This past month, two of our Gifted Travel Network advisors were invited to attend a customized Familiarization (FAM) trip to Turkey hosted by Northstar Travel Group and Turkish Airlines. Their itinerary highlighted experiences and 5-star properties in Istanbul and Cappadocia while also allowing the advisors to enjoy the Business Class experience aboard Turkish Airlines.
After returning home from this FAM trip, Justin Murphy, VIP Travel Experience, and Kim Esté Campbell, Besté Travel Design, shared details about their experience in Turkey.
Justin Murphy, VIP Travel Experience
My first impression of Türkiye is that it is a captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The warmth of the people and the variety of experiences available make it a truly remarkable destination for all. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia and the nature lover's paradise of the Black Sea, Türkiye offers a unique tapestry of everything our clients could ever dream of.
I am excited to tell my clients about the incredible range of experiences Türkiye has to offer. From exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul to witnessing the otherworldly beauty of Cappadocia, there is something for everyone. I will emphasize the warm hospitality of the locals, the delectable cuisine, and the myriad of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Türkiye is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both exploration and enrichment.
I would also like to highlight the commitment of local travel partners and hoteliers to providing exceptional service and unique experiences. The insights gained from meeting over 80 esteemed professionals in the industry reinforced my confidence in Türkiye as a top-tier travel destination. The passion for showcasing their homeland is palpable and inspires me to share this extraordinary country with my clients wholeheartedly.
Türkiye's luxury offerings have impressed me tenfold!
Kim Esté Campbell, Besté Travel Design
Before the trip, I had only traveled to Türkiye once for a few short hours in port while on a cruise. Even then, I could see what a fascinating country it was, but my recent trip allowed me to explore and get to know this magical country.
We all traveled in business class thanks to Turkish Airlines. One should definitely believe the hype about Turkish Airlines' business class. There are chefs on board who step out to explain the menu and take your order for both dinner and breakfast. The amenity kit is by Ferragamo, and the entertainment console has a little bit of everything.
Our first stop was the incredible city of Istanbul, where East meets West. Istanbul is truly an amazing place. We explored the Grand Bazaar, visited the Hagia Sophia, and strolled through the busy streets of Taksim. A boat ride on the Bosphorus allowed us to be in both Europe and Asia simultaneously.
After five days in Istanbul, we traveled by Turkish Air to the Cappadocia region. This area is known as the "land of fairy tales," and it's easy to see why as soon as you disembark the airplane. It's famous for its unique geographical features, especially the fairy chimneys. These were formed by the effects of wind, rain, and ice on volcanic ash and lava over millions of years.
In Cappadocia, I took part in two quintessential Turkish experiences. The first was a sunrise balloon ride over the unique landscape of the region. The second was a hammam—a typical Turkish bath.
Another highlight of our visit to Cappadocia was the opportunity to meet with over 80 travel industry professionals from the area. We were so flattered that this many people made the effort to meet us. I am thrilled with the connections I made through these back-to-back "speed-dating" type encounters.
There is no doubt in my mind that I will soon be using some of my new contacts as I book my first clients to Türkiye. It is an amazing experience that I believe everyone should have. I look forward to sharing it with others and returning myself.
