I just wanted to thank you, on behalf of Sarah and me, for adding immeasurably to our enjoyment of the weekend we spent in Istanbul. We were bowled over by the warmth of the welcome and tremendous hospitality we received, but your deep knowledge of a remarkable city really was the icing on the cake …

… Istanbul was one of the great highlights of my time as First Sea Lord. We are resolved to return for more in slower time, so thank you for helping to whet our appetite.

This letter comes with all best wishes and my personal thanks again for your time, companionship and enthusiasm.

Admiral Sir Jonathon Band KCB ADC
First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff

Thank you so much for your excellent guidance during our stay in Turkey. Your warm and calm personality and extensive knowledge made our trip a travel highlight. We would like to stay in touch with you and will reccomend your services to our friends and family.

Marilyn and Roger Schnittjer
Iowa State University Alumni group

We are so happy that Yiğit Tahtalıoğlu was our guide. He is certainly passionate about the history of Turkey and was most energetic to share his extensive knowledge. He's the best. His English is perfect and his sense of humor is keen. We truly enjoyed spending this time with him. We highly recommend him.

Marjorie and Bruce Hambro
Crystal Cruises

Thank you for a wonderful holiday. We learned bunches and had fun too! Great combination! You are a great guide and your enthusiasm is infectious — The love of your country and its beauty. Our pleasure and delight.

Best regards,
Kathie and Bob Krubsack
October 2006

Thank you for your superb service and great company!

Tac Carrere

We have learned a lot about Turkey through your very informative talks on a scale 1–10, you rate a 10+! Many thanks,

Wayne Brunsdon
Manager of Administrative Services, University of Victoria
University of Victoria Study Group
June 2007

This is a short note to let you know how much we appreciated your time and care for the Candler family — in airports, in Ephesus, Kusadasi, and Istanbul — last week. We had a few unexpected turns, but you were quick to care for us every step of the way. We are back in Atlanta now, but we return with a special appreciation for a beautiful country. I would love to return some time, perhaps with more colleagues from religious communities here in Atlanta!

The Very Reverend Samuel G. Candler
Dean of the Cathedral
The Cathedral of St. Philip
July, 2007

We really had a great time in Turkey, learned lots and really enjoyed your input as a guide.It really felt like you were just one of the group. We really enjoyed meeting you and learning from you about Turkey.

Neil Leckie
Military Historian
Anzac Day trip

Thank you so much for providing the ISU Alumni such a wonderful holiday. We certainly learned a great deal about Turkey through your extreme knowledge. Thank you for sharing it with us. Best wishes to you.

Jan Breitman
Director of Alumni Travel & Educational Programs,
Iowa State University
ISU Alumni group