From Bazaars to Balloons: A Turkey Adventure with Yasmin

-Welcome to Istanbul, where East meets West, ancient meets modern, and every street holds a secret. As you step off the plane, you’ll feel the pulse of a city that has been the heart of empires for centuries.

-You’ll make your own way to our hotel for check in and some time to refresh. At 6:00 pm, we’ll officially come together for the first time for our welcome meeting, reviewing the itinerary ahead and answering any last-minute questions.

-Tonight, we kick things off with a welcome dinner at a local spot, where you’ll get your first taste of Turkey’s rich flavors. Think warm hospitality, meze spreads, and a deep dive into the culinary traditions that make this country legendary. Cheers to a great time to come!

-We’ll jump straight into a tour of Istanbul’s Old City today. First stop: the Blue Mosque, an architectural masterpiece with its six minarets and hypnotic blue Iznik tiles. Right next door, we step onto the Hippodrome, where chariot races and grand processions once captivated the crowds. Standing tall is the Obelisk of Theodosius, a 3,500-year-old Egyptian monument that traveled from Luxor to Rome before landing at its home here.

-Get wonderfully lost in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Over 4,000 shops line these chaotic, colorful corridors.

-For lunch, we head to Seven Hills Restaurant, famous for its panoramic rooftop views of Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus.

-The afternoon is yours to explore your way. We’ll reconnect for a refined Turkish tradition: tea time at Lady Seray. Expect delicate pastries, delicious tea blends, and a glimpse into Istanbul’s slower, softer side.

-As the evening rolls in, you’re free to explore whatever your heart desires. There’s so much to be discovered here – where to first?

-Istanbul’s most photogenic and historic neighborhoods, Fener & Balat, await us today. These districts, once home to Greek and Jewish communities, are a kaleidoscope of colorful houses, winding cobblestone streets, and hidden courtyards. This is the raw, authentic, and character-filled Istanbul most tourists don’t see.

-Next up: Istanbul from the water. A public Bosphorus cruise takes us through the strait that divides two continents, sailing past grand Ottoman palaces, centuries-old fortresses, and waterfront mansions. The views hit differently from the deck – Europe on one side, Asia on the other, and the city’s skyline unfolding in between. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, too, because they can make an appearance!

-After the cruise, we return to the hotel to refresh before another free evening to take on as you wish.

-Today, we leave the city behind and trade Istanbul’s bustling streets for the laid-back coastal vibes of Ayvalık, a seaside town on the Aegean known for its olive groves, pastel-hued streets, and Greek-Ottoman charm. This is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret.

-The entire day is free here to do as you please, like perusing local shops or lounging by the waterfront. There are no wrong answers!

-After a full day of fun here, we make our way back to Istanbul, returning to the city with a fresh dose of coastal calm.

-After breakfast, we’ll check out and say so long to Istanbul, heading to the airport and onward to our next destination.

-We’ll land in Dalaman and then continue onwards to Marmaris, a stunning harbor town where pine-covered mountains meet crystal-clear waters.

-Drop your bags and get your post-flight refresh done, then the remainder of the day is schedule-free so we can get to know Marmaris. Why not explore Marmaris’ bazaar, hit up the beach, or find a seaside spot for dinner and drinks?

-Today is all about doing Marmaris your way. No itinerary, no rush, just a full day to soak up the laid-back vibes of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

-Want to spend the day at the beachside? Marmaris Beach and Icmeler Beach are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just lounging with a good book. Feeling adventurous? Take a boat trip to explore hidden coves, crystal-clear bays, and even the legendary Cleopatra Island. In the mood for history? Marmaris Castle offers epic views over the harbor, plus a glimpse into the town’s past as a strategic stronghold. And you know there’s plenty of amazing spots to shop til you drop.

-Bid farewell to the coast, swapping the sea breeze for the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. It’s on to Cappadocia via a quick flight from Dalaman.

-The final leg of our trip begins with a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a wonderland of ancient rock-cut churches, monasteries, and frescoes dating back to the 10th century. Have your camera ready!

-We’ll head to our hotel and check into our final temporary abode on our journey from there. Take a moment to catch your breath and soak in the otherworldly ambiance before we partake in lunch right here in our digs.

-After that, the rest of the afternoon and into the evening are free, and Cappadocia is your blank canvas. What will you create?

-Our final full day here in Turkey begins with breakfast before we embark on an artistic journey through an Ebru workshop. Ebru, the ancient Turkish art of marbling, dates back to the Ottoman era and involves floating dyes on water to create intricate, one-of-a-kind patterns. With a local artist guiding the process, you'll craft your own one-of-a-kind dancing masterpiece. Then, another tasty afternoon meal awaits us back at the hotel.

-It’s time for a final afternoon of exploration. Whether you choose to snap more pics of Cappadocia's fairy chimneys, book an ATV ride through the valleys, or sip Turkish coffee with a view, this is your last chance to soak in the magic of this region.

-As night falls, we gather for a special farewell dinner in a local home. This intimate, heartwarming experience brings us closer to Cappadocia’s rich culture and hospitality as we celebrate the bonds we’ve formed, the places we’ve explored, and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared along the way.

-After one last breakfast in Cappadocia, it’s time to check out and say goodbye to this dreamlike landscape. With memories of ancient cities, coastal escapes, and surreal valleys, you’ll make your own way to Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) for your onward journey.

-A part of this country will certainly stay with you wherever you may roam next. See you soon, and safe travels!