New Testament Turkey Revealed

Itinerary of the Day

Upon arrival in Istanbul Airport (by 4:00 PM), you will connect to Turkish Airlines flight TK2020 at 6:50 PM to Kayseri. After clearing luggage claim and customs, you will be escorted to The Yusuf Yigitoglu Boutique Cave Hotel (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel) for the next two nights. (D)

Itinerary of the Day

Journey through the beautiful area of Cappadocia with its volcanic ash landscapes and unusual rock formations called “fairy chimneys” created by nature’s explosion and erosion. At first, towering “chimneys” became the homes of 1st century Bible settlements. By the 10th century, Christians hid from Roman persecution by burrowing cities underground. At Avanos the ancient craft of pottery making is demonstrated by unique craftsmen patiently creating a rare art form. (B-L-D)

Optional Activity

A highly recommend optional experience is an unforgettable early morning Hot-air Balloon Trip over Cappadocia. Smoothly, sail over and close to the soft volcanic rock formations looking into early inhabitant’s dwellings. (Available Apr through Oct)

Itinerary of the Day

Walk on the same street as Paul did in Tarsus, his birthplace in 10 BCE. His upbringing as a Jew and a Roman citizen was here. In Tarsus you will visit visit the Roman Road, St Paul’s Well, the Cleopatra Gate, and Donuktas Temple. An evening drive will take you to The Museum Hotel Antakya (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel) for one night. (B-L-D)

Itinerary of the Day

After a tasty, colorful breakfast buffet you’ll drive Antioch. The headquarters of Paul’s missionary work, it was the 3rd-largest city of the Roman Empire. Biblical importance of this ancient city is seen by reflecting on the preaching of Paul, Barnabas, Simeon and Timothy. You might sense the crowd’s emotion as Paul was stoned and then learn how he survived. In an ancient Cave Church, you contemplate Peter’s teachings to both Jews and Gentiles helping them overcome ethnic differences. Close by, Antioch’s Iron Gate denotes the ancient entrance of this town where the saints were first called Christians walking the very streets you are walking on. The nearby Aegean seaport at Seleucia Peria, creates a picture of Paul and Barnabas as they set sail for Cyprus and Anatolia. Contrasting a biblical view is the Temple of Zeus with its ‘bird’s eye’ view of the harbor and carved water tunnel that Titus built to maintain control and influence at the time of the 1st century Apostles. Tonight, you will be staying at the Hilton Adana (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel). (B-L-D)

Itinerary of the Day

Sun Expres flight XQ9007 at 8:40 AM will bring you from Adana to Izmir. You will be met at the airport and begin your days’ experience by driving to Ephesus, the ancient Church headquarters. Ephesus has become one of the world’s finest archaeological sites. Walking along the Arcadian Way, viewing the splendid facade of the Library of CELSUS and visiting the Amphitheater you can almost hear silversmiths shouting against Paul as he preached against “religion for money’s sake.” The theater setting is still used for concerts today. Viewing some Ancient Villas gives you the opportunity to review Biblical accounts about contrasts of ancient simple religion to the popular paganism evident at the nearby Odeion, and the Temple of Hadrian. The Marble Street and Harbour Road lead to the Roman Baths, and the pagan Temple of Artemis, one of the 7-wonders of the World. Overnight will be at the Izmir Moevenpik Hotel (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel). (B-L-D)

Itinerary of the Day

The exciting travels lead you to the well-known hot springs of Pamukkale, the white “Cotton Castle.” Its hot water lime cascades create white hillsides. This is close to Laodocea, another one of the “seven churches” warned of being “lukewarm.” On the other side of it are cold springs. The people of Laodocea drew a mixture of lukewarm water as the two sources mixed. Overnight will be in Pamukkkale at the Doga Thermal Hotel (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel). (B-L-D)

Itinerary of the Day

Turkish Airlines flight TK2577 at 8:25 AM will bring you from Izmir to Istanbul. Today is a transition from Byzantine to Ottoman times. The mystical wonder of Islam is visible at the Blue Mosque viewing beautiful tiles of blue and the structures at the Hippodrome Square. You will be amazed at the riches shown at the Royal Topkapi Museum, and the Imperial Residential Palace of the Ottoman sultans. They are the oldest and largest remaining palaces in the world. Be absorbed in one of the world’s architectural marvels, the Haghia Sophia Museum built by Constantine and rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th Century. Then, enjoy strolling through the “never-get-lost” maze of the famous market, the Grand Bazaar. The next three nights will be at the Movenpick Golden Horn (or another Moderate Comfort Level hotel). (B-L-D)

Activity of the Day

Today is a day at leisure. You are free to attend Sabbath Services with the Istanbul Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (transfers provided). The rest of the day is on your own to rest or independently explore the mysteries of Istanbul. (B-D)

Itinerary of the Day

At the Egyptian Spice Market, you’ll discover an ice cream man mixing ingredients with hilarious antics. Indeed, this is the connection of Europe to the Middle East. Before departing Istanbul, you’ll enjoy a Bosphorus Boat Tour, viewing mosques, palaces, and old traditional wooden villas along the colorful shorelines. (B-L-D)

Itinerary of the Day

Homeward, with pleasant memories of a spectacular land discovering the Savior’s Footprints and where most of the New Testament occurred. Recall the experiences of Paul. Reflect on the opportunity you had to walk where many other ancient Apostles walked - inspiring you to follow the Footprints of Jesus throughout the world! (Meals: EnRoute)