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Online Program

Adventures Online: Discover Istanbul Through the Ages

Program No. 2420160MEADV-0219
From Topkapi Palace to stories of Constantine the Great, immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul during this live, online adventure filled with online field trips and discussions.

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DATES & PRICES

Online Program
Learn from the comfort of your own home.

DATES & PRICES

Online Program
Learn from the comfort of your own home.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
5 days
1
Byzantium & Constantinople
From the comfort of your own home.
2
Hagia Sophia
From the comfort of your own home.
3
The Ottoman Empire
From the comfort of your own home.
4
Imperial Mosques
From the comfort of your own home.
5
Contemporary Istanbul, Contrasts, Old Ways to New
From the comfort of your own home.
View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul — this city that straddles both Europe and Asia has a vast, complicated history that just waits to be explored. Discover Istanbul through the ages during this online learning adventure led by local experts live from Turkey. Through online field trips, discover the holy places and landmarks that make Istanbul one of the most fascinating cities in the world, with landmarks like the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and more. Engage with your fellow Road Scholars and instructors during lively discussions, and enjoy further insight into the great leaders and historic events that have shaped the evolution of Istanbul during presentations by our experts, all from the comfort of your home.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Marvel in the historic beauty of the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace during expert-led online field trips.
  • Gain insight into the lives of great leaders of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires including Constantine the Great, Justinian, Mehmet the Conqueror and Suleiman the Magnificent.
  • Explore the wonders of Istanbul during online field trips to the ancient Hippodrome, the Chora Church, the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar.

General Notes

You’ll enjoy 2-3 hours of daily instruction, discussion and/or field trips, which includes sufficient breaks throughout the program. This online program is through Zoom, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. We’ll provide a how-to guide to make sure you’ll have a hassle-free experience. In keeping with our Traditional On-Site programs, ALL ADVENTURES ONLINE MULTI-DAY PROGRAMS (INCLUDING THIS PROGRAM) ARE PRESENTED LIVE; THESE PROGRAMS ARE NOT RECORDED. Please review the daily itinerary for start and end times to ensure you won’t miss a minute of this live experience. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Volkan Yazici
Volkan Yazici was born in the southwest Aegean region of Turkey and has lived in Istanbul since he was two years old. He has been a professional group leader since 2005, leading throughout Turkey for Americans and other English-speaking groups. Specializing in art history and architecture, Volkan finds it rewarding to introduce Turkey “as it is” to Road Scholars through both on-site and online programs.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Volkan Yazici
Volkan Yazici View biography
Volkan Yazici was born in the southwest Aegean region of Turkey and has lived in Istanbul since he was two years old. He has been a professional group leader since 2005, leading throughout Turkey for Americans and other English-speaking groups. Specializing in art history and architecture, Volkan finds it rewarding to introduce Turkey “as it is” to Road Scholars through both on-site and online programs.
Profile Image of Kazim Uzunoglu
Kazim Uzunoglu View biography
Kazim started his tourism career as a licensed national guide in Turkey in 1987. He studied Economics at the University of Virginia but decided to stick to the travel business. After many years of leading educational tour programs around Turkey, he switched to the organizational side of the operation in 2004 and started running Baltac Tourism and Travel, the program provider for Road Scholar in Turkey. He is committed to offering the best educational programs to the discerning Road Scholar participants. His hobbies are riding motorcycles around the world, vintage cars and motorcycles, photography, and rock'n roll music.
Profile Image of Sami Ozcini
Sami Ozcini View biography
Sami Ozcini has shared his love for Turkey — and his home city of Istanbul — with Road Scholar participants for more than 12 years. His on-site lectures bring a different perspective to understanding and appreciating the rich history and legacy of Istanbul. A graduate of Marmara University, Sami has a degree in English literature and enjoys traveling throughout Europe, Australia and the U.S. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, cooking and acting as a referee for amateur football games in Istanbul.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
5 days
Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul — this city that straddles both Europe and Asia has a vast, complicated history that just waits to be explored. Discover Istanbul through the ages during this online learning adventure led by local experts live from Turkey. Through online field trips, discover the holy places and landmarks that make Istanbul one of the most fascinating cities in the world, with landmarks like the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and more. Engage with your fellow Road Scholars and instructors during lively discussions, and enjoy further insight into the great leaders and historic events that have shaped the evolution of Istanbul during presentations by our experts, all from the comfort of your home.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Marvel in the historic beauty of the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace during expert-led online field trips.
