pumukkale, sail the Turkish Riviera, and float above Cappadocia in a hot air balloon.

Dates: August 27 – September 6 (with optional 2-night extension)
Visit: Istanbul, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pumukkale, 3-nights sailing the Turkish Riviera, Cappadocia
Ships: Two 14 passenger gullets
All-Ages: LDS Singles 

Attention!

~ Plan your round trip flights into and out of Istanbul International Airport (IST).

Countdown to the LDS Singles Tour of Turkey by Land, Air, and Sea.

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Experience wonder, not just a vacation.  We’ve taken care of everything.

 

We know how intense and complicated planning trips abroad can be. Let us alleviate your stress and provide you with this customized travel experience you’ve never imagined taking. Cheri has spent the past 8 years building trips around the corner and around the world.  Now, we’ve built this next trip to Turkey with highly skilled, warm-hearted tour designers and guides who are passionate about sharing the best of Turkey.

You and other LDS Singles will get to enjoy many amazing wonders of this country as well as the beautiful weather, lovely people and culture, spectacular panoramic views, and so much more.  Get ready to float above it all on a hot air balloon, sail the seas of the Turkish Riviera, and walk ancient ruins of this historically rich land.

Below is some of what we’ll be experiencing.

It’s more than just a vacation…

When you join Cheri’s Travel Spot on this fun 11-night getaway, you’ll experience all the amazing convenience of European travel with the rich traditions of the Middle East. You’ll marvel at Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Grand Bazaar; Cappadocia’s “fairy-chimney” landscape and skyline filled with hot air balloons; the ancient Greek sites of Ephesus and Temple of Atremis; natural hot springs and calcium travertines; explore ancient underground cities; and the azure water of the Mediterranean. There is sooo much to see and do.  PLUS you’ll have a uniquely special experience travelling as a private LDS Singles group where you’ll meet other amazing people that love travel as much as you!  Every trip is a little different but here are a few examples of what you will experience on this trip with us.

  • Welcome and Farewell Dinners
  • Customized group tour itinerary
  • Game Nights
  • Optional Excursions (hot air balloon, jeep safari tour, horse riding tour, paragliding)
  • This trip is not a church sponsored event but LDS Standards are expected to be maintained

Hotel Rooms, Boat Cabins, and Pricing

Pricing is per person and includes all taxes and fees.  Hotel rooms and sail boats are arranged as double occupancy.  If there are any requests to have a single occupancy room while in hotels, there is an additional cost.  Cabins on the sail boat are double occupancy with no option for single beds.  Rates and itinerary are subject to change.

  • Deposit $500 Per Person, due at booking
  • Final Payment Due July 1, 2022
  • If any reservations are made on or after July 1, 2022 then full payment is due at time of booking
  • Reservations are non-refundable

Single Occupancy

Enjoy your own room in all hotels, but there is a shared room with another male on the 3-night Turkish Riviera cruise.

Single: $2,995

* Remember these rates are per person *

Double Occupancy

Book a shared room with another person, of the same gender, in all hotel rooms as well as on the 3-night Turkish Riviera cruise.

Double: $2,295

* Remember these rates are per person *

 

Optional 2 Night post tour add on in Istanbul

 

Single Occupancy: $300

Double Occupancy: $240

 

**Below are examples of the rooms in the Cappadocia “cave hotel.”  We change hotels frequently during the week.  Rooms and hotels will vary in style and amenities.

Know before you go

  • Fly into Istanbul International Airport (IST)
  • When booking Flights try to arrive no later than 3pm on Saturday, August 27, 2022 and leave no earlier than 10:00am on Tuesday, September 6, 2022.  It’s recommended to fly in a day early.
  • This getaway is not a church sponsored event but LDS Standards are expected to be maintained.

Inclusions:

  • 5 Night Hotel accomodations in ( 2- Istanbul, 1- Kusadasi, 1- Pumukkale, and 1- Antalya)
  • 3 Nights/3 Days sailing along Turkish Riviera
  • 2 Nights accomodation at a popular “cave hotel” in Cappadocia overlooking Uchisar Castle
  • Meals (10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 9 Dinners)
  • 3 Domestic Flights (Istanbul-Kusadasi, Antalya-Cappadocia, Cappadocia-Istanbul)
  • All entry fees for historical and national parks & museums
  • Licensed Tour Guide
  • Transportation with modern bus
  • Welcome and Farewell dinners
  • Wifi on bus and boat

Not Included:

  • Travelers Insurance, highly recommended and the only way you are covered outside the USA. (Contact Cheri’s Travel Spot for pricing)
  • International Flights
  • Specialty beverages at group meals
  • Gratuity for crew & tour guides
  • Optional Excursions
    • Paragliding (Pumakkale $120)
    • Balloon Flight (Cappadocia $180)
    • Jeef Safari Tour (Cappadocia $50)
    • Hores Riding Tour (Cappadocia $45)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1:  Saturday, August 27, 2022 – Istanbul, arrivals

Today you arrive to your hotel in Istanbul ready for the adventure of a lifetime to begin. Upon arrival,get settled at the hotel and then the day is yours to wander through this vibrant city. Catch a tram to the Grand Bazaar and get lost in the bustling market. one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops. This evening we will meet our fellow travellers at a welcome dinner fit for a Sultan.

