Table of Contents Message from the Organizing Committee 3

Greetings from Team of Officials 4

Meet the Organizing Commmittee 5

Registration 6

Visa 9

Theme Event 12

Pre General Assembly 13

General Assembly 16

Social Program 18

VIP Congress 20

Post General Assembly 21

About Turkey 25

Message from the Organizing Committee Dear IFMSA family, precious medical students from east, west, north and south of the world,

Merhaba!

We have the biggest excitement of hosting you in our beloved country which was a huge dream for us that we could always dream of. It is a great honor to gather future healthcare leaders in Turkey between 2-8 March 2015. The vision that IFMSA has and the experience, desire and motivation of TurkMSIC banded together to make the biggest IFMSA General Assembly ever happen. Over the past ten months, our organizing committee has been vigorously working to ensure a world-class event.

We want the March Meeting 2015 to be more than merely a General Assembly. Therefore, we have a strong line-up of external presenters with top-of-the-class expertise pre-pared to take you through the wonders of Health and the Future in an engaging and intriguing manner. Together, the OC and IFMSA EB are working on shaping the agenda allowing for a series of special events to take place; with world-renown externals sharing their passion for Global Health.

On behalf of the Turkish Medical Student Association (TurkMSIC) and the MM 2015 Turkey Organizing Committee, we welcome you to the country that King Attalos II of Bergama delineate as a paradise on earth, where east meets west; to Turkey for a wonderful experience. As you prepare for MM 2015 Turkey, if the Organizing Committee can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Respectfully yours,

On behalf of the MM2015 Turkey Organizing Committee,

Eren HALAÇ

MM2015 Turkey President

Greetings from Team of Officials Dear IFMSA members,

It is with pleasure that we invite you to participate in the 64th IFMSA General Assembly March Meeting in Antalya, Turkey.

The General Assembly in Turkey will be essential to define our major priorities that are important for the medical students worldwide. This is a process that will need your support and participation.

For the newcomers, I truly motivate you to participate and come to the General Assembly. It will be one of the best experiences in your life. The General Assemblies are a space of exchange of ideas between medical students all over the world and you will be introduced to a total different level of discussions on health and education, at regional and global level.

For the most experienced ones, this Team of Officials commits to focus in making the General Assemblies much more outcomes-oriented. It is fundamental for our team to build up work that will be implemented and followed-up along the year, in order to support your work at national and local level.

I also want to underline the importance of the theme event of our General Assembly: “Humanitarian Action”. At the moment, we are facing an increase of the frequency and intensity of natural and men made catastrophes, which go from earthquakes to wars, from floods to droughts. It is important for medical students to be prepared to face these challenges that have a huge impact on the migration of people and provision of health and social security.

We are preparing the best sessions to inform and prepare us to this kind of problems, with an international recognized panel of specialists and advocates.

I can’t end this message without thanking TurkMSIC, for taking the initiative and hosting us, once more, in Turkey. They are already working hard to provide a memorable General Assembly!

See you in the General Assembly,

On behalf of the Team of Officials,

Agostinho Moreira de Sousa

IFMSA President

Özgür KILINÇARSLANTransportation Coordinatortransportation@mm2015turkey.com

Halit Onur YAPICITheme Events Coordinatortheme@mm2015turkey.com

Duygu ÖZTÜRKSocial Program Coordinatorsocial@mm2015turkey.com

Sina MEHRASAPost-GA Coordinatorpostga@mm2015turkey.com

Mustafa Ozan ALPAYRegistrations & Visa Coordinatorregistration@mm2015turkey.comvisa@mm2015turkey.com

Eren HALAÇPresidentpresident@mm2015turkey.com

Ayşe Mine ÖZÇELİKTreasurertreasurer@mm2015turkey.com

Barçın BARIPromotion & Public Relations

promotion@mm2015turkey.com

İnci Cansu SARILodging Coordinator

lodging@mm2015turkey.com

Bekir Burak KILBOZFundraising Coordinator

fundraising@mm2015turkey.com

Utku HASExternal Relations

external@mm2015turkey.com

Çağrı Orkun KILIÇPre-GA Coordinator

prega@mm2015turkey.com

Onur KÜÇÜKERDOĞANSecretary General

secgen@mm2015turkey.com

Remzi Can ÇAKIRInternal Relations

internal@mm2015turkey.com

Organizing Committee

THIS MUST BE IT !

Registration

How to Register Registration will be through our website: http://mm2015turkey.com

Each National Member Organization (NMO) is allowed a quota of sixteen (16) delegates which eight (8) delegates for the early registration (only if they register in the early registration period) and eight (8) others for the late registration.

Additional delegates above the total of 16 are allowed in the form of Alumni, Externals, Observers, IFMSA Officials and other Extra Quota delegates (Support Persons, and 2 members of the Organizing Committee of the August Meeting 2015) after being approved by IFMSA EB or responsible Directors and NMO President.

