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Departure Preparation

Departure Preparation

Cappadocia Kapadokya, Turkey

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations over several months for a seamless trip.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. This is a strict requirement.

Book Hot Air Balloon Flight

This activity sells out quickly, especially during high season. Booking 3-6 months in advance is often necessary.

Book Accommodations

Secure your preferred cave hotel or guesthouse, specifically if traveling during peak season or if you have specific preferences.

1M

Month Before

Apply for e-Visa

If your nationality requires an e-Visa, apply online through the official Turkish government website.

Book Flights

Finalize your flights to Kayseri (ASR) or Nevşehir (NAV) airports, including any international connections through Istanbul.

Arrange Airport Transfers

Pre-book your shared or private airport shuttle in Cappadocia.

1W

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, hotels, transfers, and tours. Print or save digital copies.

Pack Essentials

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials. Use the packing list from Section 3 as a guide.

Notify Bank

Inform them of your travel dates and destinations to avoid any card blocks due to unusual activity.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure aspects of your trip early.

Reservations

  • Hot Air Balloon Flights: This is the most important advance booking. Without it, you risk missing this signature experience.
  • Popular Cave Hotels: Desirable accommodations, especially unique cave hotels, have limited rooms and book quickly.
  • Airport Transfers: Pre-booking makes a smooth arrival and departure without scrambling for transport.
  • Major Organized Tours: For tours like the Green Tour, booking in advance, especially in high season, guarantees your spot.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before you go.

Areas of Research

  • Understand Local Customs and Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with basic social norms and respectful behavior (see Section 14.3).
  • Familiarize Yourself with Geography: Understand the layout of Cappadocia, the main towns (Goreme, Uchisar, Avanos, Ürgüp), and the locations of major attractions.
  • Learn Basic Turkish Phrases: Even a few words make a positive impression (see Section 14.3).
  • Home Preparation Before Departure: Inform trusted contacts, arrange for mail, pets, or house-sitting.

Home Preparation Checklist

Final checks before leaving your residence for travel.

Contact & Itinerary Sharing

  • Share your itinerary with family or friends.
  • Leave a copy of your passport with someone trustworthy.
  • Provide hotel contact details.
  • Outline your daily plans.

Household Arrangements

  • Arrange for mail or newspaper delivery to stop.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Secure house-sitting if appropriate.
  • Set up automatic bill payments.

Home Security Measures

  • Lock all windows and doors securely.
  • Set home alarms if you have them.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
  • Empty perishable food from the refrigerator.

Important Reminder

Download offline maps and translation apps. Make digital and physical copies of documents, stored separately from originals.

Departure Preparation

Final Departure Steps

Ensure a smooth departure by handling final details before you leave Goreme.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • 1
    Purchase Souvenirs Thoughtfully

    Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid a last-minute rush.

  • 2
    Confirm Shipping Arrangements

    If shipping items, like carpets or pottery, confirm all arrangements and documentation with the vendor well in advance. Keep receipts.

  • 3
    Consider Luggage Limits

    Be mindful of luggage weight and size restrictions for your flight.

VAT Refund and Timing

  • VAT Refund Procedures

    VAT refund for tourists is available on certain purchases over a specified amount. Ask for "Tax Free Shopping" forms at participating stores.

  • Airport Customs Check

    Present the forms and the goods (which must be unused) at the airport customs office before checking in for your flight.

  • Pre-Departure Timing

    Allow ample time for your airport transfer, especially for early morning flights when hot air balloon flights are also happening, as roads can be busy.

Transportation & Return Planning

Airport Arrival Time

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights.

For international flights, allow 3 hours or more.

Flight Confirmation

Confirm your return flight details and check-in online if possible.

Have boarding passes ready.

Document Accessibility

Ensure all travel documents, including your passport and e-ticket, are easily accessible.

Keep copies separate from originals.

Smooth Departure

Efficient final steps avoid stress. Double-check all travel documents and arrangements.

Final Preparations

A last review of essential items and considerations for your return.

Remaining Currency & Logistics

  • Spend remaining local currency or exchange it at the airport.
  • Review all receipts for any last-minute expenses or refunds.
  • Consolidate all belongings.
  • Confirm airport transfer timing with your hotel.

Post-Trip Planning

  • Back up all photos and videos from your trip.
  • Jot down notes or journal entries about your experiences.
  • Consider sharing your experiences and tips with others.
  • Begin thinking about your next travel destination.

Final Document Check

A critical review of all travel documents before you head to the airport.

Confirm Your Documents

  • Passport and Visa:Ready
  • E-tickets/Boarding Passes:Confirmed
  • Hotel Reservation Check-out:Completed
  • Airport Transfer Details:Arranged

Luggage and Personal Items

  • Ensure all luggage is packed and secured.
  • Check luggage weight limits to avoid extra fees.
  • Do not forget personal items like chargers, headphones, and medication.
  • Ensure all valuables are in your carry-on.

Final Smoothness

Efficient final steps avoid stress. Double-check all travel documents and arrangements.

Consider souvenir weight and shipping options. Allow extra time for airport procedures, especially for tax refunds.