Three Nations One Journey

Emergency Contact

Caucasus

Pinar: +90 533 280 77 39 or Canan: +90 532 374 49 51

Head Office (Turkey) Pinar: +90 533 280 77 39 or Canan: +90 532 374 49 51

Turkey

Pinar: +90 533 280 77 39 or Canan: +90 532 374 49 51

Head Office (Turkey) Pinar: +90 533 280 77 39 or Canan: +90 532 374 49 51

Hotels used on this tour

The following hotels are used on this tour for departures and pre/post tour accommodation within the given date ranges. They are also the default hotel for pre/post tour accommodation on tours that don't include accommodation, such as day tours. This is intended to give an idea of the type of accommodation that may be expected. The actual hotels used for any given tour may change due to many reasons such as group size, availability, time of year, hotel standard has dropped or simply we found a better hotel. If we do change hotels it will be to a hotel of equal or higher standard and will be at no extra cost. Where more than one hotel is shown for a given an overnight stop this means that one of those hotels will be used.

Kars Beylerbeyi Palace

Address : Kaleici Mah.Karadağ 1 Sok. No:2 Merkez City : Kars Suburb : Phone : Web : https://vehotelsbeylerbeyisarayi.com.tr/

Ani Plaza

Address : City : Yerevan Suburb : Phone : Web : https://anihotel.com/

Brim Hotel

Address : City : Tbilisi Suburb : Phone : Web : https://www.brimtbilisi.com/#

Burdock Hotel

Address : Hacımimi, Kemeraltı Cd. No.33, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul City : Istanbul Suburb : Phone : +90212334 93 93 Web : https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/istao-burdock-hotel-istanbul-autograph-collection/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0

Radisson Hotel Gyumri

Address : City : Gyumri Suburb : Phone : Web : https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/destination/armenia/gyumri

Weather

Optional Tours

Please note that all optional tours are payable in cash (Euro or USD). Credit card payments are also accepted, but an additional surcharge fee will apply.

The list of optional tours provided below serves as a general reference for experiences available in each city in Turkey. However, some of these tours may already be included in your itinerary. This list is a standard compilation of optional tours and not all options may apply to your specific tour package.

We strive to keep tour prices accurate and up to date. However, please be aware that:

• Prices are subject to change without notice.
• Some tours are operated by third-party providers, and as such, we cannot guarantee fixed rates.
• The prices listed are meant only as a guideline and should not be considered final.

Your tour guide will provide the most current pricing information during your trip. Also, please note that tipping is not included in the listed prices.

Istanbul

Half Day Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul - EUR 95

Take an aftenoon cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia. The cruise lasts 1 hour, allow 30 mins for transport to and from the port.

Bosphorus by Night Istanbul - EUR 89

At 8pm we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the boat to sail up the Bosphorus. The waterway lies between Europe and Asia and passes under the suspension bridges whilst viewing Ottoman summer palaces, waterside mansions and modern villas linng the European and Asian coasts. The panoramic view of Istanbul from the Bosphorus at night and dinner will both be memorable.

Istanbul Two Continents Tour Istanbul - EUR 195

One of the most beautiful sights in the world, the Bosphorus, is the strait separating two continents - Europe and Asia. Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise, Rumeli Fortress, Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus Bridge and Camlica Hill

Istanbul Street Food - EUR 229

Istanbul Street Food is a full-day culinary adventure across both sides of the city. Start in Eminönü and the Spice Market, continue to Karaköy for iconic Turkish sweets, then enjoy a scenic Bosphorus ferry ride to Kadıköy. Taste local favorites like simit, midye dolma, kokoreç, and lahmacun, and finish with Turkish tea by the sea in Moda.

Turkish Bath Istanbul - EUR 119

A traditional Turkish bath will usually consist of relaxing in a sauna for a while, then moving to another room where you will lie on a marble slab. The masseur will come and scrape all the dead layers of skin off your body with a exfoliating glove before you are smothered in suds and washed clean. A bath approximately takes around 1 hour.

Bosphorus by public ferry Istanbul - EUR 4

Cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia. The ferry departs every few hours zig-zags back and forth from continent to continent. Enjoy spectacular views from the very end of the Black Sea and Istanbul. The journey takes the majority of a day and easy to arrange on your own by heading down to the ferry port.

Prince's Islands by public ferry Istanbul - EUR 5

A nice option if you wish to escape from the bustling city for a day. The Islands are situated just off Istanbul in the Marmara Sea. The best island to visit is Buyuk Ada (Big Island). There are no vehicles allowed on the Island, only horse and buggy and bicycles. Easy to arrange on your own by heading down to the ferry port.

Tipping

Caucasus

Tipping is not compulsory in the Caucasus, but it is appreciated for good service. In Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia, tipping has become more common in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas, especially for guides, drivers and hospitality staff.

