EPHESUS AND TURKEY'S TURQUOISE COAST

Transcription

1 EPHESUS AND TURKEY'S TURQUOISE COAST OCTOBER 1-10, 2018 HIGHLIGHTS TRIP SUMMARY Hiking ancient paths and seeing ruins that date back to the 10th century BC Swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling as you cruise along beautiful coastline Learning Turkish history and experiencing Turkish culture and hospitality Feasting on food that is always fresh and sometimes has been caught that day Visiting the historical city of Ephesus Phone: Outside the US: Fax:

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Oct 1-10, 2018 Location: Turkey's Turquoise Coast Cost: $2, Activities: Hiking Arrive: On October 1 at either the domestic or international airport in Istanbul, Turkey. Meeting time and place will be determined six months before the trip. Depart: At the airport in Izmir on October 10 TRIP OVERVIEW Turkey is known for its history, culture, hospitality, and natural beauty and there is no better way to explore its beaches and bays than aboard a gulet, a traditional wooden sailing yacht. We'll be off the traditional tourist path as we travel along the Turquoise Coast. We'll hike on trails accessible only from the sea, explore ancient ruins, visit small villages, feast on fresh food prepared by our on-board chef, and relax at night to the sound of the sea gently lapping against the boat. Traveling on a small boat allows us to moor in quiet bays, hike from one point to another, and choose to stay on board and relax on any day, swim, kayak, and snorkel in azure seas. Along the way we'll see ruins that reflect Turkey's long history, from Lycia to Roman domination to the Turkish empire. At the end of our cruise, we'll visit the archaeological village of Ephesus, a town that reflects Turkey's history and importance to Christianity. Max group size: 12 RATING This trip is designed for active women in good physical condition who want to combine hiking with immersion in the sights, smells, culture, and cuisine of Turkey. The pace on this trip is relaxed and allows you to decide how active you want to be. Some paths are rocky with loose rocks; all paths have ups and downs that are sometimes steep. The rating we give it is both a 2 and a 3, based on your choice of options and the length of hiking (2-5 hours). In order to have the option of fully participating in all activities, prior to beginning the trip participants should be engaging in aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for minutes at least 3-4 times a week. Rating: 1 [2] [3] 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED Experienced guides including one local guide and one Adventures in Good Company guide Nine nights double occupancy accommodation All meals from dinner on Monday through breakfast the last Wednesday All activities on the itinerary including tours, excursions, a Turkish bath, and entrance fees Transportation within Turkey, including internal flights from IST to DAL and Izmir to Gratuities for the ship's crew, daily tour guides, hotels, restaurants, drivers etc. What's not included: International travel to and from Istanbul, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, and trip insurance.

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 OCTOBER 1, MONDAY We'll meet in Istanbul for the short flight to Dalaman, with the exact time and airport being determined 6 months before the trip. We get our first taste of the Turkish countryside during our drive to Marmaris Harbor where we will be met by our English guide and the co-owner of the boat, Anne. She'll guide us through the town streets to our boat, East Meets West, a traditional wooden sailing yacht called a gulet. We'll be shown our cabins and then meet the captain and 2-person crew. After settling into our cabins we will share a welcome tea and biscuits, and then begin relaxing while the first of many outstanding dinners is freshly prepared. D DAY 2 OCTOBER 2, TUESDAY This morning and every morning we start with a breakfast feast of fruit, tomatoes, cheese, bread, different jams and strong hot coffee. The mountains surrounding the bay, that we have so far only seen from the boat, beckon to us for our first short warm up hike. Following a broad track that climbs gradually with a steeper ascent at the end, we'll have plenty of opportunity to chat as we make our way to the caves of Nimara, where there's evidence of a Goddess worshipping site from around 20,000 BC. We'll take in stunning views of the Aegean as we reach a height of 470 feet. Although the boat has sails, we use the engine for cruising so we don't take all of our time getting between places. On this afternoon's cruise we'll pass islands and wooded inlets as we head out of Marmaris Bay before turning south and cruising the coastline for about two hours to our next mooring spot. There will be time for swimming before enjoying dinner, which might be barbecued fish, fresh salads, potatoes, and other vegetables with other options for vegetarians. Hiking: 2 hours, 3.1 miles, 470 ft elevation gain and loss. B, L, D

