Singles Travel Company -

Come join us on this great combination land and cruise vacation to both classical and modern Greece, as well as to ancient Kusadasi and Istanbul, Turkey! On this tour/cruise you’ll get the best blend of sightseeing, adventure, free time, fun stuff, culture, and socializing all in an affordable package. This trip sold out last year!

We start with 2 nights in Istanbul, plenty of time for some included sightseeing and exploring! See the famous Blue Mosque, Hipprodrome Square, the Topkapi Palace, and St. Sophia Museum and of course the Grand Bazaar area. The shopping is fantastic and you’ll marvel at the over 4,000 shops filled with antiques, jewelry, carpets and leather!

Next, we start sailing the wonderful Greek Islands! We sail to Mykonos, known for its whitewashed buildings, then on to Patmos and the Turkish port of Kusadasi where an excursion to Ephesus should not be missed! A full day on the island of Rhodes ‘Island of Roses’, visit Greece’s largest island, Crete, then later we sail for the volcano island of beautiful Santorini.

We’ll offer optional excursions on 3 of the islands for our group to explore the islands together.

After our island sailing we disembark for 2 nights in Athens with a guided sightseeing tour that includes the famous Acropolis. You’ll have time for any last minute exploring or shopping (in the Plaka!) and our farewell dinner with Greek entertainment before we have to end our fabulous vacation of the Greek Islands and Istanbul, Turkey, from the best way possible-on land and cruising!

We’ll tour ancient city ruins, picturesque villages, charming countrysides, and cruise the Greek Islands!

Plenty of time to explore with two nights each in Istanbul and Athens and enjoy the wonderful and beautiful islands of Mykonos and Santorini as well as many others!

***2 Age groups: There will be two age groupings on this trip. Please advise when you sign up for this trip which age group you are in. (Ages mid 40’s, 50’s and up) (Ages mid 20’s-mid 40’s).

Price Includes all of the Following!

9 Nights accommodations in hotels/ moderate class cruise ship with private facilities
2 nights in Istanbul Hotel
2 nights Athens Hotel
Six Days cruising on board Louis Hellenic Cruise ship ‘Cristal’
5 Night Cruising in an inside cabin visiting (outside upgrade possible)

Day 1, Thur, Sept 11 Depart USA
Depart your hometown and fly overnight to Istanbul, Turkey to start your adventure!

Welcome to Istanbul! Those with transfers will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. Depending on your flights’ arrival time you’ll have time to start exploring and tonight you can meet your fellow travel companions at our welcome get together.

Hotel Novotel (or similar) 2 nights. The Novotel Istanbul, a 4 star hotel between the city centre and the airport, is ideal for your holiday in Istanbul. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, gym and outdoor swimming pool. Shuttle buses to Taksim Square, and easy access to the new business district, the historic city centre (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar) and shopping areas.

Today includes a morning guided sightseeing tour of Istanbul including the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square (Sultan Ahmet Square) and St. Sophia.

Istanbul is Turkey's most populous city, and its cultural and economic center. It is located on the Bosphorus strait, and encompasses the natural harbor known as the Golden Horn in the northwest of the country. Istanbul extends both on the European and on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, and is thereby the only metropolis in the world which is situated on two continents. Istanbul is also the only city in the world which served as the capital to three different Empires: The Roman Empire (330-395), Byzantine Empire (395-1453) and the Ottoman Empire (1453-1923).

Today we visit many different sights around Istanbul, one being the Blue Mosque, which is one of the most magnificent shrines in the Muslim world, taking its name from the exquisite blue tiles that cover its interior walls. Also see St. Sophia (also known as Aya Sophia), the Church of the Divine Wisdom. It is the fourth largest cathedral in the world. The basilica served as a Patriarchal church during the Byzantine era and is best known for its vast interior, high dome and fabulous mosaics, many dating from the 10^th century.

This afternoon you are free for leisure time to continue exploring this fascinating city. Overnight at our hotel. (B)

(Please note: our two morning sightseeing tours in Istanbul (Saturday and Sunday) may change with what we see on each day).

After breakfast, another morning sightseeing tour is included to further explore the city and will include Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar (if not seen on Saturday).

Topaki Palace, a city within a city, once served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans, some of the most powerful rulers in the world. Topaki Palace consists of interconnecting courts and groups of buildings including the Harem and the Imperial Mint, a collection of treasures like no other as well as magnificent views of the Golden Horn.

