NAT GEO DAY TOUR: Influential Women of Turkey: From Past to Present

NAT GEO DAY TOUR: Influential Women of Turkey: From Past to Present

Drive through Kuşadasi’s bustling seaside port toward the modern town Selçuk, where the ancient city of Ephesus once stood. You’ll stop by the ruins of the Artemision or the Temple of Artemis, only one column of which remains today. Once considered a wonder of the ancient world, the temple is still famous for its archeological, cultural and historical significance. Learn about Artemis’ religious following from a local guide familiar with the site and discover her importance to the ancient people of Turkey.

Then, pass by crumbling mountains and age-old ruins to the House of the Virgin Mary, another influential woman of Turkey’s past. A somewhat mysterious figure, little is known about Mary’s personal life and whereabouts; but historical evidence suggests she lived in this house at Ephesus after her son’s crucifixion and until the end of her life. Explore the lush grounds and meditate on Mary’s legacy as pilgrims from all over the world pay homage to her at this site.

After learning about these ancient women, you’ll turn to Turkey’s modern female heroes. Travel to Toprak Okulu, a local school teaching sustainable agricultural practices to Selçuk’s citizens, with outreach offered especially to women and young people. The project aims to engage the community in providing for its own city and is just one of many initiatives championed by Filiz Ceritoğlu Sengel, Mayor of Selçuk. Sengel, who also serves as President of the Law Commission and Chairman of the Gender Equality Commission, has become a driving force for women’s rights in the local area and in Turkey as a whole. At the school, enjoy exclusive access to the grounds while a member of her staff reveals insights into the project and its hopes for the future.

Finally, you’ll make your way to Yedi Bilgeler Vineyards, a gorgeous winery surrounded by lavender gardens and grapevines. Here, an in-house chef and a local wine expert have prepared a 4-course tasting and pairing menu, created specifically for National Geographic travelers. You’ll reminisce on the day as you dine on traditional Turkish cuisine and relax with wines made from a family of vines cultivated over the last 2,000 years.

Notes: A minimum participation is required to operate this Yachting Land Adventures, and it has limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.

Port: Kusadasi (Ephesus)

Duration: 5.5 hours

Current Price: 189 USD