53 nights. Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Cyprus, Turcaí, Greece

Day 1

hong kong, china

Departure: 18:00

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Day 3-4

hanoi (halong bay),vietnam

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 15:00

Hạ Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a popular travel destination, in Quảng Ninh Province, Vietnam. Hạ Long Bay is at the heart of a larger area which includes Bái Tử Long bay to the northeast, and Cát Bà islands to the southwest. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - Ban Sen, a heavily forested, nearly uninhabited island accessible by ferries to Quan Lan from Cai Rong. - Cat Ba, the home of the endangered cat: Ba langur, a national park, numerous caves and the most popular destination in Ha Long Bay for tourists. - Quan Lạn, a historically significant remote island with the beginnings of some tourism infrastructure and some stunning beaches. - Van Don, a large island that is well populated, rarely visited by tourists and connected by road to the mainland near Cửa Ông. - Dau Be Island. This is a very popular swimming and diving spot due to its rich coral and deep grottoes with three inland lakes. - Bo Hon Island. The Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) is one of the most famous caves in Halong Bay. It is probably best known for its shrine. There are two chambers in the cave with a square-shaped outer chamber and a ceiling about 30 metres high. The inner chamber formations look like sentries conversing with one another and another formation, resembling a general surveying his troops, lies in the middle of the chamber. The moving light reflected from the water outside seems to bring these formations to life.

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Day 5-6

hue/danang(chan may),vietnam

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 13:00

Da Nang is one of the major port cities in Vietnam and the biggest city on the South Central Coast of Vietnam; the city is situated on the coast of the Eastern Sea, at the opening end of the Hàn River. Da Nang is the commercial and educational centre of Central Vietnam, with a well-sheltered, easily accessible port; its location on the path of National Route 1A and the North–South Railway makes it a hub for transportation and is the third biggest economic centre in Vietnam. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Cham Museum. Founded in 1915 by the École Française d'Extrême Orient, it houses a collection of stone sculptures from the Hindu-practicing Cham civilization, which occupied much of central Vietnam in the first millennium AD through about the 14th century. • Marble Mountains. • Ba Na Hill Station. Ba Na was formerly a 1920's French resort and once boasted 200 villas, restaurants, and clubs. Its temperate climate, unspoiled forest, and spectacular views over the South China Sea and the Lao mountain range made Ba Na a popular retreat for both the French and the wealthy Vietnamese. • Cham island • Linh Ung Buddhist Temple. • Bach Ma National Park. • Dragon Bridge. Near the giant ferris wheel on the Han River, there is a bridge with a giant metal dragon built into it. At night it changes colours, and on Sunday nights around 8:30pm it blows fire and water.

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Day 7

nha trang, vietnam

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 16:00

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Day 8-9

ho chi minh city, vietnam

Arrival: 11:00 - Departure: 14:00

Ho Chi Minh City, previously known as Saigon, is the biggest city in Vietnam. It's a modern, vibrant and bustling city. It's economically active, brimming with lively markets and it's without a doubt the nation’s commercial hub. Despite being the country’s most modern city by a long shot, it maintains a unique Vietnamese character and you can still see traces of a grand Colonial past in this former gem of the east. In the heart of the city, which locals still fondly call Saigon, you'll find some of the city’s main attractions such as the Opera house, railway station, Notre Dame cathedral, Reunification Palace, the Saigon river and the Markets. To take a break from the city, you can take a tour to the Mekong Delta or to Da Lat, if you have more time. Da Lat, situated in the highlands about 300km from the city is worth the journey as there's plenty to see and do including waterfalls, gardens, the old French Quarter and the local restaurants which serve fantastic local food. The commercial and financial centre of Vietnam is an exciting and intriguing sprawling metropolis that does its best to preserve the way of life and culture of this magnificent country.