Then last, but far from least, we visit the Grand Bazaar, streets of various shops sheltered by roofs and domes. Though not very regularly shaped, it holds an area of about 31 thousand square meters. It has hundreds of domes covered with lead and windows. There are over 4,000 shops filled with antiques, jewelry, carpets, and leather.

This afternoon we board our ship and depart this evening for our cruise through the Greek Islands! (B,D)

(Please note: our two morning sightseeing tours in Istanbul (Saturday and Sunday) may change with what we see on each day).

After a morning of cruising, we have an afternoon arrival at the island of Mykonos, our first port of call. Mykonos is known for its whitewashed buildings, sidewalk cafes and shops.

Mykonos lies almost in the center of the Cyclades islands (cyclades means the circle islands, because they form a circle around Delos). Some of the closest islands are Delos, Tinos, Andros, Naxos and Ikaria. It is a cosmopolitan island, famous in the last decades because of the international jet set visitors that spent their holidays here. Totally whitewashed cube-like buildings fit closely together to form a kind of maze of narrow alleyways and streets. The earthen colors of the bare hills which surround the town's gleaming whiteness is set between the an incredibly blue sky and even deeper blue sparkling sea. It has many well preserved windmills and hundreds of tiny red-roofed churches. The locals are friendly and open people and have a healthy understanding of what it means to have a good time. Mykonos beaches are magnificent, the nightlife surprising and Delos -birthplace of Artemis & Apollo- is only a couple of miles away (this is probably the reason that brought tourism on the island in the first place). (B,L,D)

This morning we arrive in Patmos where St. John the Divine received The Revelation as found in the Last Book of the New Testament. We offer our group an optional group excursion to the Monastery and Grotto.

Continue on in the afternoon to the Turkish port of Kusadasi. Stroll the market shops in Kusadasi and perhaps negotiate a great deal on a Turkish hand stitched rug.

Or we offer our group an optional excursion to ancient Ephesus. Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean, and perhaps the best place in the world to get the feeling for what life was like in Roman times. As a strategic coastal gateway to the Eastern World, this Ionian refuge grew to be the second largest city in the Roman Empire, the site of a Christian shrine, and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary, accompanied by St. Paul, came to Ephesus at the end of her life, circa 37-45 AD. Renaissance church historians mentioned the trip, and it is said that local Christians venerated a small house near Ephesus as Mary's. In 1967 Pope Paul VI visited the site, where a chapel now stands, and confirmed the authenticity of the legend. Also the Basilica of St. John is located near Ephesus. St. John is said to have lived the last years of his life here and after his death, a shrine was located over his grave. (B,L,D)

Optionals for our Group-must sign up and pay with final payment. See tour descriptions at end of itinerary.

$89.00 KUSADASI – Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary 3.5 hrs

Morning arrival in Rhodes, the ‘Island of Roses’, for a full day of sightseeing. It is famous for its Medieval Old Town and site of the Colossus of Rhodes.

Rhodes is the biggest of the Dodecanese islands. Named the sun island or island of light there are hardly any days when the sun doesn't shine. With its subtropical climate and over 3.000 hours of sun per year you can be guaranteed a good tan on your holiday. Rhodes is one of the most popular holiday islands in Greece - even Greeks themselves come to Rhodes for a holiday from the mainland.
Rhodes offers all year- round leisure tourist activities with an excellent tourist infrastructure and it has a lot to offer with its’ natural beauty, many monuments from its’ long and often turbulent history, and the warm hospitality of its’ people. Optional excursions are offered to the City of Rhodes to explore the picturesque Old Town and the rocky Acropolis of Lindos to visit the Temple of Athena. We have a late departure sailing into the evening on our way to Crete. (B,L,D)

Today our cruise includes two memorable ports of call, Agios Nikolaos, Crete and Santorini.

We arrive first in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece’s largest island. Agios Nikolaos is noted for its sandy beaches and beautiful bays. It has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with an incredibly charming and picturesque port, and is a well known tourist area with many restaurants, shops, exciting and lively nightlife, and plenty of cultural events. The landmark for the city is a small lake that is located in the center of the city (said to be bottomless, but is really about 60 meters deep) and it has been connected to the sea and is crossed by a small bridge.