Please remind that we are very strict to the deadline. Any delegate, whose registration is not completed by the close of the early registration, will have to register as late.

Registration Period

Early Registration Opens on Saturday, 15th November 2014 at 00.01 GMT

Closes on Monday, 15th December 2014 at 23.59 GMT

We will accept the payment for the early registration until: Wednesday 24th December 2014 at 23.59 GMT

Late Registration Opens on Tuesday, 16th December 2014 at 06.00 GMT

Closes on Friday, 16th January 2015 at 23.59 GMT

We will accept the payment for the late registration until Friday 23rd January 2015 at 23.59 GMT

The NMO president must approve all delegates, who are members of the NMO. General delegates must be approved in the same period of registration.

Other types of delegates must be approved by both EB/Directors and respective NMO Presidents. All process should be done in the same period of registration. (Early delegates must be approved before 15th December 2014 at 23.59 GMT and late delegates before 16th January 2015 at 23.59 GMT)

Delegates can download personal invitation letter online during the registration period.

For Pre-GA registrations: first applications will be collected, and after selections done by respective Pre-GA Coordinators and OC, each selected individual will use our web-site to register.

Registration Fees You can contact IFMSA or visit the IFMSA website to see which category your country belongs to. The registration fees are as follow:

Early Registration Late Registration A and B Countries 120 € 245 € C and D Countries 220 € + 10 € TAF 390 € + 10 € TAF E and F Countries 285 € + 25 € TAF 495 € + 25 € TAF PreGA 200 € PostGA 180 €

Observers and Externals : 495 €

Remarks • Delegates from Category C and D countries must also pay an additional 10 € to the Travel

Assistance Fund (as you can see above). • Delegates from Category E and F countries must also pay an additional 25 € to the Travel

Assistance Fund (as you can see above). • All extra delegates must pay additional more 25 € for IFMSA Central Budget (not included

above). Extra delegates defined as the 9th delegate, the 10th delegate, the 11th delegate, and so on... (to be confirmed with IFMSA officials).

Substitutions and Cancellations Substitutions are allowed under special circumstances until 25th February 2015 at 23.59 GMT. Cancellations are allowed until 19th February 2015 at 23.59 GMT.

In terms of cancellations, regulations of refunds are stated as below:

Cancellation before 5th February 2015 at 00.01 GMT : Full refund Cancellation between 5th – 19th February 2015 GMT : 50% refund Cancellation after 19th February 2015 00.01 GMT : No refund

Payment Deadline for early registration payment : Wednesday, 24th December 2014 at 23.59 GMT

Deadline for late registration payment : Friday, 23rd January 2015 at 23.59 GMT

We recommend that NMOs transfer registration fees collectively within the same period of registration before the deadlines. Please remind that bank transfers need 3-4 working days to be received in beneficiary account and please include transfer charge fee to your payment.

In case of overcharged and/or undercharged payment, we will notify the NMO Presidents shortly.

Once the payment(s) has (have) been made, all NMO Presidents must send:

Scanned proof of payment (bank wire transfer receipts) Delegates’ names who are included in payment

to the OC Treasurer’s e-mail account, treasurer@mm2015turkey.com

Visa

Do I need my Passport? A valid passport is required to enter Turkey.

Your passport should be at least six months valid after your departure in Turkey.

Individuals who are from the following countries can enter Turkey with their National ID’s.

• Belgium • France • Georgia • Germany • Greece

• Italy • Lichtenstein • Luxemburg • Malta • Portugal

• Spain • Switzerland • The

Netherlands

• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

For more info on entering with National ID, please check Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: http://www.mfa.gov.tr/countries-whose-citizens-are-allowed-to-enter-turkey-with-their-national-id_s.en.mfa

Do I Need a Visa? It depends on which country’s passport you are carrying. We separated countries into 4 groups to make it more understandable.

Visa Category A – No Visa Needed for 30 Days • Albania • Andorra • Argentina • Azerbaijan • Belarus • Belize • Bolivia • Bosnia and

Herzegovina • Brazil • Brunei • Bulgaria • Chile • Colombia • Costa Rica • Czech Republic

• Denmark • Ecuador • El Salvador • Estonia • Finland • France • Georgia • Germany • Greece • Guatemala • Holy See • Honduras • Hong Kong • Hungary • Iceland • Iran

• Israel • Italy • Japan • Jordan • Kazakhstan • Kosovo • Kyrgyzstan • Latvia • Lebanon • Libya • Liechtenstein • Lithuania • Luxembourg • Macau • Macedonia • Malaysia

• Moldova • Monaco • Mongolia • Montenegro • Morocco • New Zealand • Nicaragua • Panama • Paraguay • Peru • Romania • Russia • Saint Kitts and

