Have people actually used Lale Surmen Aran from SRM Travel, as mentioned in Steve's book? We were thinking of using them for a side-trip to Ephesus, but possibly (they're expensive) for other things. Just checking - thanks. Scott, Durham, nc
Posted by
Honolulu/Seattle, HI/WA, USA
2787 posts
SRM Travel is the co-authors of RS Istanbul Guide Book. They provided our lovely guide for our 14 Day Turkey Tour.
Posted by
Arlington, TX, USA
281 posts
After our RS 7 Day Tour of Istanbul in 2010 we were unable to get to our European gateway cities to fly home due to the ash. Lale arranged a trip for 6 of us to Cappadocia for 2 nights. It was similar to that part of the RS 13 Day Village Tour. It was expensive but seamless and we had a very good guide. I think it is safe to say we enjoyed it...especially the guy who decided to get up early for the optional hot air balloon ride. Other guides have been reviewed here and on other travel forums and I'm sure you can find one
to fit your budget.
Posted by
Belfair, WA, USA
32 posts
SRM...top notch and worth it.
Posted by
Redlands, Ca, USA
358 posts
I am taking the RS 7 day Istanbul trip in oct 2011 and will be arriving 2 days pre-tour. I was looking to go to Ephesus as a day trip from Istanbul. Does SRM travel do the one day trips?
Posted by
Arlington, TX, USA
281 posts
I would advise you to write Lale giving her the necessary information to see what the cost and itinerary would be. Some of our group went to Ephesus on their own and most spent one night there. There have been some postings on the Frommer's forum recently regarding tour companies and one recommending a private guide. Maybe you could fly there and he could pick you up at the airport. The reviewer mentioned they used this guide in conjunction with a cruise.
Good Luck
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
On my Best of Turkey tour, I met people in Mustafapasa (in Cappadocia) whose travel had been arranged by SRM Travel. In their case, SRM had also arranged a private guide. The people seemed thrilled with the tour arranged by SRM, so I think it would be worthwhile to at least inquire. SRM Travel coordinates the RS tours in Turkey, and based on that positive experience I'll definitely consider SRM to assist with future personal travel outside of Istanbul.