American Pearls

Day 1 — From Istanbul to Washington

Following our meeting at Istanbul Airport at 05:00, we depart for America's capital, Washington, on Turkish Airlines flight TK 187 at 08:15. Following our arrival at 12:10 local time, we meet our guide waiting for us at the airport and transfer to our hotel by private vehicle. Since our rooms will not be ready before 16:00, guests who wish to explore the city with our professional guide and make the most of their time may join the optional Washington Introductory Tour. On this tour, which will span two days, we thoroughly explore all four corners of the capital. Our first stop is the Pentagon. As entry inside is not permitted, we proceed to a vantage point overlooking the Pentagon, headquarters of the US Department of Defense, where we have the opportunity to see which wing the plane struck during the 11 September attacks. Our next stop is the Korean War Veterans Memorial; erected in memory of those who lost their lives and the veterans of the Korean War, this memorial also holds great significance in terms of Turkish history. We then continue to visit Arlington National Cemetery. Following the tour, transfer to our hotel and free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.

Day 2 — Washington DC

Free time for guests not participating in the tour. With our guests joining the tour, we continue exploring this magnificent city, the federal capital, which enchants with its architecture, history, and culture. Established with a special status on the banks of the Potomac River, this city is home to countless government institutions. Highlights of our tour include the US Capitol, home to the Senate and the House of Representatives; the Library of Congress, the world's largest library; Union Station; and the National Mall, the national promenade. Iconic American landmarks, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, appear simultaneously before us in this perfectly aligned expanse facing each other. Along the National Mall, we see memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers and veterans, the World War II Memorial depicted with its two fronts (Atlantic and Pacific), and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The most eagerly anticipated stop of our tour is The White House. We proceed right up to the President's official residence to view up close this historic building, which was restored to its former glory after the fire of 1814. Our final stop before returning to our hotel is M Street and Georgetown. We take a break in this lively district with its shops, restaurants, and cafés, and see Georgetown University, one of America's finest universities. Free time to relax at the hotel and shop. Overnight at our hotel.

Day 3 — From Washington to New York

Departing early in the morning from our hotel, we set off for New York. Arriving in New York around midday, we transfer to our hotel, where we join the group arriving from Turkey. As we will not be able to check into our rooms before 16:00, guests who wish may join the two-day optional New York Introductory Tour organised by our tour guide. Day One: We arrive on the island of Manhattan, New York's most famous borough, and begin our tour. We will see Central Park, the city's most prestigious apartment residences, the Museum Mile, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Columbus Circle, The Plaza Hotel, the iconic Apple Store, Trump Tower, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, the New York Public Library, the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, as well as Washington Square Park and New York University in Greenwich Village. Later, passing through SoHo, we reach the Financial District to explore the area around Wall Street and the World Trade Center. Continuing along the Hudson River, we arrive at Times Square, where LED billboards turn night into day. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Day 4 — New York (New York Landmarks)

Free time for guests not participating in the tour. With participating guests, we embark on the New York Icons tour. First, we head by subway to Battery Park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan, where we complete our ticketing and admission procedures while viewing war memorials, before boarding the ferry to Liberty Island. Accompanied by spectacular Manhattan views, we photograph the Statue of Liberty, and upon reaching the island, we discover the statue and immigrant stories up close. During the free time provided by our guide, you may explore the museum or enjoy a coffee. Returning to Battery Park by ferry, we set out on an enjoyable walking route. We see the Financial District, Wall Street and its iconic Charging Bull, the Stock Exchange Building, the 9/11 Memorial built in the wake of 11 September, the Freedom Tower (One World Trade Center), and the architecturally striking Oculus. We take the subway to the Dumbo area to take photos against the backdrop of the famous Brooklyn Bridge. Finally, we head to the Empire State Building; those who wish may ascend to view Manhattan from above. This is followed by free time for shopping, dinner, and a coffee break. Overnight stay at our hotel. *Note: Your guide may modify the schedule according to weather conditions and ferry queues. Empire State tickets average between 52–65 USD; your guide may also redirect to the One Vanderbilt building subject to availability.*

Day 5 — New York (Hidden Legends of New York)