Nevis • San Marino

• Serbia • Seychelles • Singapore • Slovakia • Slovenia • South Korea

• Sweden • Switzerland • Syria • Tajikistan • Thailand

• Trinidad and Tobago

• Tunisia • Turkish Republic

of Northern Cyprus

• Turkmenistan • Ukraine • Uruguay • Uzbekistan • Venezuela

Visa Category B – e-Visa Required • Antigua and

Barbuda • Armenia • Australia • Austria • Bahamas • Bahrain • Barbados • Belgium • Canada • Croatia

• Cyprus Greek Cypriot Administration

• Dominica • Dominican

Republic • Fiji • Grenada • Haiti • Hong Kong • Indonesia • Ireland • Jamaica

• Kuwait • Maldives • Malta • Mauritius • Mexico • Netherlands • Norway • Oman • Poland • Portugal • Qatar • Saint Lucia

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Saudi Arabia • South Africa • Spain • Taiwan • United Arab

Emirates • United Kingdom • United States

Visa Category C – Eligible for e-Visa, on certain conditions • Afghanistan • Algeria • Angola • Bangladesh • Benin • Botswana • Burkina Faso • Burundi • Cameroon • Cape Verde • Central African

Republic • Chad • China • Comoros • Côte d'Ivoire

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Djibouti • Egypt • Equatorial

Guinea • Eritrea • Ethiopia • Gabon • Gambia • Ghana • Guinea • Guinea-Bissau • India • Iraq

• Kenya • Lesotho • Liberia • Madagascar • Malawi • Mali • Mauritania • Mozambique • Namibia • Niger • Nigeria • Pakistan • Philippines • Republic of the

Congo • Rwanda

• Sao Tome and Principe

• Senegal • Sierra Leone • Somalia • Sudan • Suriname • Swaziland • Tanzania • Togo • Uganda • Vietnam • Yemen • Zambia • Zimbabwe

Conditions are:

• All except citizens of Namibia and Zambia, must hold a valid visa or residence from one of the OECD (except electronic visas) or Schengen countries. Iraqi citizens must fulfill this requirement only if arriving via land border other than Habur. Egyptian citizens who are under 20 or over 45 years old do not need to fulfill this requirement.

• All except citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Iraq, Mexico and Pakistan must hold a round-trip ticket to Istanbul Ataturk Airport with Turkish Airlines.

• Must hold a hotel reservation and adequate financial means (US$ 50 per day). • Please refer to Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage for detailed info on

your country: http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa

Visa Category D – Visa Required • Bhutan • Cambodia • Cuba • East Timor • Guyana • Kiribati • Laos

• Marshall Islands • Micronesia • Myanmar • Nauru • Nepal • North Korea

• Northern Mariana Islands

• Palau • Palestine • Papua New

Guinea • Samoa

• Solomon Islands • South Sudan • Sri Lanka • Tonga • Tuvalu • Vanuatu

What is an e-Visa? As of April 17, 2013, electronic visa (e-Visa) replaces “sticker visa” which was issued at the border crossings. Applicants just need to log on to www.evisa.gov.tr , provide the requested information, (after the application is approved) make online payment and download their e-Visa.

Other Things That I Need to Know? Our OC will provide official Invitation Letters for individuals who require a visa.

Please refer to Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage for detailed info: http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa

For visa inquiries, you can contact our Visa Coordinator by visa@mm2015turkey.com

All information provided on this section acquired from Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage.

Theme Event

Humanitarian Action We are living in hard times. Disasters and conflicts are happening all around the world. Health workers are in the frontlines and suffer from all the toxic outcomes the most. International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations is the largest international student organization. This will be an invaluable opportunity to come together, deepen our knowledge and have discussions as future doctors.

The name of our theme has ‘Action’ in it. Our goal is to educate, train and motivate fellow IFMSA members. The attendants will have opportunity to learn about emergency situations and how to respond in such situations. They will also have a chance to engage with specialists witnesses from emergency, disaster and conflict situations. In addition to all of these our members will have opportunity to know more about what is going on around the world- from the people that has vast knowledge and real life

experience in war, conflict and disaster areas of the world.

MM15 Theme Event Coordinating Team is extremely excited to organize the theme event. The theme event will be implemented with workshops, parallel sessions and panel sessions. With the outcomes of sessions we will come out with ‘Declaration of Antalya’- A declaration of Medical Students’ to tell the world our ideas on what we think and what we have to say.

Pre-GA Mark the Date: 26 February – 2 March 2015

Istanbul: The City of Two Continents and One Pre-GA Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and the country’s economic, cultural and historical capital of Turkey. With its population over 14 million, Istanbul is also the biggest city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia.