We leave mid-day for our arrival into the most impressive volcanic island of Santorini. Wit its sheer cliffs topped with gleaming white houses, Santorini is a truly unique and romantic island. Its town is perched high above the cliffs. Intriguing history, awesome volcanic landscape, cosmopolitan atmosphere, breathtaking sunsets, deep blue sea, and the volcano are just some of the reasons that make Santorini the most popular holiday destination in Greece!! Santorini has a metaphysical energy that becomes you as you sail into the Caldera rim and gaze up the steep cliffs. Fira, Oia, Imerovigli are just some of the villages that are built into the cliffs with magnificent view of the Aegean Sea, the volcano and the nearby islands. (B,L,D)

Optional for our Group-must sign up and pay with final payment. See tour description at end of itinerary.

$78.00 SANTORINI – Fira Town and Oia Village 3.5 hrs (Highly recommended as you have limited time in Santorini)

Our cruise ends at the port of Piraeus outside of Athens early this morning. After disembarking, we enjoy a half day city tour of Athens including the Acropolis and then check into our hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure! Shop, explore!

Athens is the capital, the largest city (3.7 million people), and the center of economic, financial, industrial, cultural and political life in Greece and is named after goddess Athena. It is becoming a business center in the European Union and is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization. The classical era heritage is portrayed through a number of ancient monuments and artworks, the most famous being the Parthenon on the Acropolis. Athens was the host city of the first modern-day Olympic Games and recently held the 2004 Summer Olympics. (B)

Hotel Titania (or similar) is located in the middle of the historical and commercial center of Athens, between two of the city’s major squares, Syntagma (Constitution) Square and Omonia Square. From hotel Titania you can walk to many of the sights in Athens - like Acropolis and Plaka. The hotel has 400 completely renovated rooms, fully air- conditioned, brand new bathrooms with telephones, hairdryers, and private safety deposit boxes. The Olive Garden Restaurant, a Mediterranean Cuisine restaurant, at the Titania Hotel roof garden offers you a unique getaway without ever leaving the center of Athens.

A full free day in Athens and still lots to do and see! Perhaps an optional tour or relax at the hotel.

The Plaka, known for its cobblestoned streets and picturesquely ancient buildings, is the most atmospheric part of Athens and is preserved as the oldest continuously inhabited area of the city. The Plaka is full of cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. You’ll find many shops selling souvenirs: miniatures and copies of well known works of ancient Greek art, jewelery of traditional Greek design, Komboloya (worry beads) and stamped T-shirts. Wander around further to get away from the souvenir shops and tourist cafes. Its pedestrian streets wind steeply up the hill towards the Acropolis, lined with lovely neoclassical houses, flower-filled balconies, café terraces, Roman ruins and stunning views of the Parthenon.

Maybe visit Syntagma Square, the political and urban heart of Athens, in the city centre and known as a gathering place for the locals. The attractive Parliament building is on one side of the square and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is at the base of the Parliament Building, eternally guarded by two Greek soldiers in traditional Greek uniforms. The Changing of the Guards is one of the most popular public ceremonies in Athens. It is at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and is performed by Greek soldiers in their traditional uniform and shoes with toes tipped by a red or black ball.

Or maybe ‘hike’ to Lycabettus Hill. Rising 300 metres high, this picturesque hill offers a lovely view over the entire city. It is a favorite spot for Athenians and visitors to take a stroll.

Tonight is our farewell dinner with wine and entertainment in the Plaka! Maybe a little Greek dancing to say good-by to our wonderful Greek and Istanbul adventure! (B,D)

Morning checkout and transfer to the Athens airport for our homebound flights. (B)-depending on departure time)

There are a wide variety of on board facilities and activities; from a fitness center to a beauty salon to a full service health spa. Enjoy the pool, relax at one of the roomy sun decks, read your favorite book, play a game of cards in the Library, take dancing lessons or shop in their on-board duty free shops. There are enriching shore excursions. From breakfast to the midnight buffet, the chefs and well trained dining staff will prepare and serve specialties prepared from scratch and the wine stewards will assist you in selecting some of the finest wines from a diverse local or international list. At night, enjoy shows, try your luck at the casino, dance at our disco till early morning hours or enjoy a romantic stroll on deck under the star-studded sky while sailing towards your next destination.

** Passenger decks 10, Electric Current 220V, Passengers Capacity 1.250, Total Cabins 480, Crew Members 400. All staterooms are equipped with shower, WC, air conditioner, telephone, hair dryers and TV. Enjoy onboard the Caruso Restaurant, La Scala Buffet, Rigoletto & Robert’s Coffee, Metropolitan Show Room, Cinema, Stardust Disco, Club Opera, Riviera & Pool Bar, Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi, Duty Free Shop, Casino, Hospital, Fitness Center, Business Center, Beauty Salon/massage room, Sauna.

