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Istanbul, Turkey Group Tour

Istanbul offers breathtaking views no matter where in the city you are.  Built on hills surrounding the Bosphorous, this continentally split city offers a bit of everything.  Istanbul is broken into many neighborhoods, though as a visitor you will spend most of your time in Sultanahmet (the Old City), Galata (home to Taksim Square and other popula areas for nightlife) and the Bosphorous area (home to behemouth mansions and palaces, as well as higher-end nightclubs).
    Expect stifling heat and humidity in the summer.  The best times to visit are fall and spring, when the temperature is more mild.  Though there are many sites, markets, and other attractions throughout Istanbul, most of the famous historic sites lay within the walls of the Old City.  Your travel group’s first stop should be the Hagia Sophia, with later stops at the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace.  There are a few Palaces that allow photography in the old city, going in early morning or late afternoon makes for some excellent pictures of Ottoman wealth and glory.
    You also should spend a day in the Turkish Baths, and go to see the Whilring Dervishes.  Smoking Hooka is another important Turkish cultural ritual, and can be enjoyed at one of the many hooka bars in the city.
    When visiting markets and Bazaars, try to use even the most basic of Turkish (hello- Merhaba, good morning- Günaydin, etc.)  An attempt at the language can knock 50% off of prices, often raised greatly for tourists.  Don’t Miss the Grand Bazaar, Kapalı Çarşı, or the Spice Market, Mısır Çarşısı.

A hint for Ataturk airport:  there are two lines, one for Visas and one to pass through immigration.  Most people walk by the poorly marked Visa line – make sure to get your visa before entering the often massive cue to enter the country.

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