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Turkey Gay Tour - Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Gocek

Turkey Gay Tour

Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Pamukkale

8 Days from Istanbul to Pamukkale, Turkey

September 10 – 18, 2016

Out Adventures Gay Travel

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Pamukkale, Turkey gay tourWander through cathedral-turned-mosque-turned-museum, the mighty Aya Sofya • Discover Topkapi Palace & its Imperial Harem • Feast on local Turkish cuisine • Relax and get scrubbed down in a traditional hammam • Haggle with shopkeepers at the Grand Bazaar • Be astonished by the natural wonder of Cappadocia • Dip your feet into the travertine terraces of Pamukkale • Learn about ancient history at Ephesus. Lose yourself in the mysteries and magic of the Ottoman Empire on our Gay Turkey Tour.

Quote or Reservation

Get ready to get lost in the mystery and magic of the Ottoman Empire. Istanbul is home to the revered Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, and the Grand Bazaar (not to mention some rather raucous gay bars). We'll then catch a flight to Cappadocia, where 'fairy chimney' rock formations have dubbed this land the Love Valley, and an underground city awaits. And finally, we'll visit Pammukale and its gorgeous travertine terraces, along with the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Continue with us on our Turkey Gay Gulet Cruise.

 

Cappadocia, Turkey Gay Tour

 

Included on your Trip

This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense. For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities below. If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.

• Arrival transfer to accommodation booked through us
• 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
• Group leader from beginning to end of tour
• 3-star or higher accommodation (8 nights)
• Entrance and tour of Topkapi Palace, including the Harem
• Sightseeing in Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Aya Sofya, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, Chora Church
• Deluxe Hammam experience
• Entrance to Goreme Open-air museum, Kaymakli underground city, and Güray Ceramic showroom
• Turkish rug educational
• Guided tours of Ephesus, Aphrodisias and Hierapolis
• Entrance to Pamukkale travertine terraces
• Domestic Flights: Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Kusadasi
• Travel insurance package covering medical, trip interruption & baggage loss

 

Not Included

• International Airfare
• Departure Transfer
• Meals & Activities not mentioned in itinerary
• Gratuities for Tour Leader ($45-$90 USD)
• Gratuities for drivers, hotel staff, porters (approximately $30-$50 USD)

 

Optional Activities

Every OUT Adventure offers optional excursions that are not included in price of this trip. Please see your daily itinerary in your final pre-trip packet to see what's available.

 

Ephesus gay tour

 

Accommodation

Guesthouses/Hotels (8 nights)

We have carefully chosen these gay-welcoming properties with you in mind. They have the right balance of comfort while still being locally owned.

Joining Point Hotel
Levni Hotel & Spa, Istanbul

Levni Hotel & Spa, IstanbulSituated in Istanbul's historic district just 500 m from Topkapi Palace, this "Special Category" hotel offers modern rooms with a LCD TV and free Wi-Fi. An indoor pool, fitness room and a Turkish bath are available at Levni Hotel.

Levni Hotel's bright rooms have modern furniture, a bathrobe and a coffee maker. Each LCD TV offers satellite channels. Some rooms feature a private balcony.

Massages are available at the on-site spa and wellness centre, at an additional charge.

Levni Hotel & Spa, IstanbulEvery morning, a unique Turkish breakfast buffet is offered. Turkish, Ottoman and international specialities and vegetarian dishes are served at hotel Levni's restaurant. You can enjoy your meals indoors or in the winter garden. A pub serving wine and beer is open during the evenings.

Marmaray Undersea Rail Transport is just a few steps away, allowing easy access to the Asian side in just 4 minutes. Istanbul's modern Taksim district can easily be reached from Gulhane Tram Stop, one-minute walk away.

Soak in the Fatih vibe: a great choice for travellers interested in architecture, museums and monuments.

 

Finishing Point Hotel
Venus Suite Hotel, Pamukkale

Venus Suite Hotel, PamukkaleOffering a garden, terrace and an outdoor pool, Venus Suite Hotel is totally renovated in 2015. Free WiFi access is available. Free WiFi is accessible in all areas. The property arranges free transfer service to Pamukkale's centrum in every 30 minutes.

Each room here will provide you with air conditioning, electric kettle, a balcony and a minibar. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer and bathrobes. You can enjoy city view and garden view from the room. Extras include a safety deposit box and ironing facilities.

Venus Suite Hotel, PamukkaleAt Venus Suite Hotel you will find a hot tub, a 24-hour front desk, providing room service. Other facilities offered at the property include meeting facilities, a shared lounge and a ticket service.

Daily breakfast is served in buffet style. You can also enjoy traditional homemade food and grilled meats at the on-site à la carte restaurant.

 

Trip Notes

Physical Rating
Your itinerary does not require that you be in specific physical condition and you may opt out of activities that you do no wish to participate in.

Group Size
Maximum of 20 travellers per group. Departure is guaranteed subject to 6 people travelling.

Single Supplement
A Single Supplement is available on this tour.

