Turkey highlights vacation, in comfort

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION This 12-day journey across Turkey is designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions through several strategies. The itinerary excludes all internal flights, relying instead on shared local ground transportation in a non-smoking coach or minivan, which helps lower per-person CO2 emissions versus private vehicles or multiple domestic flights. The trip features an extensive use of human-powered exploration: walking tours are integrated in Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and several other locations, granting at least five days out of the itinerary to cultural discoveries by foot. Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available daily, supporting lower-carbon dining choices, and breakfasts regularly feature local-sourced produce such as cheeses, olives, breads, and fresh fruits. Several accommodations, especially cave hotels in Cappadocia, operate with a reduced energy footprint due to their natural insulation, and some hotels utilize renewable energy or energy-saving systems, such as efficient lighting and heating. Guests are provided with guidance to minimize unnecessary waste, conserve power, and travel responsibly, with suggestions for offsetting flight emissions through the use of sustainable aviation fuel when booking international tickets. ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE Many accommodations along the route have established solid policies for reducing their environmental impact, including efforts to limit plastic use, advanced water management techniques, and supporting recycling initiatives. Notably, some properties in Cappadocia and Pamukkale focus on sustainable construction, integrating traditional building materials that reduce embodied carbon while harmonizing with the landscape. The tour includes entry to several protected natural and historical sites, such as Göreme Open Air Museum, Hierapolis, and Ephesus, where entrance fees directly support ongoing conservation and archaeological preservation efforts. The visit to Rose Valley, Pigeon Valley, and other biodiverse regions provides passive support for their protection and involves expert local guides who educate travelers on Leave No Trace principles and local ecological challenges, such as the conservation of endemic species threatened by habitat loss. The itinerary encourages travelers to minimize their impact by staying on marked trails and utilizing refillable water bottles. We partner with local NGOs that support conservation and heritage-focused initiatives in Turkey, with a portion of proceeds from some visits directed to nature recovery projects.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

This tour is focused on generating tangible benefits for Turkey’s local economy. The majority of accommodations featured—such as boutique hotels in Istanbul, cave hotels in Cappadocia, and locally-run guesthouses in smaller towns—are locally owned, ensuring that profit remains within the community rather than going to international chains. Local guides are employed throughout, offering authentic storytelling, historical insights, and personal connections that enrich the cultural experience. The tour includes interactive visits to traditional craft cooperatives, such as pottery workshops in Avanos and a carpet weaving center, where travelers can observe artisans at work and purchase directly, providing artisans with a reliable revenue stream. Stops in villages such as Sirince and Ortahisar encourage the support of family-run shops and cafes, directly benefitting rural economies.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Over 90 percent of all staff involved in this trip, from guides to accommodation and transport providers, are Turkish, with a significant proportion coming from the very regions you visit, fostering authentic engagement and supporting community livelihoods. We, and our in-destination partners, are committed to inclusivity: women, individuals from minority backgrounds, and those with disabilities are encouraged to participate as staff, guides, or service providers. Several hotels on the itinerary are accessible or can be adapted for travelers with limited mobility, with advance notice. The company upholds a clear diversity and equal employment strategy, fostering equal opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation, and the trip is LGBTQ+ friendly. All staff receive fair wages (at or above local minimums), and there's ongoing investment in guide training, including responsible tourism and cultural sensitivity. Through responsible travel practices and the support of local suppliers, we aim to foster a travel experience that uplifts and empowers the communities you visit.