Turkey

Turkey is a portrait of religious and cultural diversity. Learn about ancient civilizations and modern perspectives during five weeks of service and travel at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Orientation in Izmir

Dive into Turkish architecture, art, and history with a visit to the ruins at Ephesus, excursions to a local bazaar, and group activities. Survival Turkish language classes give you basic communication tools,and discussions about the role of women, current Turkish politics, and the country’s ethnic groups provide you with a thorough introduction to modern Turkish culture.

Homestay in Istanbul

During your 10-day homestay, visit Istanbul’s world-famous bazaars, stroll along the Bosporus River, or explore the Avropa and Asya areas of the city with your host family.

Sample activities:
Visit the Topkapi Palace, the residence of sultans for 300 years; marvel at the Byzantine mosaics of the Karyi Müzesi; see the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia; help your hosts prepare traditional Turkish dishes such as karisik izgara.

Community Service and Village Stay

Experience life in a traditional Anatolian village while participating in a two-week homestay and community service project. Become part of your community as you work alongside
Turkish villagers in the fields, help with irrigation projects, or rebuild and renovate a local school.

Sample host communities:
Inegol, Cerrah, Adana, Yarimca

Travel and Discovery

Journey to the turquoise coast of southern Turkey for four days in the lively market town of Fethiye or the historic city of Antakya. By day, enjoy pristine beaches, boat to nearby islands, or explore colorful markets. By night, taste seafood and other Mediterranean specialties in outdoor cafés and restaurants.

Sample activities:
Visit the Lykia rock tombs; wander through the ghost town of Karmylassos; feast your eyes on Roman mosaics and Ottoman era ruins; explore the rock-carved Church of St. Peter.

"The Adiguzel family went out of their way to show me the Bosporus Strait, the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and the Cistern. I felt like a member of their family and a real Turkish teenager."

-- Mary McLoughlin
Brattleboro, Vermont