General Information Istanbul is formed around 660 BC in Sarayburnu Promontory (Today’s historical peninsula) as the part of Byzantine Empire. It is then re-established as Constantinople in 330 AD. It served as the capital of four large empires: the Roman Empire (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395-1204 and 1261-1453), the Latin Empire (1204-1261) and the Ottoman Empire after it’s conquest by Sultan Mehmed II in 1453 until 1922. After the establishment of Turkish Republic in 1923 the capital was moved to Ankara, which did not affect Istanbul’s greatness in any matter. Istanbul still holds almost untouched thousand years of history while also offering a modern day visiting experience for its visitors. Istanbul had 12 million foreign visitors in 2012, and this number continues to increase every year. In 2014, Istanbul was named “European Capital of Culture”, and this year Istanbul was 5th most popular tourist destination in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Index. The Climate of Istanbul is temperate oceanic and in times of Pre-GA we expect it to be between 10-20 °C. We recommend participants to bring winter clothing and umbrella.

OC’s Picks for Top Sights

Byzantine (Roman) History Haghia Sophia - Basilica Cistern - Theodosian Walls - Galata Tower - Maiden’s Tower - Church of St. Savior in Chora – Grand Bazaar

Ottoman History Topkapi Palace - Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque – Dolmabahçe Palace

Modern Turkey History Istiklal Avenue (Taksim) – Miniaturk – Istanbul Archeology Museum – Kadıkoy Area

Geographical Must-Sees Princes’ Islands – Bosphorus – Golden Horn

Transportation Istanbul has two airports: Most flights fly to “Atatürk International Airport” (IST) that is situated in the European side and second airport which is “Sabiha Gökçen Airport” (SAW) is situated in Asian side. For your information, Sabiha Gökçen Airport is closer to the venue of the Pre-GA. Keep in mind that your OC will cover your transportation from both airports to Pre-GA venue in 26th of February and transportation from hotel to both airports in 2nd of March. If you are arriving other than the times indicated, we would do our best to help you with the transportation from airport to venue.

Also, if you plan to come to Istanbul by bus, especially for participants coming from Greece, Bulgaria, Macedonia and Romania; “Esenler Otogar” is the destination you would pick. Again the OC will cover transportation from Esenler Otogar to the venue in 26th of February and from venue to Esenler Otogar in 2nd of March.

Note: For the participants continuing to GA in Antalya after Pre-GA. The OC will cover your transportation. The flight from Istanbul to Antalya will be from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Antalya International and in 2nd of March you will be transported from the venue to the airport.

Venue The Pre-GA Workshops will be held in Acibadem University Faculty of Medicine’s newly opened Kerem Aydinlar Campus in Icerenkoy, Atasehir. It is a campus which opened in Kayisdagi area and has 26,000 m2 of in-campus area with more than 100,000 m2 of closed area. It will allow us to have more than 10 different Pre-GA workshops at once. The conference center in ACU where our opening and closing ceremony will take place has the capacity of 750 attendees and has 1,700 m2 areas. Also, the workshop rooms are well designed to make your learning experience and Istanblue one. Whole campus area has wireless connection along with International coffee shops. The building itself has recycling bins and a “Sustainable Building” award from 3rd International Green Building Summit, fitting best to the motto of our Green-GA.

It is in vicinity of Kadikoy-Kartal metro line and is 15 minutes of walking from “Kozyatağı” station. Also, there are buses from Kadikoy Harbourfront Bus station and Uskudar Harbourfront bus station to the campus both in walking distance of ferry stations from European side.

“When in Istanbul, what you as participants expect is a Pre-GA like no other, with top quality workshops and social program. We as OC are fully aware of expectations and are trying our best for you to make Pre-GA a one-of-a-kind experience for you. ”

Accommodation Our accommodation is going to be in ByOtell Asia Istanbul (http://www.byotell.com/home.aspx) and Acibadem University Student Guest House (http://www.acibadem.edu.tr). ByOtell is just 10 minutes of walking to workshop rooms and Student Guest House is just 5 minutes.

Both hotels are very good places for accommodation of such an international event. Comfortable rooms to help you enjoy your stay in Istanbul and free wi-fi connection can be found in both hotels.

Our Social Program We would like to provide you with some sneak-peaks about the kind of social program await you. Our social program will combine new with old and will try to show you the best selection of Ottoman and Modern Turkish culture in terms of food, folk dances and sights.

Bosphorus Cruise Tour A cruise in bosphorus is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Istanbul; also it is like a tradition for large organizations like our Pre-GA to have a Bosphorus cruise at night time. Visitors can see a lot of important sights at night from the cruise ship and have stunning views of Istanbul at night. The tour takes from 2 to 4 hours and also includes a reception and the best selection of worldwide music to dance with.

Sightseeing Tours Keep following our web page “http://mm2015turkey.com/” for any sightseeing tours we will offer exclusively for our Pre-GA attendees. These tours will either be free or with a discounted price, and will include some of the top sights of Istanbul.