4 DAY 3 OCTOBER 3, WEDNESDAY After another hearty breakfast we start the day with a boat taxi up the Dalyan River. We pass the colorful town of Dalyan and the ancient Lycian tombs built directly into the rock, the oldest remnant of Caunos. Our destination? Mud baths! Start by plastering yourself and each other (this may be the most fun getting plastered you've ever had), wash it off in a cold shower, and then proceed to a further dip in the hot pool. You might not look any younger at the end but your skin will thank you. We then return by boat partway down river for our 30 minute uphill walk to the ruins at Caunos. Caunos dates back to at least the 4th century BC and the ruins mark its long and varied history before becoming part of the Roman Empire. While still being actively excavated, it is particularly known for the Roman amphitheatre that seated 5,000; the Byzantine Basilica, an ancient Doric temple; and well-preserved Roman baths. We'll enjoy our picnic lunch overlooking the sprawling ruins and have time to explore them before starting our hike back. Our path starts through the ruins, continues through a village, and then goes steeply up to a saddle where a Muslim cemetery is located. From here we descend on road and trail back to sea level. We return to our gulet, moored at Ekincik, where another delicious dinner, possibly chicken or aubergine gratin, bulgur, more delicious salads, and locally grown fresh fruit, awaits us. Hiking: 4.5 hours, 7 miles, 650 feet elevation gain and loss. B, L, D DAY 4 OCTOBER 4, THURSDAY The wonderful thing about cruising on a boat is that you can skip the built up places and head for the less crowded, which is what we'll do this morning as we pass Dalaman and head towards the Fethiye Gulf. Dropping anchor in a small bay, this morning's walk climbs above the water on a coastal path before turning inland on an old Roman mule track that we'll follow to the ruins of a Roman church and settlement at Lydae. Our path now skirts through woodlands along a gorge, ending in another stunning view of the sea below. From here we descend to Manastir Bay and the ruins of Cleopatra's Baths. According to legend, Mark Anthony built these baths as a wedding gift to Cleopatra where they found a hot water spring in this part of the bay. Our boat will be waiting for us in the bay and we can swim among the ruins before lunch. After lunch we'll enjoy ice cream from the the ice cream boat (!) and relax on our gulet as it motors around to the next bay. Tonight we'll moor in a small beautiful cove that is just a short distance away. Hiking: hours, 3 miles, 520 feet elevation gain and loss. B, L, D

5 DAY 5 OCTOBER 5, FRIDAY This is the perfect morning for a lazy start. Following ancient goat trails, our path takes us above the water and through woods, gaining a summit with clear views of the many islands that dot Fethiye Bay. We descend to another cove where our boat awaits us, with lunch and a relaxed afternoon. Our boat continues to the small yachting resort of Gocek where it takes on supplies while we wander the town or sit in one of the many outdoor cafes and drink coffee before enjoying a dinner of chicken or freshly caught fish and calamari. Hiking: 2.5 hours, 3 miles, 400 feet elevation gain and loss. B, L, D DAY 6 OCTOBER 6, SATURDAY Today is our last hiking day and our longest hike of the week. Walking amongst lavendar, rock rose bushes, and juniper, our path once again climbs to a ridge, with magnificent views this time overlooking the whole of Fethiye Bay and the famous Gocek islands. It's a fitting last walk as we can see many of the places we've walked previously. Returning to our boat we'll motor a short way before dropping anchor for the night. Hiking: 5 hours, 7 miles, 1100 feet elevation gain and loss. B, L, D DAY 7 OCTOBER 7, SUNDAY Today we journey inland by a comfortable air conditioned vehicle. We'll stop first at the Tlos ruins, which date from the Lycian period. Originally one of the six largest Lycian cities, it was first mentioned in 14th century BC records. Excavation of the site is limited but its location and size make it worth a stop because there's so much to explore. We'll go on to visit the ghost village of Kayakoy. It was once inhabited by a Greek and Turkish community until it - and all Greek communities - were expelled by the Turks in the 1920s (and in turn Greeks expelled Turkish communities from Greece). When a massive earthquake later decimated Fethiye, residents removed windows, doors, and roofing materials to help rebuild their town. We'll have lunch here in a very authentic local restaurant located among the ruins. An optional pleasant downhill walk to the edge of Fethiye will help us work off lunch before we return to the gulet. Tonight is our final night on the boat and we'll share a final farewell feast, toasting Anne and the crew and all we've learned. Hiking: 1 hour, 1.3 miles, 400 feet elevation loss B, L, D

6 DAY 8 OCTOBER 8, MONDAY After one final delicious breakfast, we bade farewell to our boat and the crew for our transfer to Sirince. The drive takes about five hours with a break for lunch and shows off Turkey's mixture of modern and traditional ways. We'll spend the next two nights in Sirince, close to Ephesus, and a delight in itself. It's one of the very few genuinely beautiful historic villages left in the western seaboard of Turkey, and almost all houses date from 19th Century or earlier. The guide will give you an orientation to the town and the many shops there. Dinner tonight will continue the theme of eating delicious and freshly prepared food. B, L, D DAY 9 OCTOBER 9, TUESDAY We'll spend the entire morning visiting the ancient city of Ephesus. First a Greek and later a Roman city, it is considered to be the commercial, religious and social center of antiquity. It is a vast site and not yet completely excavated; what is visible, such as the Temple of Artemis, gives some idea of its original splendor. It is also an important early Christian site: this is where St Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians and the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days here. After lunch we'll return to the Inn where we'll have a chance to relax before an optional and informal tour of Sirince, followed by dinner. We'll be back to the Inn in time to pack up for the next leg of our adventure. B, L, D DAY 10 OCTOBER 10, WEDNESDAY This morning we'll return to Izmir for the flight back to Istanbul or, if you have the time, onto Cappadocia for our hiking trip there. Our final schedule for this day will once again depend on the flights and we'll determine final departure times once those are known. B