As a general guideline, you may wish to consider the following:

Local guide: USD 5–10 per person, per day

Driver: USD 3–5 per person, per day

Hotel porters: USD 1–2 per bag

Restaurants: 5–10% of the bill if service is not already included

Small local services: A small amount in local currency is appreciated

Tips for guides and drivers are often given in US dollars or euros, while smaller tips in cafés, restaurants and hotels are best given in the local currency of the country you are visiting. Tipping is always at your discretion and should reflect the level of service received.

Turkey

Tips are common place and customary in Turkey / Türkiye, for everything from table service in a restaurant to a massage in a Turkish bath. It is more often a reward for good service and for most local people, an essential means of supplementing their income, meagre by Western Standards. Often tourists to a country don't know how much to tip or who to tip. The following amounts are a guideline and based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:

Restaurants and taxis: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.

Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your tour guide. We suggest USD 10 per person per day for local guides.

Drivers:You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however USD 5 per person per day is generally appropriate.

Gulet Boat Trips: If you are travelling through Southern Turkey / Türkiye on a Gulet Boat trip we suggest USD 10 per person per day for the boat staff.

Tour guide: As a guideline we suggest around USD 80 - 100 per person for the whole tour, but this is ultimately up to you.

Money

Caucasus

This tour visits three countries, each with its own currency:

Azerbaijan: Azerbaijani Manat / AZN

Georgia: Georgian Lari / GEL

Armenia: Armenian Dram / AMD

Foreign currency is not normally used for everyday purchases, so travellers should use the local currency in each country. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to exchange, especially in the main cities. Banknotes should be clean, undamaged and preferably recent issue, as old, torn or marked notes may not be accepted.

Money can be exchanged at banks, official exchange offices, airports and some hotels. Exchange rates may vary, so it is advisable to check the rate before changing larger amounts. Avoid exchanging money with unofficial street dealers.

ATMs are available in major cities such as Baku, Tbilisi and Yerevan, as well as in many larger towns. However, ATM access and card acceptance may be limited in rural areas, small towns and local markets. We recommend withdrawing or exchanging enough cash before travelling to more remote regions.

Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops in the capital cities and larger tourist areas, but cash is still useful for small purchases, tips, local cafés, markets and personal expenses. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards.

Turkey

The currency unit in Turkey / Türkiye is Turkish Lira (TRY). 100 Kurus = 1 Turkish Lira

Current Exchange rate TRY 1 (EUR 0.03) as at Mon, 7 Oct 2024 12:55:14 GMT

Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 Lira

Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 Kurus and 1 Lira

You should always carry some back up cash or traveller's cheques separate to the rest of your money and cards. So if you loose your wallet or handbag, you have enough back up money to at least make some phone calls and eat for a few days.

A mixture of cash and credit cards are the best forms of currency. Credit cards are also accepted in most of the restaurants, bars and pubs.

MasterCard and Visa are most welcomed; American Express cards work at some ATMs and Amex offices. Credit cards are also useful for cash advances, which allow you to withdraw Lira instantly from associated banks and ATMs throughout Turkey / Türkiye. Cash cards and ATM's are widespread in most of Turkey / Türkiye; in Istanbul, Canakkale, Selcuk, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Kas, Cappadocia, and Ankara. When travelling, plan your budget and use the ATM machines before leaving the main towns.

Always try and use ATM's that are attached to banks while the bank is open, so that if the ATM swallows your card, you can go into the bank and get the card back.

It is much cheaper to convert money to Turkish Lira in Turkey / Türkiye than at home. Using an ATM or a credit card will often get you the best possible exchange rates; the post and telephone office (PTT) and banks offer very reasonable rates too. In the past, because of Turkey / Türkiye's high inflation rate, it was best to convert money on a daily basis. However, the currency has remained steady against all major currencies in recent years.

It is difficult for us to specify the money that you will spend per day, however, as a general rule EUR 20 to EUR 40 per day, can provide you with additional meals and optional entrances. Should you wish to purchase souvenirs or other gifts, of which there is a diverse range, you will have to budget for these.

Exchange rates used throughout this document are correct as at Mon, 7 Oct 2024 12:55:14 GMT

Travel Insurance

Caucasus

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers joining this tour. Your insurance should cover all countries visited on the itinerary: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Your policy should include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, lost or delayed luggage, personal liability and any activities included in your itinerary. Medical facilities are generally better in capital cities, but standards may vary outside major urban areas. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation may be required, which can be costly without adequate insurance.

Before departure, please check that your travel insurance includes:

Emergency medical treatment abroad

Medical evacuation and repatriation

Cancellation and curtailment cover

Lost, stolen or delayed baggage

Personal belongings and travel documents

24-hour emergency assistance

Coverage for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Please carry your insurance policy number and emergency contact details with you during the trip. It is also advisable to keep a digital copy of your policy, passport and important travel documents in your email or cloud storage.

Turkey

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). 