We will offer all of our attendees with an “Istanbul Guide for IFMSAian” booklet specially prepared for Pre-GA attendees by our national member organization and OC, which will include top sights, food, tips on how to have more of Istanbul and also how a medical student lives in Istanbul.

Entertainment Istanbul is very famous for its entertainment and night-life. We will have best deals from some high-quality Istanbul night clubs for us during Pre-GA. Our night-time entertainment will take place in Kadikoy area and Taksim area, which are most famous areas for nightlife in Istanbul.

Important Remarks May any change occur in any information provided here, the OC will inform you about as soon as possible by using any means of communication.

General Assembly

Venue & Accommodation Lost civilization Atlantis was raised up to the surface in Belek by Limak hotel chain belonging to Limak Holding. Limak Atlantis Resort Hotel which is one of the links of Limak international hotel chain and which received 29th Golden Bull award opened its doors to Turkish tourism on the 3rd May, 2002. This chic restaurant, each detail of which demonstrates the minimalist style, which is very modern and offers peace and freshness to your soul, deserves to be called Atlantis. Newly born Atlantis with its golden sandy beach and 100-hundred-year-old pine trees in the garden consists of a main building and two Resort buildings.

Address Location of Atlantis Hotel & Resort Hotel situated in the heart of Belek, which is covered with 100-year-old pine trees and has a golden sandy shore, suits for various activities and all kinds of sport in the open air. It is located in 40 km from Antalya and just 35 km from Antalya airport.

Ileribasi Mevkii Camlik Sok. No:12 Belek / ANTALYA

Telephone: +90 242 710 07 00

Fax: +90 242 715 23 75

URL: www.limakhotels.com

E-mail: atlantis@limakhotels.com

Social Program

Opening Ceremony Over a thousand delegates from all around the world, all in different colors, having different backgrounds are meeting to live the same excitement and enthusiasm in the same place where many ancient civilizations have met throughout the past 10 centuries so far. It is going to be a great honor to have one of the most important and the most amazing evening of the IFMSA family in the magnificent amphitheatre in our lovely country.

Black & White Party After the first and busiest day of the GA, take a shower, pick up all the black and white clothes and come to the downstairs. Long eyelashes, moustaches, hats, gloves and many different accessories will be waiting to turn you into different styles and will make you feel the atmosphere deeply.

Cultural Night Now it is time to be on the stage to present your own culture! Get your delegates ready for this wonderful event; show yourself to the whole world. After the performances, Turkish Night will be organized to amaze you. From stage performances to serving delicious Turkish cuisine, you will explore our cultural mosaics. Don’t forget that some surprise gifts will be waiting for you.

Foam Party After a short way to the centre of Antalya, we will make a little city tour around and in one of the most popular night clubs of Antalya, we will be enjoying the party and of course the foam. Surprised games and gifts will be there to make the night more enjoyable.

National Food & Drink Party It is an international fact that one of the best ways of getting closer to a culture is tasting the food and beverages. As during the NFDP, we will all be trying the tastes from all around the world. You will also have a chance to introduce all the stuff you have on stage to everybody. In addition to this, we will be having a DJ performance.

Closing Ceremony On the last night of the program, many performances are going to be presented by Turkish dancers, singers and MM Organizing Committee. We will have a little song contest in which the most talented person and the the most talented NMO during the GA will be awarded. We will be preparing the last night within many details so to make this amazing GA unforgettable.

VIP Congress A pioneer institution in Tourism & Event Management sector, VIP was founded in 1968. The cornerstone concept of VIP is the principle of introducing Turkish hospitality to visitors to the country, and implementing this hospitality in a professional manner.

The company has played a vital role in generating interest in the industry, through the realization of over 1500 projects. They have also been involved in the organization of governmental congress projects, including for the Foreign Ministry, as well as in other fields such as medicine, science, industry, business, construction and sports.

VIP has expanded to embrace an additional meaning that illustrates the company’s values: Higher Value in products and services, greater. Integrity with suppliers and customers and excellent, Performance in travel and organization services for its local and international customers. VIP is acting as PCO, DMC and CREATIVE EVENT MANAGEMENT Company.

Post GA

Tour I - Cappadocia The Cappadocia Region located in the center of the Anatolian Region of Turkey, with its valley, canyon, hills and unusual rock formation created as a result of the eroding rains and winds of thousands of years of the level, lava-covered plain located between the volcanic mountains Erciyes, Melendiz and Hasan presents an otherworldly appearance.

Cities • Ürgüp — The biggest town and heart of Cappadocia. • Göreme — Cave Houses built into the Fairy Chimneys. • Üçhisar — The highest point of the region with its natural rock castle. • Avanos — Pottery town which is divided into two by the longest river of Turkey • Ortahisar — A small village famous with its rock castle. • Mustafapaşa — Old Greek village.

