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Our Travelers

Our tours attract many people ranging in age from 40 to 75. We have arranged trips for couples, singles, ladies tours, mother and daughter trips. Some guests have traveled extensively and want a very upmarket experience with a varied itinerary and scheduling flexibility. Others want a tour that is different in scope and adventure, offering luxury accommodations and spectacular sights. Still others want to see the culture and the true Turkey encompassed in the villages we visit and in the warm and friendly Turkish people themselves.

Here’s what guests have said about our program

• “	Irresistibly beautiful Images of civilizations past Inns and hotels of world-class charm Indigo and turquoise waters to wash the soul Indelibly-etched memories of fun, friends and feasts Iredale and Partners - "A tour of a lifetime!" - not to be missed....” Grit and Scott McCreath (Calgary, AB)

• “We normally do not take tours, preferring instead to plan excursions through the internet, and generally to follow our noses through the regions of our choice, usually with another couple or a small group. Our tour to Western Turkey with you was excellent, with a well chosen itinerary and excellent guidance. Accommodations and transportation could not have been better. We would repeat this tour in a heartbeat and have recommended it to many friends and acquaintances.”
  Bob and Muriel Johnson, Bill and Toshimi Sembo, Hess and Marlene Lenstra (Calgary, AB)
• “Thank you for setting up this wonderful trip. It couldn't have been better organized. We were impressed with how smoothly everything ran, and having done a lot of organizing, we know that there were probably things going wrong that we knew nothing about. Turkey as a country was a great surprise. We feel that we have come away educated both about the current political situation and the incredible depth of history. We loved the boutique hotels and were happy to be pleasantly surprised EVERY time. The Turkish people are warm and inviting - we can see why you love this country!”
  Peter and Peggy Janson (Bonita Springs, Florida - Toronto, ON)
• “We fell in love with Turkey from the moment we landed in Istanbul, largely thanks to you (Patti) and Orhan. Turkey sells itself, but you and Orhan made it special for us. Comfortably paced, we explored many impressive mainstream sites such as Cappadocia, Ephesus, the Blue Mosque etc...but you treated us to some of the less well-known and not often-visited sites, such as the beautiful Phaselis (a favorite) and many more. In three weeks, we really felt that we got something of the essence of Turkey and the wonderful Turkish people, although we know that we just skimmed the surface. Turkey is a country of endless fascination. We know why you love it.”
  David and Jacquie Sims (Collingwood, ON)
• “Following 9/11 our group was skeptical that Turkey was an appropriate travel option. Without Patti's knowledge and assurances we would not have gone and she was Soooooooo right. After visiting Thailand, Hong Kong, Greece and the Islands, Yugoslavia, France, England, Scotland, Italy, New Zealand (along with Bermuda, Hawaii and St. Martin off the continent) and riding the Orient Express with all kinds of travel arrangements and guides, Leslie and I can only say, "Patti and Orhan were fantastic; TURKEY and PMI were the best so far.”
  Cliff and Leslie Fryers (Calgary, AB)
• “Patti, that was an awesome trip - you are an excellent tour operator. We liked the balance of activities and the country is beautiful and amazing. All the snow makes us want to go back! It was a wonderful holiday, an exemplary tour. What an amazing experience!”
  Mary Jane Bilsland (Edmonton, AB) and Joan Bilsland (Calgary, AB)
• “Let me express the delight and enjoyment that we experienced on our Turkey trip. You and Orhan did a masterful job of bringing Turkey to life for us and we thank you ever so much for making it all possible. You put together a very compatible group of travelers and adventure seekers and we hope at some time to get together with our traveling companions and relive the memories. Thanks again for all the hard work you put into making our trip and dream come true.”
