Hi
I'm researching a first-timer's trip to Istanbul. It could include other stops, as long as three or so of the days concentrate on Istanbul. The total trip time should be 6-9 days. She's traveling alone, departure city in the US would be New York, and she would like an escorted, but luxurious experience. She is hoping to spend up to $4000 all inclusive (meals need not be included.)
Any suggestions for tours (or even a short cruise?)

Hi Julienas,
6 to 9 days makes a big difference in terms of itinerary. 9 day is better for better understanding ofcourse and could include Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia.
Budget is OK and deluxe to luxury itinerary doable.
contact [email protected]

or can write me directly.

Happy travelling,

Murat

any other advice that doesn't sound like an ad?

Murat is a regular poster here who often reports lots of good information on Turkey. He's also a travel agent.

Another invaluable resource is Turkeytravelplanner.com, which lists recommended travel agents and has lots of excellent information generally. I found it very helpful in planning my own trip to Turkey this summer.

For what you need, I think a Turkish travel agent would be most helpful. Good luck!

Pacha tours specializes in Turkey. The only escorted tour I ever used was Insight and it was to Turkey. My mother and I enjoyed it. It was a 2 week plus tour but I think they have a shorter one.

Hi Julienas;
I am sorry if my answer sounds like an add, but yours was a spesific question and I wrote to you rather than saying google it....hoping to help and give one extra option a second opinion. Especially where a lot of vendors & websites claims they deliver luxury services and in reality very few caters this segment. If you check my postings you will see most of my suggestions are based on the experience itself rather than giving out names and web adresses.

Weadless thanks for reassurance.....

I do really like answering questions and share my expertise to the ones seeking first hand information. And I also learn from posters experiences and their view on my country.

Happy travelling,

Murat

I apologize if I jumped to the wrong conclusion. I haven't been on this site much for a long time and don't know the regulars. I'd just rather see at least some suggestions posted that perhaps others could also comment on or use in the future, but I'll keep in mind that a travel agent may be the way to go.
thank you

I just returned from a 3 week trip to Turkey (my first time) and I would agree with Murat's suggestion to spend at least nine days if she can, and divide it among Istanbul (4), Ephesus (2) and Cappadocia (3). Or, if she's more interested in ancient Greek and Roman ruins, then maybe swap a few days in the Antalya area for Cappadocia (we spent two weeks on an archeological cruise on a gulet going from Gocek to Antalya and back, and it was amazing).

I think working with an experienced TA would save you a LOT of research time, especially since you're looking for an escorted tour.

Julienas,

I recently took a tour with FLO USA. Although the tour was for travel agents (I was a guest) I felt that as a company their tour was very comfortable and guides were informative. All four and five star hotels with meals included (drinks extra), all entrance fees included and travel on an airconditioned bus.

I do know they offer various tours and also private tours within Turkey(departures from NY) - perhaps they are a candidate for further inspection by your friend.

Regards,
Hana

ps. not an ad, nor am I connected to the company, just passing on first hand experience with this tour company.