The First World War was born out of the geopolitical and economic tensions that had divided Europe into two blocks, Germano - Latin and Anglo French. The Triple Alliance between Germany, the Austro - Hungarian Empire and Italy faced the Triple Entente between Britain, France and Russia.

The decaying Ottoman Empire (which was to become Turkey) joined the Triple Alliance by treaty on August 2 1914 and actively entered the war on its declaration on 11 November 1914. It is doubtful whether any of the protagonists could have imagined the true horror of what they were about to unleash. Leaving aside civilian casualties, at the wars end Russia had lost 1.7 million soldiers, Germany 1.8 million, the British Empire (inc. Australia and NZ) 908,000, France 1.3 million and Austria / Hungary 1.2 million.

Though the events in Anatolia were a relative sideshow to the carnage of modern warfare on the western front, the Gallipoli landings were part of a strategy to break the bloody stalemate that the battlefields of Western Europe had become. Their aim was to capture the Dardanelle's, enter Istanbul and to relieve Ottoman pressure on the Russians. It was hoped to eliminate the Ottoman Empire from the war. In a campaign that achieved none of its ambitions the Allied casualties were 252,000 with British losses totaling 33,000 and 7000 missing. The Turks suffered over 250,000 casualties.

For the Anzac's, 7600 Australians and 2500 New Zealanders lost their lives at Gallipoli. Though inexperienced and inadequately trained for the campaign, ANZAC soldiers showed extraordinary courage and endurance. They suffered through administrative bungling and incompetence at higher levels. Throughout most of the campaign logistic preparation and support were totally inadequate and the Allied troops paid the price for hasty operational planning and execution. The bold stroke that Churchill had hoped for failed and the allied expedition landed on April 25 1915 only to become involved in an 8-month stalemate and eventual withdrawal at the end of the same year.

Our ANZAC day tours naturally concentrate on the events at Anzac Cove, the subsidiary landing some 25 kilometres north of the main British landing at Cape Helles. The cliff bound landing zone that is now known, as Anzac Cove was not the intended one. During the night the destroyers bearing the ANZAC troops had drifted and they were landed to the North of Gabatebe, which was the intended beachhead. Gabatebe had been chosen because it was flat and would make fighting and progression on the peninsular easier.

Had they actually landed at Gabatebe, historians agree that the waiting main Turkish force would have slaughtered them. At Anzac cove they were met by relatively small resistance from about 200 Turks (many locals). The Anzacs gained about 5.2 kms of enemy territory before Turkish reinforcements arrived.

The story of Gallipoli and Anzac is the story of the birth of nations and the story of one of the most dynamic military and political leaders of this century, Mustafa Kemal. It is the story of the first war the new Australasian nations had fought, the end of the Sultanate and the Ottoman Empire and the birth of modern secular Turkey.

When war broke out in 1914 Australia and New Zealand were new nations and eager to establish a reputation among the nations of the world. The first battle they were to fight was to be one with no hope of winning. Although the heaviest casualties for both nations were incurred on the western front, Gallipoli as the first battle marks a turning point.

Any assumptions the Allies had about a second-class enemy were to be shattered at the landings, which were strongly opposed. The Turkish army proved to be a formidable opponent under the leadership of Kemal, who inspired a burning nationalism in his soldiers. Mostly simple Anatolian peasants they became aware for the first time of their identity as Turks.

With defeat in war came the loss of the old Ottoman Empire and Turkey withdrew to its natural boundaries. The end of 1922 united Turkey and Kemal could, as president, reform the nation as a secular, democratic republic.

