This was my first experience with a travel study tour, so I did not know what to expect. My initial reaction upon arrival was a feeling of comfort and security. I had confidence in the professionalism of everyone connected with the tour. The pace was perfect as well. My curiosity expanded each day of the trip. I especially appreciated the comprehensive nature of the tour. It matched my philosophy of teaching well. I loved the interconnected themes of geography, language, art, architecture, history, and religion. Best of all I enjoyed meeting so many Turkish people.

I feel a bit of pressure writing this. I mean I am the language arts teacher after all, so I feel this should ooze multisyllabic vocabulary and mystic imagery. Maybe it will; maybe it won’t. You see, when I began this journey I felt very concerned about pedagogy and unit plans, how my newfound knowledge would mesh into my schools curriculum and the U.S. government’s no child left behind. I began this journey by fully embracing my identity as Mrs. Wilson, secondary education most ruction at Herrin High School, a Midwestern blue collar town that is comprised of a largely Caucasian student body. I teach speech there which consists of ¼ public speaking and ¾ interpersonal and intercultural communication. This trip will have helped me update my curriculum to include aspects of the Turkish culture. But I am still transforming about what I will do for my final/ongoing project. I want it to infuse logic, creativity, mysticism, and collaboration with the newfound friends I have met on this journey. Here, I need to mention that an overwhelmingly spiritual and personal experience this has been. The Peoria World Affairs Council and the Turkish Cultural Foundation prepared me what to expect academically and logistically, however, I don’t think anyone could have prepared me for how deeply this trip would impact me. Spirit seeps the soil the air, the artifacts, and the people of this ancient land. I don’t think it’s hyperbolic to say that every cell in my body has heard, touched, smelled, tasted, and felt this culture. It has seeped through my hair, skin, organs, bone, marrow, and into my soul. I guess I learned that it is impossible to separate my profession and my spirit. None of this would be possible without Orhan, Hulya, Bonnie, Metin, and Ali, along with all of the staff and interns associated with TCF. When I think about how many people played a part in getting me right here, right now, I feel so small yet so interconnected, as if I am alone in Hagia Sophia staring upward and twirling like a dervish. Much like a Sufi tries to link logic, tradition, and mysticism, I will try to bridge Turkey and the United States through my student’s education. I am humbled by and in awe of this country. Thanks again for this opportunity. I guess there is a whole lot of fame in Mrs. Wilson after all.

Prior to the Turkish Cultural Foundation Study Tour in Turkey, my knowledge of the country was limited. I had never been to the country and my contact with native Turks was non-existent. As a result, my knowledge of the country was second-handed. The study tour has been a great benefit for my development. Being immersed in the culture has allowed me to interact with Turks from all walks of life. I have been able to exchange ideas with locals. I have been able to learn about them at the same time they can learn about Americans. Seeing family together showing people are similar everywhere can bring us closer together. This message will be a major learning tool for my students. In addition, to human interaction, the historical visits have been invaluable. We have visited sites studied in our textbooks, but being able to go into greater detail with first hand knowledge and showing personal photographs will spark a greater interest with my students. These visits will make me a better teacher. The Turkish Study tour has been an experience of enormous value. I have a better perspective about Turkish culture and Turkish history. My teaching has been greatly enhanced. The Turkish Cultural Foundation has performed a great service and with its continued support, the people of the United States and Turkey will continue to come closer together.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you TCF! This trip has enlightened me historically, culturally and personally. Travel to Turkey has reinforced the idea that we are all one people on this planet. We all laugh, cry, and want the best for our families. I am looking forward to sharing my wonderful experience with my little corner of the world. Turkey is a beautiful country with so much to offer.

To say that this journey through Turkey is a dream come true for me is so exaggeration. I had a simplistic sense of turkey that I brought with me some superficial awareness of its history, arts and people. What I am bringing back home is a sense of the immerse richness and depth of Turkish cultural history. I am grateful to our guide, Orhan, for his knowledge, humor and wisdom. I doubt that there is a better guide in Turkey. How he knows, what he knows and can full information out with great detail and clarity constantly amazed me. He was always patient with us, answering every question. If anything I would with for more time in Turkey, but for the time that we did have Orhan thought history alive. The other thing that I want to touch upon the food was superb as were the accommodation and I felt very safe the entire time. Metin was an amazing driver, Hulya, a fabulous organizer, Bonnie, our shopping diva and Ali always on hand. Because of all these people the trip went extremely well. I think that this experience has enriched my life in intellectual and spiritual ways. I hope to share my experiences with my students, my friends and family. We never know what life will bring but I know that Turkey is a turning point in my life. I cannot adequately verbalize at the moment but I know it to be so. This has been a special trip and I thank you for this incredible opportunity. Turkey and her people are wonderful! Morning reflections… This is a trip that no teacher could neither plan nor afford in ones lifetime, at least this one couldn’t. I so appreciate this gift because I consider it to be one. A gift that I accept with an open heart, one that I will cherish for a lifetime. In time, I will give back in the only way I can by passing on the Turkish culture through its arts to the many children who pass through any classroom door. Thank you!

Traveling to Turkey with TCF is the most rewarding experience of my life. The planned trip covered so many different and incredible aspects of Turkey. I could never choose just one as my favorite. For years to come, I will remember hearing the call to prayer, experiencing a variety of mosques, ancient cities and geographical wonders. But for me, the really life changing part was discovering the beauty of the people. Turkish people have kind souls and strong country pride. I am honored to bring this experience back to America.

I am overwhelmed by the antiquities of this country. Ancient wonders have materialized. I’ve been provided with a wonderful cultural immersion beyond what I imagined. Above all, Turkey is a very friendly hospitable country where all we are welcomed.

The depth of this experience in Turkey will unfold gradually for me for years to come. From the very origins of settled existence in Çatalhöyük, to the prosperous global power whose strength is yet to be fully realized, Turkey offers perhaps the most extensive portrait of history in a single nation. It is difficult to separate the spiritual expressions of Turkish culture such as the Mevlana Monastery or the other-worldly landscape of Cappadocia, or indeed, the breathing synthesis of natural beauty and historic weight found in the view of the Bosphorous, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia from the rooftop of our hotel in Istanbul – from the dizzying amount of Sultans, viziers and emperors who ruled Asia Minor through the Millennia. I am looking forward to learning much, much more about Turkey and teaching its riveting stories to students, staff, friends, fellow librarians and anyone willing to listen, view and willing to fall under the enchanting spell of all that is Turkey.

My experience in Turkey has been so different from what I expected. There is so much diversity in Turkey. Each place we have experienced has opened a different door to the history and culture of this country. It is amazing to see first hand, amount of history that lies on and beneath the soil of this country. It makes me wish more people knew the colorful, exciting truth about Turkey. It was perfect to get to see modern day Turkish lifestyles juxtaposed with its ancient civilization and those who lived about 9,000 years ago. To be given this opportunity is such a gift and it truly will have changed the way we see Turkey as well as world cultures in general. In turn, all of these experiences can be passed on to our local communities in a positive way and quickly others will see Turkey in a similar light. Overall, the best part of the trip has been meeting the people of Turkey and experiencing their history for ourselves. This is what opens minds and hearts to understanding and appreciating the diversity of cultures and communities our world has to offer.

This trip fed me, and provided the tools and experiences for me to feed others. The exposure to the diversity of cultural layers per say allowed me to truly be engaged on a personal level, broadening my perspective and enabling me to feel even more connected to humanity. On this trip, I was not just engaged on an aesthetic level; this was more than a touristy adventure of entertainment and picture-shooting. I felt connected. I received warm smiles from everyone I encountered and sensed a humble disposition within them. I myself felt humbled in encountering the practices of the Sufi sect of Islam, the open-minded nature of Ataturk, and the nation of Turkey, and the non-confrontational demeanor of each person I came in contact with. I learned about the rich history of the Turks, and this knowledge was supported very well by a plethora of engagements that allowed us to see and feel the context of such a history. Because of this, I was able to internalize my thoughts allowing them to move from my head to my heart-creating empathy, appreciation, and sympathy within me. Having connected to this experience in such a profound way, I will go back home intentionally driven and motivated to spread my knowledge of and appreciation for this country to my family, peers, co-workers and students. I am excited to do this, and fell utterly blessed to have my soul fed in such a significant way. I truly appreciate it. A humble thank you!

