3 Days as an Istanbulite: An Istanbul Itinerary
I have had many friends visit me from abroad and I have taken them on tours of Istanbul many times. In this itinerary, I have written up a three-day tour of Istanbul very similar to the ones I have taken with my friends. This itinerary is designed to be the perfect introduction to Istanbul for the first time visitor. The itinerary takes you to the iconic historical sites and shows you the many faces of Beyoğlu, the cultural heart of the city. It ends with a relaxing tour of the Bosphorus, so you can soak up the beauty of the scenery before you leave! I have included the "must-see" highlights like the Blue Mosque in the historical peninsula. That's not all though, the itinerary is packed with many experiences locals enjoy, like enjoying a kumpir in Ortaköy. Istanbul is a big city and it has a long past. It has been the seat of power for two world empires: the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires. It has been a crossing point between continents and cultures throughout history. As you can imagine, there is A LOT to see and experience and three days are not nearly enough for all. This itinerary will help you by pointing out the most interesting things to see and it will help you locate them with maps and photos. By the end of the three days, you will have experienced the history, the cultural scene, and the scenic beauty of Istanbul. You will also have a wonderful culinary experience through my lunch/dinner suggestions throughout the three days. The itinerary is centered around walking tours. While the distances walked are not huge and while I have planned many opportunities for taking breaks, you will be walking around a lot. I would like to point this out for travelers who may have difficulty with mobility. I recommend reading the Appendix section BEFORE you arrive in Istanbul. By doing so, you will avoid any surprises and be ready to employ the tips and tricks included in this section. I even have some literary suggestions in this section; reading the suggested books wi
Adventure Around Amman: A 2-Day Itinerary
"Welcome to Jordan!" While visiting some of the most hospitable people on earth, you will hear this phrase countless times throughout your stay in Jordan. This itinerary is geared toward those who are already planning on visiting Jordan, but may be dedicating more scheduled time to her more famous locales such as Petra and Wadi Rum. As your flight and "home" base will likely be out of Amman, you may be wondering what to do with your spare time in this highly underrated city. After living in Amman for 8 months, I fell in love with and never found a dull moment in Jordan's capital city. I have returned to Amman several times for work for a few weeks at a time, and this passion for Jordan only grows. This itinerary will provide travel to and from "must-see" activities and information on their historical and societal contexts within Amman. While Western media often makes the Middle East seem unstable and scary, Jordan is arguably the ideal location to experience hospitable Arab culture and breath-taking ancient wonders. This itinerary provides advice on safely traveling around Amman and respectfully interacting with Jordanians. What's Inside? This itinerary will feature activities exploring this interaction of the modern and traditional in contemporary Jordan. Visitors to this hospitable country will be exposed to the unique balance of historical traditions and a developing contemporary Jordanian identity. You will explore ancient Roman ruins nuzzled in Amman's hilltops, trendy cafes and shops in "Westernized" neighborhoods, and dine on delicious Jordanian cuisine. Many activities are under $5.00 or free! The appendix provides cultural information on travelling to a Middle Eastern country, useful Jordanian Arabic phrases and directions, and food and transportation etiquette. Highlights Include : Ancient ruins tucked in Amman's hillsides, such as the Roman Citadel and Umayyad Palace . As the ancient crossroads between the East and West, Amman has been continuously inhabi
Amman 2-Day Cultural Tour
Have you ever dreamed of discovering the secrets of Amman? Use this 2-day cultural itinerary, to inspire, guide and inform you of the most unique places in the city to visit. Amman is the capital city of Jordan, which is known as the gateway to the Middle East and is the only remaining monarchy in the region. A city of rich history, marvelous hospitality and delightful cuisine, Amman is truly a place you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Through this itinerary, you can find your way around a fascinating maze of markets and alleys in downtown, travel to the ancient historical sites and discover a tantalizing world of culinary treats. Find interesting cultural facts and advice in the ‘Things you need to know’ section. I hope that you will be inspired in your travels and enjoy your visit to the magnificent city of Amman.