It's confusing to many young Australians and New Zealanders today, how a battle as bloody and ruthless as Gallipoli could ever result in a deep and lasting friendship with the enemy. Most would agree that the events endured on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 would destroy any chance of friendship. However, on the 21st August following the final offensive at Lone Pine, both sides were confronted by extraordinary devastation and it was then that a flood of humanity washed over the Peninsula. A cease-fire was ordered and on rugged ground the Anzac's and Turks tirelessly collected bodies and attended to the injured. For the first time they had an opportunity to look into each other's eyes and what they saw was not a brutal enemy, but another suffering man who shared the same pain. From that day on the Anzac's threw supplies to the enemy trenches and often-defied orders, firing a little less accurately than they had before - a lasting friendship was formed.

THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD AS WE THAT ARE LEFT GROW OLD;
AGE SHALL NOT WEARY THEM, NOR THE YEARS CONDEMN;
AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING;
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.

For the fallen
Laurence Binyon

Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives...
You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country.
Therefore rest in peace.
There is no difference between the Johnnies
and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side
here in this country of ours...
You, the mothers
who sent their sons from far away countries
wipe away your tears;
Your sons are now lying in our bosom
and are in peace.
After having lost their lives on this land they have
Become our sons as well.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk (1934)
The founder of modern Turkey

First Festival Travel has been taking tours to ANZAC DAY in Turkey for over 10 years now and we have a well established reputation as ANZAC tour company, with the best variety of tours available. Our operation in Turkey is run in proud association with FEZ TRAVEL TURKEY . Fez Travel operate 12 months of the year in Turkey, and are the number one tour operator for backpackers. Their staff are all vastly experienced, and are all English speakers. For each part of the tour you will be accompanied with an English speaking experienced guide to help with all of your needs.

Get the most out of your experience
There are probably only a handful of great Gallipoli tour guides in the whole of Turkey, so if a company tells you that their tour guides are Gallipoli experts, well, you decide the truth? The FEZ Travel head tour guides are the best Gallipoli tour guides and will fully brief and train the 50+ other licensed guides that are required for the ANZAC Tours. The fact is, most Turks have never heard of ANZAC Cove. Do some reading about Gallipoli before you come for ANZAC Day and you'll have a far greater appreciation of the commemoration. The guides are just that - guides, and while all are licensed by the Turkish government, they are not historians and you should remember they are Turkish so they have a different take on it than visiting Australasians. Also while ANZAC Day is a huge event for Australasians- remember we are still there as guests of the Turkish goverment. Things do and can go wrong so don't let a cold cup of tea or an extended wait in a queue dampen your ANZAC spirit of commemoration.

What's it like at Gallipoli?
After the orientation tour of the Gallipoli battlefields, the trenches, the grave yards - you should possess a much deeper appreciation of what happened at Gallipoli. At the end of the Battlefields tour you are taken to the site of the dawn service. Already, there will several hundred people about, and you are free to find a seat. There are big screens and music to entertain you and to thank you, the people who have made the pilgrimage to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day. War veterans, military personal and media are everywhere and the atmosphere is electric. There is a unique feeling in the air, a celebration of peace subdued by a cloud of commemoration.

Within just a few hours, the site will appear like a sea of colour with thousands of Aussie's and Kiwis sprawling out on the grass, warmly wrapped up in sleeping bags, National flags and rugby tops. Get a few hours rest/sleep on the grass because by 9pm the MC will be asking you to squash forward to try and make space for the thousands more people still to come. The buzzing atmosphere will permeate the whole night. Well before the grey light of dawn signals the start of the dawn service, speakers and entertainers begin their addresses, folk songs and stories.

Day 1 - Friday 24th April:
Welcome to Istanbul. We meet at the Fez office in Istanbul for an early morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli. Along the way we will stop for a meal break and a chance to stock up on supplies and rations to see you through the night and the following day. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula our guide will take us on an orientation of the battlefields before we arrive at our final destination of Anzac Cove to secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead. Overnight at Dawn Service.

No accommodation is available on this night as you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 94 years before

Day 2 - Saturday 25th April:
Awake before sunrise to the Anzac Dawn service and commemorate our fallen fore fathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst the various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services.

Please Note: Your pass finishes in Eceabat after the memorial services.

