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Berat Ornek

At Trail Travel, I create journeys that let travelers experience Turkey through story, not just sightseeing, weaving together cultural heritage, gastronomy, and custom-built routes shaped around each traveler's interests.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"At Trail Travel, we specialize in adventure traveling, tailor-made tours on the cultural landscape of Turkey, and creating meaningful experiences for travelers. We are the right company to choose for anyone who'd like to see Turkey with a team that ensures quality, excellence and expertise. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"During my MA studies in Archaeology and History of Art, I had the opportunity of touring around Turkey with knowledgable art historians. During that time I was lucky enough to see excavation sites, out of the ordinary places that made me realize I'd like people all around the world to see and appreciate the beauty of Turkey. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I will never forget the first time I saw a Hittite monument called Eflatunpınar, near Beyşehir in Turkey, on an off-track road that one wouldn't expect to find something historically amazing. Eflatunpınar dates back to the 13th century BC, and is a rectangular shaped pond fed with the waters from a nearby spring. I remember that the sound of water that was still running from the same source since centuries, the quiet and serenity of the site filled me with a sense of peace and awe at the same time. Turkey is a country filled with these kind of special gems in unassuming places. You just need fresh eyes to appreciate the things you see and let yourself be surprised. "

Berat is part of the following groups: Turkey Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice

Recent trip reviews for Berat

My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey t...
Turkey | Oct 7 - Oct 22, 2026

W
Wendy F.
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada | Reviewed on Oct 25, 2026
My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey through KimKim and worked directly with Berat. We provided some overall criteria (cultural and historical) but left most of the planning up to Berat with a few changes. She did a terrific job meeting our expectations. At one point I had an unexpected surgery and we were able to easily postphone our trip for a year. The trip was 16 days, 6 of it in Istanbul with a guide for two days and the rest was with a guide and a couple of drivers.... Read more

My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey through KimKim and worked directly with Berat. We provided some overall criteria (cultural and historical) but left most of the planning up to Berat with a few changes. She did a terrific job meeting our expectations. At one point I had an unexpected surgery and we were able to easily postphone our trip for a year. The trip was 16 days, 6 of it in Istanbul with a guide for two days and the rest was with a guide and a couple of drivers. Communication was excellent, including all detailed information. We were met at airports (twice), drivers were all professional and had very good vehicles (one brand new) and always on time. We had a Hamam visit planned and were dropped off and picked up with no worries. One driver we had for 5 days even brought coffee and tea in thermoses for a long drive. Both guides were exceptional. The guide we had for most of the trip 9/10 days provided many spontaneous extra diversions ie: natural potato storage facility, women cooking down molasses and tomatoes by the side of the road etc and provided excellent overviews before visiting a place . And the ice cream we ate with a knife and fork!! We felt priviledged to have him.
All the places we visited were impressive. and memorable ...there were so many! Probably the most was the 9,000 year old Catalhukuk, the underground caves, Caravanseri on the silk road, Mosques for me.
Our hotels were exactly what we wanted .... lots of character and with comfort as well. Very memorable. The communication via the app was great. Everything was very timely and smooth. We had booked a balloon ride in Cappadocia for the first day but weather cancelled it. We were able to rebook for the day we were leaving but again it was cancelled due to weather. Then we were offered to book at Pamukkale if we wanted, which we did and were able to do. So easy to have it all arranged for us. And any changes fit in easily. A wonderful trip!!!

Hotel Reviews
Armada Hotel
Istanbul

We enjoyed this hotel with views of the Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque. We visited the rooftop garden with herbs and fruit trees every morning and afternoon. The breakfast buffet was large with a great view and open windows. The turtles were also an added interest in the lobby. We were able to walk to places easily. We were there 6 nights and were very satisfied.

Location
We quickly learned our way around.
Kale Konak Hotel

We were looking for unique places with character to stay on our trip. This fit the bill! So many things to look at and every day you saw more. So much character. Lots of cats, as there are everywhere. A beautiful view. Wonderful breakfast and cake in the afternoon.

