Discover a country that is brimming with unforgettable experiences and inspirational destinations in this new series of Explore Türkiye. Istanbul – the fabulous experience and adventure packed with the perfect blend of activities, learning and relaxation. Learn to new culture, explore ancient building, witness breathtaking sunsets, indulge in local food and enjoy the magnificent Bhosporus straits.

If you’re seeking the perfect combination of culture, thrilling adventure and endless fun then unwind with this youth program. Join us for a journey through one of Asia-Europe’s the most special destinations.

Overview

AYFN is delighted to invite you to join our culture trip. This program is open to public who desiring a short-term immersion program in Türkiye. The program offers daily activities and cultural excursions to enhance the Turkish experience. This entails a program which is specifically designed to offer cultural understanding of Turkiye. This will be done through both visiting famous Istanbul attractions and partaking in typical cultural activities such as experiencing Turkish tradition.

Our aim is to inspire young generation to open their minds to other cultures and recognize the importance of language learning at the same time. We want the participants to end their trip by leaving with a better knowledge of Turkiye.

The program will take place on 2 – 8 February 2025, in Istanbul, Turkiye.

Turkish language learning

Participants will learn Turkish language prior to departure. This course will be held 2 weeks before arriving in Turkiye (10 hours lessons – basic Turkish language). It aims to give an understanding of Turkish Language for participants. Therefore, participants will be able to practice their Turkish skill when in Turkiye and ease them to communicate with locals.

Cultural immersion

Turkiye has a total of 19 cultural and natural places inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as of 2021. From masterpieces of creative genius to beautiful natural landscapes, these wonderful sites reveal the most compelling chapters of Turkish history. You probably didn’t know these sites were in Turkiye. Turkiye is a land of incredible travel opportunities. Come and explore these natural, archaeological and historic wonders.

Turkish language course	Cultural Immersion in Turkiye
Time: Mid of January 2025 Duration: 10 hours lesson Method: Online	Date: 2 – 8 February 2025 Place: Istanbul

Objectives

• Comprehend diverse/global perspectives and values
• See the world through multiple perspectives of diverse people
• Recognize the commonalities all humans share
• Develop an appreciation of the diversity of human culture
• Appreciate values, customs, and social systems of various cultures
• Acknowledge that different groups have different perspectives on the same issues and occurrences
• Function more effectively as members of an increasingly multicultural society

Program Highlights

• Language learning
• History and culture learning
• Global friendship
• Local Authentic Experience

Benefits

• Travel and see the world : With AYFN, you have the opportunity to become a global citizen by taking part in exchange program. Traveling and learning abroad is an unique opportunity and likely to provide some of your most memorable life experiences.

• Broaden your horizons: Traveling and studying abroad is a great opportunity to meet people, discover new interests and develop your life skills. It can build your confidence, develop your adaptability and hone your resourcefulness, which are all important personal attributes valued by employers.

• Experiencing new cultures: Challenging yourself to live in a different country can be a highly rewarding and stimulating experience, which will open your mind to new cultures and possibilities. It will also develop your learning skills in exciting ways.

• Build your global network: In today’s world of globally connected business, the network, knowledge and experience you build up while living abroad can give you a competitive edge, as well as bringing a new perspective on your life, aspirations and career options.

• Enhance your career prospects: By having experience through this program, it will give you much benefits for your self development and even more for your career in the future.

• Being a global citizen: In this modern era, we are like living in ‘one world’. It is really possible for us to get connection that will give you many benefits especially for your career. This program can greatly enhance your future career prospects.

Program

The program starts on Sunday (2 February 2025) and finishes on Saturday (8 February 2025).

