The Tapestry of Turkey

A COUPLES’ ADVENTURE OF CULTURE AND BEAUTY

 

The Tapestry of Turkey

A COUPLES’ ADVENTURE OF CULTURE AND BEAUTY

September 8 - 20, 2026

Bustling bazaars and mosques adorned with marble mosaics, magical fairy chimneys born of a volcano, cave cities and turquoise waters, enchanting island trails: this is the Tapestry of Turkey!

Turkey is a land of dualities, woven together with culture and beauty.  Ancient ruins flowing into modern architecture, rugged landscapes soothed by the waves of the sea, a bridge between the East and the West. It is a culture steeped in the secrets of the Ottoman Empire, softened by the mysticism of the Sufis.  Perhaps what defines this spirited culture the most is the warm hearts and giving hands of the people. 

Turkey provides the perfect backdrop for an epic 12 day adventure! We’ll start in the ancient city of Istanbul, exploring mosques and gardens, meandering through markets, feasting on the Mediterranean delights! Then we’ll head to Cappadocia, one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Known as the land of fairies, your senses come alive at the sight of its wind-sculpted towers that lead to secret passageways in underground cities.  We’ll explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, hike island trails, play in the waves of the Aegean Sea, and be awed by the ancient ruins of Troy. 

This Turkish adventure included couples’ experiences designed to create deeper connection and inspire your most meaningful relationship.  It’s the perfect way to celebrate your love and reconnect you to fun, joy, and romance in your partnership!

Join Kim Mlinarik and Samer Salib on this life-changing Alchemy Adventure!

Your Turkey Adventure Includes:

  • Twelve days and nights in the historic cities and towns of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Selcuk, Ayvalik, and Canakkale

  • A beachfront hotel with sun, sand, and the Aegean Sea!

  • Twelve nights’ lodging in luxury hotels

  • All transportation and luggage transfers

  • Most meals

  • Visits to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia in Istanbul

  • Underground cities and cave villages in Cappadocia

  • A private cooking lesson to learn traditional dishes

  • Hiking through the fairy spires in Love Valley

  • Tour of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary

  • Exploring Ancient Troy

  • Adventure to nearby islands

  • a few surprises, and more!

  • Pre and post-trip group conference calls with Kim

Pricing coming soon!

We are putting the finishing touches on this trip and we’ll have pricing out soon! If you are interested in joining us on this epic adventure, sign up on our Waiting List with no money down, and we’ll make sure we contact you first with special discounts once we finalize details in just a few weeks!

IIn the meantime, if you have any questions feel free to reach out to Kim. She would love to talk to you more about this adventure!

“Our couples trip with Alchemy Adventures to Ireland was fantastic. We had very high expectations after traveling with them to the Amalfi Coast and this trip did not disappoint. Once again, Eric and Kim had everything “greased” and so many fun adventures planned. Kim and Eric work incredibly hard to ensure their clients experience world class adventures that include stunning hikes, amazing food, and fantastic accommodations. They are also down to earth people who are very fun to hang out with. Their trips have a great balance of group time and allotted time to explore on your own. In short, we had another amazing trip with Alchemy!”

Kevin, Amalfi Coast and Ireland Couples’ trips

 
Just Imagine...
 

DAY 1-2: ISTANBUL

Our adventure begins in Istanbul, known in ancient times as Constantinople. A meeting point between the East and the West, this eternal city spans two continents, a bridge between Europe and Asia.  Often referred to as the Sultan of the cities, this ancient and bustling city has a story to tell! Let your senses come alive with the melodic call to prayer, the smell of spices wafting from market stalls, and a skyline of a thousand minarets. We’ll visit the Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque, underground cisterns that mirror a chapel, and palace gardens fit for a queen.  Explore the shops and markets, sample the Turkish delights, and feel the warmth and welcome of the local shopkeepers as they proudly share their stories.

 
 

DAYS 3-5: CAPPADOCIA

Next we’ll travel to the captivating region of Cappadocia, known for its moonscape feel, hoodoo fairy spires, and villages built in the side of mountains!  Our cave hotel will be home as we explore underground cities and hike through the valleys of this otherworldly landscape. Your heart will be pulled to the whispers of the ancient civilization that once inhabited this land and delighted by its traditions!

 
 

DAYS 6 TO 7: SELCUK

We’ll head to the village of Selcuk, with its tree-lined streets and charming local flare.  We’ll venture to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, then visit the House of the Virgin Mary, thought to be her final home. You’ll have plenty of free time to dine in an outdoor Locanta, share an apple tea with the shopkeepers, and peruse the markets, making friends with the local felines.  

 

 

DAYS 8 TO 10: AYVALIK

It’s time to relax by the Aegean Sea.  We’ll take it down a notch and settle into this idyllic beach town, where the locals come to holiday. We’ll explore the hiking trails of nearby islands, play on the sandy shores, and soak in the healing waters of the Aegean Sea. Of course a few surprises await!

 

 

DAY 11-13: CANAKKALE & ISTANBUL

The ancient city of Troy is one of mythology and legends.  Our next stop will take us to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to sift through layers of one of the most iconic stories ever told in Homer’s Iliad. Afterward, stroll the waterfront promenade, be awed by the Trojan Horse, sip on craft cocktails and enjoy the view.

We return to Istanbul for a final day to shop the Grand Bazaar, collecting your favorite spices, colorful pottery, and tasty delights to bring the magic of Turkey home with you!  We’ll close the trip with a very special evening of celebration!  The final morning is open to depart as needed, returning home with full hearts, new friends, and a deeper connection to each other!

 

 

Your Turkey Adventure Includes:

  • Twelve days and nights in the historic cities and towns of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Selcuk, Ayvalik, and Canakkale

  • A beachfront hotel with sun, sand, and the Aegean Sea!

  • Twelve nights’ lodging in luxury hotels

  • All transportation and luggage transfers

  • Most meals

  • Visits to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia in Istanbul

  • Underground cities and cave villages in Cappadocia

  • A private cooking lesson to learn traditional dishes

  • Hiking through the fairy spires in Love Valley

  • Tour of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary

  • Exploring Ancient Troy

  • Adventure to nearby islands

  • a few surprises, and more!

  • Pre and post-trip group conference calls with Kim

 

“Kim and Eric are family. With Alchemy Adventures you are not going on a tour, you are joining a warm caring, well organized, yet spontaneous family, exploring a culture while exploring yourself. Ann and I treasure our rich experience and adventure with them in Italy and look forward to our next one.”

— Joe, Trails of Tuscany Parent Trip 2018