2012 ANZAC Day - Budget Tours
'ANZAC Fez Bus - Turkey Gunner'
8 - Day itinerary

Istanbul to Gallipoli

Mid morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli stopping along the way to stock up on supplies and rations. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula we head straight to Anzac Cove to secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead. Overnight ANZAC Cove (Please note: no accommodation is available on this night as you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 97 years before)

ANZAC Day at Gallipoli     

Awake before sunrise to the Anzac Dawn service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst the various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services. Late afternoon you will meet up with the Fez Bus again to head to the small town of Ayvalik for some well deserved sleep. Overnight Ayvalik (D)

Pergamum to Kusadasi

This morning, you head south along the Aegean Coast, stopping at the ancient city of Pergamum for a guided tour before travelling onto the resort town of Kusadasi. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

Kusadasi

Absorb yourself in history this morning with an optional tour of one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis and the former capital of Roman Asia and best-preserved ancient city in Turkey, Ephesus or maybe just spend the day relaxing on an Aegean Beach. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and next we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value before we finish the day with a leather goods presentation. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

Kusadasi to Pamukkale

This morning we check out some local Turkish handicrafts before heading to Pamukkale to paddle in the natural calcium formations and visit the ancient spa town of Hierapolis. Maybe take a dip in therapeutic hot springs used in Roman times. Overnight Pamukkale (B)

Silk Road to Cappadocia  

Today we head out to follow an ancient silk trade route across the Anatolian Plain, on the way you will visit Sultanhani Caravansary just as the ancient traders did. Overnight Cappadocia (B)

Cappadocia      

This morning you have the option of taking a hot-air balloon ride in a region famed for being one of the best places in the world for ballooning. You will be back in plenty of time for an optional tour to check out the carved cave villages, underground cities and spectacular fairy chimney formations. Tonight, do not miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening, including all the food and drink you can handle! Overnight Cappadocia (B)

Istanbul via Ankara

Early morning start today as we head back to Istanbul, via Ankara, the nations Capital. You will have time to visit the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and discover what happened to the Turkish nation after the ANZAC's left. Upon arrival in Istanbul your tour concludes and sadly it is time to say good bye to new friends. (B)

(B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner)

Tour includes

• English speaking Tour Leader on the bus giving you a wealth of super interesting and useful info
  (All optional tours are conducted by English speaking professional tour guide)
• Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking bus
• Guided tour of Pergamum. (Entrance fees not included)
• Commemorative gift
• Tips except driver and guide
• 6 nights - ANZAC Budget accommodation in total.
  • - 1 night in Ayvalik
  • - 2 nights in Cappadocia
  • - 2 nights in Kusadasi
  • - 1 night in Pamukkale
• 6 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

Tour does not include

• Suggested optional activities and sightseeing
• Tips – driver and guide
• Entrance fees