**Please note: the cruise line reserves the right to change the ships (within their fleet) that the group will be sailing on even up to the last few weeks before the sailing date. This has happened in the past with group sailings (not just our group), but is happening less and less. We assume no responsibility regarding this as it is out of our control. These Greek ships are basic cruise ships offering a fun Greek Island Hopping experience with emphasis on the islands but are not considered deluxe ships.

$72.00 PATMOS - St. John's Monastery and Grotto Approximately 2 hrs
Depart from the port of Scala and enjoy a short drive to the village of Chora, where the monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the monastery marvel at this magnificent structure, which was built 900 years ago. View the courtyard, the monks’ dining room, the old bakery, and the main church noted for its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, visit the small museum where priceless treasures, books, manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles, vestments and jewelery are housed.

Return to your motorcoach and continue to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of the Apocalypse above it. Walk down the steps to the Grotto of the Apocalypse, where you’ll see the niches in the wall that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of the Revelation and the crack in the rock made by the voice of God honoring the Holy Trinity. Afterwards, drive back to the port of Scala and enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque town.
REMARKS: Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.

$89.00 KUSADASI – Ephessos and The House of Virgin Mary Approximately 3.5 hrs

Drive through the colorful town of Kusadasi to reach Mt. Koressos. Situated in a small valley, the humble chapel lies on the site of the little house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days. Despite the many controversies, the Christian World still favors this belief and the site has been officially sanctioned by the Vatican for pilgrimage.

Continue on to Ancient Ephesus accompanied by your guide and walk through the Magnesian Gate which is the entrance to the ancient city of Ephesus. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. See the Odeon (concert hall), the Fountain of Trajan, the steam-heated Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Latrians, the Library of Celsus and The Great Theatre, the largest one in antiquity with a capacity of 24.000 seats where St. Paul preached. Walk back to the coach along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. While driving back to Kusadasi and just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th century A.D. by Emperor Justinian. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi or get a cultural taste of Turkey by enjoying an exhibition of oriental carpets and jewelry.
REMARKS: Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.

Your drive gives you the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighboring islands. A unique sight is the various layers of lava that can be seen on the face of the rock, each layer being another phase of the activity of the volcano. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture.

Accompanied by your guide, explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets and the white washed houses with blue shutters where one gets the impression that they are a beautiful travel poster. Then proceed to the town of Thira, an attractive town perched on the Caldera rim, where you’ll have time to stroll along the lanes of the little town or relax over a coffee as you gaze down upon Kamenes, the two black volcanic islets in the Caldera bay.

Your payment for a reservation on this trip constitutes consent and acknowledgement of all the provisions in the above pricing, in this Fine Print listed below and in the Singles Travel Company General Terms and Conditions. Please make sure you read these important pieces of information and call us with any questions. Per our tour operator-hotels and cruise ship are subject to change.

Deposit of $200.00, check preferred (payable to Travel Advisors of Los Gatos) or credit card is due with your reservation. Final payment is due 80 days prior to departure date. Check preferred or by credit card.

Cancellation Fees and Refunds All cancellations must be in writing. You’ll receive a full refund of your deposit minus a $50 administrative fee if you cancel 91 days or more from the departure date of the trip. No refunds within 90 days of departure date or on unused portions of the tour. Cancellation fees also apply to additional accommodations reserved prior to and after the tour booked with the tour operator of the trip. After airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy/ and or the tour operator if purchased through the tour operator. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

A Division of Travel Advisors of Los Gatos
56 North Santa Cruz Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030

Toll Free: 888.286.8687
Local: (408) 354-6531
FAX: (408) 354-3871
Email: cruisestoursinfo@aol.com
CST# 1002864-10

$89.00 KUSADASI – Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary 3.5 hrs

$89.00 KUSADASI – Ephessos and The House of Virgin Mary Approximately 3.5 hrs

Travel Insurance is highly recommended. Please request more information at time of reservation.

Visa for Turkey-Can be bought on arrival at the airport in Istanbul. Price is approximately $45, payable on arrival. More information will be available later. You may also purchase it beforehand if you want, but it is not necessary.

$89.00 KUSADASI – Ephessos and The House of Virgin Mary 3.5 hrs