How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

What is the accommodation like?

You will be hosted in a combination of Turkish hotels and guesthouses in most destinations. These locally-owned hotels are chosen for their location, character, cleanliness and comfort. We will also stay in a traditional Turkish village guesthouse for a unique insight into local life.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes days in the guesthouse where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. 

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please note in the rural parts of this itinerary, there may be limited choices for those with dietary requirements. 

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. Mobile phone reception will be limited during the trek, but generally fine in the cities. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels. 

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to electricity and the ability to recharge items daily. 

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider. You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium daypack for hiking walks (20-25 litres). Your main luggage/bag will be transferred for you to the next destination while you are hiking. You will need to pack good walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack. We strongly recommend bringing a pair of walking poles. Please note, these cannot be obtained locally. 

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Shake it up? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Shake it up. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Shake it up are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

• Generally, the travel cost includes: 
• Transfers as per itinerary
• Accommodation 
• Meals as per itinerary
• Activities as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include:

• Airfares
• Airport transfers
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visa
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Is the travel cost guaranteed?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. 

How much spending money do I need?

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Most goods and services can be paid for using the local currency. The EUR is also acceptable as is the USD. For the supply of everyday services like meals and general shopping we recommend the local currency. We recommend about $20-30 AUD a day for meals not included. A combination of cash and credit cards is also recommended. 

Is it customary to tip? 

It is customary to tip in Turkey, while not compulsory, if you’re happy with the service provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation. Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is appropriate, for nicer restaurants we recommend between 5-10% of the bill. For local guides, we recommend $5-7 AUD per day as standard.  Your Team Leader and guide will give you advice on customary tipping amounts and coordinate a tipping kitty to assist you and the team with the process.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey. Visas must be obtained through the e-Visa system. For the most up to date information, please view the Smarttraveller page here - https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/turkiye

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

While in Turkey, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. A neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items is strongly recommended. Leave your jewellery at home. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

What weather can I expect?

Turkey is a large country split into seven regions. As a rule of thumb the Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have typical Mediterranean climates with hot summers and mild, wet winters. In the east it is more mountainous with warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. Central Turkey (Cappadocia), has low rainfall, very dry, hot summers and very cold winters. Istanbul and coastal areas can experience very high humidity. We will endeavor to hike early in the mornings and through shaded areas to minimise the suns effect. Generally speaking it is about 15-20 degrees in November which is ideal for trekking. It will be warmer during the days and colder at nights. We will supply you with a comprehensive packing list to prepare you for all eventualities. 

Can I drink the water in Turkey?

Generally speaking, it’s probably best to drink filtered or bottled water when travelling in Turkey. Many hotels and lodges provide safe drinking water, while bottled water is another alternative. Water consumption should be about two litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash.

Do I require any vaccinations to travel to Turkey? 

Approximately two months prior to departure, you should consult your GP for up-to-date medical travel and vaccination information. 

The most common vaccinations for Turkey include:

• Hepatitis A 
• Typhoid
• Rabies