Free time in the morning. Guests who wish may join the optional Secret Legends of New York Tour organised by our guide. Our tour begins in the lively streets of Chinatown while the city is just waking up. After spending your morning in this neighbourhood where tradition meets contemporary rhythm, just a few steps away we move on to Little Italy, carrying the spirit of Italy with the aromas of espresso and fresh bread; here, you might truly feel as though you are inside "The Godfather". Next, we stroll through SoHo with its cast-iron buildings and cobblestone streets, witnessing the blend of historic character and modern luxury. The day continues at Perry Street in the West Village, home to Carrie Bradshaw as you will remember from "Sex and the City" — a perfect stop for an unforgettable photo. We have lunch sampling global cuisines at Chelsea Market, the former Oreo factory, then walk along the High Line, taking in the architecture of Manhattan's West Side and views of the Hudson. Our adventure continues with the Vessel at Hudson Yards; this extraordinary honeycomb-like structure invites you to climb its stairs for panoramic city views. In the afternoon, you can take a peaceful break in Bryant Park, admire the view of the New York Public Library, or even join in a game of chess. As the city lights begin to sparkle, we find ourselves amidst the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal; with its celestial ceiling and corridors that have set the scene for countless films, it is so much more than just a railway station. Return to our hotel after the tour. Overnight at our hotel.

Day 6 — From New York to Los Angeles

Morning transfer to New York Airport. Following a domestic flight in the US of approximately 5,5 hours, we arrive in Los Angeles. We transfer to our hotel by private vehicle. As our rooms will be available after 15:00, you may relax in the lobby or join the optional Los Angeles & Santa Monica Tour organised by our guide. Our first stop is Hollywood Boulevard, etched into memory from countless films. Among the sights we will see are the Dolby Theatre (formerly the Kodak Theatre), host of the Academy Awards ceremonies, the TCL Chinese Theatre, which hosts famous movie premieres, the handprints and footprints of celebrities, and the legendary Walk of Fame. From this area, you can also photograph the iconic Hollywood sign. We then reach Beverly Hills via Sunset Strip and Santa Monica boulevards. After viewing its famous emblem, we take a short stroll along luxurious Rodeo Drive, featured in the film *Pretty Woman*, and view the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, where stars such as Elvis Presley and John Lennon resided for years. We then head into the heart of the city, Downtown, to explore Olvera Street, the skyscrapers, and historic centres. After returning to the hotel, you may relax in stylish cafés accompanied by street performances in vibrant, dazzling Santa Monica in the evening, and have your dinner here. Overnight at our hotel. *Note: Our guides may also conduct the Santa Monica tour prior to arriving at the hotel in order to make better use of our guests' time.*

Day 7 — Los Angeles (San Diego)

Free time in the morning. Guests who wish may join the optional San Diego Tour organised by our tour guide. Our first stop in San Diego, voted America's finest city for years, is La Jolla. Famous for its seal beach and scenic shores, we will admire the harmony of nature and luxury coastal homes in La Jolla and take plenty of photographs. Next, we head to Old Town, the birthplace of California, where an atmosphere that makes you feel as though you are in Mexico awaits you. Afterwards, our visits include Seaport Village, the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier, the Unconditional Surrender Statue capturing an iconic World War II moment, and Coronado Island, home to a US Naval Base as well as the historic Hotel del Coronado, the largest wooden building in the country and the filming location for "Some Like It Hot". Return to the hotel after the tour. Overnight at our hotel. *Note: The visit to the USS Midway aircraft carrier will be an exterior photo stop only.*

Day 8 — Los Angeles (Universal)

Free time in the morning. Guests who wish may join the optional Universal Studios Tour organised by our guide to spend a unique day in the heart of the American film industry. We head to Universal Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. With celebrated director Steven Spielberg having served as creative consultant, this park is considered the world's number 1 studio and entertainment centre. Not merely a theme park, but also a product of nearly a century of cinema history and technology, here over 40 shows, film sets, spectacular rides, and roller coasters make you feel as if you are inside the films. Free time following the tour. Overnight stay at our hotel.

Day 9 — From Los Angeles to Las Vegas

In the morning, we depart from the hotel and head to Las Vegas, Nevada's premier tourist centre and the city of nights, home to the world's largest hotels. En route, subject to general participation as an optional excursion, we stop at Calico, a former silver mining town also known as a "Ghost Town"; here, we explore one of the classic cowboy towns familiar from movies and capture wonderful photographs. Following a journey of approximately 4,5 hours, we arrive at our hotel. As check-in to rooms will again be after 16:00, guests who wish may join the Las Vegas Combined Tour organised by our guide as an optional excursion. After exploring the Las Vegas Strip with its magnificent architecture inspired by various parts of the world, we head to the Mall. Following the shopping break, we see The Sphere up close, which gained worldwide fame in a short time. After free time here, we proceed to Downtown, the city centre, and visit the bustling Fremont Street Experience, lively throughout the day. In this canopied street hosting concerts and events, free time is given for those wishing to enjoy the zip-line, dining, and shopping. Afterwards, we transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Day 10 — Las Vegas (Grand Canyon)