This has been a wonderfully rich experience. TCF has arranged a multitude of opportunities for me to be at a lost of words and in disbelief. Being able to visit sites we only read about in history books and the Bible was amazing! I ended each day, thinking it had been the best and that the next day could never be as full and rich, only to be enlightened once again … I concluded after about five days, that there are so many wonderful things to experience in Turkey that I didn’t have enough time to see them all. This tour is especially purposeful for those who learn in ways other than reading a text book. Our tour guide is so knowledgeable about every site we visit, drive past and can think of—facts were pouring out of him at nearly the speed of light. His personality and demeanor brought to life the ancient Turkish culture. He was quite doting to each of us and created an atmosphere that made us feel as one big happy family. Our accommodations, meals and opportunities to see ancient and modern Turkish culture were of the highest scale and utmost class. The schools we visited were each unique – offering different programs – providing authentic learning experiences for students and for those of us on the tour as well. I was able to obtain a knowledge base during this tour that is not offered in a textbook, documentary, photograph, or movie. I will take these experiences back to my students, school, family and community, raving about Turkey’s role in history, the wonderful foods and people, and sharing my various experiences in this beautiful country.

It is easy as a teacher to say one "knows" about a place. After all, in our profession, we research, we learn, we learn some more and we teach. That is why, after teaching about the area we now call Turkey, I can say that there is a bit of embarrassment running through my veins. Visiting Turkey has opened my eyes to a kaleidoscope like variety of sights, a multitude of scents, too many touchable landscapes to list, auditory delights and a feeling of warmth that one may only find at home in their happiest moment. Turkey.

The sights seem unlimited. Its Istanbul has a bustling pulse of Turks winding their way through ancient streets while tourists jockey for position to see the most famous edifices –the local Turk and visitor seem as one. This would not seem too unusual until one ponders that locals and foreigners have been interacting with each other for centuries. Hittites and Phoenicians; Greeks and Persians; Christians, Muslims, and Jews. It is the people who survive on Turkey's soil who define the place, and one cannot help but to gain astonishment in thinking about the lucky people in history who maintained residence there. There is a lesson from each group too – in 7400 B.C.E and beyond, we witness the early humans who give us no evidence of violence or competition. Yet, the collective at Çatalhöyük lasts for at least 1,500 years.

Visitors are allowed to touch Ephesus, the Hagia Sophia, the churches of a young Christian religion. Turkey has it all! A medley of spices will drive your nose wild. Visit a spice market, briefly close your eyes and try to guess which odors come your way. Better yet, imagine spices being traded more than a thousand years ago, possibly in the very spot on which you stand. By the way, did Justinian or Süleyman the Magnificent stand in that same spot? Only in Turkey. Further, one may never want to close an eyelid as the mountains, seas, lakes, plains, urban and rural areas simply can be missed.

Every day with the Turkish Cultural Foundation Study Tour provided the fulfilling opportunity for teachers to go beyond knowing this country, Turkey, that is settled by the Turks but can be claimed by the world. It is not rhetoric if you read in a guide book that the Turkish people want you to feel at home, wherever you may be. Yes indeed, the experience of Turkey is quite different from reading and teaching about the place. The Topkapı Palace is no longer a few sentences linked to the Ottomans in a textbook. The palace is alive in its grandiose nature with many, many riveting stories provided by the good people at the Turkish Cultural Foundation. The culture at Ephesus is certainly interesting enough, but swim in the Aegean Sea close by, and you perhaps have the same experience as our human ancestors centuries ago. That is the experience of Turkey. All of this must be conveyed to teachers and students, friends and associates – visit Turkey as soon as possible, and if you don't have to dream about visiting, don't allow the experiential flame flicker. Turkey is 100% pleasure. Thank you, Turkish Cultural Foundation, for the experience of a lifetime.

My experience on the Turkish Cultural Foundation Teachers Tour has been a remarkable journey surrounded by beautiful landscape, ancient links to the past, talented Turkish people, and a true glimpse into a country’s culture that is often unfairly portrayed in Western media. One of the most eye opening experiences was being able to explore the archeological dig site of Çatalhöyük. In the U.S., as a teacher without any archeological training, I would have most likely viewed the dig site from a far distance and would have listened to a generic tour guide explain the locations highlights. Professor Hodder welcomed us to the site himself, allowed us to view his team’s progress firsthand, and treated us as professionals with his eagerness to answer our questions. The entire Teacher’s Tour has been like this: we are able to experience Turkey’s highlights first hand and are given thorough explanations with the expectation that as interested professionals, we are intrigued and feel compelled to ask questions. This is not a tour, it is an enlightening experience based on interaction with Turkey’s rich history and culture.

Turkey is incredible. This experience has been nothing short of enlightening. I now feel ashamed about how little I knew of Turkey’s rich culture and history prior to this trip. It truly is the “cradle of civilization”. This experience has transformed my knowledge of the world and my own personal being. With each new destination of this journey, I am consistently surprised by the continued richness, beauty, and history of this land. Whether in the city streets, mosques, historical sites, or out in the country, Turkey never ceases to inspire. I will definitely return home with a new perspective and new desire to share my wonderful experience here in Turkey with my family, students, friends and colleagues. Thank you for this amazing experience.

My head and my heart are full! During the day, I try to be like a sponge, soaking up the visible and sensory beauty of Turkey. This country rivals all of Western Europe that I have experienced. The quality of this experience, the layers of information, and nuance shared by the TCF guides and staff are invaluable and necessary to connect so many riches to my life’s learning. When the days are done and I replay earlier hours, I am excited to think of taking this back to my students and colleagues in a few weeks. This is an unforgettable experience, and I am humbly grateful for the opportunity to fill my head and my heart with this wonderful place.

Turkey – where to begin – Since I was a teenager Turkey has been a part of my life. As a teenager my father as a Colonel in the Air Force at the NATO base in Naples, Italy worked with Turkish officers. He had nothing but the highest respect and admiration for them. My father is an engineer and much like a judge in personality – he is not the hard core military type. His admiration of the Turks that he met and worked with was based on their dependability, intelligence, courage and pragmatism. He really preferred of all the countries to work with the Turks. Yet we also talked about how friendly, kind and funny the Turks were – Well things have not changed. I have found Turkey to be by far the best place I have ever visited. The people are quietly proud of their heritage. They carry this pride in their carriage and easy confident smile. Turks are generous and open. In all my transactions, I have found the people to be very honest and approachable. I love working with them. The scenery is beautiful (Cezanne should have come here for his grain fields and landscapes). The food is delicious and there is something for everyone—especially beans. The hotels and amenities are wonderful. The music is melodic, hypnotic and sublime. It is an auditory Rumi fits the rolling hills and fields of grain. Turkey is timeless. You look at the fields and you can imagine all of the heads of the past walking down. I love the sound of the call for prayer wafting with the breeze. I love looking at the people – all of them are intriguing. Old people with their experience marks (aka wrinkles) and their piercing eyes that see to go straight to my heart. I love Turkey – for me I can buy all the souvenirs people offer, but Turkey’s spirit and soul will always be in my heart. Thank you for giving me this gift – I will treasure it always.