Hich Hotel Konya
Konya

An excellent location with a view of the Mosques. A focus onbooks. We expected a restaurant for supper but a very small menu so we went out. Easy to find lots of restaurants close by. Lots of character. A good breakafst.

Doğa Thermal Hotel & Spa
Denizli

We had asked for a spa hotel to have a rest day near the end of our trip so this fit the bill. This hotel is used for large tour groups so is very large, has a huge dinner buffet and good size breakfast buffet. Licensed. The simming pool with hot water is nice and not crowded. I did not bother with the cold one which apeared empty. I did use the Hamam for a turkish bath. It was not up to the one in Istanbul which was terrific. The staff were all good. WE didn'tleave thehotel except for our tour,ballon ride so I do not know about the area.

Nisanyan Houses
Selçuk

Our last hotel. And what a special place. We did have the cooking class in a stone house with openfire/oven. when we arrived which was fun ...and then we ate the food which was great. I stayed in a little stone cottage which was really cool! The stars were very bright ...not something you see anymore. Lots of cats which we enjoyed. A very quaint beautiful spot. And wonderful people/staff. Lots of character but very different from all the other places. Gardens, fuit and olive trees. A really nice place to end our trip.

Activity Reviews
Explore the Basilica Cistern
Explore the Basilica Cistern
İstanbul
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia
Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City
Cappadocia

This is an amazing place that I don't think you would find elswhere. A definite highlight for me.

Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Cappadocia

This was interesting and the work is impressive. I bought a couple of very small dishes and when I got home I realized how exceptional they are.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale

I was prepared to be disappointed with the terraces but was not. We were able to put our feet in and walk a bit. So there is still enough of it left to be beautiful and worthwhile. Hierapolis was impressive as well. One could imagine why the Romans settled here.

Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Turkey

This Ancient City is quite Impressive. As it was the last day of our tour we were getting a bit overloaded. I liked how you could really see what it would have been like . And the library is very impressive.

Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Turkey
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
İstanbul
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Cappadocia
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Cappadocia
Esrefoglu: A Unique Wooden Mosque from the 13th Century
Esrefoglu: A Unique Wooden Mosque from the 13th Century
Konya
Visit Beautiful Red Valley + Çavuşin
Visit Beautiful Red Valley + Çavuşin
Cappadocia
Cooking Workshop at Nisanyan Houses
Cooking Workshop at Nisanyan Houses
Şirince

This was really fun and in such a nice place. The food which you get to eat is good too!

Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Turkey
Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
İstanbul
Step back in time at Çatalhöyük: The World’s First City!
Step back in time at Çatalhöyük: The World’s First City!
Konya

This was very interestingand highly recommend .

Konya: Explore the cultural heritage of Rumi
Konya: Explore the cultural heritage of Rumi
Konya
Visit Eflatunpınar: A hidden gem from the 13th century BC
Visit Eflatunpınar: A hidden gem from the 13th century BC
Konya
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 26, 2026

Hey Wendy,
Thanks so much for your review. So glad to hear you had a wonderful experience. We'll be here for whenever you'd like to visit Turkey again!
Warm regards,
Berat

We absolutely loved our trip to Turkiey! Ever...
Turkey | Oct 9 - Oct 17, 2026

Ned
Ned B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 24, 2026
We absolutely loved our trip to Turkey! Everything was seamless - transfers, meals, hotels - no problems. Our guides were tremendous- Zekiye in Istanbul, Efe in Cappadocia, and Mr. Ozan in Izmir. Zekiye whizzed us through lines and found wonderful local experiences for us. Efe gave us excellent historical context, and Ozan's enthusiasm for his home city and the historical sites was infectious. Every minute of this trip was a delight - we are already talking about returning to Turkey soon! Read more

We absolutely loved our trip to Turkey! Everything was seamless - transfers, meals, hotels - no problems. Our guides were tremendous- Zekiye in Istanbul, Efe in Cappadocia, and Mr. Ozan in Izmir. Zekiye whizzed us through lines and found wonderful local experiences for us. Efe gave us excellent historical context, and Ozan's enthusiasm for his home city and the historical sites was infectious. Every minute of this trip was a delight - we are already talking about returning to Turkey soon!