  Cliff and Ashley Proceviat (Calgary, AB)
• “We have the best memories and just loved your trip. It went so smoothly and we loved Orhan. I liked watching him read the newspapers at breakfast so he would be up and ready for any questions from the group. Our group was truly awesome - my sides still ache from all the laughter. We will travel again as a group but can not begin to think where could be so incredibly fascinating and so elegantly stress free because of you and Orhan. We think of you daily - my giant evil eye hangs over my kitchen door way and as we walk across our bedroom, the carpet Orhan picked out is under our toes. Perhaps when Eastern Turkey opens up more you will think about expanding your trips - we would love to travel with you again to unbelievable Turkey.”
  Maryann and Alan Wiggan (Salt Spring Island, BC)
• “Thank you again for showing us a whole new world through the eyes of someone who truly loves Turkey. "WOW" and "AMAZING" were certainly the most over used words in our vocabulary. We feel so fortunate to have been able to join you. Thank you so much.”
  Fred and Kathy Lavitt (Calgary, AB)
• “We haven't stopped talking about how great the tour was. We have many great memories (and some souvenirs) of the places you took us. We had a great time and want to thank you for all your help and great customer service. We cannot say enough good things about the tour. Every detail seemed to be anticipated and taken care of by yourself and Orhan. You make a great team. We'll always remember the good laughs!”
  Dennis Schram and Glenn MacGregor (Nanaimo, BC)
• “We did enjoy the tour - it was excellent and we have many good memories. Thank you so much for your help and support and please thank Orhan for us as well.”
  Bill and Babs Lye (Vancouver, BC)
• “I enjoyed my trip to Turkey very, very much. I am glad I decided to go. Excellent organization and everything was so well planned each day and your love for that country is contagious. Orhan is very professional; his knowledge of Turkish history is amazing and the way he relates it is really interesting. I was very pleased to meet you and your sister, Joan. Along with my sister, Lorraine, we had great times together. Everybody got along so well. Everyday I felt that I was very lucky to be there living something special. I have very good memories. For all these elements, I can tell you that I will recommend Turkey as a trip destination and maybe in the future I will consider returning.”
  Marie Day (Montreal, QC)
• “I was so blessed to have been on this wonderful tour of Turkey. This diverse, beautiful country and delightful people offer so much to their visitors. The natural beauty of Turkey with its unbelievable geological formations, seaside resorts, historical artifacts of every description (which in most cases are in great shape), the genuine hospitality of its people, the delicious fresh food that never stops coming and of course the "Grand Bazaar!" are all highlights that will fill my memory bank for a long time. The PMI Tour and its two operators Patti and Orhan are so flexible and did their best to make my holiday the one I wanted it to be and more! I'd give it a 10!”
  Mary McPhee (Calgary, AB)
• “We are so glad you and Orhan were in charge and appreciated the care you'd taken in choosing the places we stayed and the sights we saw. Staying for a few nights at each destination was a wonderful idea - so much more relaxing than packing up and moving each day. The things we enjoyed - far too many to mention - the food was excellent, the people friendly, the scenery so varied and interesting and so many fantastic historical sights we felt we had learned a lot about a part of the world we knew very little about before we left home. Thanks to you and Orhan - it was a trip to remember.”
  Stewart and Jean Montgomery (Edmonton, AB)
• “I ran out of superlatives on the very first day!”
  Pat Hodge (Calgary, AB)
• “PMI TOURS is a company like no other. Traveling with a small group (only 12 guests) ensured everyone's personal needs were met, such as the front of the bus for me, due to my sensitive equilibrium. I was most impressed with their attention to detail. Prior to reaching our next destination, Orhan (our tour guide) was on his cell phone checking to ensure all was in place for our arrival. There was always a Plan B if all was not up to their very high standards. The accommodations were superb, excellent food, breath-taking views, sincere and friendly staff doing everything possible to make our stay a pleasant and comfortable experience. Most importantly, the trip was well-rounded, with a mix of history, culture, city, country, leisure time, boating, relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches and of course shopping. Patti and Orhan guided us on our shopping trips ensuring we made our purchases from reputable merchants. Turkey is a country inhabited by gentle, friendly people. It was a trip of a lifetime for me. I shall cherish the memories. Thank you Patti and Orhan.”