Eye-opening comes to mind first. I came into this trip with a general base of knowledge of the land and the history. Well at least I thought I did, but oh so many new doors have been opened. I have seen so many unbelievable sights; Istanbul was full of beauty with our Bosporus cruise, the Blue Mosque, St. Sophia, to name a few. I was anxiously awaiting our trip to Çatalhöyük, but to actually walk among the grounds of this first city gave me goosebumps. Then the unexpected treasures: the Kervansaray (I was unaware of these resting places along the trade route), the beautiful artwork at Cappadocia (I thought it was just about the unusual dwellings). When I return home, I have so many stories to share. This trip has also created a need to learn more. Our tour guide was a wealth of information, but now I need more! The Turkish Cultural Foundation has given me an amazing look into this awesome land. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

My thoughts are not written on a parchment, I am out of pumice stone, but I am not out of praises, parchment or not, for the trip of Turkey organized by TCF. By reading carefully the words of the March of Independence: "It is my nation's star that ever forth will shine. It is my nation's star and it is mine.", I am very impressed by the determination of the people of Turkey to make their country a success and an example. I wanted to know more about the everyday life of the people and share their food, their conversations their desires. Thanks to TCF, we have been able to walk in the street of Istanbul and communicate with people, we have been able to go to villages and enter in their mosques, Kervansaray, houses and historical sites. I have been very impressed by the dedication and ambition of the Turkish educational system. The visit of the math and science school was a must.

I have been touched by the visit of a school in a remote village and the warm welcome we received. I am keeping a picture of an eight years old boy under the name of Alim who was shy but curious about us and opened up after a while. It seems to me that Turkish people make an outstanding effort to help people understand their country. They understand that you don't ripe before you saw. They also know that you don't ripe in the same season. They are patient. I discovered that the Turkish food is not over spiced. It is tasty but you can add a multitude of spices according to your preferences. Isn't it what Turkey is about? A great country with a lot to offer but with choices for people to enjoy it according to their family traditions, their religions, their hopes. Among the numerous sites we have visited, I have really enjoyed the visit of Aphrodisias with the history behind it and the commitment of one individual who gave his life to the renewal of Aphrodisias. The size of the circus was unbelievable. I was dreaming of visiting Cappadocia and I have not been disappointed.

My imagination started to rise at the first view of the volcanic formations. To finish and not be overwhelming, I would like to say that I have never been treated so well in my life. From the beginning to the end, I have received the utmost attention for any request I had. TCF has an outstanding staff and I thank all of them for being so kind, so informative and so organized. Tesekkur ederim. Sağolunuz. How can I help you?

This is the second study tour I have participated in and I am pleased to say that all my expectations were surpassed. I have the variety of the experiences provided. Every teacher will probably return home with new ideas and materials they will be able to implement easily into the classroom. The portfolio was an excellent idea. I left mine on the bus for reading material during the driving time between destinations. Thanks for the time-line. Again this was a great teacher-friendly aide.

TCF has given me this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and experience the richness of Turkey. I have relished her culture and history, basked in the warmth of her hospitality and admired her natural beauty. I want to take back with me, so I can share with my students, colleagues and friends, the understanding of how Turkey holds the keys to solving the mystery of our past. Beyond that, she alone can bridge east to west, so it is vital that Americans learn to see the world through Turkish eyes. As I return to my classroom and my personal life back home, I will of course share my experiences, the sites, the “treasures” I purchased, and my photos and journaling of this adventure. But, I will go deeper than that. I will press to teach my World History students not only Ancient Greece and Rome, but also Ancient Turkey. I will challenge my high school students to take on the role of ambassadors from Turkey as they compete in Model United Nations simulations this year, and I will help my younger students explore Turkish fables, proverbs, literature and art. As my middle school students study world religions they will see how Turkey has had room for diverse peoples and faiths. In all, I am so grateful to TCF for opening my eyes to Turkey, a country and people I am reluctant to leave behind. You have given me a thirst to come back and experience more.

I really enjoy the culture. The people all seem so friendly and helpful. The mixture of traditional Muslim and Western attitudes seem to work well here. Turkish pride is very high, a good thing. The long history puts it in perspective. Although I am not a history teacher, learning about it helps me to understand the culture better. My goal is to expand my knowledge of the culture in terms of economics, politics, business and trade, and education. One of the things I said I wanted to do after this trip is to coordinate a unit of study between US and Turkish teens.

At the department of Commerce I spoke to Basak Kizildemir about this. I learned that high schools in Turkey don't teach business. She said there are vocational schools but the students there probably wouldn't be the type of students I am looking for. However, I explained to her that I am the Department Head for Career and Technical Education, I have all types of kids in my classes that I'm sure we can find some type of match. She agreed and said to keep in touch with her and she will see what she can do.

I enjoyed reading the issue papers in our pocket. It gave me a great idea for a unit of study on Turkey. It can be coordinated with the social studies teacher. Students will research and debate whether or not Turkey should become part of the European Union.

One night I sat my balcony and watched the dancing at what I thought was a wedding; it was actually a circumcision celebration. I also saw 2 young men dance at our luncheon. This was good experience for me because last year at my school's annual multicultural festival, I did the choreography and coordinated the Turkish dance, a six minute performance by 24 students, many of them Turks. I will do this again this year.

I appreciate the knowledge, enthusiasm, friendliness, and helpfulness of the staff. I enjoyed and appreciate the speakers and hosts of our activities. All in all, this experience has been wonderful. I have many more ideas on how to integrate what I've learned about Turkey into the curriculum. I hope to keep an ongoing relationship with the Turkish Cultural Foundation. Thank you for this fabulous opportunity. Maybe in the future, you may want to tell teachers about sea urchins.

Before arriving on this trip I knew of the history of Turkey in many time periods and of its role as a crossroads of culture. Since arriving I have been amazed time and again by the beauty of the country how each stop and event seems more awe inspiring then the last. The diversity of culture and history is truly striking.

Turkey has so many yesterdays to attempt to understand and fathom. If you take too much time, or delve into the history too much it overcomes. I've found myself in almost a trance imagining the steps of Constantine , Mehmet, Suleyman where I've now walked. Then you have the people who surrounded these names we know. All those thoughts and actions that occurred where I've been. As you see, if you let yourself go in this, there's a question of when you will get back. But the history has led us here to this time, where a strong nationalism and civic pride pervades the land.

This is a land covered in red flags of crescent and star; they adorn it. The people love their land and it shows in their acceptance of each other and those outside the culture. They want you to understand their love of country. They want you to see and feel what they do. There is warmth here and it feels quite nice and I feel so fine.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Thoughts on the tour:

- Extremely well organized and professional
- Excellent cross section of Turkey shown
- Orhan is masterful ==> the on the spot knowledge of a professor and the humor of a successful comedian
- Wonderful food ==> accommodation in general
- I've met many outstanding educators and made some lifelong friends. Life long because we shared a once in a lifetime experience
- Possibly the most informative and educational experience were those times spent discussing Turkish issues with Turks –Gular, Tuva, etc --> is strongly suggest more of that question-answer discussion in the future - Suggestions for improvement

o More talking of Turks
o A home stay! – logistically difficult I'm sure, but it will be invaluable
o Let us stop and walk around the small village near Çatalhöyük
o More discussion of geographic topics –land use, spatial distribution and relations between separate cultural relation

Don't get me wrong, Orhan is exemplary. He does discuss geography, however I would personally prefer a bit less history and a bit more about modern Turkey.

- A geographical crossroads throughout history.
- No other place offers a better case study of cultural interaction, assimilation, cultural change.
- Turkey is a wonderful example of a people transitioning from traditional folk culture to modern popular culture, with all the common pains that transition entails.
- Country of contrasts- secular and devotedly Muslim?

o Horse cars on the same roads as a porches
o Women in Burkas talking on cell phones
o Men wearing Abercrombie & Fitch T-shirts while their wives covered
o One Turkish women walking down the street wearing a short skirt, high heels, etc, just like an American, she passes a woman who is covered from head to toe.
o An 800 yr old Mosque across the street from a modern highrise.
o A car full of Turkish youth drive by blasting Turkish techno pop as the call to prayer sounds.
o In a village near Konya a modern gas station, in the back an old woman works a small plot of sugar beets
o The modern affluent sprawl of Istanbul, the simple villages where donkeys and children scamper largely unchanged for the past hundred years.

