George was an excellent tour leader. He provided all kinds of interesting and entertaining facts about mythology, Paul and Greece. I would recommend him to others. It is a tough trip and you really need to be able to walk from 16000 to 20000 steps per day. A lot of places were just opening because the tour seasons started that week.
This tour was exceptional and I selected it because of the location, activities, and Collette's reputation. I received so much more.
I highly recommend taking the 2 optional tours offered because these are very unique and indicative of the area and culture.
My most favorite evening was the second home hosted dinner where we were warmly greeted and welcomed being allowed to explore the back yard while meats were grilled and wine served then indoors for tapas, more wine, dessert, and codials plus a video of the bull running celebration. It was like being with family.
The food walking tour in Lisbon was terrific as well as the Sulphur Springs at the botanical garden; both included in the tour.
Last but not least, the tour manager was exceptional, putting his heart and soul into each day to have it be special for everyone. He gladly wore many hats and pitched in at restaurants so we could have an easy, flowing experience. Joao held the tour together with his organizational ability.
This 8-day Turkey tour takes you from bustling Istanbul to the Mediterranean at Kusadasi and then inland to the beautiful scenery of Cappadocia. The itinerary is designed to combine some of Turkey's classic highlights in a week's visit, balancing bustling cities, beautiful scenery, ancient ruins and modern Turkey. You'll stay in a mix of 4-star and boutique style properties along the way.
Starting in Istanbul, the beating heart of Turkey and historically a vitally important connecting point between the continents of Europe and Asia, we visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Spice Bazaar, Hippodrome and take a cruise on the Bosphorus before flying south to the Mediterranean coast at Kusadasi. We have two nights here, and a tour to the nearby ruins at Ephesus. One of the best preserved ancient Greek & Roman sites in the whole of the Mediterranean region, this is a spectacular site with a fascinating history. We'll also visit a village famous for producing local fruit wines, and learn about the importance of carpet making in Turkey. Our next stop is at the stepped calcium travertines and hot pools at Pamukkale, before we continue into the centre of Turkey along the ancient Spice Route, passing old caravanserais and visiting the Mervlana museum at Konya on the way. This brings us to picturesque landscape of Cappadocia where we visit the strange rock formations, cave chuches and 'fairy chimneys' in the Goreme valley and venture down into one of the labarynthine underground cities built by Christians centuries ago to hide from persecution. The tour then finishes with a drive (or optional flight) via Ankara back to Istanbul where extra nights are available to spend more time exploring the city.
My trip to the Azores was fantastic! We saw so much in a short period of time and enjoyed a variety of activities. Our leader, Vera, was outstanding. She was very organized, friendly, fun, and thoughtful. Vera helped create a cohesive and congenial group.
Lovely trip to a beautiful country. Wild flowers in the mountains were a particular delight.
The guide Ivica was great. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about everything he showed us as well as being interested to learn from the clients as well.
All in all the trip surpassed expectations.
I had an excellent ebike which made this trip pleasurable. The canal path is rough and although it is flat I wouldn't recommend it for a first timer. Our guide Erwin was personable and knowledgeable. Having an ebike made riding in the extreme winds and the optional ride possible for me. I strongly recommend Explore provide helmets and water bottles as other tours do. It takes up so much space when you are not returning home after a tour.
Einar was the best tour guide I have ever had and an excellent ambassador for Iceland. His enthusiasm and tremendous knowledge of the geography and cultural history really added to the tour.
Dreaming of exploring Scotland's rugged wilderness in the winter? Believe us when we say, it doesn’t get any more storybook-like than this! Buckle up for a 3-day escape to the winter highlands of Scotland, from the epic Glen Coe to the elusive Loch Ness. The cherry on top? You’ll spend two nights and a full day exploring the fairy tale island of Skye, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, vast lochs, and timeless legends.
Set out to discover the Arctic wilderness on this tour in Finnish Lapland. Go husky sledging through frozen forests, snowmobile along snow covered tracks and interact with reindeer in their natural habitat. Discover the highlights of this beautiful landscape, close to the Arctic circle.
Experience the stunning landscapes of Spain and immerse yourself in its distinctive culture on this exceptional tour. Begin your journey in the capital city, Madrid, and venture into the scenic region of Extremadura, reaching Caceres, where you’ll be captivated by the enchanting Plaza Mayor and the historic medieval quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the vibrant cities of Sevilla, Cordoba, and Granada, including a visit to the magnificent Alhambra. This itinerary offers a blend of included experiences, optional excursions, and leisure days to enjoy Spain at your own pace. Join us for a 7-day adventure showcasing the very best Spain has to offer.
Embark on a weeklong journey through Turkey starting in Istanbul with its bazaars and mosques, pay your respects at Gallipoli and see Roman ruins in Pergamum. Witness the beautiful Aegean Coast with an optional tour to Ephesus and dip your toes in Pamukkale's beautiful cascading mineral pools.
Discover the best of Turkey on our captivating 9-day "Wonders of Turkey with Gulet Tour"! Begin in Istanbul, exploring iconic sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Dolmabahçe Palace, with an optional Bosphorus cruise. Journey to the poignant Gallipoli battlefields, legendary Troy, and the charming village of Behramkale before immersing yourself in ancient Ephesus and a delightful wine tasting in Şirince. The highlight awaits in Fethiye, where you'll embark on a 3-day luxury gulet cruise, swimming in crystal-clear bays, snorkeling, and exploring historical islands along the stunning Turquoise Coast. This unique tour perfectly blends historical depth, cultural discovery, and the serene beauty of a private yacht experience.
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through Turkey, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Istanbul. This expertly crafted itinerary takes you from the historical landmarks of Istanbul to the poignant Gallipoli Battlefields, the legendary ruins of Troy, and the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Discover the breathtaking travertines of Pamukkale, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, and the eastern treasures of Mt. Nemrut, Göbekli Tepe, and Sanliurfa. Along the way, experience unique cultural traditions, ancient sites, and scenic landscapes, while staying in boutique and 4-star accommodations.
