COMMENTS ON THE SPRING TOUR’ 07
Of all the places we’ve ever been, we’ve never had a better cultural experience. The variety and quality
of the food was spectacular, the first class hotels had beautiful views, and the travelling companions were
wonderful. We will never forget the most gracious hosts we have ever had.
We are excited to share our experience with our family & friends and are thankful to see & learn so much
in such a short time in such an enjoyable atmosphere.
Seeing & learning about the incredible history of this land was the highlight of the trip. We will never
forget the beauty of the battlefields of the Gallipoli and the ancient civilizations of Troy. The variety and
beautiful architectural structures of the mosques were incredible. We want to thank the Turkish Cultural
Foundation for this wonderful opportunity.
Dennis Hertel, Former Congressman, Consultant, Livingston Group in Washington DC
& Katie Hertel, Occupational Therapist
May 19, 2007
Discovering “undiscovered” Southeastern Turkey has been a rich and wonderful experience. The sense of
history, exotic adventure and timeless beauty has amazed me at every turn. I look forward to telling
other Americans about the real flavor of Turkey – with all its spice, mystery and hospitality.
Beth D’Addono, Freelance Food and Travel Writer
May 26, 2007
If there were a way to grant one wish it would be to have every American I know and encounter to have
the experience I’ve had this past week. I came to view the places and people I read about and I’m
leaving with a heart so full it aches as if I have over consumed. Each day there was another new
adventure that struck harder and opened my eyes wide then the day before.
This was a remarkable journey and I am only saddened that I didn’t experience it 20 years ago. I truly
intend to let others in my community know about this touring opportunity and a goal and plan to achieve
is to have a very convincing an answer when asked “Why Turkey?”
Jay Berger, Executive Director (President of Central California Coast WAC), Certified
Marketing Specialist
& Joni Berger, Innovative Marketing-Property Manager
May 26, 2007
The intersection of civilizations, traditions, and cultures is really about the encounters of people and the
Turkish Cultural Foundation has made an outstanding effort to bridge Western and Turkish traditions.
This trip has been a remarkable mix of history, culture, foods and religions as they evolved on Turkish
soil over thousands of years and we have learned a great deal. We are all richer for this experience and
we are thankful for the opportunity.
Ron Morse, Chairman of the Las Vegas World Affairs Council
& Jackie Morse, Writer
May 26, 2007
There is no way that I could imagine all I have learned through this adventure. I will not only return to
Washington with a new awareness but also a keen interest in Turkey and its future role on the global
stage.
Barbara Propes, President, World Affairs Councils of America
Alex Propes, Student, Northern Arizona U.
May 26, 2007
Turkey has always been a wonderful, solo experience for me. This trip was remarkable. I was so
pampered attended to, indulged and cared for.
Every day was full of visions, events, and sensations which were so positive. I learned a lot about not
only Turkey but about the ancient world.
Andrea Jacobs, LL Bean, Maine, USA
May 26, 2007
From the bustle of Istanbul and Topkapı Palace to the sacredness of the mevlit focusing on World Peace,
to the tranquil mental health hospital, to the memories and brotherhood of Gallipoli, to the layers of
history at Troy, to the rose-petaled table amid turquoise tiles of Iznik, to the black basalt walls and the
Tigris River, to a magical celebration in Mardin, to a sunset an Mt. Nemrud, we have feasted on the food
and conversation of and about Turkey.
We leave impressed and awed with the role of Turkey in the world; its role as a bridge between Europe
and Asia, past and present, as well as future, is fundamental for global understanding.
P.S. We leave Turkey five years younger – a testament to gracious Turkish hospitality.
Ian Moncaster, President/CEO, Seattle World Affairs Council
& Carey Moore, Co-Founder, Executive Director, Pacific Village Institute
May 27, 2007
What can we say that can possibly come close to thanking you for the incredible experience you have
given us?! We have seen Turkey! We have met the wonderful people of your country, visited its mosques
and holy places, and tasted of the richness of its cuisine. We have learned so much. The Turkish Cultural
Foundation is a visionary organization - one that we will be grateful for always. The hospitality,
generousness, and depth of your traditions are things we will take with us on every travel. Thank you for
leaving a little bit of Turkey with us!
Scott Noegel, Prof.&Chair, Dept. Biblical and Ancient Near Eastern Languages&Civilizations,
U. of Washington
& Laurie Ramacci Noegel, Academic Development Officer, College of Nursing, Seattle U.
May 27, 2007