Israel & Turkey Bespoke

Itinerary

• Turkey

  Turkey stretches across the Anatolian peninsula in western Asia and Thrace in southeastern Europe, making it a multi-continental country. The Mediterranean Sea is to the south; the Aegean Sea to the west; and the Black Sea to the north. The first major empire in the area was that of the Hittites, from the 18th through the 13th century BC. All of Anatolia was conquered by the Persian Achaemenid Empire during the 6th and 5th centuries and later fell to Alexander the Great. In 324 the Roman emperor Constantine I chose Byzantium to be the new capital of the Roman Empire, renaming it Constantinople (now Istanbul). After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it became the capital of the Byzantine Empire. This empire was defeated by the Turks, who were subsequently defeated by the Mongols in 1243 giving rise to the mightly Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire interacted with both Eastern and Western cultures throughout its 623-year history. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was among the world's most powerful political entities. Mustafa Kemal Pasha (Ataturk) led the independence movement in 1922 which produced the modern secular Turkish state. 

• Bodrum

  Bodrum is a Turkish port town located southwestern Aegean Region of the country, on the Gulf of Gökova, and facing the Greek island of Kos. It is an international center of tourism and yachting. The city was called Halicarnassus of Caria in ancient times. The Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was here. Bodrum Castle, built by the Crusaders in the 15th century, overlooks the harbor and the International Marina. The castle grounds includes a Museum of Underwater Archeology and hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year.

• Istanbul

  Istanbul (Byzantium, and later Constantinople) is the world's 3rd largest city and Turkey's cultural and financial center. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait and encompasses the natural harbor known as the Golden Horn. It extends both on the European (Thrace) and on the Asian (Anatolia) side of the Bosphorus, and is therefore the only metropolis in the world which is situated on two continents. In its long history, Istanbul served as the capital city of the Roman Empire (330–395), the East Roman (Byzantine) Empire (395–1204 and 1261–1453), the Latin Empire (1204–1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). The city was chosen as joint European Capital of Culture for 2010. The historic areas of Istanbul were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.

• Israel

  Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Lebanon in the north, Syria in the northeast, Jordan in the east, and Egypt on the southwest. With a population of about 7.28 million, the majority of whom are Jews, Israel is the world's only Jewish state. The modern state of Israel has its roots in the Land of Israel, a concept central to Judaism for over 3000 years. In 1947, the United Nations approved the partition of Palestine into two states, one Jewish and one Arab. On May 14, 1948 the state of Israel declared independence and this was followed by a war with the surrounding Arab states. The Israelis were subsequently victorious in a series of wars confirming their independence. Israel has signed peace treaties with Egypt and Jordan, and efforts are being made to reach a permanent accord with the Palestinians. Jerusalem is the country's capital, seat of government, and largest city, while the main financial center and airport is Tel Aviv. Israel and Jerusalem have been a magnet for tourists for millennia, with important sites to three different religions. 

• Jerusalem

  Jerusalem for Christians, Jews and Muslims, is one of the most revered cities on earth. Attractions range from religious emblems and relics of antiquity to modern items of interest. Religious tours are available from West Jerusalem and include Mount Zion and the Tomb of David. Other sites are the Tomb of Judges; Yad Vashem, the memorial to the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust; and Mea Shearim (‘the hundred gates’). Visitors in East Jerusalem may follow the Way of the Cross, enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Jaffa and Damascus gates. The Israel Museum in Jerusalem houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and is worth visiting.

• Tel Aviv

  Tel Aviv is an exciting city offering commerce, culture, nightlife and sandy beaches. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra draws audiences from all over the world. The Museum of the Diaspora is internationally famous. The bustling Carmel Market is a popular place to visit. In 1950, Jaffa was united with Tel Aviv; situated a mile from the city, this is one of the oldest ports in the world. It has archaeological finds reaching back to the third century BC, a beach, lively nightlife in Old Jaffa and a flea market.