English speaking onboard tour leader
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
ANZAC Commerative Gift
Orientation tour of Gallipoli

Friday 24th April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul . We meet at the Fez office in Istanbul for an early morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli. Along the way we will stop for a meal break and a chance to stock up on supplies and rations to see you through the night and the following day. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula, we will take you on an orientation tour of the battlefields before we arrive at our final destination of Anzac Cove in the early evening, to try and secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead.
Overnight ANZAC Cove (Please note: no accommodation is available on this night - you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 94 years before)

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise for the ANZAC Dawn service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst the various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services. Late afternoon you will meet up with the Fez Bus again to head to the small town of Ayvalik for some well deserved sleep. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday 26th April 2009:
This morning, we head south along the Aegean Coast , stopping at the ancient city of Pergamum for a guided tour, before travelling onto the resort town of Kusadasi this evening. Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
After Breakfast your tour concludes and sadly it is time to say good bye to new friends. Happy travels.

English speaking Tour Leader
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Commemorative gift
Orientation tour of Gallipoli and Pergamum . (Entrance fees not included)
2 Breakfast and 1 Dinner
2 nights Shared Hostelaccommodation

Friday 24th April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul . We meet at the Fez office in Istanbul for an early morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli. Along the way we will stop for a meal break and a chance to stock up on supplies and rations to see you through the night and the following day. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula, we will take you on an orientation tour of the battlefields before we arrive at our final destination of Anzac Cove in the early evening, to try and secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead.
Overnight ANZAC Cove (Please note: no accommodation is available on this night - you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 94 years before)

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise for the Anzac Dawn service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst the various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services. Late afternoon you will meet up with the Fez Bus again to head to the small town of Ayvalik for some well deserved sleep. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday April 26th 2009:
This morning, we head south along the Aegean Coast , stopping at the ancient city of Pergamum for a guided tour before travelling onto the resort town of Kusadasi . Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
Absorb yourself in history this morning with an optional tour of one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis and the former capital of Roman Asia and best-preserved ancient city in Turkey , Ephesus . Your afternoon is free to explore the town of Kusadasi or relax on an Aegean Beach .
Overnight Kusadasi

Tuesday 28th April 2009:
Mid-morning we head to Pamukkale to paddle in the natural calcium formations and visit the ancient spa town of Hierapolis . Maybe take a dip in therapeutic hot springs used in Roman times. Optional tour of Hierapolis available. Overnight Pamukkale.

Wednesday 29th April 2009:
Today we head out to follow an ancient silk trade route across the Anatolian Plain, on the way you will visit Sultanhani Caravanserai and Obruk just as the ancient traders did. Overnight Cappadocia .

Thursday 30th July 2009:
This morning you have the option of taking a hot-air balloon ride in a region famed for being one of the best places in the world for ballooning, due to both the wind currents and spectacular scenery. You will be back in plenty of time for the optional tour around the southern parts of Cappadocia . Check out the carved cave villages, underground cities, spectacular coloured valleys and the fairy chimney formations. Overnight Cappadocia .

Friday 1st May 2009:
Today you are free to explore the wonders of Cappadocia at your own pace. Tonight, do not miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening, which includes nearly 3 hrs of entertainment and all the food and drink you can handle! Overnight Cappadocia .

Saturday 2nd May 2009:
Early morning start today as we head back to Istanbul , via Ankara , the nations Capital. You will have time to visit the Museum and Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and discover what happened to the Turkish nation after the ANZAC's left. Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 3rd May 2009:
After Breakfast your tour concludes and sadly it is time to say good bye to new friends.

