Dr. Ed Newton 11-Day Journey to the Seven Churches of Revelation, April 25 - May 5, 2022

Questions? Email us at info@signaturetours.com

A Special Invite! 

Join Dr. Ed Newton on a special tour to Asia Minor to explore the Seven Churches of Revelation on a tour of Christian sites in Asia Minor. You will travel to the major cities throughout Turkey, including Ephesus, Smyrna, Thyatira, Sardis, Laodicea, Philadelphia, Hierapolis, and Constantinople, with 3000 years of history. You will visit Pamukkale to see ancient temples, including the Hierapolis and magnificent Necropolis, and Canakkale, the site and legend of the Trojan Warhorse. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This tour will sell out quickly, so book now to reserve your spot today.

- Dr. Ed Newton

DAILY ITINERARY
11-Day Journey to the Seven Churches of Revelation

April 25 - May 5, 2022

Day 01 (APR25): Beginning of Our Tour Depart Houston (IAH) for Istanbul Turkey.

Day 02( APR26): Istanbul – Arrival: Upon arrival at the Istanbul Airport, we will meet our guide in the arrivals hall and head to our hotel located near Taksim Square, the bustling heart of modern Istanbul. Dinner and Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 03 (APR27): Istanbul – City Tour After enjoying our Turkish breakfast, we will depart from our hotel and begin our tour of the historical highlights of Istanbul. First, we will stroll through Hippodrome Square, the former sporting and social center of Constantinople that hosted chariot races during the Roman period. Afterward, we are off to witness the incredible majesty and splendor of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque. Popularly known as the Blue Mosque, this 17th-century Ottoman sanctuary is adorned with six minarets and more than 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles. And then we will walk directly across from the mosque to visit the domed masterpiece of the Hagia Sophia. Afterward, we will head to Topkapi Palace. Located on the very cape of the peninsula where Constantinople was founded, Topkapi Palace is the former abode of Ottoman Sultans that still houses their legion of treasures, including an extensive collection of royal jewels Afterwards, we will end our day with an evening of shopping at the Grand Bazaar, the massive covered market that houses a labyrinth of streets lined with shops selling jewelry, leather products, and many other handcrafted souvenirs. Dinner and Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 04 (APR28): Istanbul/Nicea/Bursa After enjoying our Turkish breakfast, we will embark on a cruise of the Bosphorus, the winding straight that separates Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea with the inland Sea of Marmara. This is our time to relish the views of the old wooden mansions, Ottoman palaces, and ancient fortresses that dot the river’s coast. We will dock on the Asian side of Istanbul and you will reach Camlica Hill from where you can catch the overall view of the city with the beautiful scenery of the Bosphorus. Afterward, drive to the modern town of Iznik, ancient Nicea, a little town set beside a picturesque lake, historically famous for hosting the First Ecumenical Council in 325 AD. Upon arrival, visit the City Walls from Roman and Byzantine periods, then proceed to visit the remains of the St. Sophia Mosque, the site of the Second Council of Nicea in 787 AD, and see the remains of the mosaic floor and frescoes. Dinner and Overnight in Bursa

Day 05 (APR29): Bursa/Troy/Canakkale Today we will depart from the hotel and drive through rich farmlands and along the southern shore of the Sea of Marmara. Reaching the Dardanelles, the strait which connects the Sea of Marmara with the Aegean Sea. We will continue to the village of Tevfikiye by the entrance of the Dardanelles to see the remains of the legendary city of Troy. Settled as early as 3,000 BC, Troy was made famous by Homer’s Iliad, the epic account of the Trojan War. Next, we continue to the ancient port of Alexandria Troas (Acts16:13), where he raised from death a boy named Eutychus (Acts 20:7). Dinner and Overnight in Canakkale. 

