Treasures O F Anatolia & Persia

OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT April 18 to 21, 2016 T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028 Spend three days in this fabled city, capital of three empires. T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT www.metmuseum.org/travel Admire her majestic skyline during a private Bosphorus Dear Members and Friends of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, cruise at sunset. Visit the Archaeology Museum to marvel at the spectacular Sidamara Sarcophagus and reliefs from During its heyday more than a hundred years ago, the Orient Express was “the king of trains PRSRT STD Palmyra and Babylon. Enter the Süleymaniye Mosque to and the train of kings.” Relive that bygone era of luxury rail travel next April, aboard the Golden U.S. POSTAGE REASURES OF NAT OLIA ERSIA experience the creative genius of Sinan, chief architect of PAID T A & P Eagle Danube Express. Journey from the shores of the Sea of Marmara in Turkey to the foothills of BURLINGTON, VT Süleyman the Magnificent. A visit to the recently renovated PERMIT NO.601 the Alborz Mountains in Iran, discovering less-explored destinations in Anatolia and Persia, six World Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, housed in the sumptuous Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Heritage Sites, and some of the most extraordinary markets in the world. Ibrahim Pasha Palace, is an additional highlight. Deluxe accommodations are at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah. Traveling with us will be Joan Aruz, Curator in Charge of the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Dr. Aruz was the force behind the recent landmark PRELUDE RATE $1,995 per person. Single supplement $515. Includes two nights at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah; two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner; exhibition, Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age, which featured artifacts from many of sightseeing as noted. the regions visited on this journey.

For those wishing to spend more time in exotic TRAVELING WITH YOU Istanbul, an optional three-day prelude is offered. JOAN ARUZ, is Curator in Charge of the Department of Sincerely, Ancient Near Eastern Art at The Metropolitan Museum

of Art. Having begun her Nina McN. Diefenbach career at the Metropolitan Vice President for Museum as a curatorial Institutional Advancement T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA fellow in 1978, she joined

the staff in 1989 and has Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express April 20 to May 6, 2016 held her current position since 2002. Dr. Aruz has TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS organized numerous exhibitions including Art of The iconic sights of fabled Istanbul, including Hagia the First Cities: The Third Millennium B.C. from A NOTE ABOUT TRAVEL IN IRAN Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace the Mediterranean to the Indus (2003), Beyond Iranian people are warm and hospitable towards Babylon: Art, Trade and Diplomacy in the Second Two days in Ephesus, famous for its Temple visitors. They enjoy engaging foreigners in English Millennium B.C. (2008), and Assyria to Iberia at of Artemis and a Graeco-Roman city that was conversation and are especially curious about life the Dawn of the Classical Age (2014). Two other home to nearly 300,000 people at its zenith in in America. projects, The Royal City of Susa and The Cyrus the second century A.D. Cylinder: Charting a New Empire, were directly Certain rules of dress and conduct are strictly An optional hot-air balloon ride at sunrise over the focused on the ancient art of Iran. Dr. Aruz observed in Iran and all trip participants are mysterious landscape of Cappadocia expected to adhere to local laws and customs. received her Ph.D. from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University, and has written extensively Seven days in Iran, to see the breathtaking Women are required to cover their heads with on the subject of art and intercultural exchange, architecture of Isfahan, the tomb of a celebrated a scarf whenever outside the privacy of their hotel with special focus on stamp and cylinder seals. poet in Shiraz, the monumental remains of room and to wear loose clothing that covers their Persepolis, and the imperial jewels in Tehran arms and legs (down to wrists and ankles). Loose trousers or a long skirt, with a top that reaches mid-thigh, are recommended. Except for shorts, which are discouraged, men may wear the same clothes as when traveling in any Western country— although we suggest you leave your ties at home! (Ties are rarely seen and never necessary.)

Alcohol is forbidden at all times. Photo by Sara Kosyk Maidan-e Naghsh-e Jahan, Isfahan

After a brief period of adjustment to these regulations, Western travelers should feel quite April 20 to May 6, 2016 comfortable and at ease. Trajan