Free time in the morning. Guests who wish may join the unmissable Grand Canyon Tour, organised by our guide as an optional extra. Following a journey of approximately 2 hours, we arrive at the Grand Canyon and board the sightseeing buses. At the final stop, Eagle Point, we take magnificent photographs of the canyon right beside a 800-metre drop and see the dwellings of the Hualapai Native Americans. Afterwards, we proceed to Guano Point to savour meals prepared by the Hualapai Native Americans against an incomparable view. We also have the opportunity to meet the Hualapai Native Americans, the guardians of this canyon, which is one of the world's 7 natural wonders. For those seeking an entirely different experience – Helicopter Tour (350 $): Guests wishing to crown their trip can descend to the Colorado River by helicopter. As the 5–6-seater helicopters descend towards the river at the very bottom of the canyon, the magnificent views will mesmerise you; afterwards, we take a short boat tour on the Colorado River and take plenty of photographs. In the evening, the opportunity to stroll along the Las Vegas Strip and watch the hotels' open-air shows. We provide transfers for our guests who wish to attend the world-famous Las Vegas shows; thousands of tables and slot machines await those wishing to try their luck. Overnight stay at our hotel. *Note: The helicopter tour is guaranteed only if booked at least a few days prior to departure. During the summer months, as the Grand Canyon becomes very hot around midday, the tour starts early.*

Day 11 — From Las Vegas to San Francisco

Morning transfer to Las Vegas Airport. We fly to San Francisco on a US domestic flight. After meeting our guide at the airport, we transfer to our hotel. As check-in will take place after 15:00, you may relax in the lobby or join the optional San Francisco Orientation Tour organised by our guide. On our tour, we explore this fascinating city. The Civic Center, the city's iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown, Twin Peaks, legendary Haight-Ashbury where flower power was born, the elegant Palace of Fine Arts, and Lombard Street, known as the world's "crookedest street", are among the places we will see. Following the tour, free time for dinner, followed by transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Day 12 — San Francisco (Muir Woods National Monument & San Francisco Premium Outlets)

Morning at leisure. Guests who wish may join the optional Muir Woods National Monument & San Francisco Premium Outlets Tour organised by our guide. Located north of San Francisco and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Muir Woods National Monument is renowned for its centuries-old giant sequoia (redwood) trees. Trails winding through the trees lead to Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove, running along Redwood Creek; here, we experience a compact yet impressive example of American national parks. Afterwards, we complete our shopping at the Premium Outlets. Return to the hotel in the evening and free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.

Day 13 — Return from San Francisco to Istanbul

In the morning, we check out of our rooms and enjoy free time until our flight departure. Guests who wish may join the optional Sausalito – Alcatraz from the Water – Fisherman’s Wharf – Cable Car – Union Square Tour organised by our guide. Depending on seasonal conditions, we travel by vehicle or boat to Sausalito, where today's wealthiest residents live. Strolling along the promenade, you can admire the exquisite houses and sip your coffee at seaside cafés overlooking San Francisco. Then, on our return boat trip, we photograph Alcatraz, once the world's inescapable prison, from the sea. Our boat docks at Pier 39, one of the city's iconic landmarks, where we observe the sunbathing sea lions. Following free time for lunch, we take an enjoyable ride on the Cable Car (the famous red trams) seen in movies to Union Square; the Fashion District and Chinatown await you. In the late afternoon, transfer to San Francisco Airport and departure for Istanbul at 18:45 on Turkish Airlines flight TK 080. Overnight on board.

Day 14 — Istanbul

Included services

• Economy class flights with Turkish Airlines between Istanbul – Washington / San Francisco – Istanbul
• Airport taxes and flight insurances
• Economy class flight ticket between Las Vegas and San Francisco
• Economy-class flight ticket between New York and Los Angeles
• 2 nights' accommodation at the 4* Hyatt Regency Bethesda or a similar hotel in Washington
• 3 nights room-only accommodation at the 4* Grand Sheraton Hotel in Los Angeles
• 3 nights' room-only accommodation at the 4* Sheraton Times Square Hotel in New York
• 2 nights' room-only accommodation at the 4* Treasure Island Hotel in Las Vegas
• Resort fees and city visitor fees
• 2 nights' room-only accommodation at the 4* Galleria Park Union Square hotel in San Francisco
• All transfers
• Experienced Turkish-speaking guiding service

Not included

• Tours indicated as optional
• Lunches and dinners
• Breakfasts
• Personal expenses
• International departure tax (Can be paid at designated banks or at the tax office desk at the airport)
• US domestic baggage fees (varying between 40 USD and 85 USD per bag with a weight limit of 23 kg. An extra fee is charged for each piece of luggage exceeding the weight limit. On some flights, domestic airlines also charge baggage fees for cabin luggage that does not fit under the seat.)