- A people as beautifully complex and inviting as the landscape upon which they live
- Initially, I was intimidated and uncomfortable bartering. Now, I'm disappointed I won't buy anything from shops that have fixed prices.
- I scream, you scream, we all scream for Raki! - Holy Patriotism Batman! Turkey's flag is everywhere. I wish my own countrymen had such strong positive, feeling of nationalism
- The mayors in this country are inexcusable! –according to our guide.

Prior to arriving in Turkey, I had an open mind, but still held some common misconceptions about Turkey and the Turkish people. Within hours in arriving in Istanbul, these were all shattered. The secular culture is truly evident as you walk out the door of your hotel and view the vast away of cultures. At each stop, I became more and more amazed at the access we were given to historical and cultural sites. Also, the information that Orhan provided for us to bring back to our classrooms is unheard of in any other travel tour. The entire tour has been geared toward teachers; I always feel like I am here to learn, as opposed to just see the sites and that is exactly what I was hoping to gain from this experience. Each tour has given us a once in a lifetime opportunity, although I cannot wait to bring back my daughter someday. Turkey will now be on the list of places we need to visit as a family. Thank you- Thank you- Thank you!

The other day when I awoke, I looked over and saw the sandals I had been wearing the past two days. They were covered with dust. During the time I had worn them we had visited Ephesus and Çatalhöyük. I realized that I was looking at the dust of 9-10.000 years of human history. I was struck by the realization of what that meant. That I had actually walked upon the same ground frequented by those well known and those lesser known. No matter, I share a kinship with them all. Turkey - a land of diversity. A land traversed by so many yet it remains distinctive for its culture. Turkey - from the intricate beauty of the Blue Mosque to the simple labor of woman working in the sugar beet fields. Turkey - from the plains of Konya to the towering rock formations of Cappadocia. Turkey - modern highways to dirt roads in the villages. Turkey – modern shopping malls to roadside stands. Turkey – predominately Muslim but tolerant of active Armenian Christians and Jewish communities. Turkey – signs of a vibrant economy are everywhere yet there are those who make their living with their hands. Turkey – a democratic nation that pays the salaries of its imams and muezzins. Turkey – 16th in the world in GNP but not yet a member of the European Union. Turkey impressions abound, a land of beauty and culture, rich in history.

This study guide tour has given me a better understanding of the rich history of this remarkable country, and a better appreciation of its many arts. But mostly, it has given me an inner connection and special love for Turkey and its wonderful people. Thank you TCF and all the people who made this journey in my life possible and so memorable.

It is hard to imagine a country with the richness of culture and history Turkey possesses. I’ve never stood in awe of so much in one country. From the archeological dig at Çatalhöyük to the modern day city of Istanbul, we’ve followed human history from prehistoric man to our modern age. Beautiful, fascinating sites with friendly and interesting people make Turkey a must see destination. Turkey’s history is the history of humanity. Turkey’s story is a large part of all of our stories. It would have been a shame to miss it.

I am grateful for this opportunity to visit and learn about Turkey. I am not surprised though that Turks have more in common with us, citizens of the United States, than most people believe. I have come to have a better understanding of this through this travel opportunity. What I have seen, heard and felt is a world view of tolerance – tolerance for tense neighbor, tolerance for nosy Americans with comments, questions and curiosity. I see universal values of love of family and strength of character. I hear many languages and beautiful music. I taste many flavors of the provinces, sites and country side so we have travelled through Turkey. I shall always remember this trip and will recommend Turkey to my pears and students. I shall also remain a student of Turkey and will pass on knowledge of the history, culture and experience that is mine.

I have lived abroad and traveled around the world a fair amount – all on my own – so I was a bit nervous about going on my first group tour. However, I found it one of the most rewarding overseas journeys of my life. I learned more than I imagined I would about Turkey and met a bus load of great people, some of whom I hope to stay in contact with long after the tour.

I’ve seen sites that I struggle to find words to describe. Each morning I feel as if I receive a beautifully wrapped gift to open during the day. Turkey is a visual delight, a place that tantalizes all senses. The music, the food, the textures, the landscapes, the people, the bright-eyed children- all tremendous.

This opportunity to come to Turkey and learn about all it has to offer has been amazing. I loved every moment of my time here from the first Hoş geldiniz to my last cup of Turkish coffee it was wonderful. I will have a lot of fun in my class this year weaving in the history, architecture, culture and cuisine. A BIG thank you to the Turkish Cultural Foundation for providing me with this unique opportunity.

I would like to thank the Turkish Cultural Foundation for their support of teacher education. This has been a wonderful learning experience for me. It’s one thing to study Turkish history and culture in a textbook, but to truly understand this diverse country we have had the ability to travel and discover it for ourselves. I am excited to start the new school year by sharing this experience with my students and colleagues in hopes that they can fully understand this unique country.

This study tour has enriched my life and my global studies curriculum enormously. I cannot wait to share my new ideas and insights about this amazing nation. I am inspired to continue studying and learning about this great complex country.

The tour has been wonderful in every way. The sites are varied and incredible. The food and accommodations beyond expectation and the tour staff is remarkable. I will carry what I’ve seen into the classroom with me and it will be no small contribution to how I teach the history of the area.

Although I knew very little about Turkey when I started TCF’s program, the preparatory class and readings gave me a good foundation in Turkish history, art, and culture. The tour built upon that foundation by providing sights, sounds, tastes--real life experiences which ranged from exploring 9,000-year-old ruins to listening to Turkish rap music. Each day's adventure was my favorite until it was outdone by the next day. The experience definitely inspired me to continue my studies of Turkey, and to share my understandings with my students and community. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.

Each day it was like receiving a lovely wrapped gift. As the day went on we got to slowly unwrap the small treasures found inside – beautiful, spiritual and fascinating.

The TCF study tour of Turkey provided an outstanding wealth of information and cultural experience to share with my students, family, and community in a multitude of ways. The experience has enlightened me to the many facts of Turkey as a country, culture, and international partner. This has been a well-planned and wonderful experience.

What an enriching and wonderful experience. The Turkish Cultural Foundation has given an opportunity of a lifetime for 30 American Middle High School Teachers. What we have seen from the Bosphorus cruise to Hagia Sophia to Çatalhöyük has enhanced my vogue knowledge into expertise. My students will benefit a thousand times over from what I have experienced. They in turn will have the resources to learn what I did not when I was their age. Thank you to all the people who made this possible.

When my friends and colleagues learned of my pending trip to Turkey, I was often met with blank stares or questioning looks. Most have heard of Turkey, but have the fainted idea of what modern Turkey is all about. This trip has in twelve days, allowed me to get a taste of what Turkey is about. In these twelve days I have been introduced to Turkey’s incredible history, its varied geography and its welcoming people and I thank the Turkish Cultural Foundation for sponsoring this enlightening trip. I will definitely be back.

The Teacher Study Tour has built a bridge of understanding and enlightenment between our students and the Turkish people. I have been blessed to experience Turkish hospitality.

Prior to this tour I didn’t realize the importance of teaching The Ottoman Empire. Now I realize it is an essential period of history.

Skillfully crafted to give us a broad overview of Turkish history, culture and modern life. I plan to take what I have learned into my classroom to educate my students and Turkey. I also hope to create a cultural student exchange between students in the United States (specifically Oregon) and Turkey

I did not know very much about Turkey before I came; though I did teach about the Ottoman Empire in my AP European History class. However, two years ago, when I studied in Turkey, our guide was Turkish as she encouraged me to visit Turkey. Dreams to come true, and this wonderful opportunity has opened a world to your beautiful country. My experiences here will enable me to be an effective ambassador for greater understanding of Turkish culture and political issues. When I saw Mehmet's II fur lined robe, in Topkapı Palace, I was thrilled to see their tangible symbol of this powerful "conqueror", however, the Ottoman Empire was surprisingly tolerant. I was amazed to learn that the mosaic of the Hagia Sophia were not destroyed by the Ottoman architect Sinan but rather improved and preserved, albeit as a Muslim Mosque. In many ways I have learned how modern day Turkey is a caretaker of many beautiful scene belonging to other cultures. Many ignorant Americans cannot begin to understand the secular nature of Turkey's state.

