My husband and I had been in Turkey in 1994 as part of an
independent ’round-the-world trip and had often talked of returning. FLO
USA’s 15-day tour that included the 2006 solar eclipse sounded almost too
good to be true. When we checked their website and learned it also included
several days in Cappadocia, we called and made our reservations for the
March 19-April 2 trip.
This was our first trip as part of a tour group, and we couldn’t have
been more satisfied. The price of $1,925 included airfare from New York’s
JFK to Istanbul; hotels; all breakfasts and dinners; air-conditioned buses;
tour guides, and an astronomer to help us better appreciate the eclipse.
We traveled in three buses, about 85 total travelers, with each bus
having its own guide. Our guide, Sinan, was exceptionally good, with a broad
knowledge of history, including that of both Islam and Christianity. He
added so much to our appreciation of Istanbul, Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus,
Hieropolis, etc.
An evening in an ancient caravanserai on the old Silk Road included a
whirling dervish ceremony.
FLO USA had arranged — I’m not sure how — for us to have the exclusive
use of an ancient, yet-to-be-excavated Roman ruin site the day of the
eclipse, March 29. Several in the group had brought their high-powered
telescopes, which they willingly shared with all of us. The weather
cooperated beautifully to make my first total solar eclipse a truly
memorable event.
The region of Cappadocia is unique and otherworldly. The strange rock
formations that have served as homes and churches for many centuries are a
sight and experience that cannot be easily described. An optional
early-morning hot-air balloon ride over those formations was a fitting
climax to this wonderful tour.
For an in-depth tour to learn more about the wonderful country of Turkey,
we highly recommend FLO USA.
— Dorothy Feisel, St. Michaels, MD
I am writing to thank you for taking such good care of
my client Jana Becker..She was on the July 2008 eclipse tour and had a
fantastic time!!!. I also appreciate you remembering her birthday. It
was so special to her and she was overjoyed. I truly appreciate what
you did for her... I just want you to know that I would love any info you
can send me on future trips of interest as I will highly recommend you and
look forward to working with you again!
With warm regards,
Mary Lou Zarlengo