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Day 11-12

bangkok, thailand

Arrival: 13:00 - Departure: 14:00

Bangkok, one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities, is the capital of Thailand. Bangkok is hot and crowded, but it's fairly clean and offers loads of craic. Bangkok has brilliant shopping, loads of culture, stunning temples, tasty food and a decent art scene. Most of Bangkok's sights are concentrated on the island of Rattanakosin, often referred to as the Old City. The Grand Palace is the absolute must see site. The Grand Palace complex also houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Keow, the most sacred Buddhist temple. Other famous temples in Bangkok are the Wat Pho and Wat Arun temples. Bangkok is a grand spot for shopping. There are many shops, shopping centres and markets to satisfy every wish. The nightlife scene in Bangkok is as varied as the city itself, from beer bars to exclusive clubs, night shopping markets, discos to hippie parties. Bangkok is a large sprawling metropolis, noisy and crowded yet peaceful and delicate. It is one of the world’s top destinations that one has to visit at least once in life.

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Day 13

ko samui, thailand

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 15:00

Ko Samui is an island off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus, Thailand. Geographically in the Chumphon Archipelago, it is part of Surat Thani Province, though as of 2012, Ko Samui was granted Municipality status and thus is now locally self-governing. Ko Samui is Thailand's second-largest island after Phuket, with an area of 228.7 km2, a population of over 63,000 and a hotel occupancy rate of 73 percent as the number of visitors increases.[1] Abundant tourist resources, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and coconut trees are present on the island.

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Day 15

singapore

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Singapore is a city-state and the tiniest country in Southeast Asia. Singapore boasts the highest standard of living in Asia and is a spotlessly clean, efficient, regulated, modern city. The city has an intriguing blend of old and new cultures, merging the skyscrapers of the Business District with a very interesting mix of ancient cultures in some of its districts. Singapore is one of the greenest cities to such an extent that the city is known as the Garden City. One of the main attractions are the Botanic Gardens, which includes the superb Orchid garden that is beautifully landscaped and has a great variety of orchids. The Merlion is probably Singapore's most famous landmark. This Merlion structure is located at Merlion Park, which is situated in the Central Business District. There are some captivating ethnic areas such as Little India, Arab Street, Chinatown and Geylang. These areas are definitely worth a visit if you want to experience some authentic Singaporean culture. Other attractions include world class museums, stunning colourful shops, Marina bay and lush parks. In addition to the shopping, Singapore has fantastic food. Being home to various ethnic groups, Singapore has created a wonderful mix of flavours and textures in their cuisine. Singapore is one of the most vibrant and modern cities in Asia with a tropical climate, with delicious food, excellent shopping and a vibrant night-life scene it has become one top destination in its own right.

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Day 16

kuala lumpur, malaysia

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 19:00

Kuala Lumpur is situated at the meeting point of the Kelang and Gombak rivers and is the capital city of Malaysia and the commercial, economic, financial and cultural hub of the country. Kuala Lumpur is one of the emerging cities in Asia and it is undergoing rapid development and is now a bustling metropolis. Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrast, a mix of modern, cosmopolitan and old world charm. Old colonial buildings, temples, minarets and domes blend well against a backdrop of skyscrapers. The Petronas Twin Towers, one of the world’s tallest buildings, dominates its skyline yet the feeling of old world charm still lingers in the older part of the city. The lush greenery everywhere makes it a garden city and at night, its buildings and streets are brightly lit, transforming Kuala Lumpur into a city of lights. Kuala Lumpur is a multicultural city with a unique blend of customs, traditions, vibrant festivals, cultures and a vast array of delicious food. This dynamic city has much to offer for every visitor.

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Day 17

penang, malaysia

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 19:00

Penang is a state of Malaysia situated on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, by the Strait of Malacca, made up of two parts, Penang Island, where the capital city, George Town, is found, and Seberang Perai on the Malay Peninsula. Penang is one of the most developed and economically significant states in the country, as well as a bustling tourist destination. George Town is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - UNESCO World Heritage Zone & Armenian Street, an old historical area in the heart of the UNESCO Heritage Zone in downtown Georgetown. - Penang Hill. Likely has the best view of Georgetown, especially at night. - Penang Botanic Gardens. The gardens were established by Charles Curtis of Britain way back in 1884; it's generally known as the Waterfall Gardens by the local community due to a small waterfall located within it. - Pulau Jerejak Resort, This tropical island, is located directly across the channel from the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, on the south eastern coast of Penang island. The island is now open to the public as a recreational resort. - Tropical Fruit Farm. - Penang Durian Farm. Snake Temple built in 1850 in memory of the renowned Chinese monk Chor Soo Kong. The Snake Temple is situated in the small town of Bayan Lepas on the edge of a highway and is famous for the fact that it has pit vipers living within the temple grounds.