Our Destinations and Activities Balloon Tour

Kapadokya/Cappadocia - the best place on the earth for hot air balloon tours. Cappadocia region is the place where nature and history come together most beautifully within the world. There are many places that are "must see" in Cappadocia, such as; the various "fairy chimneys", Göreme valley, Göreme national park, Rock churches, the underground cities of Kaymaklı, Derinkuyu or Özkonak, Zelve valley, Avanos, with its pottery, the Üchisar and Ortahisar rock fortress, the Ihlara valley, Red valley and Soğanlı.

Turkish Night Whirling Dervish Dance Baglama Show Folk Dances from Five Different

Regions Egypt Dance Show The Black Sea Dancers Roman, Harem, Kafkas Dance Oriental Show with Belly Dancer Disco

Göreme Open Air Museum Kaymaklı Underground City Uçhisar Castle Ihlara Valley Wine House Pottery Stories

Tour II – Aegean Tour

Pamukkale Pamukkale, is a natural wonder and one of the world’s most valuable ancient sites that has flourished with the civilizations it has hosted. A natural phenomena bringing together the thermal waters of Lycos (Çürüksu) Valley with the travertine resulting from environmental factors and chemical reactions, Pamukkale, has attracted attention for its healing waters for thousands of years. The region is home to 17 thermal springs with temperatures ranging between 35 and 100 degrees..

Located at the entrance to the ancient city of Hierapolis, Frontius Street is 1 km long and 14 m wide. There are houses and shops on both sides of the street that divides the city into two halves.

In addition to sightseeing, visitors can spare some time for relaxation and enjoy the healing touch of nature by taking mud baths, or swimming in the thermal springs and healing waters.

Pamukkale is awaiting its visitors to explore its natural and historical landmarks.

İzmir The city is located on the Aegean Coast in the West of Turkey and the city is the biggest and most important settlement in the Aegean Region. The city, known as “Beautiful İzmir” in Turkey, is established at the beginning of a long and narrow gulf, decorated with yachts, passenger ships and gulf steamers.

Clock Tower (İzmir’s century-old symbol) The Clock Tower, which is a symbol of İzmir, is located at Konak Square, and is a favourite meeting place for today’s residents of İzmir. The Clock Tower was designed by the Levantine French architect. Raymnd Charles Pere in 1901 in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the ascension of Abdülhamit II.

Efes - Ephesus Ephesus is the site of the most beautiful examples of ancient and natural architecture well preserved until the present day. Established for the first time 8000 years ago, the antique city was restored several times even progressing further every time.

The amazing structures, majestic pillars and columns, the library, the streets and the temple, constructed with a view and technique ahead of the time, carry the deepest traces of the history of ancient times. The Temple of Artemis, one of the most important monuments of Ephesus, retains its value as one of the Seven Wonders of the World since the ancient times.

The Magnesia Gate, Eastern Gymnasium, Odeon, State Agora, Prytaneion, Memmius Monument, House of Love, Hillside Houses, Theater, Ayasuluk Castle are among the other well-known structures of Ephesus still intact in the present day.

Of utmost importance to Christianity, the House of Virgin Mary, where Virgin Mary took shelter together with St. John after the death of Christ is located at Bülbüldağı. The House is situated amidst a majestic forest in pristine nature and is supposedly the site where Mary had lived until she died.

According to legend, prior to the legalization of Christianity, seven young people running away from the persecution of pagans took shelter in a cave and slept there for two centuries. The site was later on referred to as the site of Seven Sleepers and turned into a mausoleum in memory of the sleepers. The ruins of four-layered structure of the monument are partially preserved.

Kuşadası Extant since the ancient times, Kuşadası harbors natural and historical wonders alongside magnificent beaches.

Güvercin Ada (Pigeon Island) is among the major touristic attractions. Dating back to the Byzantine era the island took its final shape after it was reconstructed to guard against any possible attacks. The castle rising above the hill will mesmerize you with its amazing view.

Milli Park (National Park) is the habitat of a variety of flora and fauna including rare plants and the Mediterranean monk seals. Nature enthusiasts interested specifically in examining flora and fauna should make sure to pay a visit to Milli Park. The more than 20 km- long- seaside including

beaches such as Güvercinada, Yılancı Burnu, Yavansu, Karaova is another tourist attraction of the area. Adjoining the deep blue sea the beaches of Kuşadası will make you feel comfortable and relaxed under the warm Aegean sun.

The refreshing thermal springs of Çıban, Venus and Güzelçamlı are awaiting their guests to offer an altogether different experience for visitors looking for healing and relaxation.

Furthermore, Kuşadası is among the major cruising destinations hosting well known cruise ships from all around the world. Passengers of cruise lines stopping over in Kuşadası will be amazed by the beauty of the resort and the variety of touristic attractions in the area. A cove where history meets the blue sea, Kuşadası is ever ready to welcome its visitors any time of the year!

