Question 1

Which side of Istanbul do we stay on?

Accepted Answer

At Standard tier we recommend Beyoğlu (European side, Pera district) - central, lively, and close to galleries and excellent restaurants. The historic Sultanahmet sights are a short tram ride away.

Question 2

Is the Bosphorus cruise included?

Accepted Answer

A group Bosphorus cruise is included in the Istanbul day programme at all tiers. The cruise passes Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions and the twin fortresses of Rumelihisarı and Anadoluhisarı.

Question 3

How far is Troy from Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Troy is approximately 350 km south-west of Istanbul - about a 4-hour drive or a short flight to Çanakkale. The itinerary routes you via the Gallipoli peninsula and the Dardanelles crossing, both highlights in themselves.

Question 4

Is Gallipoli appropriate for all travellers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Gallipoli battlefields are a deeply moving historical site visited by people from all countries, not only Australians and New Zealanders. Our guide contextualises the 1915 campaign for international groups.

Question 5

Why is Bursa called the "Green City"?

Accepted Answer

Bursa sits at the foot of the wooded Mount Uludağ and is famous for its lush parks, tiled Ottoman mosques and the rich green colour of its famous Yeşil Cami (Green Mosque). It was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and feels very different from Istanbul.

Question 6

Can I walk on the Pamukkale travertines barefoot?

Accepted Answer

Shoes must be removed before walking the white terraces - all visitors go barefoot to protect the calcium formations. The surface is smooth and warm in the sun. Water covers the terraces at the main sections.

Question 7

Can I swim in the Cleopatra Pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes - soaking in the Cleopatra Antique Pool is included. The pool sits over submerged Roman marble columns and stays at around 36°C year-round. It is one of the most unusual swimming experiences in the world.

Question 8

Is Ephesus walking-heavy?

Accepted Answer

Ephesus requires 2-4 km of walking on uneven marble and stone. Comfortable closed shoes are essential; sun protection is important in summer. The site is largely outdoor and very exposed to heat in July and August.

Question 9

Is the House of the Virgin Mary included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana) is included in all Ephesus-based itineraries. It sits on a hill above Ephesus and is a place of pilgrimage for both Christians and Muslims.

Question 10

Do Bangladeshi nationals need a visa to enter Türkiye?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bangladeshi passport holders require an e-Visa before travelling to Türkiye. We handle the full e-Visa application for you as part of your booking - just send us your passport details and we take care of the rest. Processing normally takes 24-48 hours.

Question 11

Are international flights included in the price?

Accepted Answer

No. Package prices cover everything inside Türkiye - hotels, transfers, guided tours, entry fees, and any domestic flights listed in the itinerary. International flights from Bangladesh (typically via Istanbul or Doha) are arranged separately. We can recommend routes and timing once you book.

Question 12

How do I book? Is online payment available?

Accepted Answer

All bookings go through WhatsApp - message us with your preferred package, dates, and group size and we will confirm availability and send a quote. Payment is arranged directly with the team; card and bKash options are available on request.

Question 13

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations made 30 or more days before departure receive a full refund. Cancellations 15-29 days before departure incur a 25% fee. Within 14 days, 50% is retained. No-shows or cancellations on the day of travel are non-refundable. All policies are confirmed in your booking confirmation.

Question 14

Can the package dates and itinerary be customised?

Accepted Answer

The ready-made packages run as described. If you want different dates, a longer stay in one city, or a fully bespoke route, use our Build Your Own trip planner or message us directly - our local team designs custom itineraries for groups of any size.

Question 15

Is Türkiye safe for travellers from Bangladesh?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Türkiye is one of the world's most-visited countries and extremely welcoming to South Asian travellers. Our local team is on the ground throughout your trip and available on WhatsApp 24/7 if anything comes up.

Question 16

What is the best time of year to visit Türkiye?

Accepted Answer

April-June and September-October are the sweet spots - warm weather, lower crowds, and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. July-August is peak summer (hot and busy, especially on the coast). December-March is quieter and cheaper; Cappadocia is magical in snow but balloon flights may be weather-dependent.

Question 17

Are the guides English-speaking?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All our touring guides are licensed, local, and fluent in English. For Bangladeshi groups we can also arrange Bengali-speaking guides at the major sites with advance notice - ask us when booking.

Grand Western Tour