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Day 18

langkawi, malaysia

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 16:00

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thai border. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls aka Seven Wells. - Cable Car. A cable car which goes to the top of a hill with a good view of Pantai Cenang. - Gunung Raya. Spectacular views from the lookout point on the top. - Crocodile Adventureland. - Laman Padi Rice Garden. - Legend Garden. - Underwater World. - Eagle Square. - Oriental Village.

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Day 19

phuket, thailand

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 21:00

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and one of its top holiday destinations. There's a heap of things to do in Phuket, particularly if you're a fan of beaches and islands. Phuket is a brilliant spot to get out and explore. It really has everything, from white sandy beaches and clear blue waters to lush green countryside, stunning temples and breathtaking views. Throw in the shopping, nightlife and tasty seafood and you've got just about everything you could want on a holiday. Hopping from island to island is the best way to see and explore some of Phuket's gorgeous islands. You'll come across loads of massive rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites. Phi Phi and Khai Islands are the most popular islands of the archipelago. The Phi Phi View Point offers a fantastic view of the Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Dalam Bay. Patong Beach is the most visited beach and it can get a bit crowded, but it has the best nightlife in the area. For more chilled out beaches, check out the beautiful Kamala, Surin, Laem Singh, Karon and Kata Beaches. Phuket is truly a wonderful place for a relaxing trip. There's a load of fantastic resorts, great restaurants, white sandy beaches, amazing surrounding islands and lively nightlife. Everything you need for a proper holiday.

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Day 23

galle - sri lanka

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 19:00

Galle is a major city in Sri Lanka, located on the southwestern tip, 119 km from Colombo. Galle is the administrative capital of the Southern Province, Sri Lanka and is the district capital of Galle District. Galle was known as Gimhathiththa (although Ibn Batuta in the 14th century refers to it as Qali) before the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, when it was the main port on the island. Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, during the Dutch colonial period. Galle is the best example of a fortified city built by the Portuguese in South and Southeast Asia, showing the interaction between Portuguese architectural styles and native traditions. The city was extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. The Galle fort is a world heritage site and is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers.

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Day 24

colombo, sri lanka

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 19:00

Colombo, situated on the banks of the Kelani River and stretching along the coast with views out to the Indian Ocean, is the biggest city and the financial and commercial hub of Sri Lanka. Colombo is seen as the country’s capital, but the administrative capital is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, a suburb to the east of Colombo. The streets of Galle Fort have plenty to reveal about the city’s colonial past, with the Portuguese, British and Dutch all leaving their imprint here. To learn more about the Dutch-era in Colombo, pay a visit to The Dutch Period Museum. The city offers a captivating mix of cultures and religions, around the city you’ll find mosques, churches and temples. The Gangaramaya Temple is the most well-known Buddhist place of worship in Colombo. It includes a museum that houses a massive collection of Buddhist relics from around the globe. The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam Kovil Hindu temple is a vibrant and adorned temple worth a visit. The Wolvendaal Church, a church constructed by the Dutch settlers, is an impressive building and a must-see in Colombo. Colombo is often bypassed by tourists who come to the country to hit the beach, but the city is the most buzzing place in the country and offers high-end shopping, a vibrant nightlife, delicious restaurants and intriguing historical sights.

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Day 26

cochin, india

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

The city of Kochi boasts one of the most important seaports in the Paiscochin. It is also the largest city in India without a Hindu majority, due to the successive waves of migration over the millennia. These migrations have made Kochi a melting pot of races and while there is a risk of overdevelopment, the city still maintains an authenticity of its colonial legacy that will make tourists feel and admire the city's streets. In 1102 AD, Cochin became the seat of the Kingdom of Kochi and was an important centre of spice trade on the Arabian Sea coast since the 14th century. The city has experienced a period of economic growth since the year 2000, which has led to its development. This was due to advances in various economic areas such as: tourism, transport industry and ICT.

