Turkey's rich culture and history, and our ANZAC connection with Gallipoli, makes it a sought after destination for travellers planning a comprehensive UK / Europe itinerary. Safety has been a concern, however the recent Safe Travel announcement is a positive step in the right direction for travellers.
Safe Travel to Turkey
The New Zealand Government's Safe Travel website is an important resource for travellers - especially if those looking to include more intrepid destinations in their itineraries. Turkey is one country where, although our clients continue to express interest, safety remains a concern.
Safe Travel has three levels of security warning in place for Turkey:
- Do Not Travel
- Avoid Non-Essential Travel
- Exercise Increased Caution
As explained in the Safe Travel announcement, the security advice for Istanbul and Ankara has been lowered to "Exercise Increased Caution":
The New Zealand Government has reviewed the SafeTravel Advice for Turkey.
Advice in respect of Istanbul and Ankara has been re-assessed, and we now advise travellers to “exercise increased caution”.
Owing to an improved security situation, a number of south-eastern provinces (Muş, Van, Bitlis, Bingol and Batman) have also been removed from “avoid non-essential travel” classification.
We strongly encourage all New Zealanders in Turkey, or planning to travel to Turkey, to review our advice below, and to register on SafeTravel.
https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/turkey
This improved security status should make obtaining travel insurance easier. If you plan to rely on the travel insurance offered through your credit card, we recommend confirming coverage before booking your itinerary.
Travelling to Turkey
When preparing bespoke itineraries for our clients, we work with industry specialists such as Innovative Travel. Robyn Galloway, the Managing Director of Innovative Travel, holds senior roles including Chair of the New Zealand / Turkey Business Council. Access to such deep industry expertise is reflected in the comprehensive itineraries we prepare for our clients.
Itineraries can be focussed around specific events such as ANZAC Day, or an itinerary can include Gallipoli. Examples itineraries include "Authentic Turkey":
Authentic Turkey is a small group journey designed for adventurous travellers seeking a combination of relaxed touring and accommodation mainly in local hotels. This trip takes in some of the outstanding areas of the Mediterranean coast exploring classic sites and including leisurely walks. A relaxing holiday in quaint and historical towns with carefully selected restored local hotels (where available). Shopping options abound at local rug co-operatives, a pottery making workshop, vineyards, and onyx factories, as well as giving the traveller first hand interaction with the friendly, local Turkish people.
Highlights:
- Experience local character and charm with boutique accommodation and meals
- Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul where East meets West
- Retrace history at Gallipoli
- Uncover ancient ruins at Pergamum Izmir Ephesus and Troy
This small group journey departs from istanbul on selected dates and is based on a group size of between 4 and 22.
For a comprehensive "one stop shop" itinerary Fine Travel can assist travellers with important components, including: airfares to Turkey (Istanbul), guided group tours or bespoke itineraries, travel insurance and pre- and post tour accommodation.