  • Gain insight into the lives of great leaders of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires including Constantine the Great, Justinian, Mehmet the Conqueror and Suleiman the Magnificent.
  • Explore the wonders of Istanbul during online field trips to the ancient Hippodrome, the Chora Church, the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar.
General Notes
You’ll enjoy 2-3 hours of daily instruction, discussion and/or field trips, which includes sufficient breaks throughout the program. This online program is through Zoom, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. We’ll provide a how-to guide to make sure you’ll have a hassle-free experience. In keeping with our Traditional On-Site programs, ALL ADVENTURES ONLINE MULTI-DAY PROGRAMS (INCLUDING THIS PROGRAM) ARE PRESENTED LIVE; THESE PROGRAMS ARE NOT RECORDED. Please review the daily itinerary for start and end times to ensure you won’t miss a minute of this live experience. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Volkan Yazici
Volkan Yazici was born in the southwest Aegean region of Turkey and has lived in Istanbul since he was two years old. He has been a professional group leader since 2005, leading throughout Turkey for Americans and other English-speaking groups. Specializing in art history and architecture, Volkan finds it rewarding to introduce Turkey “as it is” to Road Scholars through both on-site and online programs.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Kazim Uzunoglu
Kazim Uzunoglu
Kazim started his tourism career as a licensed national guide in Turkey in 1987. He studied Economics at the University of Virginia but decided to stick to the travel business. After many years of leading educational tour programs around Turkey, he switched to the organizational side of the operation in 2004 and started running Baltac Tourism and Travel, the program provider for Road Scholar in Turkey. He is committed to offering the best educational programs to the discerning Road Scholar participants. His hobbies are riding motorcycles around the world, vintage cars and motorcycles, photography, and rock'n roll music.
Profile Image of Sami Ozcini
Sami Ozcini
Sami Ozcini has shared his love for Turkey — and his home city of Istanbul — with Road Scholar participants for more than 12 years. His on-site lectures bring a different perspective to understanding and appreciating the rich history and legacy of Istanbul. A graduate of Marmara University, Sami has a degree in English literature and enjoys traveling throughout Europe, Australia and the U.S. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, cooking and acting as a referee for amateur football games in Istanbul.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (11 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
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Activity Note
All times noted are Eastern Time. Today’s session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Orientation and Introductions (30 minutes). We will have a welcome session with our Study Leader, Kazim Uzunoglu, and our Group Leaders, Sami Ozcini and Volkan Yazici, to review the program schedule and aspects of Zoom. We will then have an opportunity to introduce ourselves and say hello. 1:30 p.m. Lecture (45 minutes). We will have an overview of the Byzantine Empire — which existed for more than a thousand years, from 330 until 1453 CE — and two of its most notable emperors, Constantine and Justinian. We will learn about the significance of the empire in shaping the role and character of Constantinople. 2:15 p.m. Break (15 minutes). 2:30 p.m. Virtual field trip (45 minutes). We will focus on some of the monuments remaining from the Byzantine era. Among the highlights we will see and learn about include the ancient Hippodrome and the obelisks that adorned the social center of ancient Constantinople. We will also explore two underground cisterns and the intricate water system that served the city 1,700 years ago. We’ll marvel at the magnificent mosaics of the 14th century Chora Church and learn about their significance and connection to the Renaissance. Finally, we will “stroll” along the ancient city walls to understand their strength and importance in the city defending the city through the centuries. 3:15 p.m. Wrap-up discussion with Q&A (45 minutes). 4:00 p.m. Today’s online session will end.
