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WHAT LIES BEYOND THE VEIL?
Women-Only Tours of Turkey Give Insights Into Lifestyles
of Islamic Women What is life really like for women in the "Islamic
East"? It appears to be enigmatic, ranging from modernized Western-style
dress to body-concealing, face-covering full veils, and from belly dancing to
traditional "henna parties." Insights into the lifestyles of Islamic
women are provided by "Beyond the Veil," a fully guided, women-only
tour to Turkey that includes an extended visit to the ancient Biblical land of
Cappadocia known for its lunar-like landscapes. The tour offers a first-hand look at the traditional
rural life, customs, and social events of Turkish women. There's an opportunity
to meet and work with local artisans, prepare and cook traditional meals, and
enjoy leisurely walks in the villages and explore the extraordinary rock-hewn
churches and cave homes of this troglodyte region. The journey begins with tours of Istanbul, the City of
Sultans, where east meets west. You'll visit such renowned sights as the
Byzantine Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum,
with its collection of priceless oriental carpets. At the legendary Topkapi
Palace Museum, for centuries the Imperial residence of the sultans, there is a
visit to the harem section. Also included is a tour of the Roman underground
cisterns and a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's most extensive and
exciting markets. In a city that straddles both Europe and Asia, an early
morning cruise on the Bosporus touches both continents. This is followed by a
visit to Dolmabache Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the exotic Egyptian Spice
Bazaar. Leaving Istanbul, the tour heads for the striking lunar-like landscapes
of Cappadocia with a flight to Kayseri in the heart of Central Anatolia, and
transfer by coach. A full-day orientation tour includes a visit to the Goreme
Open-Air Museum, one of Turkey's most breathtaking attractions, a
"moonscape" volcanic valley with beautifully painted medieval
churches that are hollowed right out of the rock. Also spectacular is Zelve, a
valley in which monks carved entire monasteries from volcanic rock and Kaymakli
(Derinkuyu), where labyrinthe underground cities carved deep into the earth
protected early Christians from marauders. There are visits to the uniquely Turkish villages of
Urgup and Ortahisar and panoramic views of the Red and Rose Valleys. A
"Lifestyle Walking Tour" immerses you into traditional village family
life typical of Central Cappadocia, as you visit homes in rock-hewn villages
and explore many spectacular lesser-known valleys. There's an opportunity to
join local women as they prepare and cook Cappadocian specialties. You'll learn
to stuff leaves fresh picked from vines, roll dough and shape pastry for manti
(a Turkish version of ravioli), and prepare lamb stews that will simmer in clay
pots. And, of course, sample the fruits of your labor at a sumptuous luncheon
served in your host's unique cave home. You can witness a kilim weaving demonstration as women
practice the age-old craft of carpet making--or join any of a number of
optional activities. In the evening, there is a visit to an underground
restaurant for a folkloric/belly dancing show that includes a performance by
the famous "Whirling Dervishes." Other highlights include a revitalizing visit to a
Turkish steam bath, a relaxing full body massage, and other pampering
treatments. You'll mingle with local village women in their homes for a
traditional "henna party." The application of henna is an ancient
practice in the east and is applied to a bride's hands and feet and to those of
the female relatives and guests the day before the marriage. You'll participate
in this time-honored ceremony where sweet delicacies are served and dances of
celebration performed. On your final day in the region there are visits to
colorful shops and markets to shop for the fresh ingredients and spices that
will be used to prepare a magnificent farewell dinner. The Ottoman House Hotel
chef will instruct you in making dishes from the palaces of the Ottomans. The
meal you help create will feature eggplant, garlic, spiced yogurts, salad
greens, goat cheese, oven-baked lamb or skewered meats and plump figs,
apricots, and nuts. Essential Information:
The tour operates once a month, with departures on the
first Friday of the month. Cost is $1,260 per person (based on double
occupancy). Included is domestic air fare within Turkey; 9 nights' hotel
accommodations at Ottoman Hotels (including the highly-rated Ottoman House in
Cappadocia); meals as indicated in the itinerary; travel on modern
air-conditioned coaches; all transfers to airports and hotels; comprehensive
sightseeing with a professional, licensed, English-speaking female guide; and
all entrance and museum fees. Reservations and additional information from: Travel In Style Edited by Kerry Cohen |
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TM