Activity Reviews
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
İstanbul

Zekiye was the best guide! She zipped our way through the city - her knowledge helped us quickly navigate crowds and find wonderful local experiences.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia

Wow - that's all I can say. We were speechless throughout this amazing ride through the cliffs and valleys of Cappadocia. The ride was exceptionally well organized and run - we had the most precise landing on a small trailer and the coffee and pastries before takeoff and the champagne after landing were a wonderful touch. Truly we were in awe the entire time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City
Cappadocia

What a fascinating place! Efe showed us all the best spots and navigated the nooks and crannies beautifully.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Turkey

Mr. Ozan brought us to this hidden gem... what an incredible spot with glorious Greek ruins! I can't believe more people weren't clamoring to see this amazing site!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 26, 2026

Thanks, Ned, for this positive review!
We are happy to see you had a great time in Turkey. Thanks for choosing us as your travel companion.
Warm regards,
Berat

12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Turkey | Oct 6 - Oct 18, 2026

Steven
Steven K.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 19, 2026
All of our guides, we had 4, were very helpful, they were especially helpful negotiating around weather and certain locations where there was mass tourism. The trip was well laid out and planned. Our contact in Turkey kept us up to date about each step of the way. We knew each tour guide, driver, including telephone numbers, as well as well as license plate numbers of drivers car. The hotels selected were all very good, with good locations. Well done. Read more

All of our guides, we had 4, were very helpful, they were especially helpful negotiating around weather and certain locations where there was mass tourism. The trip was well laid out and planned. Our contact in Turkey kept us up to date about each step of the way. We knew each tour guide, driver, including telephone numbers, as well as well as license plate numbers of drivers car. The hotels selected were all very good, with good locations. Well done.

Hotel Reviews
Perlacia Adatepe Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room not up to snuff. Bathroom tiny.
Gullu Konaklari Sirince
Izmir
Millstone Cave Suites
The Bank Hotel
Istanbul
Bengodi Boutique Hotel
Hotel Komana
Activity Reviews
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia

Poor weather. Balloon ride canceled. We hiked thru the valley in place of ride.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Troy: Explore Homer's Epic City
Troy: Explore Homer's Epic City
Turkey

Amazing history

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Cappadocia

Very lovely tour through facility, but not into buying.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Crossing between Continents: Explore Kadıköy and Moda
Crossing between Continents: Explore Kadıköy and Moda
İstanbul

Lovely experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 20, 2026

Thanks, Steven, for this positive review!

We are happy to see you had a great time in Turkey. Thanks for choosing us as your travel companion.

Warm regards,
Berat

One of best trips I have been on. I will always use kimkim. This is our 4th trip with them.
Turkey | Sep 26 - Oct 11, 2026

L
Laura A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Oct 17, 2026
This was one of my favorite trips. My husband and I were completely overwhelmed with the care and enthusiasm provided by the kimkim team. Berat and Murat put together a stunning itinerary and Hulya and Murat were on point to have it flawlessly executed. Our guides Zekiye, Efe, and Ozan were truly some the highlights of the trip. Their warm concern and enthusiasm about showing us the best of Turkiye and its outstanding history made us feel like we were apart of the family. I hope other... Read more

This was one of my favorite trips. My husband and I were completely overwhelmed with the care and enthusiasm provided by the kimkim team. Berat and Murat put together a stunning itinerary and Hulya and Murat were on point to have it flawlessly executed.

Our guides Zekiye, Efe, and Ozan were truly some the highlights of the trip. Their warm concern and enthusiasm about showing us the best of Turkiye and its outstanding history made us feel like we were apart of the family. I hope other travelers get a chance to meet these amazing hosts. The drivers were all puctional and kind and the mode of transportation was luxurious.