Activity Note
All times noted are Eastern Time. Today’s session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Lecture (45 minutes). Hagia Sophia — from the Greek — means “holy wisdom.” It was the major Christian basilica of the Byzantine Empire and had the largest dome in the world from the time of its construction in 537 CE until the 15th century. We will learn about this most important historical building in the city, a masterpiece in the history of architecture and a powerful symbol spanning centuries. It was transformed into a mosque after the fall of Constantinople in 1453 CE. Some of the most famous mosques that followed were inspired by its design. 1:45 p.m. Break (15 minutes). 2:00 p.m. Virtual field trip (45 minutes). After a period of secularism beginning in the 1930s when it was treated as a museum, Hagia Sophia has been reclassified as a mosque once again. We will explore this stunning building that has been standing for almost 1,500 years. We’ll learn about the building’s architecture and decoration as well as its significance in the history of Constantinople. 2:45 p.m. Discussion with Q&A (60 minutes). We will focus on Hagia Sophia’s symbolic power through the ages. We will also give attention to the sonic world of Byzantine cathedral music, based on a Stanford University team that used virtual acoustics to give us an idea of how this music might have sounded a thousand years ago. 3:45 p.m. Wrap-up (15 minutes). 4:00 p.m. Today’s online session will end.
Activity Note
All times noted are Eastern Time. Today’s session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Lecture (45 minutes). We will briefly review the history of Ottoman Empire through 600 years of its existence until 1922. We’ll also discuss two of its most noteworthy sultans: Mehmet the Conqueror and Suleiman the Magnificent who shaped one of the most powerful empires in the world. 1:45 p.m. Break (15 minutes). 2:00 p.m. Virtual field trip (45 minutes). Topkapi Palace stands as a testimony to the power and wealth of the Ottoman Empire. As we explore the courtyards and different sections of this vast palace, we will learn about the administrative system that held the empire together. We will pass along mysterious corridors of the Harem — reserved solely for the Sultan and members of the royal family — and delve into the intrigues, clashes, and colorful stories that took place in this evocative section of the palace. Built at the end of the 16th century, there were some 300 rooms connected to courtyards and gardens. 2:45 p.m. Discussion with Q&A (60 minutes). 3:45 p.m. Wrap-up (15 minutes). 4:00 p.m. Today’s online session will end.
Activity Note
All times noted are Eastern Time. Today’s session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Lecture (45 minutes). We will first have a general overview of Islam and its tenets, followed by the evolution of mosque architecture. We will then discuss the architecture and significance of imperial mosques in Istanbul. We’ll learn about the architectural history of royal Ottoman mosques and their significance in forming the skyline of the city. 1:45 p.m. Break (15 minutes). 2:00 p.m. Virtual field trip (45 minutes). Our experts will take us on a virtual field trip through several mosques, including the world famous Blue Mosque and the Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent. We will learn about the significance and symbolism of the dome in Ottoman mosques and familiarize ourselves with the tenets of Islam and various components of a mosque. We will also visit the seat/church of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, an active synagogue from 15th century and an Armenian church. 2:45 p.m. Discussion with Q&A (60 minutes). 3:45 p.m. Wrap-up (15 minutes). 4:00 p.m. Today’s online session will end.
Activity Note
All times noted are Eastern Time. Today’s session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Lecture (45 minutes). Contemporary Istanbul is a city of contrasts. We will first discuss the urban development of the city through 20th century, consider changes in the urban social fabric and its reflection on architecture and daily life since the last century. We will also talk about the current issues the city is dealing with and prospects for the future. 1:45 p.m. Break (15 minutes). 2:00 p.m. Virtual field trip (45 minutes). We will explore the more modern parts of Istanbul. Strolling down from Taksim Square through the pedestrian Istiklal Street, we will see markets along the street. Other highlights will include the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar, and some more local markets to get a sense of the bustling activity that has been going on for 1,500 years. 2:45 p.m. Discussion with Q&A (60 minutes). A professor of Urban Architecture at the Istanbul Technical University will discuss the issue of women and the related changes that have taken place in Istanbul in the last century. 3:45 p.m. Wrap-up (15 minutes). 4:00 p.m. This concludes our program.
Participant Reviews
4.98
Based on 54 Reviews
Sort By:
Betsy | Kent, OH
This was a wonderful experience. I’ve always wanted to visit Istanbul but my travel years escaped me before I managed to get there. Now I feel like I’m somewhat familiar with the city. The three guides were terrific, extremely knowledgeable and personable. This was my first online experience and I will be signing up for more.