Throughout my trip I saw modern Turkish women in Western dress commingling with more conservatively dressed women. I want to make sense that my students, and other people I encounter understand that, for the most part, the people's commitment to the vision of Atatürk has remained. (For this reason, I felt Turkey to be far more European, than Middle Eastern).

I also found the distance we covered to be such that the country has many diverse regions, not unlike those found in the United States. For example, the industry of the Anatolia plain was similar to say, Idaho, while the lovely resorts on the Aegean were not unlike those found in Florida. Like the American Southwest, Turkey also faces a depleted aqua in the Anatolian plateau. When I teach World Geography and use Turkey as a comparison case study, I will be sure to include the challenger of sustainable industry. Perhaps one of my favorite things on our itinerary were the school visits. (I was a bit jet lagged for the first two :)

I was pleased to see the "range" at educational opportunities. Even though the children were not in attendance, I enjoyed seeing the students who were there. Though the technical school was impressive (and the students highly articulate), the village school in Karacasu was a real treat. All the teachers we met were enthusiastic, committed to their students, and well, they seemed like US teachers. We have much in common in our commitment to help our students learn in the Global classroom.

Each day on this tour I think, “I’ve never learned so much history; I’ve never experienced so much in a single 24 hours” and then the next day even more happens than the previous day! This is a very exciting study tour. Be prepared to fall in love with Turkey. You will never want to return to your regular life; this is a magical country.

This has been an incredible opportunity to learn about Turkish history and culture. The tour was well-planned with a great balance of ancient historical sites and cultural attractions. A wide-range of teachers could learn near content and take it back to their classrooms. The Turkish Cultural Foundation and Picasso Tours offered the best of Turkish hospitality. I appreciate their efforts to make the tour informative, relevant, and comfortable. Orhan, the guide was extremely prepared and led a great tour around the sites. Bonnie and Hulya from TCF made sure we were taken care of no details were missed. I am energized and inspired to create amazing lessons so my students can better understand the important role that Turkey has played in our world history.

Turkey is a beautiful, complex country with great diversity in its landscape – cities, coastal, regions, farmlands and mountains, and its people whose ancestors come from all over the far reaching world of the Ottoman Empire. This diversity contributes to the rich culture in evidence throughout Turkey. This culture has been preserved in many areas and is being actively revived through conscious efforts to practice and teach many of the cultural traditions. The opportunity to travel with the Turkish Cultural Foundation has opened my eyes and heart to this amazing part of the world which has influenced Western Culture in all areas and often in unappreciated and unacknowledged ways. Learning the etymology of many common words during our bus travels is one way that connections have been made. I appreciate the thoughtful choices that have been made of which sights we will visit and in which order during this introductory tour of Turkey. The opportunity to visit both the paper marbling studio of Mr. Hikmet Barutçugil-Ebristan, in Istanbul and the tile making workshop allowed us to see first hand the ongoing practice of these art farms. The blending of art making with art training helps to ensure that these art farms will continue. We first visited the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, then traveled through the landscape where the raw materials come from to Iznik where the tiles were made.

This process strengthens a feeling of connection to the art and the land. I had a similar experience at the Temple of Artemis, because first we visited the cisterns in Istanbul where the pillars from this temple along with many others had been recycled. Both of these experiences have helped me understand the continuum and continuity of the history of this amazing place, Turkey. Each day of our busy trip I found myself saying, "This is my favorite day so far" and indeed it is clear that each day has been thoughtfully orchestrated to introduce us to the complexities of Turkish culture. What I have seen and experienced in this short time clearly would take an independent visitor so many times longer. Our TCF experience is the Sultan of cultural tours and I will enthusiastically bring these experiences into the classroom and share them with the greater Seattle community. Teşekkür Ederim.

My trip to Turkey though TCF has been a tremendous experience for me both professionally and personally. As a world history teacher it has allowed me to literally stand in the historic places that I have so often taught about and put myself in the shoes of a person living in those historic times. Personally, it has helped me understand the historic and social forces that have shaped my culture and upbringing and to see HOW influenced the United States has been by this crossroads of the world. The tour visited many sites and ruins of civilizations that I teach in my AP World History class: from the Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük to the ancient Roman city of Ephesus to the monumental and awe inspiring Hagia Sophia. Because of this trip I not only can teach my students that Çatalhöyük was one of the oldest continuously inhabited Neolithic sites but I can give students insite into the latest archaeological debates about the site because we spent time with the lead archaeologist at the site.

As a teacher, my goal is to deepen my personal understanding of history to better help my students understand it. I have taught about Roman cities, but walking through Ephesus and Aphrodisias allowed me to experience the urban geography of Roman cities as city-dweller of that time world. I understand much better how the baths works and what daily life was like then. What has been most eye-opening to me is the centrality of Turkey and Asia Minor in the shaping of world history, the diversity of cultures that are a part of Turkey. I have learned that to be Turkish does not mean being a specific color or ethnicity and that Turkishness is quite varied. My understanding of the world and world history has changed dramatically as a result of this trip. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity. I will bring it back to my students and look forward to returning to Turkey again.

Like our students, we teachers are more profoundly affected by what we see, hear, touch, taste and smell than we are by even the most enlightening readings. Yet, like most of our students, we cannot afford to venture far beyond our borders. We teach and learn what we cannot experience. TCF's Teachers Study Tour allowed me to see the Blue Mosque and the pottery of Iznik, hear the call the prayer and the music of the Mevlevi brothers, touch the silks of Bursa, taste Turkey's myriad of cuisines and smell the teas, coffee and herbs of the Spice Bazaar, bringing hundreds of years of history to life. If it has come alive for me, it will come alive for my students. Our visit to the Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük was made even more special by the opportunity to meet one of the archaeologists on the project and see it through her eyes; she was able to explain and demonstrate the detective work that goes into excavations and share her passion for the team's discoveries. Our guide and other tour leaders organized our days so that we learned each layer of history in context.

We also got to know the Turkey of today. Our visits to three different schools and our discussions of funding, curricula, and student achievement, allowed us to better understand similarities and differences in our approaches; it was exciting to exchange ideas with Turkish educators and to meet some of their remarkable students. Representatives from a variety of NGOs offered us insights into how Turks are tackling challenges, many of which we share. We were given windows through which we could better see the problems with illiteracy, poverty and equality issues specific to Turkey and take a look at the models being developed that might very well cross over to other nation's NGOs and government programs in their efforts to address similar issues. It was also invaluable to meet other educators from around the country. We shared common experiences and yet came up with multiple approaches to imparting what we learned to our students. I anticipate that many of my fellow educators on this TCF tour will collaborate long after we have unpacked and gone back to our classrooms. Shared experiences can create powerful bonds. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity provided by TCF; I have grown both personally and professionally as a result of this trip and of the resources, both people and materials that I have discovered through TCF. Thank You.

There were so many extraordinary experiences on this trip that I was constantly caught off balance. The intellectual challenge of understanding thousands of years of history, the emotional challenge taking in so much cultural diversity and the sensory overload caused by the cacophony of sights and sounds all combined to create a constant staff of awe. Thankfully our guides and hosts welcomed us with a sense of hospitality that was unparalleled. I felt as if I was being welcomed into somebody’s home, and this environment was so very conducive to my learning. Long after my photos are forgotten in the labyrinth of my hard drive I will remember the hospitality of my hosts and the warmth, richness and beauty of the Turkish culture.

Thank you so much TCF for this amazing experience. I have truly fallen in love with the country of Turkey. My dad has been here four times before and each time he came home he had fallen in love with Turkey more and more. I finally understand how he feels. As a world geography teacher, I have discovered some amazing things. I cannot wait to share them with my students. Personally, I think Ephesus was my favorite site. It was really neat to see everything so well preserved and to physically stand in a place so rich in history. There is so much to see in this one country which means a return trip for me to discover even more of what Turkey has to offer.