  Marianne Miller (Toronto, ON)
• “We are still recovering from one of the most wonderful holiday experiences we have ever enjoyed. Your tour is a trip of a lifetime. To visit this country where basically civilization began is such a learning experience. Every site we visited we remembered things that we had been taught in school. I think that walking the streets of Ephesus that was founded around 3000 BC really blew us away. Where in the world are people still allowed to go and visit as workers clean the surfaces of yet undiscovered parts of an ancient city. I loved the house of Mother Mary. For me it was one of the most moving spiritual experiences I have ever had in my life. I could have stayed there forever! The accommodation that you provided was fantastic. Just when we thought we had stayed at the best, we would move on to the next incredible hotel. People ask us all the time what is so great about Turkey? Why would you go there when there are so many places to visit in the world? Number one reason - it is the people. We found them to be very gentle, kind and always wanting to please. Thank you Patti, for bringing Orhan into our lives. We truly love this man - he is a Jewel!”
  Nick and Joyce deHaan (Calgary, AB)
• “We really enjoyed the trip - it was a trip of a lifetime for us. Thank you for making it so pleasant and enjoyable. I would not hesitate recommending this trip to anyone.”
  Michelle Williams and Rick Anderson (Merrickville, ON)
• “Thank you for the wonderful tour - you and Orhan made the experience very memorable for us and we are already looking to a future trip to Turkey for another great adventure with PMI TOURS.”
  Verne and Lynn Hult (Calgary, AB)
• “On reading the comments made by “others” who have taken this Tour before me, everything seems to have been said! “Trip of a lifetime, superb holiday, delicious food, warm people, beautiful country” and more - all of which I found to be true. I think what impressed me as well, was having 12 people who didn't know each other before the trip and by the end, were so at ease with one another - something that can't happen with big groups. Patti stressed how this was a different Tour, catering to 12 people and until I took this trip didn't fully understand what she meant. Patti and Orhan tried to please all 12 people; more shopping for “the girls” and relaxation and touring for those who didn't want to shop until they dropped! I enjoyed Orhan's discussions on modern day politics in Turkey even more than the history discussions. I absolutely loved Turkey with PMI Tours and would definitely go back.”
  Jean Ward (Calgary, AB)
• “We want to thank you so much for our holiday. We are certainly in awe of Turkey. We are always talking about our trip to our friends and the good time that we had.”
  John Connors and Jackie Kenny (Grand Falls - Windsor, Newfoundland)
• “An outstanding experience! Five stars for our itinerary, guide, transportation arrangements and accommodations. The small group allowed for personal attention and flexibility, and very comfortable touring. We both would highly recommend this trip as an exceptional value and wonderful holiday!”
  Cheryl Thom and Brent Perry (Calgary, AB)
• “To Patti and Orhan, Thanks for a wonderful experience. We'll always remember the ruins and the history, the beautiful countryside and the beaches and, of course, the first-class accommodations as once in a lifetime... at least until you take us back again. See you on the gulet!”
  Dave and Johanna Christie (Calgary, AB)
• “From the first meeting with Patti, you know that your visit to Turkey will be the trip of a lifetime. The whole experience is absolutely spectacular from the wonders of the countryside and the friendly gracious people, to the pristine beaches, the turquoise sea, the ruins and of course the very special hotels and restaurants. Istanbul is like no other city and the shopping is incredible. Our guide, Orhan was entertaining and informative with knowledge to share in all areas of Turkish history, culture, and lifestyles.He soon had all of us sharing his love of his country. Thank you Patti for a great time!”
  Lorna Read (Calgary, AB)
• “We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to you and Orhan for a fabulous holiday. Thanks to this dynamic duo we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Everything ran smoothly and was effortless as far as we were concerned (not for you of course). Orhan was an ideal guide - enthusiastic, knowledgeable, personable, with a good sense of humour. All in all, a great vacation.”