The hotels were top notch , the Ciragan Palce, the Hotel Taskonaklar,, the Swiss hotel Izmir, and especially the Caresse Resort and Spa.

The restaurants chose for us to enjoy dinner were sublime

The tremedous archeolgical ruins and palaces and Mosques were breathtaking. We were allowed to spend ample time at each to really learn about the history.

Hotel Reviews
Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel
Istanbul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Taskonaklar Cappadocia
Nevsehir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Swissotel Buyuk Efes Izmir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Caresse Resort + Spa, Bodrum
BODRUM
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Akra Antalya Hotel
Antalya
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Roman Theater of Aspendos and the Ancient Town of Perge
Discover Roman Theater of Aspendos and the Ancient Town of Perge
Antalya
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore the Dolmabahçe Palace
Explore the Dolmabahçe Palace
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Bodrum: Bodrum Castle, Underwater Archaeology Museum and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
Discover Bodrum: Bodrum Castle, Underwater Archaeology Museum and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
Bodrum
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer from Bodrum to Antalya via Euromos + Aphrodisias
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Eternal Flame of Chimera
The Eternal Flame of Chimera
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Urla: History and Gastronomy
Explore Urla: History and Gastronomy
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Beautiful Antalya: Explore the Old Town
Beautiful Antalya: Explore the Old Town
Antalya
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour of Izmir: The Beautiful Port City of the Aegean Sea
Guided Tour of Izmir: The Beautiful Port City of the Aegean Sea
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Göreme-Uçhisar Hike
Göreme-Uçhisar Hike
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sunset Wine + Romance in Cappadocian Valleys
Sunset Wine + Romance in Cappadocian Valleys
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Cappadocia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover the ancient sites of Miletus and Didyma
Discover the ancient sites of Miletus and Didyma
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 20, 2026

Dear Laura,
Thanks so much for your wonderful review. So glad to hear you had a great experience in Turkey. We'll be here for whenever you'd like to visit Turkey again!
Warm regards,
Berat

Amazing journey to Turkey prepared by Berat O...
Turkey | Sep 29 - Oct 12, 2026

B
Bruce K.
Gilbert, AZ, USA | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2026
Amazing journey to Turkey prepared by Berat Ornek of Trail Travel. During the course of 14 days Berat had us visiting Istanbul, the Aegean coast and Cappadocia and selected excellent guides, transportation and hotels for each destination.. Her recommendations were not only memorable but perhaps the best we have experienced in visiting more than 70 countries to date. Thank you Berat for a great experience. Read more

Amazing journey to Turkey prepared by Berat Ornek of Trail Travel. During the course of 14 days Berat had us visiting Istanbul, the Aegean coast and Cappadocia and selected excellent guides, transportation and hotels for each destination.. Her recommendations were not only memorable but perhaps the best we have experienced in visiting more than 70 countries to date. Thank you Berat for a great experience.

Hotel Reviews
Aloft Hotel Karakoy

New hotel in a convenient location along with a excellent staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale
Çanakkale
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Izmir Marriott Hotel
Izmir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Marmara Bodrum Hotel
Muğla
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Taskonaklar Cappadocia
Nevsehir

Unique experience (cave) with excellent staff and restaurant

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 16, 2026

Hey Bruce,

Thanks so much for your wonderful review. So glad to hear you had a great experience in Turkey. We'll be here for whenever you'd like to visit Turkey again!

Best regards,
Berat

Wonderful guides, an amazing experience. Wou...
Turkey | Sep 20 - Sep 26, 2026

Karen
Karen H.
Honolulu, HI | Reviewed on Oct 11, 2026
Wonderful guides, an amazing experience. Would love to go back to Turkiye ! Read more

Wonderful guides, an amazing experience. Would love to go back to Turkiye !

Hotel Review
The Marmara Pera
Istanbul

Awesome room at the end of the hall on the 15th floor with panoramic view !

Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 22, 2026

Hey Karen,

Thanks so much for your positive review. So glad to hear you had a wonderful experience. We'll be here for whenever you'd like to visit Turkey again!

Best regards,
Berat

This was part 2 of our trip to Turkiye in the...
Turkey | Sep 11 - Sep 15, 2026

C
Cheryl V.
Australia | Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026
This was part 2 of our trip to Turkiye in the professional hands of Berat and her team - please see my comments on 19 September. Once again , every detail was planned and executed perfectly and I highly recommend them. Read more

This was part 2 of our trip to Turkiye in the professional hands of Berat and her team - please see my comments on 19 September. Once again , every detail was planned and executed perfectly and I highly recommend them.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Begonvil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aspen Hotel
Antalya

Great location in the old city and it has a lovely pool for relaxing . However the room we had overlooked a venue that played loud music into the night. When I raised this matter the next day we were immediately moved to another quieter room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Be sure to ask for a quiet part of the hotel.
Activity Reviews
Boat Tour Through Kekova Bay
Boat Tour Through Kekova Bay
Turkey

I had not expected to enjoy this as much as I did. We were taken by minibus and we boarded a boat at Kekova. The day was spent viewing the underwater and above water ruins of Kekova Island and 5 swims in the aquamarine waters of the area. We also stopped at Simena Castle where people could climb to the top for spectacular views. We were also given a lovely lunch . All in all a great day!

Quality of Experience
Discover Roman Theater of Aspendos and the Ancient Town of Perge
Discover Roman Theater of Aspendos and the Ancient Town of Perge
Antalya
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As always Volkan shared his knowledge which gave so much more context to a visit.
Transport
The driver did a slight detour to show me the aquaduct in the area.
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 08, 2026

Thanks Cheryl for this thorough review!
We look forward to hosting you again with us in Turkey!
Best,
Berat

This trip was superb in every respect.
Turkey | Aug 28 - Sep 4, 2026

C
Cheryl V.
Australia | Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026
This trip was superb in every respect: Berat was incredibly patient and helpful when we did the planning . Nothing seemed too much trouble. Our guide, Volkan (who was with us for 8 days), was amazingly knowledgeable about the layers of history of the places we visited and he also gave us insights into Turkye today. He also knew just the places to stop for coffee and cake or a scenic lunch break! He was sensitive to our needs and tailored the trip accordingly. Murat and Hulya were great... Read more

This trip was superb in every respect: Berat was incredibly patient and helpful when we did the planning . Nothing seemed too much trouble. Our guide, Volkan (who was with us for 8 days), was amazingly knowledgeable about the layers of history of the places we visited and he also gave us insights into Turkye today. He also knew just the places to stop for coffee and cake or a scenic lunch break! He was sensitive to our needs and tailored the trip accordingly. Murat and Hulya were great support people providing attention to detail and making sure every aspect of our trip went smoothly. A highlight was when Volkan recognised that Andrew might struggle with the steep roads in Sirince and he arranged for us to shift accommodation to a wonderful alternative. We appreciated that so much. I cant recommend Berat and her team highly enough!

Hotel Reviews
Armada Hotel
Istanbul

Good location. Lovely rooftop for meals and/or a drink with views of the Blue Mosque - especially nice at night

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy walk to the places we were to visit and nice waterside views.
Staff
The rooftop people were very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Assos Troy Port Hotel

The hotel overlooks the small harbor and has a real buzz about it. We were able to swim in the sea which was a bonus. The staff were friendly and helpful. We ate at the hotel restaurant next to the water and which had an overwhelming choice of meze.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Liman Hotel Gumusluk

Lovely small boutique hotel with friendly and helpful staff. It has a great outlook over the waterfront.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Gumusluk is a great place to stay if visiting Bodrum. It is out of the busy-ness of Bodrum and has a lovely waterfront area with nicely decorated restaurants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Discover Pergamon and the Ancient Healing Center Asclepion
Discover Pergamon and the Ancient Healing Center Asclepion
Turkey