This fellowship has been amazing! I know I would be in for a real treat –definitely wasn’t let down. I’ve enjoyed each cultural attraction, lecture, and Turkish cuisine immensely. First, the Blue Masque and Hagia Sophia were two of the highlights that I enjoyed in Istanbul. I could only marvel at the details and intricate designs of these historic structures. Second, I especially enjoyed my visit to Ephesus. This historical attraction resonated with me. I am very thankful to have this opportunity to reflect on the life of Apostle Paul. In turn, I was able to meditate and reflect on early Christianity and on my own life as a Christian. Third, our visit yesterday to Çatalhöyük was informative and energizing! Being a World History teacher, I quickly embraced the opportunity to explore this Neolithic settlement. The presenter (guide), Shanina (expert from the U.K) was full of passion and enthusiasm which contributed to a dynamic visit to Çatalhöyük! She captured our attention right from the start. Personally, it might be the catalyst to accelerate my plans for starting my doctorate program in 2010! Fourth, our visit to the caravanserai and the churches (monasteries) built into rocks (Göreme) was inspiring. There was time for reflection as we toured each church. This place must have provided a special venue for tranquility and spiritual growth. These are just a few of the highlights during my stain in Turkey. I would like to formally thank the Turkish Cultural Foundation (TCF) for making this possible. This was a cultural exchange of a lifetime! I was thoroughly impressed with the care and planning that was exhibited by Julia and Bonnie. Thanks again for allowing me the opportunity to see, touch, and feel Turkey!

From Çatalhöyük to Konya to Istanbul, we covered 10,000 years of human civilization in 10 days. Time has made its deposits in Turkey; thank you for revealing these treasures in an intensive and enjoyable program.

There were many things I enjoyed during this Turkish Tour including, but not limited to, the amazing hospitality provided by the TCF as well as our group leaders. Their enthusiasm and interest in making one adventures most meaningful definitely showed. Furthermore, the knowledge and openness of their history of Turkey was wonderful when questions were presented; they always had an answer! Though the schedule was packed every day, sometimes making for a long exhausting journey each night I was able to reflect on the many museums, mosques, restaurants and who can forget the shopping that I experienced and would not have wanted it any other way. A definite plus throughout the trip was the accessibility to water, coffee and tea, and bathrooms. In addition, one leader provided advanced notice of specific dress when needed which helped in selecting proper clothes; generally I always felt prepared. Traveling to different cities over the course of several days allowed for new geography as well as culture, ruins, and lifestyles differences that can visibly be seen throughout this county –what a sight! The hotels selected by the TCF also provided more than I could have ever asked for in accommodations and the food was exquisite! I have so much more to add and share with my family, students, and friends back home. This trip has truly been a once in a lifetime opportunity that I know I will cherish for some time to come. Thank you again for this opportunity and I do hope we keep in touch.

Wow...what a trip! There is so much that I learned that I can use in my ninth and tenth grade global history classes! I can especially use the information in my ninth grade class, which covers world history from prehistory through 1600 CE. I have always felt that the Ottomans were shortchanged in our curriculum, for example. Now I can give the Ottomans their full due with documentation and pictures. Specifically, I can take my students on a tour of the palace in Istanbul with the pictures I took. All in all, I loved this tour, learned a lot and had a great time! Thanks!

For me as someone trained in geography what stands out about this tour is the holistic experience. We are exposed to Turkey as a multi-faceted entity. Simultaneously we see the cultural landscape, learn about political-economy and history as well as the physical geography of the region. It is a moving experience to have such an integrative and intellectual “classroom” experience. I have a real sense of place now and it is so far removed from the uni-dimensional focus of U.S. history survey texts which basically paint Turkey as “Justinian” “Hagia Sophia” Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I filled a journal and then some just with commentary from our super tour guide!!

What an amazing adventure! Each day of this trip could be a stand-alone trip. To see so much history in such a short time has been fantastic. The trip has been extremely well-balanced and has offered me the opportunity to be exposed to the diverse elements of Turkish culture. From the marble demonstration to the Iznik tile factory visit and ceramics workshop visit I have gained an appreciation for Turkish craftsmanship and arts. The opportunity to hear a live, classical music performance and to be introduced to different forms of music, dancing and food have helped to deepen my appreciation for Turkish culture. This experience will enhance my teaching of each unit of my global course. From ancient civilizations and the advent of settlement to 20th century Cold War politics and the European Union, Turkey's history is a vital part of my course. Having a deeper sense of each of these time periods will faster my ability to help my students understand Turkey and the world.

I think I was most impressed over all with the size and scope of everything we saw. To stand under Hellenistic columns, Roman arches, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia is to appreciate and understand the massive size and scope of these architectural masterpieces. The trip to Ephesus was particularly significant in this regard. To be able to get a firsthand look at a Roman city was remarkable. In the states Roman artifacts are tucked away in museums and one can get a glimpse of an idea or artist's rendering of a model city. To be able to walk the streets and climb over an aqueduct gave me a whole new level of appreciation for the imperial majesty of a Roman city. Walking through the forum and amphitheater and experiencing the perspective and relationship of the buildings to one another is the best way to appreciate the facets of Roman engineering.

As an economics educator, I am always most interested in identifying a country's resources and its allocation of those resources. By far Turkey's greatest asset is its people. Physical capital and infrastructure can be acquired, but the entrepreneurial spirit cannot. I find the Turk's business orientation to be earnest, pragmatic and aggressive; paired with the proper capital investment and an effective universal educational institution; these attributes have historically led to rapid and sustained growth. If Turkey's labor force is allowed to flourish, I believe the economic capacity of this nation can reach the heights of its cultural achievements.

The Turkish Study Tour this summer has totally exceeded all my expectations. Throughout this trek across Turkey, I have been amazed by the sights, the food, the comfort and the endearing welcomeness of this great nation. The Study Tour has been incredibly valuable in exposing me to this heretofore unknown country and my life and my teaching will be changed forever as a result.

First and foremost, the Turkish Study Tour showed off Turkey for all the amazing wonders it offers, both on the beaten path and off of it. Of course, the history books are littered with references to the Hagia Sophia and the majesty of Ephesus, but our itinerary exposed us to so many of the amazing nooks and crannies of this great country, taking us to fascinating sites like the Caravanserai in the middle of the desert plains or the Rumi Mevlana, to see ancient Ottoman tombs.

Each day thrust us into a new period of history, whether the Neolithic period through Çatalhöyük, the Byzantine period at Aphrodisias or the Ottoman period at the Topkapı Palace. Personal highlights include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Archeological Museum (totally undersold) of Istanbul, the ongoing research at Çatalhöyük and the hand carved churches of Cappadocia. The tour proved that Turkey is filled with sites which leave it unparalleled amongst the world's nations for historical importance. The country offers a portal into so many different eras and this Study Tour highlighted it, in all its glory.

The tour additionally left us enough free time to expose ourselves to the modern life of Turkey. The itinerary gave us the freedom to haggle over goods in the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar, to trek up to the Galata Tower to capture sweeping views of Istanbul, or to peek around a corner in Konya to discover a raucous Kurdish Engagement ceremony. I really feel as a result of this tour that I have experienced a small taste of what Turkish life is like.

Visiting the various schools gave us another portal into Turkish life. Over the course of the trip we visited four very different schools and got a real snapshot on the different experiences students are exposed to in Turkey. The Darüşşafaka School and Bahçesehir Science Technology School showed off the great educational strides that are being made in Turkey. These schools had top-notch facilities and enthusiastic staff to show it off, whether by showing us their great projection systems in the classroom or bedazzling us with their planetarium and science museum, these schools showed us how education can be done right. The other two schools showed the great efforts that are being made to provide students with the best education possible. One school was dedicated to the education of those who lost family members to the tragic earthquake of ten years ago, while the other was an incredibly rural town where energetic students clicked away at educational games on computers donated by a grant. Memories of the smiling faces in each of these schools will stay with me for a very long time.