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Day 27

Mangalore, india

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

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Day 28

goa (mormugao), india

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 16:00

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Day 29

mumbai (bombay), india

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Chaotic, cosmopolitan Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the commercial and cultural heart of India and its most dynamic city. The city's vibrant blend of cultures, ethnicities, religions, and languages makes it the most cosmopolitan city in India. Bollywood, or the Indian Hollywood, is based here in Mumbai, with hundreds of films produced every year in its studios. Mumbai is a city of contrasts. Its skyline's skyscrapers, the Gothic and Art Déco architecture from its colonial past, and the Indo-Saracenic buildings reflecting the city’s more traditional side give it an eclectic vibe that makes the city quite unique. There is plenty to see in Mumbai, but the main sights are concentrated in South Mumbai. The key attractions to visit in Mumbai include the Gateway of India on the seafront, where you can take a day trip to the famous Elephanta Caves, the Prince of Wales Museum, which houses many artefacts worth seeing, the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Banganga Tank, the Walkeshwar temples, the Hanging Gardens, the Parsi Towers of Silence, Mahatma Gandhi's residence, now converted into a museum, and the Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Exotic Mumbai is a fantastic and exciting destination and India's most culturally active, lively, and happening city.

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Day 32

al fujayrah (emiratos árabes unidos)

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 16:00

Khor Fakkan (Arabic: خَوْر فَكَّان‎, romanized: Khawr Fakkān) is a city and exclave of the Emirate of Sharjah, located on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), facing the Gulf of Oman, and geographically surrounded by the Emirate of Fujairah. The city, the second largest on the east coast after Fujairah City, is set on the picturesque bay of Khor Fakkan, which means "Creek of Two Jaws". It is the site of Khor Fakkan Container Terminal, the only natural deep-sea port in the region and one of the major container ports in the UAE.

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Day 33

dubai, united arab emerates

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Downtown Dubai, previously known as Downtown Burj Dubai, is a large-scale, mixed-use complex under development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the home of some of the city's largest landmarks including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall,[2] and Dubai Fountain. Latitude: 25.195763919205618 Longitude: 55.275401061713296 (Note: The text is already in English and does not require translation. The English language is the same in Ireland with minor differences in accent and some vocabulary. The provided text does not contain any such vocabulary that would require translation.)

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Day 34

Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 19:00

Abu Dhabi is the federal capital and the hub of government in the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi is one of the most contemporary cities in the world. The architecture of its modern buildings and skyscrapers is the finest in the Middle East. Large gardens and parks, green boulevards lining all the streets and roads, sophisticated high-rise buildings, the presence of all the international luxury hotel chains, lavish shopping centres, cultural centres and events provide tourists a unique experience all year round. Abu Dhabi has a broad range of restaurants to dine in, numerous shopping opportunities, a pleasant Corniche to stroll along, some good hotels and several beach clubs. There is a Heritage Village, a fort, a good library, a fish market, the dhow building yard and many other sights for the visitor to see. One of the main attractions is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. This mosque is truly breathtaking. The structure is simply marvellous and the decoration inside one of the most sophisticated. Built on an island off the main coast of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a compact, modern, organised, and civilised city.

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Day 37

salalah, oman

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Shalala, príomhchathair réigiún Dhofar. Is cathair ildathach, fo-chuimsitheach í a bhfuil a lán dá carachtar ag brath ar na críocha ársa in Oman ar thoir na hAfraice. Ar feadh na bliana, cuireann tránna agus plandáilte bananaí, papai agus coconuts Salalah blas de Zanzibar ar fáil i gcroílár an Fhásach Arabach. Tá port mór nua ann a thug saibhreas don chathair agus anois is é ceann de na háiteanna is mó a mheallann pasáistí cuairte. I measc na n-áiteanna áitiúla tá trá Shalala, tuama Nabi Ayoub nó masjid aboos sultan a bhfuil áilleacht ailtireachta le moladh. Gan dabht, is áit iontach í le cuairt a thabhairt air agus taitneamh a bhaint as an nádúr agus gach rud eile a bhfuil ag fanacht in áit rúnda.

