Istanbul bristles with history and culture. Dissected by the Bosphorus, and marking the divide between Europe and Asia. Enjoy a two hour treatment at the Four Seasons Spa, a place that's based on the traditions of a classic Istanbul hamam.
Visit the Egyptian Obelisk, as well as the Serpentine and Constantine columns, Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque & the rest of the day is free to enjoy Istanbul.
Visit the Topkapi Palace & the Grand Bazaar. The Spice Market spills fragrances onto the street and your nose follows, into corridors lined with vibrant sacks of saffron and exotic powders. Take your time and follow the scents, your guide on hand to help with any negotiations for local produce.
Ephesus leaves a magical impression of old-world grandeur and charm. Explore the Temple of Hadrian, the Grand Theater, and wander hand-in-hand through old stone streets dotted with relics and remains.
A traditional wooden gulet offers an iconic vessel for cruising the Mediterranean. The sails are raised and you head off along the Aegean Coast, this first day a gentle journey to Didyma and a chance to fully indulge in the tranquility of a private yacht cruise.
Ancient Ionia was centered on the cities of Didyma, Miletus, and Priene. Their towering columns, temple remains, carved stone sculptures beneath cliffs of cascading forest. Today is both on board and on land, the gulet taking you slowly along the coast as you explore the rich archaeological splendor of ancient cities.
Ionia is still glistening in the distance and the horizon of sapphire imbues a sense of adventure. Today's final destination is Lasos, where a quiet harbor in the Gulluk Bay makes for another romantic evening beneath the stars.
Over these two days you continue to sail down the Aegean towards Bodrum. Drop anchor in quiet bays and swim in the turquoise waters. Dock in small harbors and explore traditional villages that line the Aegean. Bargylia, Myndos, and Cnidus are all popular places to dock and explore.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was one of the original Seven Wonders. Visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology to explore further treasures now dominated by crashing waves, and then perched above the water, the Bodrum Castle is another timeless ode to this historic land.
Kusadasi to Bodrum is a classic one way yacht journey, joining together the ancient world wonder of Halicarnassus with the renowned ruins of Ephesus. It's also a practical journey as both have domestic airports with direct flights to Istanbul.