• • Jerusalem
  • King David Hotel

  Day 1: Tel Aviv - Jerusalem

  A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Accommodation: King David Hotel

  The King David, a Jerusalem landmark placed within the center of the city, is historically recognized as Israel’s most magnificent and lavish hotel. Playing host to the world’s movers and shakers and entertaining the likes of princesses and emperors, it boasts 237 rooms. Restaurants are daring and unique, presenting Israel’s ethnic diversity at its best. The phenomenon that is Jerusalem is blessed by the infinite activities in the area, from museums to ancient stomping grounds and bazaars fraught with bargainers. For those who prefer spending time at the hotel, check out the fitness areas and personal care services where treatment is comparable to the ancient times when Jerusalem was the centre of a small world. Today, travelers still leave this wondrous city in a state of awe.

• • Church of the Holy Sepulchre

  Day 2: Jerusalem

  This tour begins with visits to the Western Wall, followed by a visit to the famed Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock. Next, make a stop at Al Aksa Mosque before continuing on, walking through the meandering streets towards the reconstructed Cardo, a shopping arcade which once existed during ancient times. Follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, for a short photo stop. Enjoy some shopping at the most atmospheric market of the Old city, offering variety handicrafts, clothes, foods, spices and local delicacies. End the tour at David’s Citadel and Museum, located near the Jaffa Gate.

  Accommodation: King David Hotel
• • The Dead Sea

  Day 3: Jerusalem

  This tour combines the earth’s lowest point, the Dead Sea, with one of the most famous sites in Jewish history, Masada. In the early morning hours, enjoy a sunrise climb up snake trail, or enjoy the same panoramic experience aboard a mountain cable car. Perched high atop a cliff overlooking the Dead Sea is the ruins of the well-appointed fortress of Masada, which was built by King Herod, and was used as a refuge for a Jewish faction resisting Roman rule. Next, visit Qumran, best known as the hiding place of the Dead Sea Scrolls, which were found inside the caves located on the sheer desert cliffs. Finish this tour at a Dead Sea spa, with a float in the famous and buoyant Dead Sea, renowned for its mineral content and rich black mud.

  Accommodation: King David Hotel
• • City of Nazareth

  Day 4: Jerusalem

  This tour takes in some truly stunning scenery and ancient religious sites around the Sea of Galilee. Visit some ancient churches and town such as Capernaum, the one-time home of Jesus. Visit ruins of the ancient synagogue, the still standing Church of St. Joseph and the site of the miracle of the Loaves and the Fish before arriving at Yardenit, the site where the lake empties into the Jordan River.

  Accommodation: King David Hotel
• • Tel Aviv
  • Dan Tel Aviv Hotel

  Day 5: Jerusalem - Tel Aviv

  This tour visits the many highlights and monuments in two very important Israeli cities, Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  Visit the Israel Museum with its renowned Shrine of the Book monument containing pieces of the Dead Sea Scrolls and a cityscape model of ancient Jerusalem. Pass by the Knesset building, home of the Israeli Parliament before touring Yad Vashem, a memorial built to commemorate victims of the Holocaust. In the afternoon carry on to Bethlehem and visit sites such as the Milk Grotto and the birthplace of Christianity, the Church or the Nativity.

  A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

  Accommodation: Dan Tel Aviv Hotel

  Lounging on the coast of the Mediterranean, the Dan Tel Aviv encompasses all things central yet reserved. Located within walking distance of lively bars, restaurants, and pubs, it allows the inquisitive traveler to scope out the city and later to find refuge on the promenade over a tranquil stroll. With 280 rooms and suites, this 7-storey building gently beckons the sea breeze into its rooms and lounging areas. The breakfast buffet is mouth-watering, with juicy fruits, vegetables, and pastries that meet your every fancy. The Gan Dan Patio Café seats guests in a refreshing atmosphere, to be served light snacks and dairy. Sunbathe on the giant deck above the beachfront, and take a dip to cool off from the Tel Aviv sun.