— Review left August 28, 2024
Susan – Class of 2017 | Saint Paul, MN
If this were graded, I"d give it an A+ and extra credit! it exceeded my expectations! The content was perfectly balanced beteween background lecture on history and culture with clear explanation of what we were going to see and then actual "tour" itself. The camaraderie between the leaders was excellent and I really appreciate the time for questions and answers. On a side note. I had been to Istanbul once before many years ago. I have always wanted to go back . I took this course to help me decide. (I have previously signed up for the Signature City tour, but had to cancel it.) The course was not a substitute for my desire but I did earn that the trip would probably not be appropriate for me given some mobility concerns. I would highly recommend to anyone consdiering this trip (or to Turkey) if they are trying to decide. The background gained would only enhancce their trip if they do decide to go.
— Review left August 26, 2024
Sandra – Class of 2018 | Little Rock, AR
I cannot say enough about the excellence of this program. The information on the history of and current Istanbul/Constantinople was concise, detailed and very clearly presented; but was not overwhelming. The presenters obviously know their material and love their city and country. Questions and comments were welcomed. I don't think any of us were made to feel we were holding up the programs by asking questions. And they were knowledgeable in all the areas we asked about. And each presenter was obviously strong in the areas they covered. I think this program sets the bar high for excellence.
— Review left August 23, 2024
J | Lexington, KY
This was an extraordinary program of very insightful lectures and vivid “field trips”. The use of drone footage high above Istanbul showed wonderful perspectives of the Golden Horn and Sea of Marmara, minarets from above the cloud line, glorious, ancient architecture — alongside the intricate interior video details of mosques, churches, synagogues, palaces, bazaars and streets of Istanbul. With their personal knowledge and passion for their home town of Istanbul, this team is a delight to learn from - each day I felt transported to another place through this online “adventure”. I would highly recommend for anyone interested in historical and current day Istanbul, whether as a primer to an in-person visit or a stand-alone adventure for anyone not able to physically travel there.
— Review left August 23, 2024
Diane – Class of 2024 | Madison, WI
The online trip to Istanbul exceeded my expectations. The leaders explained the history of an area and then took us on a "field trip" to walk through these streets and buildings. Pictures and maps presented were incredible. I plan to continue the leaning begun in this class.
— Review left April 11, 2024
Marsha – Class of 2021 | New York, NY
This was an excellent and in depth exploration of a city with a long and complicated history. All three of the speakers were extremely knowledgeable and always willing to share their personal views and experiences. I joined the program because I was planning to visit Istanbul, but if I never got there I’d feel as if I’d had a great visit.
— Review left March 30, 2024
Robert – Class of 2022 | Burr Ridge, IL
A wonderful experience in Turkey, learning its history from the 300's AD to modern day ! Extraordinarily knowledgeable and literate guides made the experience mesmerizing !
— Review left March 30, 2024
Marjorie – Class of 2021 | Newtown Square, PA
Kazim, Sami, and Volkan were outstanding as tour leaders. The power point presentations, the walking tours, the commentary, and the answers to group questions were educational and easy to follow. Every day was filled with exciting new ideas for me. Visiting Istanbul was on my "bucket list." Now I have that desire fulfilled with the excellent tour I just experienced.
— Review left March 29, 2024
Anne – Class of 2013 | Centennial, CO
A wonderful way to travel if you can't go in person. The trip was filled with so much history and excellent virtual experiences to make it feel that you were actually there.
— Review left December 12, 2023
Elizabeth – Class of 2021 | New York, NY
Great guides, great content on the Istanbul program - and the videos provided up-close looking that would have been impossible in-person. Really felt like being on a private tour!
— Review left July 1, 2023
Kathleen – Class of 2019 | Fresno, CA
This was an wonderful experience. The instructors were very knowledgably and inclusive. The content was impressive and must have taken a tremendous amount of time to pull together. It was very professionally done. I will take more.
— Review left June 30, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Carol – Class of 2022 | Edina, MN
An outstanding program! Each day, the leaders, Kazim, Sami, and Volkan, guided us through the wonders of Istanbul. They presented in-depth information about the city, its history, its unique location and culture. We saw the city today and in its earlier days. We toured (via photos, maps and videos) mosques, churches, bazaars, and much more. We met sultans, emperors, warriors, and historical figures from the past, and we were introduced to the cosmopolitan residents of today. This was an excellent adventure which I hope to repeat in-person some day.