The support staff on this trip was incredible. To begin with, Orhan was a walking encyclopedia on his country, constantly making clear how extensively his knew his country and the sights in it. He would deliver insightful and completely off-the cuff descriptions of both contemporary and ancient Turkey. His level of scholarship was incredibly high. In addition, he was extremely personable and made the trip a lot more fun for all involved. Hulya was excellent as well in the role of trip coordinator. She was always on site and made sure all our need were being met. Metin and Ali were a great team to ensure that our ride was smooth, efficient and most importantly safe. They did an excellent job providing a good coach experience.

The food was excellent throughout the trip. Unlike previous group trips I have taken, the food varied from location to location. Each dinner offered a new aspect of the varied cuisines Turkey offers.

Highlights include the Asitane Restaurant in Istanbul which offered ancient Ottoman dishes accompanied by Ottoman music, the baklava of the Mansions restaurant of Istanbul and the hearty and spicy meal of the Dedeman Hotel in Konya. As a vegetarian, I had certain dietary needs and my eating needs were met above and beyond what I could have expected. The tastes and flavors of Turkey were a highlight and were stay with me for a long time. Overall, this study tour has been an amazing experience. I have become personally acquainted with many great sights, excellent teaching practices, and invaluable cultural experiences in Turkey. I have forged connections with teachers across my own country and have immeasurably improved my teaching. I am tremendously grateful and wish the best for this amazing nation.

Turkey is a land of great beauty. This beauty can be found in its variety of landforms, its people, food, architecture and history. Each region we have visited has stimulated all of my senses. This trip has opened my eyes to a region of the world that is not well understood or appreciated in my country. It is my sincere hope that through my tales of this journey that my fellow countrymen will be inspired to visit this magnificent land.

The 2009 teacher study tour has been a life changing experience. As an educator, the rich cultural heritage and vast history available in Turkey defies description. I applied for the tour after reading the itinerary and speaking to other people about their travels in Turkey. I read a few of the recommended texts. Day one we started with a breath taking cruise on the Bosporus and every experience since has been more incredible and more awe inspiring as those first views.

My perspective of Turkey has changed. Turkey is a country rich in history and active in current world affairs. Modern Turkey is obviously caught up in a current of change. Secular interests compete with religious undercurrent, historical art forms integrate 21st century techniques, and new and old exist and evolve together. This experience offered me a taste of Turkey, a taste so rich and exotic that I end the tour, looking for ways to share with others some of the things that I have learned and am inspired to go on and learn more.

When I first arrived in Turkey, I thought to myself, 'What ever am I doing here?' It took me a few days in Istanbul to get acclimated to my surroundings. It did not take long to fall in love with the city. The Turkish people could not have been more welcoming. I was hesitant before the trip because I had heard that the Turks were not friendly - how untrue. I was most impressed with our tour of Ephesus. I only hoped more information was given on Saint Paul. Another fascinating site was the Göreme Open Air Museum. I felt a spiritual connection there and probably would have been able to get a better sense of the holiness and determination of the people to express their prayers save for all the visitors. As I am a religion teacher, these are the areas of the tour that are most valuable. The landscape and the vastness of Turkey is amazing to me - I am in complete awe. I will use the information I learned about the Byzantine Empire and Justinians rule as this is part of my Social Science curriculum - not as much detail of course. The Grand Mosque in Bursa was beautiful in its simplicity and meaning to me. As our tour is coming to an end, sadness is setting in. I feel very comfortable here and I am quite proud of myself for learning a 'few' Turkish words! I will definitely go back home as an ambassador for this diverse country and I am very grateful for having been given this wonderful, once in a lifetime opportunity to study here.

The mystery and allure of Turkey has always intrigued me - the beauty of Turkish art and architecture is evident, but, what about the personality of an obscure culture other than what has been introduced to most Americans through Hollywood films, novels and... misinformation? When the teachers study tour of Turkey was offered through our local world affairs council - sponsored by and funded through the Turkish Cultural Foundations. I was exiting to apply for acceptance on the tour. This culture has been neglected, in my opinion in the fine arts department other than the mention of a few examples of calligraphic arts, the Hagia Sophia and perhaps Çatalhöyük.

The study tour has opened my eyes and my heart to the beauty and history of Turkey. Not only the beauty of its arts forms, but to the beauty of the people. Once more, I am reminded as to how different we are - yet how much a like we all are. My experiences have been too numerable to mention - but, I would be remiss if I did not mention just a few.

Firstly, the helpfulness and friendliness of Turkish people made a great initial impression. Seeing cultural sites firsthand - not in my textbooks over the past 40 years cannot be expressed in words; the cuisine which is subtle and then powerful - so fresh and exhilarating. From the passionate portrayal by Orhan - our tour guide - without whom Turkey would not have been so meaningful to the sites themselves in all their splendor. It will not be difficult for me to bring to my school - it students and staff a new understanding of Turkey. I am planning a Turkish festival for my A.P. Art History students and perhaps my colleague who also travelled on this tour from the social studies department. I will also introduce the many textiles I have seen in Turkey. I would like to have my librarian add resources on Turkey to our school library. The Family and Consumer Science class will benefit from my study tour in the Cultural Cuisine around the World elective. I intend to also introduce my music department to Turkish music - the part it plays - not only in entertainment, but also in religion and everyday life.

In closing, as tears welled in my eyes - standing on the remains of Çatalhöyük - 9,000 B.C. feeling the life that had been their - knowing that my present life was changed - will be paramount in my memory as long as my mind remains clear. My heart has been touched by the children's large eyes and prideful faces in the village school - my sincere gratitude to all concerned. I hope I can do justice to your dedication and hard work when I attempt to bring the mystery, allure and true understanding of beautiful Turkey to my high school

Before this experience my knowledge of Turkey was a curiosity of the Hagia Sophia and some basic knowledge of the civilizations that crossed this region through history. How my eyes have been opened by this opportunity... As I reflect on the past ten days and think about my teaching curriculum, there will be little that will not be impacted by my time in Turkey. I have seen art and architecture from the earliest periods of history and it has been presented by the most knowledgeable scholars within a context that connects it to the contemporary (and everything in between). While I expected to see historical sites, the visits to Turkish schools were informative and fascinating; giving me perspective on my own teaching system in the US. The amount of information that I have absorbed over the course of the tour would not have been possible were it not for the organization and effort to create the highest quality experience with the fewest distractions possible. This reflects the fantastic job the Turkish Cultural Foundation did with this daunting tack. Not only did you see the most important and pivotal sites and objects in Turkey's history but we also found such authentic experiences as we ate and observed the present Turkish society. I will be forever grateful to have been provided this opportunity.

Turkey has come alive for me through the Teacher's Study Tour 2009! Where do I begin? Every day was overflowing with invaluable experiences and information that I will use to restructure my ancient history curriculum.

I have traveled on many organized tours, but can honestly say that I have new experiences such as well planned comprehensive educational trip. No stone was left unturned. Each day presented itself with a variety of activities that introduced us to all aspects of Turkish customs, history beliefs and culture. This trip was a perfectly planned lesson. The balance between historical lectures, site-seeing and activities in the arts kept me engaged and energized throughout the entire trip.

My eyes have been opened to a beautiful country and my level of understanding deepened through this experience. Thank you Turkish Cultural Foundations for one of the finest professional development opportunities that I have experienced.

Traveling around Turkey, experiencing the sights, sounds, and tastes of this gorgeous and hospitable country has been an incredible experience. Now I feel better prepared to share information with my students and make it come alive.

The Turkish Cultural Foundation studied tour = priceless

To begin, this has been a wonderful experience both professionally and personally. Let me begin with the first category.

