Istanbul Reading trip
We are thrilled to offer this unique city break experience that combines guided tours of the famous city of Istanbul with the travellers passion for reading. This trip will be lead by reading guide Paul Wright, or one of his experienced team.
Paul Wright – With over six years of experience running large book clubs in Bristol and Exeter, Paul has cultivated a deep understanding of what makes a great gathering. Since 2023, he has organised Books in Places trips, blending his love of literature and travel. the focus for the trip is on creating relaxed and sociable experiences where like-minded people can connect over books they love.
This will be an exceptional trip and reading retreat for book lovers, providing a chance to connect with fellow readers and travellers who share your passions.
During this holiday the featured book will be, “10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World”. An intensely beautiful and haunting novel from Elif Shafak about the wonder of life, the mystery of death and the strange space in between. Set in Istanbul, this Booker-shortlisted novel really captures the essence of Istanbul and will be the focus of our book club discussion. Elif Shafak is the best-selling Turkish-British novelist of best-selling books such as “The Forty Rules of Love”, “The Island of Missing Trees” and her current best seller, “There are rivers in the sky”.
The Hotel
Our hotel we will use on this city break is the 4-star Hotel Sumengen, a converted Ottoman Mansion situated along the banks of the Bosphorus Strait, a few minutes from the Blue Mosque. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the Marmara Sea while having meals at the restaurant.
Your Room
The spacious rooms are decorated in the Ottoman style with handmade, Turkish rugs and classic style furtniture. They all have a large bathroom and free WiFi.
Hotel Facts
- Air conditioning
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Ironing facilities
- Flat-screen TV
- Free WiFi
- Hairdryer
- Safe
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel. Dinner at a local restaurant (payable locally).
We recommend all flights land by 17.00 into Istanbul.
Day 2
After breakfast set off for half Day Tour: Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square, Topkapı Palace (entrance not included) and Galata Tower (entrance not included).
In the evening we will all get together and discuss the book over a meal in a local Turkish restaurant.
Day 3
After breakfast enjoy a Half Day Tour: Dolmabahce Palace, Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar and Sultan Suleyman Mosque.
Free time in the afternoon and then back to the hotel.
Day 4
Free day then an early evening boat trip on the Bosphorus.
Day 5
Free time after breakfast, then transfer to the airport.
Istanbul
Location
Istanbul is the most populous European city and we can understand why with its timeless charm and rich history. The city is full of numerous architectural wonders and remnants of ancient empires, still standing tall in the heart of the city.
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