"FLAVORS OF ANATOLIA"
Four Day Turkish Cuisine Program

TRAVEL SERVICES features a culinary tour called "Flavors ofAnatolia." Centered in Istanbul, it includes dining experiences in world-famous restaurants showcasing the infinite varieties of classic and regional Turkish cuisine. At the Beyti and Tugra restaurants you will also tour their squeaky-clean kitchens and the chefs of the Tugra will give a culinary demonstration of some famous dishes originally made for Ottoman Sultans, which they are recreating for today's dinners.

AIM OF THE PROGRAM:
Epicures and Gourmets are invited to Istanbul to enjoy the Turkish cuisine; one of the three great cuisine's in the world. During their stay guests will be able to sample various examples of Turkish Cuisine as well as get to see actual presentations and preparations. Guests will also get the opportunity to experience the true beauty of Istanbul due to the variety of places they will be visiting.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The history of the Turkish people stretches from Central Asia to Europe. In 1701, the Seljuks victory in Manzikert opened Anatolia to Turkish settlement. As a result the Turkish cuisine reflects history and a diverse cultural heritage.

After interchanging culinary habits and recipes with other peoples for centuries, the Turkish cuisine reached perfection during the Ottoman times. As the Turkish cuisine exchanged culinary habits and recipes with other civilizations it became rich in variety and tasty to different palates. Not only that, it is a balanced, healthy cuisine.

Travelers to Turkey love to taste "MEZE's" (Turkish hors d'ocuvres), fresh fish, a variety of Kebabs, vegetable dishes, pilafs and borek (fluffy pastry sluffed with cheese or meat) and a very rich assortment of desserts. Enjoy the opportunity to taste, and learn about the history of Turkish wines as well. Records dating back to 400 BC of the first vineyards in the world have been found at the fool of Mt. Arat.

EXAMPLE PROGRAM:

DAY 1
Guests arrive in ISTANBUL and welcomed by the SUPERNOVA Team. There is an orientation during the transfer to the hotel; one of Istanbul's beautiful five star hotels. A Turkish girl dressed in traditional costume welcomes the Guests and serves `Raki', the national liquor. After check-in guests can relax before pick up from the hotel for an enjoyable dinner at ISKELE, which is located directly on the Bosphorus.

DAY 2
Guests will be picked up from the hotel for a typical Turkish Breakfast at a traditional coffee house by the Bosphorus. Guests will have a chance to walk around a quaint area which is full of cafes and artistic shops located on the Bosphorus.

Guests will then have the special opportunity to meet one of the world famous chefs of Turkey, who will reveal the secrets and history of the Turkish cuisine. 'The participants are encouraged to cook with him, and sample some delicacies. In the afternoon visit ST. SOPHIA, the BLUE MOSQUE and the stunning TOPKAPI PALACE.

Guests can return to their hotel and rest before a exquisite dinner at TUGRA RESTAURANT, at the Ciragan Palace. TUGRA is known as an extension of Ottoman cuisine. the chef will give a presentation on the Turkish cuisine and the Turkish culinary habits. the finale is an irresistible degustation menu from the Ottoman cuisine.

DAY 3
After a buffet breakfast at the hotel, guests will be picked up from the hotel for a visit to the Bakery `GULLUOGLU', famous for it's Baklava; a popular dessert made of thin dough and nuts). the guests can watch the baking process and receive the original recipe.
Lunch will be served at LIMAN RESTAURANT which located at the harbor and has a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. A popular preference by the business community in Istanbul, Liman is known for the outstanding quality of its menus.

In the afternoon, ride to Eminonu to visit the SPICE BAZAAR and enjoy the vivacity of the fish and flower vendors. Later browse the worldwide known GRAND BAZAAR of Istanbul.

After returning to the hotel and settling in a bit, guests will be picked up for dinner at BEYTI . When meat specialties are the subject, Beyti is the tradition. Recipient of International awards granted to selected Restaurateurs in the Gastronomy Field, Mr. Beyti often entertains dignitaries at his restaurant. Before sampling a degustation menu of grilled meat dishes, the owner leads the guests into his kitchen.

DAY 4
After breakfast at the hotel guests will be transferred to the pier. they have the splendid experience of cruising along the Bosphorus on board a private yacht, reserved for the exclusive use of the group. The guests will view marble Palaces, Historical Forts, and 'Yali' which are Patrician Houses by the water.

Lunch will be served at a restaurant called KORFEZ which is located by the Bosphorus, which presents a rich assortment of delicious Turkish appetizers and seafood. According to flight schedules guests will be transferred to the airport.