As a World History, Current Events, US History and Middle Eastern Studies teacher, there are few places that rival Turkey for breath of historical relevancy. The trip begins with look at Istanbul, center of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The trip gets a wonderful start with an outstanding hotel view of two wonders of architecture, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. The first few days are spent viewing the Istanbul sights augmented by the incredible knowledge of our tour guide, Orhan Sezener. And this is just the beginning. From the oldest inhabited settlements to Greco-Roman marvels in Ephesus, to monasteries and homes carved out of mountains in Cappadocia, one is treated to some of the greatest marvels in human history, a personal experience brought to life beyond the photographs and knowledge glimpsed out of books.

Along with the sights goes the organization. There is so much to see and some days the process is almost overwhelming. However, the staff aided by Bonnie Joy and the indefatigable Hulya Yurtsever make sure that the senses are not overloaded. There are rest stops, cultural activities, and lodging in beautiful accommodations. Every day brings a new wonder from cuisine to architecture, from pottery to rug making. I have so much material that I am dying to bring back to the classroom.

Personally, among the many pleasures of the trip are the bonds formed between the people on the trip, from the organizers who enjoy a great repartee with each other to the amazing backgrounds of the teacher participants. All display a thirst and love for knowledge. I feel I have traveled and lived in many countries, but this case is true with everyone. The travel experiences of this group are phenomenal, and their sharing that richness of experiences a treasure I have never encountered.

My overall impression of the Turkey study tour has been one of awe - I never realized the wealth of cultural sites that were in this country. Even reading about them in a history book or a tour book does not prepare you for the sense of wonder that fills you when you realize that humans stood in the same spot as you over 9,000 years ago, or that the marble road on which you are walking was traveled by the ancient Romans. More significantly there seems to be an almost spiritual connection to the plea we've visited, not just the religious ones, rather the connection stems from the recognition of all that humanity has in common, no matter what ethnicity or time. We grieve and bury our dead, we use art to express our inexpressible feelings and we form communities to assist one another with survival.

As a science and engineering teacher, there is a wealth of information here for me to share with my students in a way that draws them into my subjects. From the comparison of the foundations of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to a chemical analysis of the Pamukkale Springs, I have encountered endless possibilities to engage my students. I would whole heartedly recommend this trip to other science or engineering teachers for I believe interdisciplinary studies such as this tour are the key to our student's understanding our subjects. It was also informative to visit similar schools in Turkey and share our subjects, successes and common challenges, and realize that our students aren't so different after all.

I will have to start by saying that the Teacher’s Study Tour of Turkey has been one of the best experiences of my life. As a teacher, this has been the opportunity of a lifetime. We have been exposed to the many wonderful sides of Turkish Culture. I have learned about Turkish art, architecture, history and many other things. I have visited places in Turkey I never thought I would. I would highly recommend this study tour to teachers of all disciplines. More specifically, I believe social studies teachers would benefit from this study tour. As a world history teacher, I have learned about so many different topics and time periods directly related to my world history curriculum. This study tour has helped me grow as a teacher and become more knowledgeable on various topics that I teach. Some of the places we visited were Çatalhöyük, Ephesus and Topkapı Palace. We have studied Turkey from the Neolithic Period through the Ottoman Empire and after. As teachers, we constantly need to learn new information to become better teachers for our students and this study tour is a wonderful way to do this.

From a landscape which is just as diverse as its people. Turkey has slowly sketched many of its faces into my heart. I personally have learned from this opportunity that the history of Turkey goes back much further than what I’ve been exposed to on CNN or any other international news channel. The history to this country is one which is full of pride, culture and riches of humanity. I feel that this Turkish Cultural Program has made the world a little smaller yet better understanding to me. I can now say that my worldview has now been forever changed.

When I began telling my friends about this wonderful opportunity I had received, many of them asked, 'Why Turkey?' It is a question based in lack of knowledge and/or misguided information as well as stereotypes. Unfortunately, I did not possess the skills and knowledge to adequately refute their connotations. The biggest thing I will take away from this trip is the newly acquired understanding of what Turkey represents and all that its people have to offer. Therefore the question will not be 'Why Turkey?' but rather 'Why not Turkey?' Thank you Turkish Cultural Foundation!

It was the adventure of a lifetime for me to teach school in Turkey from 2004-2009, but these months were filled with work, grading papers, lesson planning and weekend excursions with The Lonely Planet - Turkey guidebook. I realized, only after returning to the USA that I had only scratched the surface. I had not had time to really explore the history, culture and political, social and economic issues of the country. What I did learn was that the Turkish people are the most gracious and generous people I have met anywhere in the world. I knew I wanted to come back. It felt more like home than my home in the states.

So the Turkish Cultural Foundation has afforded me the opportunity to explain the richness of this country - a country whose history goes back 15,000 years, whose land has been inhabited for 376 generations. Our guide Orhan, has led us to the worlds of the Hittites, the Romans, the Byzantine and Ottoman dynasty. We have talked of gods and goddesses from mythology, the journeys of the Apostle Paul, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. We have seen tile making in Iznik, carpet-making in Cappadocia and the art of ebru in Üsküdar, the silks of Bursa. We have explored Turkish music of all kinds and sampled innumerable traditional Turkish foods.

Highlights for me include the wonders of Istanbul -the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the cistern and the fascinating spice bazaar; the archaeological sites of Çatalhöyük dating back to Neolithic times; the geography and natural splendor of Cappadocia and the unique beauty of Pamukkale with the blue ponds and blue sky in dramatic contrast to the white calcium deposits covering the steep slopes.
Most of all I treasure my encounters with the Turkish people. Whether offering a cup of çay, giving directions, helping me learn a Turkish word or phrase, allowing me to take a coveted photo, or explaining their educational system, they are genuine, caring, and gracious.

I am pleased to have visited a number of schools, my favorite the village school in Enka. I am anxious to take all that I have learned back to my school and my community. As more and more people come to see Turkey as it really is rather than how the media often portrays it, relations between the two countries will improve and the relationship will be mutually beneficial. I appreciate all that Turkey is, and no more a part of me than ever before. I am happy to be an ambassador for this gem - Türkiye. Thanks to everyone who had a part in providing this experience.

I did not realize until this opportunity presented itself that I knew so little about Turkey. Its history, its people, its customs and its direction for the future has captivated my intellect but most importantly my heart. As we visited each new locale, it became my favorite: Istanbul - one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Iznik - my eyes feast on the tradition of tile making and Bursa with the silk markets; Ephesus - a city with marble presenting itself as center of culture, religion and mosaics. Each day held new treasures to be revealed. The Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük and the churches carved into the rocks of Cappadocia encourage me to continue my education, hopefully in archaeology, because the more I know, the more I can teach. A special highlight has been the people of Turkey. Visiting area schools and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces give way for a future of promise, hope and understanding.

What has impressed me most? Everything! I will name only a few of the standouts.

Starting with Istanbul, the architecture and antiquities were astounding. The Ottoman period, the Byzantine period, the mosques Topkapı Palace were overwhelmingly beautiful. Their examples of calligraphy, mosaics and tiles, minarets, costumes and jewelry were all fine examples of these periods. No other country could compare with these unique styles.

The visitations to the schools was enlightening. I loved the one in the country that showed rural curriculum and the boys who met us. The people here are so kind and loving. Their faces show something in them that elicits deep compassion for suffering and joy.

All of the ruins at Ephesus and Aphrodisias especially, opened my eyes to the remarkable mixing of cultures and history that these people have shared with European history. I had not realized this before.

The art, the crafts, the food, the landscapes, the architecture, the seas, the people, the long history of industry and survival, the traditions, the language, and the religion all make up a tapestry as complicated and beautiful as a Turkish carpet.

I will be teaching lessons this year using my tile from Iznik. We will make shadow puppets like those we saw in Bursa. We will make pots with Turkish patterns and schema. We will do paper marbling (Ebru) as developed in Turkey.

I will become an ambassador for Turkey. Orhan and Hülya have exposed me to a whole new world.

I have absolutely loved my trip to Turkey!!! The knowledge gleaned from my 10 day stay in this beautiful country will, no doubt, benefit me and my community in many years to come. I am grateful for this opportunity and consider it an honor and a true privilege to have taken part!!!