A Christmas Journey: From Istanbul’s Wonders to Dubai’s Festive Lights

This 12-day journey blends history, culture, and adventure, beginning in Istanbul with visits to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and a Bosphorus cruise. Next, explore Balıkesir, Pergamon (home to the Asclepieion and the Altar of Zeus), Thyatira, Izmir, and Ephesus (featuring the Library of Celsus and the House of the Virgin Mary). Continue to Pamukkale for the travertine terraces and Hierapolis, then to Laodicea, before discovering Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes (the Love and Devrent Valleys and Göreme Open-Air Museum). The adventure extends to Dubai, where you’ll experience a desert safari, explore Al Fahidi Historic District, the Gold Souk, Dubai Marina, Atlantis The Palm, and the Burj Khalifa. Festive highlights include Christmas markets and a Santa Claus boat ride, culminating in a seamless airport transfer.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation:

  • 11 Nights in 4 or 5-star hotels, including breakfast and dinner.

• Transportation:

  • All transfers in a comfortable, air-con ditioned coach.

  • Domestic flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia, and international flights from Istanbul to Dubai.

• Sightseeing & Tours:

  • Full guided tours in Turkey and Dubai as per the itinerary.

  • Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul.

  • Guided Desert Safari experience, including dune bashing and BBQ dinner.

  • Boat ride with Santa Claus during Christmas-themed activities in Dubai.

  • Visit to the Christmas Market and other seasonal events.

• Meals:

  • 11 Breakfasts & Dinners at the hotel.

  • Lunch at local restaurants as indicated in the itinerary.

• Local Guides:

  • Professional, English-speaking local guides throughout the trip.

• Christmas Cheer:

  • Visit to Christmas markets in Dubai (Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Habtoor City).

  • Christmas-themed activities, including a boat ride with Santa and festive holiday treats at the Desert Safari camp.

• Activities:

  • Scenic monorail ride to Atlantis The Palm.

  • Love Boats ride around Dubai Marina.

  • Dubai Fountain show.

  • Visit to Dubai Mall, with an opportunity for shopping.

  • Visits to historical Christian sites in Turkey (House of the Virgin Mary, Ephesus, etc.).

• Tipping:

  • Tips for local guides, drivers, and hotel staff are included in the package price.

Exclusions:

• International Flights:

  • Flight TO Istanbul and FROM Dubai are not included in the package price.

• Personal Expenses:

  • Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra meals, drinks, phone calls, etc.

• Travel Insurance:

  • Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged by the traveler.

• Visa Fees:

• Visa fees for Turkey and Dubai (if applicable) are not included in the package price. We can assist with the Dubai visa for $90.