• • The City of Tel-Aviv

  Day 6: Tel Aviv

  Tel-Aviv is the bustling business centre of Israel, and boasts a combination of modern architecture, alongside some traditional and classic examples.  Begin the tour with a visit to Old Jaffa, an area some 4,000 years old, this port city of Jaffa served Egyptian and Phoenician sailors during antiquity. Christian legend has it that Jaffa was named after Noah’s son Japhet, whom was believe to have built it after the great flood.   Visit the Clock Tower in the central square, the Jaffa Museum (first constructed during the Crusades and exhibiting artifacts from area digs), Kikar Kedumin (formerly Tel Aviv’s red light district, but now an artsy place with restaurants and gift shops), and the port marina with its abundance of houseboats and restaurants. Next, enjoy a walking tour of Neve Tzedek. These beautifully restored houses and streets preserve the romance of the early days of Jewish urban settlement. The neighborhood was nicknamed "Little Paris" because of its eye-opening architectural innovations. Today, the most outstanding site is the Suzanne Delal Centre, a bustling dance and theater complex. In July, 2003, UNESCO proclaimed the "White City" as a World Cultural Heritage site. Walk along Rothschild Boulevard to view the architectural styles of the 1930s – most notably the International, or Bauhaus, style, telling the story of Tel Aviv from its early years unitl today. This is a wonderful opportunity to savor the experience of life, past and present, in the first Hebrew city. Afterwards visit Rabin Square, where former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated. Walk in his final footsteps and discuss the impact of this event on the State of Israel.

  Accommodation: Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
• • Istanbul
  • Four Seasons Bosphorus Exterior

  Day 7: Tel Aviv - Istanbul

  Upon your arrival in Istanbul you'll head straight to your hotel, the fabulous Four Seasons Bosphorus. Spend the remainder of your day relaxing on the stunning marble terrace overlooking the Bosphorus or take advantage of the spectacular spa.

  Accommodation: Four Seasons Bosphorus (5*)

  The Four Seasons Bosphorus is a 19th-century Ottoman building that has been completely restored and modernized. It has 166 guest rooms (of which 28 are suites), all with flat-screen HDTVs and wired and wireless high-speed Internet connections. East-facing rooms have marvelous Bosphorus views. Facilities include Turkish and Mediterranean restaurants with Bosphorus views, a lobby lounge, spa with hamam, heated outdoor swimming pool with whirlpool, pool-side terrace and grill, and private dock. Located north of Besiktas on the European Bosphorus shore, it's only a short walk from Yildiz Palace and Park, and the ferry docks at Besiktas.

• • Bosphorus

  Day 8: Istanbul

  A cruise by public boat on the Bosphorus, the unique winding strait separating two continents. The shores offer a beautiful harmony of the old wooden mansions, marble palaces, stunning mosques and modern buildings. Among the most famous to be seen are; Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, Ortakoy are

  Accommodation: Four Seasons Bosphorus (5*)
• • St. Sophia Church

  Day 9: Istanbul

  Today you'll enjoy a privately guided full day tour of Istanbul and uncover the most important sights the city has to offer. Visit the Hagia Sophia, an outstanding example of Byzantine architecture and the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles. Moving on to the Grand Bazaar, the world’s lar

  Accommodation: Four Seasons Bosphorus (5*)
• • Bodrum
  • Casa Dell'Arte Residence

  Day 10: Istanbul - Bodrum

  This morning you'll head to the airport for your short flight to Bodrum where you'll have the day to yourself to enjoy your stunning hotel and beach. The Casa Dell'Arte is a unique seafront hotel located in one of the most enchanting spots of Bodrum. Luxurious in feel, and incredibly intimate the

  Accommodation: Casa Dell`Arte Residence (5*)

  Turkeys first contemporary boutique art hotel, Casa dellarte is a unique seafront, stylish hotel located in one of the most enchanting spots of Bodrum, the old fishermen's village of Torba. Luxurious yet never ostentatious, the Casa dellarte Residence lives and breathes the aesthetic and cultural atmosphere of past, present and the future. The Buyukkusoglu family collection is exhibited throughout the hotel. The Residence has 12 guest suites & a private villa; decorated with contemporary works of art; each more prized than the other.

• • Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Ruins)

  Day 11: Bodrum

  Following breakfast this morning you'll head out with your private guide for a tour of Bodrum. Highlights of the day include visits to the Castle of St. Peter, built by the Knights of St. John, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the remains of the anc

  Accommodation: Casa Dell`Arte Residence (5*)
• • Didyma: Oracle of Apollo

  Day 12: Bodrum

  Today you'll head out for a full day with your private car and guide, heading up the coast to the antique city of Ephesus. You'll explore the stunning remains of the Arcadian Way, Antique Theater, the Roman Baths, and the Celcus Library. Upon your return to Bodrum, take in the property and surroun

  Accommodation: Casa Dell`Arte Residence (5*)

• Day 13: Bodrum

  This morning you will bid farewell to Bodrum as you catch your flights to Istanbul and beyond.

Accommodation

• • King David Hotel
  • New City View Bedroom

  King David Hotel

  The King David, a Jerusalem landmark placed within the center of the city, is historically recognized as Israel’s most magnificent and lavish hotel. Playing host to the world’s movers and shakers and entertaining the likes of princesses and emperors, it boasts 237 rooms. Restaurants are daring and unique, presenting Israel’s ethnic diversity at its best. The phenomenon that is Jerusalem is blessed by the infinite activities in the area, from museums to ancient stomping grounds and bazaars fraught with bargainers. For those who prefer spending time at the hotel, check out the fitness areas and personal care services where treatment is comparable to the ancient times when Jerusalem was the centre of a small world. Today, travelers still leave this wondrous city in a state of awe.

  • More information
• • Dan Tel Aviv Hotel

  Dan Tel Aviv Hotel

  Lounging on the coast of the Mediterranean, the Dan Tel Aviv encompasses all things central yet reserved. Located within walking distance of lively bars, restaurants, and pubs, it allows the inquisitive traveler to scope out the city and later to find refuge on the promenade over a tranquil stroll. With 280 rooms and suites, this 7-storey building gently beckons the sea breeze into its rooms and lounging areas. The breakfast buffet is mouth-watering, with juicy fruits, vegetables, and pastries that meet your every fancy. The Gan Dan Patio Café seats guests in a refreshing atmosphere, to be served light snacks and dairy. Sunbathe on the giant deck above the beachfront, and take a dip to cool off from the Tel Aviv sun.

  • More information
• • Four Seasons Bosphorus Exterior

  Four Seasons Bosphorus (5*)

  The Four Seasons Bosphorus is a 19th-century Ottoman building that has been completely restored and modernized. It has 166 guest rooms (of which 28 are suites), all with flat-screen HDTVs and wired and wireless high-speed Internet connections. East-facing rooms have marvelous Bosphorus views. Facilities include Turkish and Mediterranean restaurants with Bosphorus views, a lobby lounge, spa with hamam, heated outdoor swimming pool with whirlpool, pool-side terrace and grill, and private dock. Located north of Besiktas on the European Bosphorus shore, it's only a short walk from Yildiz Palace and Park, and the ferry docks at Besiktas.

  • More information
• • Casa Dell'Arte Residence

  Casa Dell'Arte Residence (5*)

  Turkeys first contemporary boutique art hotel, Casa dellarte is a unique seafront, stylish hotel located in one of the most enchanting spots of Bodrum, the old fishermen's village of Torba. Luxurious yet never ostentatious, the Casa dellarte Residence lives and breathes the aesthetic and cultural atmosphere of past, present and the future. The Buyukkusoglu family collection is exhibited throughout the hotel. The Residence has 12 guest suites & a private villa; decorated with contemporary works of art; each more prized than the other.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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