About Turkey

Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is generally heritage of Ottoman cuisine which can be described as a fusion of Central Asian, Caucasian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Balkan cuisines. It varies across the country. The cooking of Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir and rest of the Aegean region, where olives trees grow abundantly, and olive oil is the major type of oil used in cooking. The cuisines of Aegean, Marmara and Mediterranean regions are rich in vegetables, herbs and fish. Black Sea Regions people uses extensively fish, especially anchovy. Southeast part; Urfa, Gaziantep and Adana is famous for its kebabs, mezes and dough-based desserts such as baklava, kadayıf and künefe. Central Anatolia has many specialties such as keşkek(kashkak), mantı and gözleme.

Yogurt is an important element in Turkish cuisine; it can accompany almost all meat dishes, mezes and mantı.

A turkish meal usually starts with a thin soup (çorba).

Börek is the general name for salty pastries made with yufka(a thicker version of phyllo dough).

Lahmacun is a thin flatbread covered with a layer of spiced minced meat, tomato, pepper, onion or garlic.

Pide, is one of the most common traditional Stone-baked Turkish specialties. Meze is a selection of food served as appetizer. Dolma has special place in Turkish cuisine. It can be eaten either as meze or main dish.

Beverages Turkish people drink black tea during the day, a lot. Tea is made with 2 teapots in Turkey. Strong bitter tea made in the upper pot is diluted by adding boiling water from the lower.

Ayran(salty yogurt drink) is the most common cold beverage.

Boza and Salep are the most traditional winter drinks.

Rakı is the most popular alcoholic drink in Turkey. It is an unsweetened, anise flavored alcoholic drink, often served with seafood or meze. It is produced by distillation of grapes pomace obtained during wine fermentation.

There are various local wines produced by Turkish brands. The size and geographic of Turkey accounts for the wide climatic variation of Turkey’s wine regions.

Turkish coffee is an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Turks confirmed by UNESCO and it is a method of preparing. Roasted then finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a pot (cezve), usually with sugar and served in a small special cup.

Turkish Bath (Hammam) For centuries Turkish hammam continues to exist as one of the major components of the Ottoman and Turkish hammam culture with its peştemal, rubber, large and bright dome and unique architectural beauty.

Hammam that was built with the purpose of the water use for health is not only a cleaning place for Turks. Turkish hammam is also health and entertainment center where people having social activities.

The Turkish bath starts with relaxation in a room (known as the warm room) that is heated by a continuous flow of hot, dry air, allowing the bather to perspire freely. Bathers may then move to an even hotter room (known as the hot room) before they wash in cold water. After performing a full body wash and receiving a massage, bathers finally retire to the cooling-room for a period of relaxation.

There are number of accessories that specific to the Istanbul Turkish bath and are still used in. The bath gloves that made of palm root and the Turkish work of peştemals are the most indispensables of them. Also the pumice stone which, used to rub the feet is always available in the hammam package. Inlaid copper, silver or brass bath bowl is one of the most beautiful examples of handwork.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Turkey is a Mediterranean country with a lively culture of eating, drinking, and entertainment, with nightlife and eating-out possibilities to suit every preference. During the summer months, alfresco dining is the norm, particularly along the coastal areas and along the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

Nightlife in Turkey Turkish nightlife has traditionally centered on meyhanes, similar to taverns, where an assortment of mezes (small plates or appetizers), often followed by a meal of fish, is consumed with rounds of raki (Turkish national drink), the aniseed-flavoured national spirit. Still extremely popular with all ages, the meyhane is a social affair, where dining and drinking is often accompanied by live music played on traditional instruments.

Traditional Music and Drinking A great way to explore Turkey's culture is through its music. The big cities attract both well-known and up-and-coming musicians, DJs and performers from around the world and music festivals are now a popular feature of the summer months, ranging from hard rock and classical to electronic and jazz.

Traditional music is also still very popular in Turkey, ranging from Anatolian folk music to Turkish style classical music to lively, Balkan-influenced fasil music, and experiencing it live is the most enjoyable way to hear it.

Nightclubs, Restaurants, Pubs and Bars There are lots of bars, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs all over Turkey. Big cities and tourist resorts in Turkey have some of the most popular clubs in the country. Whatever type of bar or club you are looking for, you will absolutely find it in Turkey.

Istanbul is one of the world's hottest city-break destinations, in part due to its nightlife. Many of the hip new hangouts, chic restaurants and rooftop bars are all a stones-throw from the energetic Istiklal Street in Taksim and nearby Tunel, as well as many dotted along the Bosphorus; enjoy sophisticated cocktail-sipping in trendy bars to clubbing all night to global beats. In the summer, Istanbul also revels in water-side fun, with plenty of open-air entertainment against the stunning backdrop of the Istanbul skyline.

