Istanbul: 30 Jun 2008 to 4 Jul 2008

Spanning Europe and Asia, this exotic city of domes and minarets is a marvelous mixture of cultures, history and modern life. In the old city—the Stamboul area—traces remain of every settlement built on the Bosporus since at least 600 B.C. Roman emperors and Ottoman Sultans all left their marks in this crossroad, as did modern leader Mustapha Kemal, the revered Ataturk. Unmistakable Topkapi Palace, massive Suleymaniye Mosque, landmark St. Sophia, the Hippodrome, the fabulous Blue Mosque—where to start? Be sure to save some energy for the Grand Bazaar, a shopper’s mecca since the 15th century.

Excursions:
BYZANTINE TREASURES

ISTANBUL HIGHLIGHTS

JEWISH HERITAGE

A TASTE OF ISTANBUL

CAVES OF CAPPADOCIA