Day 06 (APR30): Canakkale/Pergamum/Thyatira/Izmir This morning we drive south through farmlands, low ranges, and along the Aegean Sea to the town of Bergama to visit Pergamum, one of the most powerful cities in the ancient world. The city rose to prominence following the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C. and eventually came under Roman control in 133 B.C. Although this city benefited from immense wealth, in the Book of Revelations, the risen Christ instructs John to convey the message that the people of Pergamum, the site of “Satan’s throne”, needed to repent( Rev 2:13-16). Today, we will tour the Acropolis which sits atop a 1000-foot windswept mountain, offering a view of the neighboring modern towns, the azure waters of the Aegean, and the ruins of Pergamum that cascade down from the ancient city center. Here, we will explore the Temple of Trajan, The Temple of Athena, and the Altar of Zeus. Unfortunately, little is left of the altar, which was once among the grandest monuments of the ancient world. In fact, every stone of the structure, including its 400-foot long frieze depicting the battle of the gods and giants, was shipped off to Berlin by German archaeologists leaving only the altar’s foundation. Thankfully, much more remains of the Great Theatre. Among the steepest of its kind and an acoustic phenomenon, this theatre could entertain up to 10,000 spectators. Nearby are the remains of the famous Library of Pergamum. Once housing some 200,000 scrolls, the library’s collection even exceeded that of the great library of Alexandria before Mark Anthony gave it to Cleopatra as a wedding gift. Afterward, we will explore the Asklepion. Allegedly one of the world’s first full-service health clinics, the Asklepion was the ancient world’s version of a spa, attracting health pilgrims from all over the region, including Roman Emperors Hadrian and Marcus Aurelius. Moreover, the physician Galen trained at this center and developed the foundation for modern Western medicine. Then, we will drive to Akhisar and end our day with a visit to Then, we will drive to Akhisar and end our day with a visit to Thyatira, one of the Seven Churches praised for its increasing faith but admonished for its tolerance of Jezebel (Rev. 2:18-28), Dinner and Overnight in Izmir.

Day 07 (MAY01): Izmir/Sardis/Philadelphia/Pamukkale This morning, we will visit the archaeological remains of the ancient city of Smyrna. Located in modern-day Izmir, Smyrna was one of the Seven Churches that the Apostle John relays the promise from God: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10). Afterward, we will visit Sardis, a militarily strong ancient city located along an important highway and among the fertile plains of Hermus (Gediz River). Though Sardis was a powerful and wealthy city with a reputation for being alive, God announced that it was actually dead (Rev. 3:1-6). Here, we will explore the white marble royal way, the massive Temple of Artemis, the large gymnasium, and the famous synagogue. Annual archaeological expeditions sponsored by Harvard and Cornell Universities have unearthed over eighty Greek and seven Hebrew inscriptions as well as numerous mosaic floors revealing this synagogue as one of the most significant synagogues of antiquity. Afterward, we will head to the modern town of Alasehir and visit the site of ancient Philadelphia, the church which received God's highest commendation (Rev. 3:7-13). Here, we will see the remains of a brick-built Byzantine basilica adorned with 11th-century frescoes. Dinner and Overnight in Pamukkale.

Day 08 (MAY02): Pamukkale Today, we will visit Pamukkale, “Cotton Castle”, and dip our feet in the thermal waters that flow down the hilltop’s unique white travertine terraces. Here, we will also visit the archeological remains of Hierapolis, a significant site of early Christianity thanks to Paul’s missionary efforts here (Colossians 4:13). Because the city sits atop the travertine cascades of Pamukkale (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Hierapolis became a healing center wherein the site’s thermal pools were used to treat various ailments. Today, we will stroll among a number of important ruins including well-preserved Roman structures like the town theatre and Temple of Apollo before continuing on to the ancient city of Laodicea. This city was one of the Seven Churches that the Apostle John chastised the inhabitants for being lukewarm (Rev. 3:14-22). Here, we will see the site’s well-preserved stadium, gymnasium, and theatres, giving us insight into this city’s former prominence. Next, we go to Colossae. The town is in obscurity. While you can see traces of the theater, the church, the ancient city is mostly in undistinguishable ruins. It has not been excavated. The church here was the recipient of Paul's letter to the Colossians. Dinner and Overnight in Pamukkale.

Day 09 (MAY03): Pamukkale/Aphrodisias/Miletus/Kusadası After breakfast, we drive to the Aphrodisias,  once a beautiful city dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty. Visit its museum to see relief panels and sculptures recovered from the ancient structure of Sebasteion. Afterward, we go to Miletus. It is here where Paul visited with the elders of Ephesus (Acts 1:17:38), on his return to Jerusalem completing his Third Missionary Journey. Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 10 (MAY04): Kusadası After breakfast, we will drive to Ephesus. Located in the modern town of Selcuk, ancient Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. Originally an ancient Greek Ionic city built in the 11th century B.C., Ephesus grew to become the largest metropolis and capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor. This political influence and the city’s large Jewish community attracted the attention of the apostles, including Paul. Here, he carried out his mission for two years and was Bishop of the Ephesian Church before he was exiled to Patmos. Today, we will walk on the Marble Road passing numerous historically rich sites including the fountain of Trajan, and the Temple of Hadrian. We will also see the Library of Celsus, which adorns the site’s most impressive square, and sit in the theater (the largest surviving from the Roman period). This massive theatre (capable of entertaining up to 25,000 spectators) was the scene of an uprising provoked by a merchant named Demetrius against St. Paul and his teachings (Acts 19:23). Visit the Terrace Houses located opposite Hadrian’s Temple, a newly excavated section. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these houses, which are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Those on the upper slopes are reached via steps and situated on the slopes of Bulbul Mountain with the roof of one house forming the terrace of the one above it Then, we will end our day at the House of the Virgin Mary, the site where the mother of Jesus is believed to have spent the last days of her life with the Apostle John. Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 11 (MAY05): Kusadasi – Izmir Airport: Today, we transfer to the Izmir Airport where we fly back home via a connecting flight through Istanbul.