General Info

Caucasus

The Caucasus is a fascinating region where Europe and Asia meet, offering a rich mix of history, culture, mountain scenery, traditional cuisine and warm hospitality. This journey introduces three distinct countries: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Azerbaijan is known for its contrast of ancient and modern, from the historic Old City of Baku to the contemporary architecture of the capital and the fire-linked landscapes of the Absheron Peninsula. Georgia offers a blend of mountain scenery, wine traditions, Orthodox churches, charming old towns and lively local culture. Armenia is one of the world’s oldest Christian countries, with dramatic monasteries, deep cultural heritage, mountain views and a strong tradition of hospitality.

The main languages are Azerbaijani in Azerbaijan, Georgian in Georgia and Armenian in Armenia. Russian is also widely understood in many areas, especially among older generations. English is increasingly spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist sites, but may be limited in rural areas.

The region is culturally diverse and generally welcoming to visitors. Travellers should dress respectfully, especially when visiting churches, monasteries, mosques and other religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering religious buildings, and women may be asked to cover their hair in some churches or monasteries.

The climate varies depending on the season and altitude. Summers can be hot in the cities, while mountain areas may be cooler. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant for sightseeing, but weather can change quickly in mountain regions. We recommend packing layers, comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, sun protection and a reusable water bottle.

Tap water quality varies by location. Bottled or filtered water is recommended if you are unsure, especially outside major cities. When eating out, choose food that is freshly prepared and served hot.

Photography is usually allowed at tourist sites, but restrictions may apply in border areas, military zones, airports, museums and some religious buildings. Always ask before photographing people, particularly in rural areas, markets and places of worship.

Please note that border and regional conditions in the Caucasus can change. Travellers should follow the advice of their guide and avoid restricted or sensitive border areas. The land border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is not used for tourist travel on this itinerary; travel between the countries is arranged via Georgia.

Normal travel precautions should be taken throughout the tour. Keep valuables secure, avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public, use hotel safes where available and keep a copy of your passport and travel documents separate from the originals.

Turkey

Turkey / Türkiye has so much to offer the traveller with its breathtaking natural beauty, unique historical sites and the famous Turkish hospitality. Walk across the soil that holds intact remains from the Hittites to the Ottomans and more classical Hellenistic sites than Greece! Nearly every major empire has conquered, occupied and left their trace on these lands.

Turkey / Türkiye is a country with a double identity, poised delicately between East and West. The only NATO member in the Middle East region, the country has recently been accepted as a candidate for membership of the EU. Yet although in many respects Western Turkey / Türkiye retains its frustrating differences, and its fascinating contradictions: mosques co-exist with churches, and remnants of the Greco-Roman Empire, ancient Hittite and Neolithic sites, crumble alongside modern culture.

Politically, modern Turkey / Türkiye was a bold experiment, founded on the remaining Anatolian kernel of the Ottoman Empire and almost entirely the creation of a single man, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. An explicitly secular republic, though one in which almost all of the inhabitants are at least nominally Muslim. It's a vast country and incorporates large disparities in levels of development. At the same time, it's an immensely rewarding place to travel, not least because of the people, whose reputation for friendliness and hospitality is richly deserved.

Turkey / Türkiye is spread upon 3% of the European continent and 97% in Asia. It is bordered by Europe and the Aegean Sea to the West, the Caucasus Mountains to the East, the Black Sea in the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. With 7000 kms of coastline, snow capped mountains and volcanoes, natural wonders, immense rivers, pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and rich agricultural valleys, welcome to Turkey / Türkiye.

Largest city: Istanbul 13 million; capital city: Ankara 5 million.

Geographical area: 814, 578 sq kms

Population: 78,785,548 million. (July 2011 est.)

International dialling code

International dialling code: +90

Time Zone: Turkey / Türkiye is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Meant Time. During day light saving Turkey / Türkiye is 3 hours ahead of GMT, which is from the last Sunday in March to the last Saturday in October.

Electricity: All appliances need a double round pin type plug for 220 volts AC, 50-hertz.

Religion and Local Law 90% of Turkish people are Muslim, however, for many people this is more of an identity rather than a strict religion. You would never guess this statistic walking around much of Western Turkey / Türkiye, especially Istanbul, which in part is a trendy, cosmopolitan city. Turkish Law is secular and guarantees complete freedom of worship to people of all religions. It is recommended that at least one set of modest clothing is taken with you. It is a sign of respect to cover your shoulders and legs when visiting mosques and also attracts less unwanted attention. You cannot visit a mosque during prayer time unless you are praying. If you have any questions concerning appropriate (and legal) behaviour please ask your tour guide or leader. If accused of and detained for illegal behaviour, the Turkish authorities are obliged to inform your embassy or consular representative immediately, you can also insist on communicating with them directly. Turkish authorities command a high level of respect so be polite at all times. Turkish law requires everyone (Turks and non-Turks) to carry Id at all times. Always remember that in Turkey / Türkiye you are bound by Turkish law.