Transport
Dolmus (minibus), private bus, ferry, tram, taxi, walking.

Budget
Allow $500 USD for personal expenses.

 

Istanbul, Turkey gay tour

 

Turkey Gay Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Istanbul, Turkey
Merhaba! Welcome to Turkey.

As the first day of our tour, there are no activities planned until our welcome meeting at 6PM, where we'll get familiar with one another before our first official (and included) dinner in the evening. We'll then head out to explore Turkish nightlife at one of the city's many gay bars.

 

Day 2 - Istanbul, Turkey
Grand Bazaar IstanbulToday we'll explore some of Istanbul's most highly-regarded sites. We'll visit Topkapi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with its Imperial Harem. We'll peel back layers of history at the Aya Sofya, which was both a cathedral and mosque, before its current incarnation as a museum. And finally, we're off to the Grand Bazaar, where you can try your hand at haggling for some swish Turkish goods, before we venture into the narrow laneways rarely seen by tourists.

The evening is yours to enjoy dinner near the hotel.

 

Day 3 - Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul gay tour - Topkapi PalaceAfter breakfast, we'll stroll into the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the ancient sporting centre filled with some impressive monuments. From there, the sacred Blue Mosque awaits, along with the Basilica Cistern (which makes an appearance in everything from Bond film To Russia With Love, to video game Assassin's Creed: Revelations, to Dan Brown's novel Inferno). We'll have an optional lunch overlooking the Golden Horn waterway, then visit the gorgeous mosaics and frescoes of the Chora Church.

The rest of your afternoon is free until we get steamed and scrubbed down at the city's best hammam (you may need a menthol after they're done with you), followed by an optional dinner to wrap up the day.

 

Cappadocia, Turkey gay tour

 

Day 4 - Cappadocia
Gay Cappadocia, Turkey tourThis morning we'll fly to Cappadocia, where locals have carved everything from homes to temples to underground cities into the region's insane rock formations. Our first stop is the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where we'll learn about the history of the region, followed by a visit to a local carpet shop to learn about (and perhaps purchase) authentic Turkish rugs. Dinner will be served early, and it will be a delicious traditional feast worth savouring. Then we'll check into our boutique hotel, that, fittingly enough, happens to be in a cave.

The rest of the evening is yours to unwind.

 

Day 5 - Cappadocia
Cappadocia, Turkey gay tripRise and shine! Before breakfast, if you're interested, you can get a bird's eye view of the sunrise from a hot air balloon. We'll then explore Kaymakli, an underground city where the locals lived during the Arab-Byzantine wars. And finally, we'll scope out some sensational pottery at the Güray Ceramic showroom, before we break for an optional lunch.

There will be some free time this afternoon, before we devour a traditional home-cooked meal prepared by a local family.

 

Ephesus, Turkey gay tour

 

Day 6 - Kusadasi
Turkey gay tour, KusadasiThis morning we're on another flight to Kusadasi, a seaside resort town, and the gateway to the ancient Greek city of Ephesus.

The afternoon is yours to frolic on the beach before we head out for an optional dinner.

 

 

Day 7 - Kusadasi & Ephesus
Gay Ephesus TourThis morning we're off to Ephesus, where we can see what 150 years of excavation and reconstruction has unearthed. You'll be impressed by what you see, but shocked to learn that more than 80% of the city remains to be seen. Among many site highlights, we'll see the terraced houses that once belonged to the city's wealthiest residents.

Back in Kusadasi, the remainder of the afternoon is yours, followed by an optional dinner and some refreshing libations at a local gay bar.

 

Pamukkale, Turkey gay tour

 

Day 8 - Aphrodisias/Pamukkale
Pamukkale, Turkey gay tourToday we're off to Aphrodisias, an ancient Greek city as beautiful as its namesake goddess – Aphrodite – and one of the finest archaeological sites in Anatolia.

We'll then continue to Pamukkale where we spend our final night and celebrate this journey together with a Farewell Dinner.

 

Day 9 - Pamukkale/Departure
Hierapolis, Turkey gay tourBefore we bid farewell we'll visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, the holy city known for its healing hot springs. At the base of the ruins lies Pamukkale, the 'cotton castle' composed of luscious travertines, which are limestone terraces formed by minerals from the hot springs. Just like the gods that came before us, we'll have the chance to walk amongst these magical terraces. Following this, you are free to depart at your leisure.

If you are joining our Turquoise Coast Turkey Gay Cruise, you'll transfer from here to the port town of Göcek.

 

Gay Turkey tour

 

Exclusively Gay Turkey Tour

 

Trip Notes

Trip Style - Comfort
Dive into the real world with a soft landing. Comfort trips are all about variety: the places, the people, the activities and the culture. If you want a few little extras, but don't want to compromise on a true grassroots travel experience, this trip style is for you.

Culture Shock
Tourism in Turkey is well developed, but local customs are likely not what your used to. There can be very different attitudes regarding time-keeping, public cleanliness and service; with calls to prayer beginning at 4:30AM, and little English spoken. If you relax and have a sense of humour, you'll love this country as much as we do.