NOTE: Schedule is subject to change due to various factors and your tour guide’s discretion. 

PRICING:

• $4,495 per person based on double occupancy. 
• Single room supplement - $995
• $500 per person with registration to secure space.
• Balance due on or before February 25, 2022

FLIGHT SCHEDULE:

• TK  34    25APR  IAH-IST    2055 1645
• TK2313  05MAY  ADB-IST  1030 1145
• TK  33    05MAY  IST-IAH    1410 1915

* Flight times, flight numbers, equipment, gates, and seats are subject to change. For the most current information check the airline website.

INCLUDED:

AIR: The Standard Tour includes round-trip, economy-class airfare from the international departure city listed in the itinerary. Group airfares are based on contracted rates and are highly restrictive. Seats will be assigned by the airline at check-in, and specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed. Upgrades such as Comfort, Premium, Business, or First Class are not available with the standard tour. Participants who wish to upgrade or purchase a specific seat should choose the Land Only option when registering. Participants are responsible for providing frequent flyer numbers, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry information upon check-in. Group fares do not permit schedule deviations. Participants who wish to deviate from the group schedule should choose the Land Only option. 

LAND ONLY: Participants who wish to arrange their own air should choose the Land Only option. $1000 will be deducted from the standard tour price when selecting this option. Participants arranging their own air should notify Signature Tours prior to the second payment date listed on the payment schedule. Transportation to and from the airport/hotel can be arranged by Signature Tours for Land Only passengers.

GROUND/TRANSFERS: The group will be met by a Signature Tours representative and transferred to the hotel/airport.

HOTELS: Superior first-class hotels throughout. Priced based on two people per room with a private bath and shower.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A limited number of single rooms are available at additional supplement prices. Signature Tours and/or the group leader will make every attempt to pair single participants requesting a roommate. However, the single supplement fee will be charged for each person occupying a single room, whether by choice or circumstance.

MEALS: Breakfast and dinner are provided at the hotel daily. Lunch is provided most days as noted in the itinerary. 

SIGHTSEEING: Entrance fees to all places of interest listed in the itinerary as well as an expert English-speaking guide.

PORTERAGE: See the carrier website for airline-specific baggage restrictions and requirements. Any fees for additional baggage beyond the standard airline allowance will be the responsibility of the individual. 

SERVICE CHARGES AND TAXES: Service charges added to the bill as required by hotel management. Taxes as imposed by national and/or local governments and/or administrations from the date listed on this brochure. Tips, taxes, and airport taxes ARE INCLUDED in the selling price. 

NOT INCLUDED: Excess baggage fees, passport fees, visa fees, food or drink items not listed on the regular table menu for included meals, and items of a personal nature such as room service, laundry, etc. Any service not indicated in the itinerary and/or the above list of included features.

PASSPORTS: Passports must be valid with an expiration date at least six months beyond the return home date of the tour. If you do not have a valid passport or need to renew your passport before the trip, enter "RENEWING" or "APPLIED FOR" when completing registration.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: This tour requires a substantial amount of walking. Many of the sites are not accessible by wheelchair, and the uneven terrain is not feasible for rollators. Signature Tours reserves the right to refuse individuals who may require special attention beyond what the tour guide and tour host can provide.

CANCELLATION POLICY: The $500 per person deposit is nonrefundable. Other payments exceeding the $500 per person are refundable in full up to sixty days prior to departure. After this date, refunds for unused accommodations and services will be limited to the amount received from and/or credited by all carriers, sightseeing operators, and hotels.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel Insurance is not included in the purchase price. For your convenience, we offer travel insurance through Travelex Insurance Services. For more information and rates, please review the product flyer or Click Here to enroll in the plan.

* Travelex Insurance Services, Inc CA Agency License #0D10209. Travel Insurance is underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. V94 

Signature Tours
PO Box 956817 Duluth, GA 30095
info@signaturetours.com