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GREECE AND TURKEY

Greece and Turkey

Retrace the steps of old civilisations, gaze in wonder at ancient ruins and be inspired by the magnificent natural scenery of these Mediterranean nations.

Greece’s beauty lies in its simplicity. From a dazzling coastline which is nothing more than azure water met by angel sand, to a simple platter of feta and figs, it’s the fuss free nature of this nation that makes it so attractive. The locals are gorgeous just because they smile. Food is exceptional, yet uncomplicated; is there anything more delicious than fresh tomatoes, a shake of salt and a drizzle of oil? Can we argue that Greece’s many ancient remains are also simplistic? Probably not. Millennia-old architecture and lasting legacies of ingenuity, they’re simply astounding. In terms of archaeological prowess, Athens is a city which really gives Rome a run for her money. With Acropolis perched above the modern citadel, ancient arenas are borderline common and the entire landscape puts a pulse into a history that usually only exists in museums.

And then there’s Turkey, with its ethereal landscapes, archaeological sites, mosques, bazaars and fascinating ruins. The coast twinkles and Cappadocia delights. In the cities the air’s alive with chatter and the thick scent of Turkish coffee, as well as sweet baklava which is best served like the generosity of its people. Warm.



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Greece

A dip in azure seas, a sip of pungent ouzo and a trip back in time to oracles and gods – Greece is the very essence of the alluring Mediterranean world. With civilizations, heritage and history dating back thousands of years, Greece offers visitors breathtaking ancient sites such as the magnificent Acropolis in Athens and iconic Olympia. Also a vibrant modern nation with a dynamic population that loves to dance and sing – just a few minutes in a Greek taverna can be ample evidence of that! There are many mainland treasures from the spectacular Meteora monasteries to mythical Delphi.

Greece is synonymous with islands – from history steeped Crete, awe-inspiring Santorini and windmill-studded Mykonos and many other gems scattered across the Mediterranean Sea. Feast on freshly caught fish, grilled lamb stuffed vine leaves and sweet baklava. Sip coffee in a harbour-side café as the fishing boats come into port, amble along country roads while families gather their olives and pat donkeys on their way to village markets with baskets laden with fresh tomatoes. Temple ruins perched on cliffs high above a sparkling sea, tiny crescents of perfect beach, a hillside of spring flowers, whitewashed houses with window frames of turquoise blue.


Turkey

East meets west in Turkey in a fascinating, exotic collision of cultures and religions, ancient and modern. Combined with its reputation for good value for money, this makes Turkey “hot”. Turkey’s strategic location, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, guarding the waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, means it has already had a major role to play in world events. From Turkey rose the Byzantine and Ottoman empires and in Turkish soil rest the remains of more than 2300 Kiwi soldiers who died at Gallipoli during the First World War. This tragic war that helped shape New Zealand’s identity means Turkey has a special place in our hearts. This feeling is reciprocated by the Turks who seem to have an especially warm welcome for Kiwis.

Istanbul is a city of graceful minarets, whirling dervishes, bazaars overflowing with rugs, spices and Turkish delight. Turkey also has more than 8000 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline; spectacular ruins such as Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient sites in the Mediterranean; legendary Troy; and one of the world’s most astonishing landscapes, the fairy chimneys and underground cities of Cappadocia. Sail in a traditional wooden Gulet, along the Turquoise and Aegean coasts.




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GREECE & TURKEY ON SALE




Our best Greece and Turkey packages right now, created by our travel experts to offer you incredible holidays at serious value. Find even more deals on accommodation, flights, touring and sightseeing on our Europe On Sale section.
 

 

 

 

 

 

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