Who should I talk to if I have questions about the trip?
Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at Gospel Legacy. You can email us directly at info@gospellegacy.org.
Do I need to book my own air travel?
You are welcome to book your own airfare if you prefer. However, our tour company, Pilgrim Tours, will also be providing a group airfare option. When you register, simply indicate that you would like to receive a group airfare quote, and they will send you the details (if you do not want to use them you do not have to. The quote is just a quote until you ask them to book it for you). If you look to book your own airfare, it is important to note that the tour starts in Thessaloniki and ends in Athens. Most people book a round trip ticket to Athens and then a one way to Thessaloniki (SKG) for the start of the trip.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Greece at this time?
The short answer is yes! Currently, the U.S. Department of State rates Greece at Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions, reflecting a generally stable and safe environment for travelers and Turkey at Level 2 - Increased Caution. The Level 2 ranking in Turkey is due primarily to issues near the Syrian border, which our tour goes nowhere near.
Can I extend my stay before or after the tour?
Yes. You can talk directly with Pilgrim Tours and they can help you explore options to extend your trip.
How should I prepare for the trip?
We provide recommended readings and a trip preparation guide in the months leading up to the trip.
What should I wear? How should I pack for the trip?
We provide a detailed packing list and weather report as we get closer to the trip.
How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
With the size of our group, each traveler will be allowed the follow...
One suitcase
One Carry-on (i.e. a backpack not a small suitcase)
Small purse
How much walking do we do each day on the trip?
There is a fair amount of walking each day. An average day might see you walk 2-3 miles. Many days it is less than that, especially the cruise portion. If you walk with a cane or with other assistance, you might find this trip challenging. We tell people if you are able to walk around a zoo or an amusement park you can do this trip.
Will there be WiFi available at the hotels and on the cruise ship?
Yes there is and it is all complimentary.
Do I need any vaccinations for Turkey & Greece?
There are no vaccinations required before traveling to Turkey & Greece; however we suggest you consult your doctor before traveling.
Is the water safe to drink in Greece? Can I brush my teeth with it?
Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in most of mainland Greece.
Is the water safe to drink in Turkey? Can I brush my teeth with it?
Not really. Tap water in Turkey is usually treated and safe for hygiene purposes (showering, brushing teeth, washing food). However, it is not recommended for drinking in most areas, including major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, Ephesus (Selçuk), and Antalya. The issue is not contamination but aging infrastructure (pipes, storage tanks) and high mineral content that can affect taste and quality.
Do I need a voltage converter for my electronic devices in Turkey & Greece
Electricity is 220 volts 50 Hz and uses the European plug with two round pins. You will need to bring along the necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair straighteners and electric razors, as well as camera and cell phone chargers. Many smart phone chargers have converters built in and will only require an adapter. Other appliances such as hair straighteners and electric razors will require a converter. We also recommend you purchase a portable battery which you can use to charge your electronics as you tour each day.
We recommend this adapter for your phones and other devices: https://www.amazon.com/Voltage-Converter-International-European-Countries/dp/B074QLCKW6
Should I bring any money or make a currency exchange?
Virtually every place we visit will accept Visa and Mastercard credit cards, though American Express and Discover are not as widely accepted. That said, we always recommend that travelers carry some local currency as well.
Greece uses the euro (€) and Turkey uses the lira (₺). We suggest having the equivalent of $150–$200 in cash on hand for small purchases, tips, or places that may not accept cards. You can exchange money before your trip or at the airport upon arrival, though be aware that airport exchange rates are typically less favorable.