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Day 41

Jeddah

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Jeddah is located on the Red Sea in the west of Saudi Arabia. It's the second largest city and a major commercial hub in the country. Jeddah is the main gateway to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims are obliged to visit at least once in their lifetime. It's also a gateway to Medina, the second holiest place in Islam. The city that never sleeps won't let you sleep with all the variety it offers. To explore Jeddah, you'll need to sail its wild coasts, visit the luxurious Corniche, savour popular seafood dishes, enjoy majestic palaces, and historical and archaeological landmarks. The Khuzam Palace is a landmark that showcases the beauty of modern architecture. It was named Khuzam after all the lavender (Khuzama in Arabic) that surrounds it. The construction of the palace began in 1928 and was completed in 1932. It's the first building to be constructed using cement and iron in Jeddah. King Abdulaziz ordered its construction during his stay at the Nassif House for a period of time. Today, Khuzam Palace is one of the most important museums in Saudi Arabia. Tahaliyah Street is one of the most prestigious and vital main streets in Jeddah. It's a commercial hub of shopping centres due to the many brand name shopping centres lining its sides, as well as the finest restaurants, multiple shopping centres and lavish offices, not to mention its beauty and strategic location, divided into two sections.

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Day 43

aqaba, jordan

Arrival: 06:00 - Departure: 21:00

Aqaba is the only port city in Jordan, situated on the Gulf of Aqaba in the extreme south of the country. Aqaba is Jordan's gateway to the Red Sea. Aqaba has seen significant development in recent years, a fact that has led to improved infrastructure and facilities. Aqaba has been a populated settlement since 4000 BC due to its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes between Asia and Africa. During World War I, the Ottoman forces were forced to retreat from Aqaba after a raid, known as the Battle of Aqaba, led by TE Lawrence (known as Lawrence of Arabia) and the Arab forces of Sharif Hussein in 1917. The most important sites to see in Aqaba are: • Aqaba Fort Originally dating from the 14th century AD, although the current structure was built by the Mamluk Sultan el-Ghawri Qansawh (1501-1516) and has been revised many times since. • Ayla, (next to the Moevenpick complex). The ancient city that was established when Islam arrived in the area in 622 AD. • Roman Church of the 4th century: The oldest Christian church in history. • Aqaba Museum: This unique museum is definitely one of the main attractions of Aqaba as it displays a variety of assets, as well as life-size models of traditional life in one of the oldest cities in Jordan. It also contains a collection of rare historical images from the beginning of the last century to the present.

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Day 44-45

safaga, egypt

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 18:00

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Day 47

port said, egypt

Arrival: 06:00 - Departure: 21:00

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Day 49

limassol, cyprus

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus. After the Turkish invasion in 1974, it became the main sea port and has also developed into a significant tourist destination. Limassol Castle holds a dominant position among the landmarks and tourist attractions in the city. In Limassol, shore excursions offer a unique experience of exploring the city's various monuments and landmarks amidst the elaborate luxury of a cruise. Shore excursions bring tourists to places and attractions in and around Limassol, including Kolossi Castle, the Troodos Mountains, Omodos Village, Larnaka and Lefkara, Paphos and Nicosia.

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Day 50

antalya, turkey

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Antalya is the largest city on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, and is one of the hubs of the so-called Turkish Riviera. Boasting the most beautiful and cleanest shores of the Mediterranean, along with the long coastal line of Antalya, one encounters antique sites, old ports, monumental graves, dramatic shores, endless beaches, green forests, rivers and waterfalls. Kaleici, enclosed in ancient city walls, is Antalya’s Old Quarter. It is one of the liveliest parts in the city with shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The streets of Kaleici extend to the old harbour, which is used as an international yacht marina today. In the picturesque Old Quarter, you’ll find examples of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman eras and numerous archaeological cities and historic buildings to explore. Antalya is an attractive city with shady palm-lined boulevards, considered by many as a paradise on earth and the pearl of the Mediterranean. Not bad, huh?