  Sandra and Hugh Lyons (Calgary, AB)
• “Thank you, Patti, for sharing with us the Turkey you have come to love. Despite what you had told us, we were amazed at the warmth and generosity of the common people, and the scope of the country’s history. You were quite right to encourage us to add Cappadocia to our itinerary—what an astounding area, unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Throughout the entire trip, Orhan was a wonderful guide, helping us to understand the history and modern-day culture of the Turkish people, and he breathed life into the long-dead ancient cities which we visited.
  It was a treat to be able to stay for several days at each hotel. We lived like royalty! And the shopping! The Istanbul leather and jewellery shops which are often patronized by your tour groups dealt very fairly with us, and we got excellent value for money. Our carpets arrived home safely soon after we did, and we have discovered they are magic carpets, transporting us back in memory to that wonderful Turkey visit with you. ”
  Anne and David Walker (Calgary, AB)
• “TURKEY – a beautiful country with beautiful people! A superb holiday planned by Patti and her Turkish guide – Orhan. First class from start to finish! This is the way to see the country and learn about its history and its people. We enjoyed every minute. Thanks Patti – for a great holiday!”
  Bob and Pat Steele (Calgary, AB)
• “The PMI tour of Turkey was a delightful experience with first class accommodations, wonderful places, knowledgeable guides, great food and a terrific balance of activities. The tour was stimulating and relaxing at the same time. Everything was done to a high standard and being pampered in such interesting surroundings made for the trip of a lifetime. I would definitely go back.”
  Dr. Sheilah Martin Q.C. (Calgary, AB)
• “Your focus on making your tour different from the “others” made it a very special experience. From beginning to end it was fantastic; what we had hoped for and much more.”
  Phil and Roberta Scherman (Calgary, AB)
• “Well organized and exceptionally educational for those Canadians who think that Turkey is just another Middle Eastern country. When we are pleased with things, we often say “1st class”. This trip was “lst class and much more”. Orhan’s knowledge of the historical sites and the customs of the country gave us all a new view of this beautiful country and its Muslim people. Patti - your planning has left nothing to chance.”
  John and Sally Tripp (Trenton, ON)
• “John and I would like to thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip. We honestly do not have a single complaint. It was an absolutely terrific holiday. We are so glad we went! Many thanks for a really super holiday.”
  John and Anne McGilvary (Calgary, AB)
• “Of all the countries I've been fortunate enough to visit, Turkey was the most interesting. It helps to be well looked after as well. Many thanks to PMI Tours for a wonderful holiday!”
  Mary Tourigny (Calgary, AB)
• “What can we say but a huge thank you for everything. We loved the trip – all of it – and thought Orhan and Ahmet were wonderful.”
  Don and Nancy McGregor (Calgary, AB)
• “Our expectations of the trip to Turkey were very high and it exceeded those expectations in spades!! It was an organizational dream with luxurious and unique accommodation reflecting the character of the land and we particularly appreciated the balance between leisure and site touring. Orhan brought the history alive with his passion and learned delivery. It was the trip of a lifetime for us, Patti, and we thank you for the care and imagination you invested in the preparation.”
  John and Jane Bathurst (Vancouver, BC)
• “The accommodations, the sights and excursions, the villages, all the ruins, and the beaches, the food, the most sincere and friendly Turks and the fun people associated with this trip have made many wonderful and lasting memories. It was a pleasure and an unforgettable experience to be with you in fabulous Turkey.”
  Graydon and Dorothy Morrison (Calgary, AB)
• “What can we say? This has been an unbelievable holiday and we have enjoyed everything and every place we’ve seen. You and Orhan have made excellent choices in everything – from accommodations, restaurants and rest stops to time for relaxation. Thank you Patti for all your work on organizing this fantastic holiday.”
  Ernie and Leah Hagel (Calgary, AB)
• “From meeting in Istanbul to our departure dinner, every day was another day of excitement, whether it was the activities, the ruins, the boat excursions or the accommodations. The knowledge and experiences gained will go down in our minds as a trip of a lifetime. Patti, thanks for sharing “your Turkey” with us – an outstanding adventure.”
  Frank and Anita Carey (Calgary, AB)