— Review left November 22, 2022
Jane – Class of 2017 | Durham, NC
This was a wonderful program! The enthusiasm of the instructors (Kazim, Sami and Volkan) and their willingness to share their culture with us made for a fun and informative experience. I especially enjoyed the video field trips to Istanbul highlights, even to places currently inaccessible to tourists. If I ever travel to Turkey in person, I would definitely want to go with this team.
— Review left March 13, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Sara – Class of 2020 | Tacoma, WA
What an incredible course! So interesting to hear and see so many gorgeous sites around Istanbul. I was already excited about an upcoming trip (Black Sea Adventure) in May 2002, but my anticipation has increased so much. Not sure why I originally felt interested in the upcoming program, but I am now sure I made the right choice! Kazim, Sami, and Volkan did such an outstanding job of preparing and presenting this information to us. Thanks again!
— Review left December 18, 2021
Joanne – Class of 2016 | San Diego, CA
The online class about Istanbul was absolutely amazing! I felt like I was there. The instructors were fantastic--so well organized with content, visuals and audio. What a great virtual experience! Thank you Kazim, Sami and Volkan. And thank you Road Scholar!
— Review left December 11, 2021
Michael – Class of 2021 | Edison, NJ
This was a virtual tour - our three guides/presenters were exceptionally well versed in both the city and their nation. They answered all questions thoroughly and were enthusiastic. The covered a range of eras. Definitely worth it.
— Review left October 30, 2021
Karen – Class of 2021 | Dexter, MI
An amazing amount of material is presented so concisely that the time just flew by. Learned so much because of the group leaders and presenters who made history so fascinating. Many good discussions up to present day culture. Enjoyed meeting the other participants as well
— Review left October 25, 2021
Donna – Class of 2021 | Philadelphia, PA
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— Review left October 16, 2021
Sara – Class of 2020 | Springfield, MO
The next best thing to being in Istanbul in person. A lively and compelling learning adventure.
— Review left September 11, 2021
Petti – Class of 2021 | San Clemente, CA
Road Scholar online “tours” are an outstanding way to learn about a country and to “tour” the major sites. No early hours, no crowded buses, no dealing with the weather. Just sit in your comfy chair and let personable experts lead you on a learning adventure. The only downside is you can’t taste the food!
— Review left September 10, 2021
Kathryn – Class of 2015 | Gainesville, FL
Kazim, Sami and Volkan shared their delight in Istanbul in this online adventure. It was an opportunity to learn about Istanbul's long and colorful history while having the experience highlighted by excellent video tours The Zoom format was uniquely utilized to foster a group tour experience without crowds or jet lag. I have always been curious about the area and found this tour well worth the cost. These Road Scholar tour guides have found a way to create an online experience that is an exciting substitute for actual travel.
— Review left June 6, 2021
Terry | San Francisco, CA
Rich, virtual travel experience. Exceeds one's expectations, and leaves one energized for ongoing exploration of other countries and cultures, and travel if/when possible.
— Review left June 5, 2021
Carolyn – Class of 2021 | Seattle, WA
What a wonderful introduction to Istanbul! I am completely in awe of the wonderful speakers and what was presented during the virtual road trips! In fact, I would consider doing this program again another time!
— Review left June 5, 2021
Nancy – Class of 2018 | Pasadena, CA
I almost felt like I was in Istanbul. I only missed the noise and smell.
— Review left April 10, 2021
Susan – Class of 2014 | Newington, CT
I have taken a half dozen or so virtual trips. Which was my favorite? The one I just took! Sami, Volkan, and Kazim imparted so much information that I took voluminous notes! The slides and videos were incredible. Loved the vintage photos. The gentlemen worked well together and made this trip a seamless, pleasant experience. I am now signed up for Turkey with them!
— Review left April 10, 2021
Marianne – Class of 2019 | Aliso Viejo, CA
This is an excellent and fascinating program. I learned so much about the history of this important city, its culture and its peoples. It is the right combination of lecture and field trips, so you actually get to "see" the major sites you would visit in person and that were discussed in the lectures.
— Review left April 9, 2021
Diane – Class of 2010 | Ellicott City, MD
Excellent program about a fascinating city. We learned so much about the culture, architecture and the incredible history. Our instructors, Kazim, Sami and Volkan, worked well as a team and gave us excellent "walking tours" of the major sites of Istanbul. The breakout rooms helped encourage group discussions. I was impressed with how well the technology worked.