Hotel: in Istanbul

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2:  Sunday, August 28, 2022 – Kusadasi

Take a morning flight to Kuşadası. Immerse yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre.

Next, we move on to the former Greek village of Şirince, meaning ‘pleasant’. According to legend, it used to be called ‘Çirkince’ (‘ugly’) by freed Greek slaves so that others wouldn’t follow them there. In The afternoon we will visit the house of Virgin Mary, On the way back to the hotel enjoy fashion show, visit a leather factory for a display of local handcrafted leather goods.This evening, spend some time relaxing at the hotel plus enjoy dinner which is included tonight.

 

Hotel: in Kusadasi

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3:  Monday, August 29, 2022 – Pumukkale

After breakfast we travel on to one of the highlights of this tour – Pamukkale! This town is home to magnificent white calcium terraces, known as travertines. In Roman times, the natural hot spring waters that flow down the terraces here were used for their therapeutic powers. Opt to visit nearby Cleopatra’s Pool complete with ancient columns and inviting thermal water! And Magnificent ancient city Hierapolis is offering great sightseeing tour around.See the biggest acropolis of all ancient World. Overnight in one of the termal hotels in Pamukkale and enjoy termal pools at hotel before our included dinner.

*Optional activity: Paragliding $120

Hotel: in Pumukkale (thermal hotel)

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4:  Tuesday, August 30, 2022 – Sailing Turkish Riviera

We will sail from bozburun a small village, then we are heading to ada boğazı peninsula extends to the south, Ada Boğazı lies on the south of this peninsula between Bitez and Gümbet coves. The cove has crystal-clear water with different hues of blues and provides adequate shelter from westerlies. We will give a swiming break dont forget to bring your swimsuits.

Hotel: on the boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5:  Wednesday, August 31, 2022 – Sailing Turkish Riviera

Today we are heading to Bozukkale is a large bay, lying between points; Kale Burnu and Değirmen Burnu, It indents to the north. The walls of the ancient city of Loryma surround the port. The water is cool and so clean. A rough path goes up to the castle and we will hike for the view in late afternoons. The impressive defensive walls are cubic chipped stone blocks without mortar. The castle position almost directly opposite the ancient Greek city of Rhodes, lends support to a theory that it was built by Rhodian craftsmen trying to deny the harbourage to enemy fleets.

In old charts, the name of this bay is mentioned as Oplosiko Bükü, derived from Hoploteke, meaning shipyard in Greek language. It is said that anchient shipyard existed here.

Hotel: on the boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6:  Thursday, September 1, 2022 – Sailing Turkish Riviera

Heaven Island (Turkish: Cennet Adası, also known as Paradise Island or the Nimara Peninsula) is a peninsula near the city of Marmaris, Turkey. Heaven Island is situated about 8 km from Marmaris, and is connected with the mainland by an isthmus known as the Fake Strait (Turkish: Yalancı Boğazı). The region has been officially recognized for its natural and archeological heritage and brought under protection for both its natural and archeological values. We will hike to The Nimara Cave, situated on the island, The place is of special interest for students and researchers involved in research work about the ancient human settlements in and around Muğla.The cave was declared a protected area in 1999.

Hotel: on the boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7:  Friday, September 2, 2022 – Antalya

Today we disembark our gullet. No need to feel too sad about leaving the turquoise coast behind as we depart for another beautiful Turkish resort town, antalya-Myra-Demre is one of the nicest natural and historical parts of Antalya in Turkey’s Mediterranean region.

Demre (Myra) is a small district of Antalya province which is located 140 km away. Demre’s name derives from the river nearby. It was established in 5th BC. Demre was one of the most important cities of Lycia which is one of the ancient regions of Anatolia (present Turkey). It is also one of the most important places for Christianity. Because St. Nicholas chose Demre as his home and final resting place.

Myra antique city is located 2 km from Demre town center. It has an ancient Greek amphitheater with the capacity of 11000 and the rock-cut tombs of the Lycian necropolis.

Church of St.Nicholas is located 3 km west of Demre town. The saint to whom is referred to as Santa Claus. Santa Claus was the bishop of Myra.