Between the East and the West, a 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary
This itinerary takes you both to Istanbul's most famous sights and some off-the-beaten-path attractions. Advice on efficient use of public transportation and a beginner's guide to Turkish cuisine (you know you'll love it!) Visit Europe, Asia and the islands that are part of Istanbul during your stay. Some of the things you will see and do in Istanbul: The Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia The Grand Bazaar and its vendors The Gülhane Park and the Topkapi Palace with fantastic views on Istanbul Taksim and its active nightlife The hip neighborhood of Moda on the Asian side Ferry rides across the Bosphorus and the Marmara Sea Two Istanbul islands, Büyükada and Burgazada Eat in some of the best restaurants in Istanbul and much more! What does the itinerary include? 27-page PDF file Numerous maps and walking directions as well as pictures of most important sights Tips on hotels, transportation, restaurants and getting into the city My contact information if you have questions while visiting Istanbul Sample From the Itinerary This is a sample of the itinerary. The actual itinerary includes additional pictures and maps. ----------------------------------- Day 1 Eminönü – 9:30am – 10:45am Duration: 1 ¼ hours Address: Eminönü ferry boat station [Picture of Galata Tower as seen from Eminönü] Tip: Keep in mind that for visiting mosques you have to be dressed conservatively (no open shoulders and knees are recommended to be covered as well), you will be asked to remove your shoes before entering a mosque and you might be asked to cover your head (headscarves are provided), however lately it does not appear to be obligatory. While Istanbul appears to be modern and European in general, it is still wise to be conservative in your overall choice of clothes. Eminönü is a good place to start off your first day in Istanbul. Whether you are staying in the Taksim (New Town) area or in Sultanahmet (Old Town), it’s not a long walk away from both or an even shorter tram ride. From here you g
Doha 2-Day Stopover Cultural Tour
Are you passing through Doha airport on your way to your next destination? Do you have a few hours or even a couple of days to spare? Choose Doha as your next stopover destination! Doha is emerging as one of the brightest cultural capitals in the Gulf. This vibrant city has an amazing array of sites and activities to satisfy the first time visitor. Here are a few highlights of what Doha has to offer: Souk Waqif Souk Waqif is the heartbeat of the city and can’t be missed! This market is traditional, yet modern with excellent shopping and cafes. Although you could spend hours here navigating the mazelike streets, I have included a map to guide you on a 2-3 hour walking tour to cover the main points of interest. The architecture of Souk Waqif The Museum of Islamic Art The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the premier museums in the Gulf region. This museum has a vast collection of antiquities dating back a thousand years. This is a great place to get lost for a few hours and the setting can’t be beat! Afterwards follow my map around a scenic lagoon to one of the most scenic cafes in the city frequented by both locals and expats. Traditional Dhows You have not experienced Doha until you have seen traditional dhow boats! Find out how you can take a dhow cruise or simply follow my walking tour along the corniche to admire these sea-faring beauties up close. Traditional dhow boats What does this itinerary include? A two-day step-by-step guide to all the best sites that Doha has to offer. All the planning is done for you. Detailed maps, directions, and navigation information to guide you easily from place to place. Dining, shopping, and sightseeing recommendations. Advice on where to stay. Useful words and phrases in Arabic. Activity suggestions if you want to extend your trip. And much more!
Paphos 3-Day Itinerary: Live like a local!
New updated version! (2016) IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR TRAVELLERS TO PAPHOS Paphos has excitedly been awarded the 2017 European Capital of Culture! Whilst this is great news, it should be noted that as a result of certain guidelines, there is currently a great deal of construction work on the roads in central Paphos. I encourage everyone to not let this put you off visiting our amazing island but I would advise visitors that some of the directions and parking information within my guide (and others alike) may be somewhat disrupted as a result. I will, of course, update the guide alongside any permanent changes to our town. Thank you! _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Your very own extensive guide to how to live like a local in Paphos, this itinerary allows you to discover places enjoyed by locals but usually ignored by guide books. After all, when visiting somewhere, the best places are found by following the locals! A lot of the tourists who come to this beautiful island miss out on the best parts due to being glued to their sunbeds. If you want to mix it up a bit, visit traditional villages and sample some of the best local food on offer then this itinerary is for you! With all the research already completed for you, all you need to do is concentrate on enjoying everything that Paphos has to offer. Benefit from insider tips and useful information such as: Transportation information Directions to car parks (all of which are free!) Advice on local food Nightlife recommendations Useful local phrases Over 50 extremely detailed and annotated maps (no danger of getting lost!) Estimated fuel costs for each journey Climate information and tips on what to expect from the different seasons Cultural hotspots and day trip advice My contact details should you need any further information Activities within the itinerary Discover the local village of Lysos on horseback The best local food and drin