Trip Description
FOOTPRINTS offers travelers an unparalleled journey to the exotic
heart of the Ottoman empire, whose fabled Constantinople remained
for centuries the undisputed capital of the civilized world.
Modern Istanbul, our gateway, has now evolved into a striking
cosmopolitan metropolis. However, a cruise on the Bosphorus at
sunset assures us that none of the eternal magic of the minareted
skyline has been lost. And by day, we discover traditional bustling
bazaars still hugging the ancient monuments of Agya Sophia, the Blue
Mosque and the fabulous Topkapi Palace.
Beyond Istanbul, we fly south to
Cappadocia to hike among the
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troglodyte dwellings and fairy chimneys
carved by nature's forces in the volcanic bedrock. Within the ancient
walls of Antalya, we find Roman ruins and Ottoman houses lining the
winding city lanes. From this old port, we set sail on a "gulet" or
traditional Turkish sailboat for a memorable four-day "Blue Voyage"
on the cobalt Mediterranean. With the comfort of private cabins and
ensuite baths below deck, we bask above in the sun, swim in the
clear bright waters and dine on meals freshly prepared by our crew
..... all the while exploring fishing ports of today and seaside ruins
of long-lost cities.
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Disembarking at Kash, we drive the Lycian coast road to Bodrum, the
jewel of the South Aegean riviera. From here we head north to Selcuk
and the nearby ruins of classical Ephesus, the world's pre-eminent
archaeological site.
Our 18 day adventure draws to a close with a short flight back to
Istanbul for a final day in this exotic city spanning the Bosphorus.
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