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Day 51

rhodes, greece

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands in terms of land area and also the island group's historical capital. Administratively the island forms a separate municipality within the Rhodes regional unit, which is part of the South Aegean region. The principal town of the island and seat of the municipality is Rhodes. It is located northeast of Crete, southeast of Athens and just off the Anatolian coast of Turkey. Rhodes' nickname is The Island of the Knights. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Asklipio Inland from Kiotari. In the little church there are fascinating displays, honouring the continuity of the cult of healing from ancient times to a modern midwife and nurse. • Cape Prasonisi. The southern-most tip of Rhodes. There is a peninsula connected to the main island by a sand bar. • Castle with acropolis over Lindos • Castle of Kastellos. • Castle of Monolithos. • Epta Piges. • Filerimos Hill. Medieval remains, a monastery and chapel. • Kamiros. Ancient ruins. • Tsambika Peak. • Rhodes Old Town - Palace of the Prince Grand Master. - Street of Knights. - Fortifications. • Valley of the Butterflies.

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Day 52

ephesus (kusadasi), turkey

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 16:00

Kusadasi is a coastal resort town in the Aydin Province of Aegean Turkey. It's a popular tourist destination, known for its many beaches and for being Turkey's busiest cruise port, with many cruise ship passengers heading to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the major and best preserved Greco-Roman sites in Turkey. There are some good beaches both south and north of Kusadasi. All beaches are commercialised with hotels surrounding them. South of Kusadasi is the ladies beach, lost paradise beach and the long beach. Kusadasi is the gateway to Ephesus, a fascinating ancient city with baths, gyms, acoustic theatre and temples, arches and much more. The Roman Ruins at Ephesus are spectacular. In town visit the City Walls, Kaleiçi Camii, the Öküz Mehmet Pasha Caravanserai and Guvercin Adası peninsula. Kusadasi is one of Turkey's more cosmopolitan and lively resorts.

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Day 53

istanbul, turkey

Arrival: 14:00 - Departure: 00:00

Istanbul owes its historical significance and its incredible cultural and architectural heritage to its perfect strategic location, straddling the Bosphorus straits which separate Europe and Asia Minor. Throughout most of its 2,500-year-long history, the city (first known as Byzantium, then as Constantinople and since 1930 as Istanbul) was a cultural melting pot. Today, its population of over 13 million is almost exclusively Turkish, and many of its people are recent migrants from provincial Turkey, drawn by the promise of jobs and careers in this vibrant, rapidly growing city. Istanbul is no longer the nation's capital, but is Turkey's economic and cultural powerhouse - a status emphasised by its role as a European City of Culture in 2010 and the award of UNESCO World Heritage listing to many of its most important landmarks, which range from stunning Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches and catacombs to the columns of Hellenistic temples and the remains of massive medieval city walls. But there's more to Istanbul than Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. A rapidly growing economy has contributed to a thriving arts and music scene, with a wealth of new bars, clubs, private art galleries, restaurants and designer fashion outlets.

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Day 54

istanbul, turkey

Arrival: 00:00

Istanbul owes its historical significance and its incredible cultural and architectural heritage to its perfect strategic location, straddling the Bosphorus straits which separate Europe and Asia Minor. Throughout most of its 2,500-year-long history, the city (first known as Byzantium, then as Constantinople and since 1930 as Istanbul) was a cultural melting pot. Today, its population of over 13 million is almost exclusively Turkish, and many of its people are recent migrants from provincial Turkey, drawn by the promise of jobs and careers in this vibrant, rapidly growing city. Istanbul is no longer the nation's capital, but is Turkey's economic and cultural powerhouse - a status emphasised by its role as a European City of Culture in 2010 and the award of UNESCO World Heritage listing to many of its most important landmarks, which range from stunning Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches and catacombs to the columns of Hellenistic temples and the remains of massive medieval city walls. But there's more to Istanbul than Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. A rapidly growing economy has contributed to a thriving arts and music scene, with a wealth of new bars, clubs, private art galleries, restaurants and designer fashion outlets.

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