English speaking Tour Leader
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Guided orientation tour of Gallipoli and Pergamum (Entrance fees not included)
1 Dinner and 8 Breakfasts
8 nights Shared hostel accommodation

Friday 24th April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul . We meet at the Fez office in Istanbul for an early morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli. Along the way we will stop for a meal break and a chance to stock up on supplies and rations to see you through the night and the following day. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula, we will take you on an orientation tour of the battlefields before we arrive at our final destination of Anzac Cove in the early evening, to try and secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead. Overnight ANZAC Cove (Please note: no accommodation is available on this night - you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 94 years before)

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise for the Anzac Dawn service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst the various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services. Late afternoon you will meet up with the Fez Bus again to head to the small town of Ayvalik for some well deserved sleep. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday 26th April 2009:
This morning, we head south along the Aegean Coast , stopping at the ancient city of Pergamum for a guided tour before travelling onto the resort town of Kusadasi , this evening. Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
Absorb yourself in history this morning with an optional tour of one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis as well as the former capital of Roman Asia and best-preserved ancient city in Turkey , Ephesus . Your afternoon is free to explore the town of Kusadasi or relax on an Aegean Beach . Overnight Kusadasi.

Tuesday 28th April 2009:
Today is a day for choices. You can choose to do an optional tour to Pamukkale and paddle in the natural calcium formations and visit the ancient spa town of Hierapolis , or maybe you would prefer to visit the nearby Ottoman-Greek village of Sirince , trying some of their specialty fruit wines. The choice is yours. Overnight Kusadasi.

Wednesday 29th April 2009:
This afternoon we head to Koycegiz where you have the option of taking a late night boat cruise on Lake Koycegiz and experience the therapeutic properties of the mud and thermal baths. Overnight Koycegiz.

Thursday 30th April 2009:
After a short drive this morning, you will have the chance to see how Turkish carpets are made by hand and find out what determines their value. Then experience one of Turkey 's highlights as we trek up Saklikent Gorge or go tubing on the slightly chilly current of water rushing out of it. Overnight Fethiye.

Friday 1st May 2009:
We drive along the Turquoise coast today, stopping for a swim at the spectacular Kaputas beach and then a lunch stop in Kas, traditionally a small Turkish fishing village. Take a stroll around the town before heading to the world famous tree houses of Olympos. Overnight Olympos.

Saturday 2nd May - 4th May 2009:
Time for some relaxation, you can do nothing but chill out and meet new people or you could try a host of adventure activities on offer - rock climbing, diving and canyoning, just to name a few. Don't miss out on your chance to see the natural phenomenon of the mythical flames of Chimera. Overnight Olympos.

Tuesday 5th May 2009:
This morning you are free to explore the overgrown ruins of Olympos before our afternoon drive to Lake Egirdir via Antalya with a short stop by the forested Lake Golbasi . Overnight Egirdir.

Wednesday 6th May 2009:
Mid-morning we head out to follow an ancient silk trade route across the Anatolian Plain, on the way you will visit Sultanhani Caravanserai and Obruk just as the ancient traders did. Overnight Cappadocia .

Thursday 7th May 2009:
This morning you have the option of taking a hot-air balloon ride in a region famed for being one of the best places in the world for ballooning, due to both the wind currents and spectacular scenery. You will be back in plenty of time for the optional tour around the southern parts of Cappadocia . Check out the carved cave villages, underground cities, spectacular coloured valleys and the fairy chimney formations. Overnight Cappadocia .

Friday 8th May 2009:
Today you are free to explore the wonders of Cappadocia at your own pace. Tonight, do not miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening, which includes nearly 3 hrs of entertainment and all the food and drink you can handle! Overnight Cappadocia .

Saturday 9th May 2009:
Early morning start today as we head back to Istanbul , via Ankara , the nations Capital. You will have time to visit Anitkabir Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and discover what happened to the Turkish nation after the ANZAC's left. Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 10th May 2009:
After Breakfast your tour concludes and sadly it is time to say good bye to new friends.