— Review left April 8, 2021
Barbara – Class of 2009 | Leesburg, FL
What an interesting and efficient way to visit Istanbul! This virtual trip was so well organized, very clearly covering centuries, multiple empires and religions, as well as modern issues. The presentations and field trips were well integrated - I actually feel like I was there. And, it was broken into cohesive segments so it was very comfortable to participate via Zoom. Many participants had a past or upcoming interest in visiting Istanbul/Turkey - I had a different approach. The area is not on my current wish list, but I am aware that there was so much history and culture there. This virtual trip was an ideal way to "visit" there.
— Review left March 18, 2021
Sarah – Class of 2016 | Portland, OR
The online program about Istanbul is outstanding and worth every penny of its admittedly high cost. The instructors and the program leader were knowledgeable and interesting, and sustained my attention throughout the program. The program content pulled together random pieces of knowledge I had about Istanbul and the history of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. I hope to go on an actual (instead of virtual) tour of Istanbul and Turkey at some future time and would definitely make sure that it was with the three group leaders of this presentation.
— Review left March 15, 2021
Carole – Class of 2020 | Portland, OR
You will learn a lot through this online experience. Great review of the history of the city and the area. Field trip videos over the five days gave a comprehensive view of old Constantinople / new Istanbul. We had plenty of time to ask clarifying questions on the material presented as well as bringing up other topics of interest of our own about the city and Turkey.
— Review left March 14, 2021
Carey – Class of 2020 | Franklin, TN
Overall, I thought very good. I am now 85 years old so my opportunity to travel in person is limited. The zoom Road Scholar meeting are very good for me.
— Review left March 13, 2021
Charles – Class of 2015 | Flushing, NY
Fascinating place with a ton of history. A worthwhile venue for those interested in comparative religions. Virtual field trips were excellent.
— Review left February 20, 2021
Arlene – Class of 2015 | Toronto, Canada
The "trip" to Istambul was SUPERB. It was very well organized and the three presenters were OUTSTANDING. There was a great mix and balance of lectures and field trips. The program was well designed to give participants the history as well as the current situation in Istambul. I feel like I have had the best tour of Istambul. I highly recommend signing up for this program. You will learn and see a lot and have a great time. The three presenters deserve a standing ovation.
— Review left February 20, 2021
Richard – Class of 2018 | Bronxville, NY
Our virtual trip to Istanbul was a terrific and educational travel experience. Most of the joys of travel but with none of the hassles.
— Review left February 20, 2021
Maria – Class of 2017 | Kirksville, MO
The instructors are very knowledgeable and provide excellent insights. I highly recommend this program to both those who have very limited knowledge of Istanbul as well as to those who are already familiar with the city and its history.
— Review left February 19, 2021
Ellen – Class of 2021 | Vancouver, WA
Our trip to Constantinople was outstanding. Very informative and interesting. Our group leaders were very knowledgeable and lively. What a wonderful way to travel when physical travel isn't possible or practical.
— Review left February 17, 2021
Pamela – Class of 2011 | Roseville, MN
For the past several years I've thought that my next trip should be to a Black Sea country. This class was a way to find out more about that part of the world and moved Turkey to the top of my list. Kazim, Sami, and Volkan were knowledgeable and charming--it would be great to have these three guys as my guides when I visit Istanbul in person. Participating in an online learning session would be a great way to prepare for a trip or to relive a trip you've already taken.
— Review left February 7, 2021
Donna – Class of 2021 | San Mateo, CA
Knowledgeable, engaging instructors, skillfully presented the complex history of Istanbul as an adventurous virtual getaway, making a fun and enlightening week!
— Review left February 6, 2021
Maria – Class of 2021 | Shepherdstown, WV
My virtual trip to Istanbul was delightful! The instructors organized and implemented a superb program. I greatly appreciate their knowledge and how they handled content and questions, and they are so personable! This was my first Road Scholar experience, and they set the bar high. I'll be back for more!
— Review left February 6, 2021
Jean – Class of 1999 | Petoskey, MI
This is an exceptional program - well organized, and extremely competent leaders/speakers. I wasn't sure I'd like the on-line format, but I enjoyed it tremendously.