We took the cable car up to the top which was an adventure in itself . In the Hellenistic and Roman period Pergamon was a major centre with a far -reaching kingdom and we learned so much from Volkan. The theatre is incredibly steep and could house 10000 people. Going through a 'subway' to enter it be careful not to bump your head . Because it was extremely hot we didn't spend as much time as we would have liked.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul

This was our first day with Volkan as our guide. He expertly took us to the various locations rescheduling flexibly as it was terribly hot and we waned to avoid big crowds. His knowledge throughout our trip astounded us! We enjoyed all the sites that day : Hippodrome , Grand Bazaar , The Sultans Palace, Hagia Sophia and finally the Basilica Cisterns which was definitely a highlight.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul

This was our second day in Istanbul encompassing the Spice Bazaar and the boat trip along the Bosphorus. The highlight was definitely a visit to The Blue Mosque which is astonishing in its architecture and decoration.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Turkey
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Public Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
Public Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
İstanbul
Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
İstanbul
Explore the Basilica Cistern
Explore the Basilica Cistern
İstanbul

It was amazing to walk through this site and imagine its construction in the 6th century by the Romans. Our guide gave us interesting facts and pointed out the Medusa heads used as column bases!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Discover Assos: Temple of Athena and the Beautiful Scenery of the Aegean Coast
Discover Assos: Temple of Athena and the Beautiful Scenery of the Aegean Coast
Turkey

There was a short walk through the quaint village and up to the top . The view at the site of the temple was quite spectacular - the view of the Aegean and Lesbos. One can imagine that was why they chose that spot to construct it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Our driver was always available when we needed him - especially to escape the heat of the day.
Discover the ancient sites of Miletus and Didyma
Discover the ancient sites of Miletus and Didyma
Turkey

A highlight was learning about the Maeander River ( from which we get the word 'meander') and how it silted up over time thus preventing access to the sea which had been Miletus's key advantage. It is well-known as a home of many Greek philosophers.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Sep 21, 2026

Thanks so much for this thorough review, Cheryl!

We are happy to hear you had a great time in Turkey with us!

Best,
Berat

Turkish Delight
Turkey | Jun 6 - Jun 19, 2026

Thomas
Thomas A.
Vero Beach, FL | Reviewed on Jul 07, 2026
We had wanted to visit Turkey for a long time. Berat put together a wonderful two week trip for us, two people in our mid 70s. The sites were amazing, especially if you are interested in ancient Greek and Roman ruins. We also had some rest time in Kas and Bodrum, both beautiful seaside resort towns. We were a little hesitant about participating in the Hot Air Balloon ride in Cappadoccia, but we are glad we did. It was an amazing experience that everyone should enjoy. All of our guides... Read more

We had wanted to visit Turkey for a long time. Berat put together a wonderful two week trip for us, two people in our mid 70s. The sites were amazing, especially if you are interested in ancient Greek and Roman ruins. We also had some rest time in Kas and Bodrum, both beautiful seaside resort towns. We were a little hesitant about participating in the Hot Air Balloon ride in Cappadoccia, but we are glad we did. It was an amazing experience that everyone should enjoy. All of our guides were smart, engaging, and knowledgeable. We could not have enjoyed the trip more. This was our sixth Kim Kim trip, and we plan to continue to have them plan future trips for us.

Hotel Review
Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
Fatih Istanbul
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Jul 07, 2026

Dear Thomas,
Thanks so much for this great review!
It was a joy to host you and we are glad to hear you had a nice time in Turkey.
Kind regards,
Berat

Working with Berat was so helpful! She planne...
Turkey | Jun 19 - Jun 29, 2026

Paula Frances
Paula Frances P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 06, 2026

Working with Berat was so helpful! She planned an amazing trip that our family loved!
Our favorite part was the guides! They were knowledgeable and so helpful!

Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Jul 24, 2026

Dear Paula,

Many thanks for your positive review! We are glad to hear you had a great time with us in Türkiye! We thank you for choosing us as your travel companions.

Kind regards,
Berat