2027 Turkey

Step into the heart of old Istanbul during a guided exploration of the city’s most celebrated historic treasures. Begin at the Hippodrome, once the center of public life and chariot racing in Byzantine Constantinople. Continue to Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece whose remarkable history reflects the many civilizations and religious traditions that have shaped Istanbul. Visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, known for its graceful domes, six minarets, and thousands of blue İznik tiles. Then descend beneath the city into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, where illuminated columns rise from an ancient underground reservoir constructed during the Byzantine Empire.

An included lunch provides time to relax and enjoy local flavors before discovering Turkey’s celebrated tradition of handwoven rugs. Learn about the craftsmanship, symbolism, natural dyes, and techniques behind these beautiful works of art.

Evening on Your Own The evening is yours to explore Istanbul at your own pace. Enjoy dinner at a neighborhood restaurant, stroll through the historic district, or relax at the hotel after a full day of discovery.

Begin the day with four hours of continuing legal education presented in an engaging and collaborative setting. Our sessions are designed to provide meaningful professional development while leaving ample time to experience the destination. CLE topics and speakers will be announced as the program develops.

Topkapı Palace Independent Visit Following the CLE sessions, explore Topkapı Palace at your own pace with admission provided. Once the administrative center and royal residence of the Ottoman sultans, the palace offers an extraordinary look into imperial life through its ornate courtyards, tiled chambers, historic collections, and sweeping views of the Bosphorus.

Optional Traditional Turkish Hammam Experience Experience one of Turkey’s most enduring wellness traditions with a visit to a traditional hammam. This centuries-old bathing ritual provides a memorable opportunity to relax, recharge, and experience an important element of Turkish culture. Booking instructions given after registration.

Optional Whirling Dervish Experience Guests may also choose to attend a Whirling Dervish ceremony. This meditative Sufi tradition combines music, movement, and spiritual symbolism in a deeply atmospheric cultural experience. Additional cost and advance reservations may apply.

Discover Istanbul through its food during an immersive culinary experience featuring the flavors, markets, and traditions that define this vibrant city. Sample a thoughtfully selected variety of Turkish specialties while learning how centuries of trade, migration, and cultural exchange shaped Istanbul’s distinctive cuisine. Along the way, explore lively neighborhoods and local establishments that travelers might not discover on their own. From savory bites and freshly baked breads to regional specialties, sweets, and traditional beverages, this experience offers an authentic and delicious introduction to everyday life in Istanbul. Specific tastings and tour locations will be confirmed. Included is a ferry ride over to the Asia side of Turkey while we continue our food sampling.

Bid farewell to Istanbul and travel to Cappadocia, a remarkable region known for its other worldly valleys, ancient cave dwellings, and distinctive rock formations known as fairy chimneys. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before settling into your Cappadocia accommodations.

Airfare from Istanbul (IST) to Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) is included with registrations received by December 31, 2026.  Transportation details and timing will be provided closer to departure.

Continue your professional development with four hours of CLE programming. These sessions complete the eight CLE hours scheduled for the conference while preserving the following days for cultural exploration and independent adventures. Topics and speakers will be announced.

Enjoy dinner at your leisure and begin discovering Cappadocia’s inviting restaurants and distinctive regional cuisine all in the downtown of Goreme a very walkable area.

Experience the history, landscapes, and artisan traditions of Cappadocia during a specially curated day with Ozai, our tour guide, who is not only knowledgeable but a lot of fun. Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a remarkable complex of rock-cut churches, chapels, and monasteries containing centuries-old Byzantine frescoes. This extraordinary site offers a fascinating look at the communities that once lived and worshipped within Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape. Continue with an introduction to the region’s celebrated ceramic tradition. Learn how local artisans transform clay into distinctive hand-painted pottery using techniques passed down through generations. The day also includes an opportunity to discover Turkish jewelry craftsmanship and the cultural influences reflected in its intricate designs. This experience combines Cappadocia’s most compelling history with meaningful encounters with the artisans who continue to preserve its creative heritage. Available time for lunch on your own. We’ll also experience the largest and deepest excavated underground city in Cappadocia.

Enjoy a free day to experience Cappadocia according to your interests and preferred pace. Rise before dawn for an optional hot-air balloon flight over the region’s fairy chimneys and valleys, or choose a more adventurous way to explore with an ATV excursion or horseback ride through the dramatic landscape. Guests seeking relaxation may reserve a traditional Turkish bath experience, while those wanting a leisurely day can explore local boutiques, pottery workshops, jewelry shops, cafés, and scenic viewpoints.

All activities are optional, subject to availability and weather conditions, and offered at an additional cost. Advance reservation information provided after registration.

Gather for a special farewell dinner celebrating our journey through Istanbul and Cappadocia. Share favorite memories, enjoy a final evening of Turkish hospitality, and toast the friendships and experiences created during this unforgettable Eduvacation®.

After a memorable week of history, culture, professional education, local flavors, and extraordinary landscapes, it is time to begin the journey home. Depart Cappadocia with new friendships, meaningful professional connections, and memories of Turkey that will remain long after your return to the United States. Airport transfer arrangements will be provided when the travel schedule is finalized.