Physical Rating: 1
This trips is a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about being able to do anything physically demanding, unless you want to.

 

Cappadocia gay travel

 

Local Gay Scene
While Istanbul has a vibrant gay nightlife, with gay bars in Bodrum and Kusadasi as well, the rest of Turkey remains quite conservative. We will provide you with information on LGBT rights, and will even suggest gay welcoming restaurants and activities. Bear in mind we are visiting a Muslim country, so our goal is to show you a great time while respecting the local culture and religion.

Weather
Turkey has the potential to be HOT. Daytime highs hover in the low 80's F (27C), but can rise up to 95F (35C). Evening temperatures cool down to a lovely 72F (22C) or so. There is always a possibility of rain, so bring along a small umbrella and waterproof outer layer.

Connectivity
All of our hotels will have Wi-Fi access, so feel free to tweet, pin, post and share your experience with your friends and family at home. They might be a tad jealous!

 

Cappadocia gay travel

 

Spending Money:
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping.

Tipping - Turkey
If you are happy with the services provided, a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many OUT Adventures destinations. The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:

Restaurants: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. More up-scale restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.

Local Guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest 1-2 EUR per person per day for local guides.

Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however 1-2 EUR per person per day is generally appropriate.

Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline USD $5-10 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

 

Pamukkale Turkey gay tour

 

Travelling in Turkey:
Turkey is a fascinating mixture of East and West as Europe and Asia come together. This can, and often does, mean that you will discover a country which is different to those you have experienced before. Although secular, there are strong Islamic influences and the further east you travel the simpler the infrastructure and facilities become. There can be very different attitudes to time-keeping, public cleanliness and service, calls to prayer at 4:30am, lack of air conditioning or hot water and little English spoken. Naturally, this can all test the patience but if you can see this as an exciting new challenge rather than a setback, and if you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by everything that Turkey has to offer.

Recommended Clothing:
Please note that when visiting mosques, you will be required to have your knees and shoulders covered, so please plan to carry the appropriate attire.

Istanbul Airport Arrival Transfer:
An arrival transfer is included for this trip from Ataturk Airport only. We don't provide transfers from Sabhina Gokcen Airport. You will be met on arrival at Ataturk Istanbul airport and transferred to your joining point hotel. Complimentary transfers are only applicable on day 1 of your trip or if going to pre-tour accommodation booked through OUT Adventures (please advise flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to departure if you wish to have this transfer provided).

 

Thermal pool Pamukkale

 

Visas - Turkey
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself.

An entry visa is required for most citizens travelling to Turkey, and should be purchased online before travel for the fastest and easiest immigration process. Please visit this link to purchase your visa.

What to Take:
Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. For this trip we recommend your bag, whether with or without wheels has carry straps or a handle. The maximum luggage allowance on domestic flights is 20kg (44lbs) to check in and 5kg (11lbs) to carry on. Any excess luggage expense will be your own responsibility.

Money Exchange
The Turkish Lira is known as TL - however on some international conversion tables it may appear as TRY. It is worth checking the latest exchange rate as it can change frequently.

ATMs are common throughout the main cities and these are a safe and convenient way to withdraw money. Credit cards are also widely accepted. Cash of any of the major currencies is easily changed - EUR, GBP & USD. Please take into consideration the safety issues of carrying cash, though it is recommended to carry some for cases of emergency, such as ATM failure.

 

Ephesus gay travel

 

Your Fellow Travellers:
You will be travelling with other gay travellers and occasionally their friends or family. As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.

Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior the the pre-trip email approximately one month prior to departure.

Single Travellers
If you've never travelled on your own, it's an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. And if there's an odd number of solos, we'll rotate a single room on a random basis.

Issues on your trip
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit, sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner right away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

A couple of Rules
We believe in having fun exploring new cultures, while being responsible travellers. On our trips, generally there are only two rules: No drugs and no prostitution. These two activities can put the entire group at risk, and will result in removal from the trip by our group leader. We appreciate your cooperation.

 

Ephesus gay travel

 

 

Quote or Reservation

 

Turkey Gay Tour Prices

Tour Date Description
Per person
$ (USD)
Availability

Tour Only, Per Person, Double Occupancy

$ 2795

Turkey Gay Tour & Turkey All-Gay Gulet Yacht Cruise, Per Person, Double occupancy. (Combine and Save! This trip combines our Turkey Gay Tour and Turkey Gay Gulet Yacht trips for a savings of 5%.)

$ 5395

Quote or Reservation

 


Min. $750.00 deposit required ($1500 Tour + Cruise).
Remaining balance collected min. 60 days prior to departure.

 

Special Airfares

 


 

 

 

Pre/Post Tour Hotels

 

Gay friendly hotels in Istanbul, Turkey at Gay2Stay.eu

 

Istanbul, Turkey hotel reservations at Hotels.com

 

Istanbul, Turkey hotels at Booking.com

 

Book Istanbul, Turkey hotels at Hotelopia

 

 

 


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