English speaking Tour Leader
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Commemorative gift
Guided orientation tour of Gallipoli and Pergamum . (Entrance fees not included)
15 Breakfasts and 3 Dinners
15 nights Shared hostel accommodation

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
After breakfast, you enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and after lunch we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Tonight don't miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening. Overnight Istanbul .

Friday 24th April 2009:
Depart for the Gallipoli peninsula early morning and tour this now serene site. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise to the ANZAC Dawn Service. We become aware of the almost deafening silence as we commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian &/or New Zealand Memorial services. After the services, we drive back to Istanbul . Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Our tour concludes after breakfast and we bid farewell to our new friends. This afternoon, perhaps try your hand at bargaining in the famous Grand Bazaar

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
3 Breakfasts and 1 Lunch
3 nights Hotel accommodation

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel . Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and after lunch we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Tonight don't miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening. Overnight Istanbul .

Friday 24th April 2009:
Depart for the Gallipoli peninsula early morning and tour this now serene site. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake for the ANZAC Dawn Service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian or New Zealand Memorial services. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Today we head south and on the way we enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent acropolis of the ancient city of Pergamum . Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
Stand in awe at Roman technology, on a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus . Also visit the former Greek village of Sirince , famous for it's fruit wines, before a heading to a leather goods show. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and after lunch we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Overnight Kusadasi.

Tuesday 28th April 2009:
After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 3 Dinners
5 nights shared accommodation

Saturday 18 th April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group.

Sunday 19 th April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Tonight don't miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening. Overnight Istanbul .

Monday 20th April 2009:
Today we head south to Pamukkale, passing through rural Turkey and ancient Kutahya. Overnight Pamukkale.

Tuesday 21st April 2009:
Visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis , an ancient Roman resort city. Afterwards a leather goods presentation. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Overnight Kusadasi.

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Stand in awe at the technology once used in Roman times, with a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus . Feel the mystical atmosphere of the city halls and stadium where chariot and horse races were once held. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and today we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Overnight Kusadasi.

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
Today we travel towards the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, stopping along the way for a tour of the magnificent acropolis of ancient Pergamum . Overnight Ayvalik.

Friday 24th April 2009:
Early morning tour of Troy , the site of the famed Trojan Wars. Continue on to the Gallipoli battlefields and visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise to the ANZAC Dawn Service. We become aware of the almost deafening silence as we commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian and/or New Zealand Memorial services. After the services, we drive back to Istanbul . Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Our tour concludes after breakfast and we bid farewell to our new friends. This afternoon, perhaps try your hand at bargaining in the famous Grand Bazaar.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 4 Dinners
7 nights - Hotel accommodation

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Tonight don't miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening. Overnight Istanbul .

Friday 24th April 2009:
Depart for the Gallipoli peninsula early morning and tour this now serene site. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake for the ANZAC Dawn Service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian &/or New Zealand Memorial services. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Today we head south and on the way we enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent acropolis of the ancient city of Pergamum . Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
Stand in awe of Roman technology, on a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus before we head to a leather goods show. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and today we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Overnight Overnight Kusadasi.

Tuesday 28th April 2009:
Today we visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castles) before exploring the ruined city of Hierapolis , an ancient health spa just above the calcium terraces. Overnight Pamukkale.

Wednesday 29th April 2009:
Today we head back to Istanbul , passing through rural Turkey and ancient Kutahya. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 30th April 2009:
After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 4 Dinners
7 nights - Hotel accommodation

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Tonight don't miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening. Overnight Istanbul .

Friday 24th April 2009:
Depart for the Gallipoli peninsula early morning and tour this now serene site. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake for the ANZAC Dawn Service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian &/or New Zealand Memorial services. Overnight Ayvalik.

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Today we head south and on the way we enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent acropolis of the ancient city of Pergamum . Overnight Kusadasi.

Monday 27th April 2009:
Stand in awe at Roman technology, on a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus . Also visit the former Greek village of Sirince , famous for it's fruit wines, before heading to a leather goods show. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and today we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Overnight Kusadasi.