7 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Plan to arrive on October 1 at Ataturk International Airport (IST) in Istanbul, Turkey. The airport is both large and modern with many signs in English and Turkish. Depending on domestic flight availability, we will either fly from IST or we will arrange a group transfer from there to Sabiha Gocken airport for a domestic flight to Dalaman. If you are arriving September 29 for the Pre-extension in Istanbul, we will arrange a shuttle from IST to the hotel where we're staying and from the hotel to the appropriate airport on October 1. Please note: If you are coming from North America, you will need to leave on September 30 in order to arrive in Turkey on October 1st. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call ACCOMMODATIONS We'll spend the first seven nights on board a gulet, a traditional wooden sailing yacht. There are 8 cabins with twin or double beds and each with its own private bathroom, with a bedside reading light, porthole window, wardrobe, underbed storage, and hairdryer. As is typical on a gulet, the rooms are small; however, most of our time is spent above deck where comfortable chairs and cushions are plentiful. While there are always lights on board, power sockets and hot water are not always available. For example, there is hot water in the evening but not in the morning. Women who use a CPAP machine will need to bring a portable battery. Common dietary preferences/restrictions can be accommodated on this trip. WEATHER Early October is typically warm and dry, with daytime temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees F, and nighttime between 55 and 65 degrees. The average sea temperature is 73 degrees making it a delightful time for swimming. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

8 PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight or midweight hiking boots: they should be well broken in and comfortable 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, such as athletic shoes or Teva sandals 1 pair slippers/treaded socks: shoes are not worn on board, but it can be cool in the evening so you may want something to keep your toes warm. 2-3 pairs of socks (2 should be wool/synthetic) CLOTHING 1-2 pairs of comfortable lightweight supplex/nylon long pants/capris for hiking. Zip offs work well. 1 pair of shorts (optional) or hiking skirt 1-2 lightweight, light-colored, long-sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun- button up front is the best 2-3 T-shirts or sleeveless shirts; synthetics are much easier to wash out and dry faster than cotton 1 medium-weight top layer: wool shirt/pull-over or synthetic equivalent ( expedition weight long underwear, microfleece). A fleece, synthetic, down or wool vest is good for this layer as well. 1 warm lightweight jacket for cool mornings and evenings on the boat - can be any material 1 rain jacket or parka: coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex Underwear/nightwear 1 wide-brimmed hat, visor, or baseball cap for sun and high fashion 1 or 2 sets of casual clothes to wear around town or on the boat Bathing suit EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS 1 daypack, 1 pack cover or large plastic bag to line backpack for waterproofing 1 liter water carrying capacity (water bottle or hydration system) Passport and a photocopy of your passport Sunscreen and lip block with SPF of at least 15 Sunglasses (100% UV blocking) and retention strap Capacity to carry 2 liters of water: 2 one-quart water bottles or a hydration system that fits in your pack. If you bring a hydration system for hiking, you may also want to bring 1 water bottle for other times Earplugs Watch, travel alarm TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia (bring extras), sanitary supplies, soap, shampoo, washcloths (these are often not provided in Europe) Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 (absolutely essential) Personal medications, if any. If you re taking a prescription drug, bring a copy of the prescription or its generic name Small personal patch kit : Band-Aids, Compeed or Second Skin, moleskin, cloth athletic tape, ibuprofen, personal medications, if any. Individuals allergic to insect bites must bring an anaphylactic kit. NOTE: Individuals allergic to insect bites must bring an anaphylactic kit. Please consult your personal physician. OPTIONAL (not required, personal preference) Camera (extra battery) and film Clothesline, clothspins, detergent (for hand washing clothing) Folding umbrella (great for hot days) Eye mask Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Trekking Poles (optional but recommended for this trip) Watch, travel alarm 1 wet suit top or long sleeved (if you get cold easily) lycra surf shirt called a rash guard 1 or 2 bandannas

9 NOTES ON PACKING NOTE: THERE IS A 15KG WEIGHT LIMIT FOR INTERNAL FLIGHTS Daypacks: You will need a daypack that is large enough to hold the following items: 1 liter of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), lightweight gloves, warm hat and any other desired personal items such as camera, journal, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1600 and 2000 cubic inches or liters, and preferably with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps and lifters, all of which will make your pack more comfortable. If you re not sure if your pack is large enough, try packing it with everything you need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Clothing: No formal or especially dressy clothes are necessary during the trip, though a casual skirt or dress can be a nice change from shorts or pants. All clothing for active wear should be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. NO COTTON for your active wear. The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Raingear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are optional but recommend for this trip. Trekking poles are always recommended for our hiking trips.) Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: If you are purchasing trekking poles for your trip please make sure they meet the following guidelines: 1. Height of the poles can be adjusted 2. They have an upright (as opposed to cane-like) handle 3. Have wrist straps that can be adjusted.