— Review left February 5, 2021
Ginny – Class of 2020 | Newtown Square, PA
This virtual tour of Istanbul was a pleasure. The instructors were enthusiastic, friendly, and knowledgeable, and had clearly put an effort into creating virtual tours for us to enjoy. We saw lovely things, learned about the rise and fall of empires, salivated over the wares in the bazaars and restaurants, and learned about contemporary as well as historic cultural norms. It was all enjoyable and whet my appetite for an actual visit to Istanbul some day.
— Review left February 5, 2021
Zena – Class of 2009 | San Diego, CA
This is a great very well done online trip-program and I highly recommend it. It is worth every penny!!!
— Review left February 4, 2021
James – Class of 2021 | Willow Spgs, MO
It was just like being there! The daily program included the right amount of lecture/background, followed by a video tour of the sites we were focusing on during the lecture. I have thoughts and memories of Istanbul that are just as vivid as memories of places I have visited in person. Jim Traver, Missouri
— Review left January 22, 2021
Kathryn – Class of 2013 | Oro Valley, AZ
Instructors work together well as a team.
— Review left January 18, 2021
Cynthia – Class of 2017 | Austin, TX
This was a terrific experience. I was able to get a real insight into the history, culture, and beauty of Istanbul. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and personable. I would strongly recommend this program.
— Review left January 11, 2021
Park – Class of 1996 | Cockeysville, MD
Excellent program for content and instructors. I recommend highly.
— Review left January 9, 2021
Patricia – Class of 2018 | Milwaukee, WI
This is a wonderful way to explore Istanbul from the comfort of your own den, living room, study, kitchen or wherever you are!
— Review left January 8, 2021
Marsha – Class of 2016 | Deming, WA
You will love the instructors and learn a lot, especially if you are like me and knew very little about that area of the world. At no time did I ever have that "oh no, not lecture" feeling. Our instructors obviously love what they do and are good at it.
— Review left January 8, 2021
Joann – Class of 2006 | Morgantown, WV
This is a great program. Three excellent speakers from Istanbul who have prepared lectures, videos, and walking tours. If you are interested in traveling to Istanbul, this program is for you. Very well done!
— Review left January 8, 2021
Susan – Class of 2015 | Burlingame, CA
Our virtual tour of Istanbul Through The Ages was excellent! Our three tour guides were very knowledgeable, organized, clear, personable, and passionate about the subject matter, as only natives of this fascinating city could be. They provided information about the history and culture of Istanbul and its treasured sites through engaging live lectures and field trips via narrated photos and videos, and their excitement and love of their city was palpable. There was also plenty of time for far-ranging live questions and answers with all three. It helped to keep our travel bug at bay while, at the same time, whetting our appetite for that glorious day when we can fly into Istanbul for the real thing!
— Review left December 7, 2020
Bernadette – Class of 2018 | Maplewood, MN
I agree with the earlier reviews about the high quality of the program. The content was excellent and the leader, instructors and guest speaker also shared their personal insights. I had hoped that the PowerPoints would be shared with us afterward and hope Road Scholar will change this policy. There was a a lot of information and I wish I had a way to revisit it.
— Review left December 7, 2020
Robert – Class of 2012 | Madison, WI
Worthy investment of time and money. All were knowlegable and passionate about the city and the country. Not a substitute for being there - no crowds, smells, or food; limited interaction with the group. (No travel expenses, sore feet or jet lag.) It is a carefully designed program that includes a good mix of lectures, video tours and breakout sessions. I look forward to being there next year. I will be better prepared for the trip. Well done.
— Review left December 4, 2020
Jean | Fort Collins, CO
The Istanbul Online Adventure Was Outstanding. I went to Turkey 25 years ago and I learned so much more by taking this online adventure. While it may be a substitute for some, I think it is a great addition to do before or after going on a physical trip. Would highly recommend.
— Review left December 4, 2020
Carol – Class of 2013 | Tuscaloosa, AL
Whether you've been to Istanbul or barely know where it is located, this is an excellent program that will fill in any gaps in your knowledge. The leaders have noticed what Road Scholars want to see and learn about and have organized it better than you might have expected a two millennia experience could be done. Plenty of opportunities to ask questions with congenial, hospitable leader and instructors. Definitely good value!
— Review left December 4, 2020





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