Day	Activities
Day 1: Sunday	Arrival in Istanbul Meet AYFN representative and airport assistance. Transfer to assigned accommodation. Check in according and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Monday	Blue Mosque  The Blue Mosque (Called Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish) is an historical mosque in Istanbul. The mosque is known as the Blue Mosque because of blue tiles surrounding the walls of interior design. Topkapi Palace Topkapı Palace was not only the residence of the Ottoman sultans, but also the administrative and educational centre of the state. Initially constructed between 1460 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople, and expanded upon and altered many times throughout its long history, the palace served as the home of the Ottoman sultans and their court until the middle of the 19th century. Hippodrome Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in Sultanahmet/Istanbul, was a public arena mainly for chariot races. The word hippodrome comes from the Greek hippos (horse) and dromos (way). The Hippodrome of Constantinople was also home to gladiatorial games, official ceremonies, celebrations, protests, torture to the convicts and so on. Hagia Sophia The Hagia Sophia, one of the historical architectural wonders that still remains standing today, has an important place in the art world with its architecture, grandness, size and functionality. The Hagia Sophia, the biggest church constructed by the East Roman Empire in Istanbul, has been constructed three times in the same location. Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3: Tuesday	Dolmabahce Palace The Dolmabahce Palace is located along the European shore of the Bosphorus Strait. Originally there was a shallow bay where the Ottoman fleet used to anchor their ships. After the 17th century the coast was filled in and converted into a nice garden with a couple of pavilions named as Besiktas Waterfront Palace complex, where the sultans used to relax enjoying the views. Taksim Square Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani), Istanbul’s main modern hub, is located at the end of the pedestrian thoroughfare Istiklal Avenue (Istiklal Caddesi). A popular meeting place, Taksim Square is anchored by the Monument of the Republic and buzzes with activity day and night. The area historically hosts public celebrations, parades, and demonstrations. Galata Tower Galata Tower Rising high above its namesake neighborhood, Istanbul’s Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. An elevator takes you up to a viewing platform located under the roof, which offers panoramic views of the Old City peninsula and Beyoglu neighborhood. Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)  Built in the 17th century, the covered Spice Bazaar is Istanbul’s fragrant hub for all things flavorful. Piles of pepper, saffron, teas, and dried apricots nestle alongside shops selling colorful Turkish delight, silk scarves, and glass mosaic lamps. Take time to chat with vendors, sip tea, and haggle for the perfect price. Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4: Wednesday	Suleymaniye Mosque The Suleymaniye Mosque, also known as the Suleymaniye Camii in Turkish, is a magnificent mosque located in Istanbul, Turkiye. It was built during the Ottoman Empire under the rule of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and was completed in 1557. The mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who also designed many other important buildings throughout Istanbul. Fener Rum Ortodoks Patrikhanesi Kutuphanesi  The Fener Rum Ortodoks Church, also known as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, is a historic Greek Orthodox church located in the Fener district of Istanbul, Turkiye. It is the primary church of the Eastern Orthodox Church and serves as the spiritual center of the Orthodox Christian world. The church was originally built in the 4th century, and over the centuries it has undergone numerous renovations and additions. Pierre Loti Tepesi  Pier Loti Hill, also known as Pierre Loti Tepesi in Turkish, is a popular hilltop viewpoint located in the Eyüp district of Istanbul, Turkiye. The hill offers stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the city of Istanbul, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The hill is named after the French author Pierre Loti, who was known for his love of Istanbul and his frequent visits to the city. Meal: Breakfast & lunch
Day 5: Thursday	Grand Bazar One of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world, the Grand Bazaar is 30,700 square meters with over 60 streets and alleys and 4,000 shops. Bosphorus It is a great advantage to have lunch between two continents on the boat. The afternoon Bosphorus tour gives you a chance to see two continents Asia and Europe and sail up to the second bridge to the Black Sea side. While you are sailing you will see the Bosphorus Bridges. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Friday	Free Time Meal: Breakfast
Day 7: Saturday	Hotel Check out : 11.00 a.m. Informal activities (depending on departure time)

Eligibility

• You should be 15 to 40 years old.
• All nationalities are welcome to join.
• English Proficiency (Min passive. All of our programs will be conducted in English)
• You are required to fill up a complete application form to apply.
• You should be able to pay the registration and program fee.
• Healthy physically and mentally.
• Able to travel to Turkiye.

Program Fee

Program Fee covers the cost of hosting you on an AYFN program and gives back to participants as facilities during the program. Program Fees vary according to your chosen

Important thing to note:

• AYFN programs attracts a Registration Fee of USD 35 in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
• 5% international transaction fee is added at point of payment.
• 10 % discount for member of AYFN and alumni

Excluded in the program fee

• FLIGHT TICKET to and from Istanbul
• Extra nights accommodation
• Personal insurance
• Personal expenses
• Airport transfer
• Meal excluded in schedule
• Minibar in hotel
• Laundry
• Internet & Telephone.

Scholarship

• Invite your friends to join. We offer commision in the amount of USD 50 for every paid bookings we receive from your referal.
• For a school or a group, we offer 1 full scholarship on the program fee for every 8 paid bookings we receive from your group or institution.
• For a school or a group, we grant a 60% scholarship on the program fee for every 5 paid bookings we receive from your group or institution. (you may nominate the 6^th applicant to get this grant)

Participation procedure

STEP 1	STEP 2	STEP 3
Pay the registration fee. USD 35 PAY NOW Fill out the application form. REGISTER NOW	Once the application is submitted, you will be notified that your application is received. A preliminary acceptance and payment instructions will be sent to you	Once the Down Payment of the program fee (50%) is received, you will be sent the following: The Official Acceptance Letter It means that your spot is secured.
STEP 4	STEP 5	STEP 6
Pay the rest of program fee. Registrants are required to finalize the program fee in maximun 30 days before the program starts.	The Program Itinerary along with 1 form is to be sent and filled out in a maximum duration of 2 weeks before the program starts: Travel Information (arrival and departure details)	Pack your luggage and depart to Istanbul, Turkiye. We’ll welcome you ther warmly.

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Term & conditions