Tuesday 28th April 2009:
Today we drive east for the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castles). You also visit the ruined city of Hierapolis , an ancient health spa just above the calcium terraces. Overnight Pamukkale.

Wednesday 29th April 2009:
Today we visit the Mevlana Museum in Turkey 's religious Capital, Konya . We then stop on the ancient Silk Road at the Caravansary, Sultanhani. Overnight Cappadocia .

Thursday 30th April 2009:
Amid the moonscapes of Cappadocia , tour the Goreme open-air museums, Pasabag and Uchisar castle. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready. Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folk and belly dancers... a night you won't forget! Overnight Cappadocia .

Friday 1st May 2009: After breakfast we visit Ilhara Valley , a region once favoured by Byzantine monks, and the amazing Derinkuyu underground city, home to early Christians who hid underground from Roman persecution. Overnight Cappadocia .

Saturday 2nd May 2009:
Leaving the surreal landscape of Cappadocia behind, we head for exotic Istanbul . In the nation's capital, Ankara , we visit the Mausoleum of Turkey's first President, Ataturk and learn a little about why he is so revered in this country. Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 3 rd May 2009:
After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 7 Dinners
10 nights - Hotel accommodation

Wednesday 15th April 2009 :
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 16th April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Overnight Istanbul .

Friday 17th April 2009:
After breakfast, drive to the nation's capital, Ankara , visiting the Mausoleum of Turkey's first President, Ataturk, and learn a little about why he is so revered in this country. With Ankara behind us, we head for the surreal moonscape of Cappadocia . Overnight Cappadocia .

Saturday 18th April 2009 :
Today we tour the Goreme open-air museum, Pasabag and Uchisar castle. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers... a night you won't forget! Overnight Cappadocia .

Sunday 19th April 2009:
Today we visit the beautiful Ilhara Valley and the fascinating Derinkuyu underground city, home to early Christians who hid underground from Roman persecution. Overnight Cappadocia .

Monday 20th April 2009:
Leaving Cappadocia we head south along an ancient Silk Road for the stunning Mediterranean Coast . Along the way you see a Caravansary in Sultanhani. At Turkey 's religious capital Konya , we tour the Mevlana Whirling Dervish Museum . Overnight Pamukkale.

Tuesday 21st April 2009:
Visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis , an ancient Roman resort city. Overnight Kusadasi.

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Stand in awe at the technology once used in Roman times, with a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus . Feel the mystical atmosphere of the city halls and stadium where chariot and horse races were once held. Afterwards, we visit the former Greek village of Sirince , which is famous for its fruit wines, before a leather goods presentation. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and today we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Overnight Kusadasi.

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
Today we travel towards the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, stopping along the way for a tour of the magnificent acropolis of ancient Pergamum . Overnight Ayvalik.

Friday 24th April 2009:
Early morning tour of Troy , the site of the famed Trojan Wars. You then tour the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, visiting Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise to the ANZAC Dawn Service. We become aware of the almost deafening silence as we commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian &/or New Zealand Memorial services. After the services, we drive back to Istanbul .

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Our tour concludes after breakfast and we bid farewell to our new friends.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 7 Dinners
10 nights - Hotel accommodation

Saturday 11th April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul

Sunday 12th April 2009:
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Optional Turkish Night is for sale for tonight. Overnight Istanbul .

Monday 13th April 2009:
After breakfast, drive to the nation's capital, Ankara , visiting the Mausoleum of Turkey's first President, Ataturk, and learn a little about why he is so revered in this country. With Ankara behind us, we head for the surreal moonscape of Cappadocia . Overnight Cappadocia .

Tuesday 14th April 2009:
Today we tour the Goreme open-air museum, Pasabag and Uchisar castle. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers... a night you won't forget! Overnight Cappadocia .