Hotel: in Antalya

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8:  Saturday, September 3, 2022 – Cappadocia

In this morning take a morning flight to Cappadocia. Make sure you have a fully charged camera ready for the afternoon exploring the incredible world heritage region of Cappadocia, day will be packed with activities, along with free time at the different scenic spots we visit throughout the day. We will enjoy turkısh nıght ceremony, Experience Turkish culture and traditions as you’re entertained by the performers in a Turkish Night Show. Enjoy an evening of drinks, appetizers, and dinner as you take in the show at one of Cappadocia’s cave restaurants.

Dancers perform traditional Turkish wedding dances in which the bride, dressed in a beautiful red dress, dances in the middle of the stage, as the groom performs a variety of dances for her.

This is followed by a few folk dances from different parts of Turkey, and then the belly dancer takes the stage. She performs her breathtaking dance and then goes around the room asking men to join her on the stage. The lucky men learn some basic belly dancing moves.

After additional dancing and shows, including the fire dance, the Caucasian dance with knives, and the drum show, the night’s performance comes to an end.

During the show waiters serve unlimited soft and alcoholic drinks with appetizers. The main dinner course of meat with rice follows. This is the traditional wedding meal in Turkey.

Optional activities: sunset Jeep Safari ($45) or sunset Horse Riding ($50)

Hotel: in Cappadocia (Cave hotel)

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9:  Sunday, September 4, 2022 – Cappadocia

Winding through the spectacular valleys, historic sites and rock formations of northern Cappadocia, the Red Tour is not to be missed. An expert local guide will accompany you as you explore the magnificent landscapes and ancient frescoes of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage destination. We will visit; goreme open aır museum, uchısar castle, devrent valley, pasabagı faıry chımnes, avanos pottery workshop, carpet workshop.

Hotel: in Cappadocia (Cave hotel)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10:  Monday, September 5, 2022 – Cappadocia

If you are curious about Cappadocia’s famous and mysterious underground cities and want to enjoy its unique landscapes by hiking in the Ihlara valley, which is among the world’s largest canyons, where history and nature meets, Cappadocia Green Tour, also known as the Underground City and Ihlara Valley Tour, is the right tour for you!  Tonight we will fly to Istanbul where the tour began.

On Green Tour, you will be able to take panoramic photos with spectacular valley views with our experienced professional tour guides. On our tour, you will have the opportunity to visit We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes as you walk through the valleys and walk down in the underground city in The Green Tour, which is the most preferred tour of Cappadocia.

The route: Underground City (Kaymakli), Ihlara Valley, Belisirma, Pigeon Valley, Onyx Workshop

Hotel: in Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11:  Tuesday, September 6, 2022 – Istanbul (bonus tour or departures)

We enjoy our final Turkish breakfast together as our tour comes to an end. After an incredible 11 days on tour, it’s time to say goodbye to your new travel friends.

For those that are staying for the extra 2 nights exploring Istanbul the tour details are below.

Meals Included: Breakfast

OPTIONAL – 2 Night Extension in Istanbul

Day 11:  Tuesday, September 6, 2022 – Istanbul 

We enjoy our final Turkish breakfast together as our tour comes to an end. It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends that are not continueing on with us.

Today the adventure starts with a full day walking tour exploring the bustling city of Istanbul. We’ll visit all the highlights of this fascinating metropolis, including the stunningly beautiful Blue Mosque famous for unique blue tiles used for inner decoration, the awe inspiring Hagia Sofia; a magnificent cathedral and a mosque used by two greatest empires in the history. Topkapi Palace where the Sultans lived for centuries and control giantic Ottoman territory.  Hippodrome where The Byzantine emperors loved nothing more than an afternoon at the chariot races.  In this afternoon we will  enjoy the amazing views of this magnificent city which straddles on 2 continents from our boat on our included Bosphorus cruise. The best way to finish the day is visiting Spice bazaar where you are going to try delicious Turkish delights Dinner on your own.

Hotel: in Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

 Day 12:  Wednesday, September 7, 2022 – Istanbul

We will take a stop at Taksim Squire Fanning out from Taksim Square with its Republic Monument.  Taksim is a busy nightlife, shopping, and dining area. Vintage trams shuttle along Istiklal Caddesi, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard, which is lined with 19th-century buildings housing international shopping chains, movie theaters, and cafes. The best place to withness social life of locals.  In the afternoon you will have some free time for some last minute sightseeing or try your hand at bargaining inside the sprawling bazaars.  This evening we’ll toast to a successful tour of Turkey and enjoy the delicious cuisine of Turkey one last time with a spectacular farewell dinner.

Hotel: in Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13:  Thursday, September 8, 2022 – Istanbul (departures)

After an incredible 13 days on tour, it’s time to say goodbye and return home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

"To Travel is to Live" ~ Hans Christian Anderson