What to Bring? Umbrella - Upon arrival and disembarking from the plane, you'll immediately notice the sudden rush of warm, wet air. Turkey is a warm place. It has spring, summer, fall, and winter. While there is significant regional variation, in most of the country (including Istanbul and Antalya) the spring season is March to June.

Since March is the beginning of spring, there might be fine rain in first days. Istanbul is more likely to be couple of degrees colder than Antalya since it is in the north of Turkey. Daily temperature would be around 10–15 Celsius for Istanbul and 15–20 Celsius for Antalya. So, bring your umbrella or raincoat just in case!

How to Dress in Turkey? Even though the majority of the people are Muslim, Turkey is a secular country and you are free to wear anything you like. Turkish people wear clothes that are similar to western style. Many men wear ties when they go to work. For informal occasions, people wear jeans and t-shirts. Women wear dress just like ordinary people in the west. Some Turkish women wear scarves (hijab), whereas some do not.

Bring your regular clothes; you don’t need anything special, except for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Don’t forget your formal clothes for these events!

Alcohol Drinking alcohol is not prohibited in Turkey. You can buy alcohol from supermarkets between 6:00-22:00. Also there are many bars, pubs, and restaurants that you can drink.

We encourage each NMO limits its alcohol amount to maximum of 1,5 liters in total. We realize that alcohol is a big issue during the National Food and Drinking party. We will try to reduce the amount of alcohol during the GA and replace it with other interesting events.

If you throw up in public places or damage the hotel property, we will charge you for the expenses.

Electric Plug 220 V/50 Hz (Schuko Euro Plug)

Currency Turkish money is called Turkish Lira (TRY).

1 Euro = TRY 2,77

1 USD = TRY 2,21

1 bottle of mineral water = 1 TRY

1 Big Mac = 9,25 TRY

Mobile Phone We use a standard GSM SIM Card in Turkey. You can get local number by buying Turkish SIM Card. If your SIM Card supports for International Roaming, it will work in Turkey as well.

Public Transportation

In Istanbul each time you use a tram, metro or boat on the public transport system you will need to use a token. The small plastic tokens cost 4 TL and can be bought at various token machines at metro, tram and boat stations. For buses (IETT) you will need to pay 4 TL. The fare of buses, trams and metros are at a flat rate (not dependent on how far you go)

Buying an IstanbulKART (Turkish acronym for Smart Ticket) is a good idea if you intend to use public transport. IstanbulKART is a small electronic device serving as a ticket which may be used on every kind of public transport. You buzz the IstanbulKART when you get on the bus or to enter the tram/metro station. The great part for travelers is that you can buy only one and you can buzz it for any other passenger. You can buy it at designated booths located at any major bus, tram metro stations as well as some other places. The biggest advantage of IstanbulKART is that within 2 hours after the first use, you pay half the fare (1,45 TL) for the next usages.

Turkish Language Turkish (Türkçe), also referred to as Istanbul Turkish, is the most widely spoken of the Turkic languages, with around 10–15 million native speakers in Southeastern Europe and 55–60 million native speakers in Western Asia. Speakers are located predominantly in Turkey, with smaller groups in Germany, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Northern Cyprus, Greece, the Caucasus, and other parts of Europe and Central Asia.

The distinctive characteristics of Turkish are vowel harmony and extensive agglutination. The basic word order of Turkish is subject–object–verb. Turkish has no noun classes or grammatical gender. Turkish uses second-person pronouns that distinguish varying levels of politeness, social distance, age, courtesy or familiarity toward the addressee. The plural second-person pronoun and verb forms are used referring to a single person out of respect.

To get you started and introduce you to the Turkey national language, are some basic phrases in Turkish. Trust us; it’s not that hard to get use to Turkish! You can refer to Google Translate on pronunciations!

Greetings:

Good morning Günaydın Good afternoon İyi günler Good evening İyi akşamlar Good-bye Hoşçakal (if you're leaving) Güle güle (to someone who is leaving you) Thank you Teşekkür ederim You're welcome Rica ederim How are you? I am fine Nasılsın? İyiyim Excuse me Afedersiniz

Communicating:

Do you speak English? İngilizce biliyor musunuz? I don't speak Turkish. Türkçe bilmiyorum.

Requesting basic assistance:

Where is the bathroom? Lavabo nerede? How much is this? Bu ne kadar? I want this. Bunu istiyorum.

Numbers:

1 Bir 2 İki 3 Üç 4 Dört 5 Beş

6 Altı 7 Yedi 8 Sekiz 9 Dokuz 10 On

Other vocabularies:

Yes Evet No Hayır Water Su I Ben You Sen (singular-informal), Siz (plural, formal-politeness) He/she O They Onlar We Biz Love (I love you) Sevmek (Seni seviyorum)