Wednesday 15th April 2009 :
Today we visit the beautiful Ilhara Valley and the fascinating Derinkuyu underground city, home to early Christians who hid underground from Roman persecution. Overnight Cappadocia .

Thursday 16th April 2009:
Leaving Cappadocia we head south along an ancient Silk Road for the stunning Mediterranean Coast . Along the way you see a Caravansary in Sultanhani. At Turkey 's religious Capital Konya, we tour the Mevlana Whirling Dervish Museum . Overnight Antalya

Friday 17th April 2009:
Free day to explore the old city of Antalya or head to the beach. Overnight Antalya .

Saturday 18th April 2009:
The Mediterranean coastline leads us to the recently rediscovered Saklikent Gorge, stopping on the way at a carpet village. Here we learn how carpets are made by hand. At the gorge, walk through icy water and battle numerous small waterfalls set in sculpted limestone canyon walls, before taking a tube ride down the rapids. Overnight Fethiye.

Sunday 19th April 2009:
Today we take a leisurely boat cruise around picturesque Fethiye Bay . Overnight Fethiye.

Monday 20th April 2009:
Visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis , an ancient Roman resort city. Overnight Pamukkale.

Tuesday 21st April 2009:
Heading towards Kusadasi we stop off at Aphrodisias, famous in Roman times for its marble sculptures, many of which can still be seen. Overnight Kusadasi.

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Stand in awe at the technology once used in Roman times, with a tour of the ancient city of Ephesus . Feel the mystical atmosphere of the city halls and stadium where chariot and horse races were once held. Afterwards, we visit the former Greek village of Sirince , which is famous for its fruit wines, before a leather goods presentation. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy . Overnight Kusadasi.

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
Today we travel towards the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, stopping along the way for a tour of the magnificent acropolis of ancient Pergamum . Overnight Ayvalik.

Friday 24th April 2009:
Early morning tour of Troy , the site of the famed Trojan Wars. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible. Straight after the tour we head for the site of the dawn service to try and get a good spot. Tonight, soak up the vibrant atmosphere under the stars waiting for the break of dawn. Overnight at Dawn Service.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake before sunrise to the ANZAC Dawn Service. We become aware of the almost deafening silence as we commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian and/or New Zealand Memorial services. After the services, we drive back to Istanbul . Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 26th April 2009:
Our tour concludes after breakfast and we bid farewell to our new friends. This afternoon, perhaps try your hand at bargaining in the famous Grand Bazaar.

Inbound airport transfer from Ataturk Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport to your hotel
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non smoking coach
Professional English speaking tour guide
Commemorative gift
14 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 7 Dinners
14 nights - Hotel accommodation

Please note: Premium Tours are an upgrade from Standard Tours as they also include an outbound airport departure transfer, entrance fees to sites visited, a higher standard of accommodation, more meals and in some cases, internal flights.

Wednesday 22nd April 2009:
Welcome to Istanbul , where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel . Tonight, meet your guide and the rest of your group. Overnight Istanbul .

Thursday 23rd April 2009:
Depart for the Gallipoli peninsula early morning and tour this now serene site. Visit Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial and ANZAC Cove if accessible before a short ferry ride across the Dardanelles . Overnight Canakkale.

Friday 24th April 2009: Morning excursion to visit the archeological ruins of Troy . Afternoon at leisure to rest prior to an 11 pm departure for ANZAC Cove. Overnight Canakkale.

Saturday 25th April 2009:
Awake for the ANZAC Dawn Service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. Also attend the Australian and/or New Zealand Memorial services. We will enjoy a late lunch before returning to Istanbul . Overnight Istanbul .

Sunday 26th April 2009:
After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends.

Inbound / outbound airport transfer in Istanbul
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non smoking coach/mini-bus
Guided tours of Gallipoli & Troy
Entrance fees
3 Breakfasts, 1 boxed breakfast, 1 Lunches and 2 Dinners
4 nights - Hotel accommodation