T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 F IFTH A VENUE N EW Y ORK, N EW Y ORK 10028 www.metmuseum.org/travel OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT April 18 to 21, 2016 T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028 Spend three days in this fabled city, capital of three empires. T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT www.metmuseum.org/travel Admire her majestic skyline during a private Bosphorus Dear Members and Friends of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, cruise at sunset. Visit the Archaeology Museum to marvel at the spectacular Sidamara Sarcophagus and reliefs from During its heyday more than a hundred years ago, the Orient Express was “the king of trains PRSRT STD Palmyra and Babylon. Enter the Süleymaniye Mosque to and the train of kings.” Relive that bygone era of luxury rail travel next April, aboard the Golden U.S. POSTAGE REASURES OF NAT OLIA ERSIA experience the creative genius of Sinan, chief architect of PAID T A & P Eagle Danube Express. Journey from the shores of the Sea of Marmara in Turkey to the foothills of BURLINGTON, VT Süleyman the Magnificent. A visit to the recently renovated PERMIT NO.601 the Alborz Mountains in Iran, discovering less-explored destinations in Anatolia and Persia, six World Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, housed in the sumptuous Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Heritage Sites, and some of the most extraordinary markets in the world. Ibrahim Pasha Palace, is an additional highlight. Deluxe accommodations are at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah. Traveling with us will be Joan Aruz, Curator in Charge of the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Dr. Aruz was the force behind the recent landmark PRELUDE RATE $1,995 per person. Single supplement $515. Includes two nights at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah; two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner; exhibition, Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age, which featured artifacts from many of sightseeing as noted. the regions visited on this journey.

Alcohol is forbidden at all times. Photo by Sara Kosyk Maidan-e Naghsh-e Jahan, Isfahan

After a brief period of adjustment to these regulations, Western travelers should feel quite April 20 to May 6, 2016 comfortable and at ease. Trajan

T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 F IFTH A VENUE N EW Y ORK, N EW Y ORK 10028 www.metmuseum.org/travel T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA YAZD ISFAHAN, IRAN TEHRAN, IRAN T ERMS & C ONDITIONS AIRFARE Academic Arrangements Abroad (AAA) will be pleased to assist with Saturday, April 30 Tuesday, May 3 air travel arrangements for this program, including specially negotiated group Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express airfare when available, suggested group ﬂights, or your own individual requests, for a processing fee of $40 per person. Complete details will be provided in your Spend the morning in Yazd, one of the oldest cities in the Following breakfast, arrive in Tehran. Disembark the Danube April 20 to May 6, 2016 conﬁrmation mailing. world and a center of the Zoroastrian faith, founded in Iran Express and transfer to the Espinas International Hotel & PAYMENT SCHEDULE A deposit of $2,500 per person, payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad, of which $350 is non-refundable for administrative fees, is ____________3,500 years ago. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Amir Resort. Visit the Treasury of National Jewels, in the vault of required with the reservation application. Final payment, by check only, must be Chakhmaq Square, and the 14th-century Friday Mosque, the Central Bank of Iran, to marvel at the dazzling collection received 120 days prior to departure. HEALTH All participants must be in good health. This program involves extensive with its exquisite faïence mosaics. Re-board the train for of crown jewels and the legendary Peacock Throne. Discover walking over uneven surfaces and climbing stairs at monuments and other locations EPHESUS, TURKEY not handicapped accessible, and climbing in and out of various conveyances. Any Sunday, April 24 lunch and an afternoon lecture. Arrive this evening in Isfahan. the Golestan Palace complex. Visit the mirror-encrusted condition that may require assistance or special medical attention must be reported at Marble Throne Hall, used for the coronation of the last shah, Bar Car, Golden Eagle Danube Express the time of your reservation. ISFAHAN PHOTOGRAPHY Photographs or, in some cases, videotapes of participants of Spend the day in Ephesus, the Roman capital of Asia and stroll the garden to view the ornate tile-covered walls. A Travel With the Met trips may be used for educational and promotional purposes Sunday, May 1 highlight will be the state rooms used for official receptions. PROGRAM RATES by The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Minor and one of the best-preserved sites from antiquity. INSURANCE TRIP CANCELLATION / EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATION / BAGGAGE / See the recently restored Temple of Serapis, said to be DELUXE Twin (83 sq. ft.) $22,995 per person ACCIDENT AND SICKNESS INSURANCE IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. CANCELLATION As the 17th-century capital of the great Safavid Dynasty, TEHRAN PENALTIES ARE STRICTLY ENFORCED. AAA will send an insurance application upon receipt of deposit, although you may select an alternative insurer of your choice. the largest temple in Anatolia; the beautiful friezes of Isfahan was once so wealthy and powerful it inspired the Wednesday, May 4 DELUXE Single (83 sq. ft.) $39,995 CHANGES IN ITINERARY & COSTS The itinerary is subject to change at the the Temple of Hadrian; and the reconstructed Library of HERITAGE Single (33 sq. ft.) $22,995

Photo by José María Gómez de Salazar rhyming proverb “Isfahan nesf-e-jahan,” or “Isfahan is discretion of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) and AAA. All prices quoted Celsus, originally built in 114 A.D. Re-board the Golden half the world.” See the churches in the Armenian Quarter, This morning, view the National Museum of Iran’s collection are based on prevailing fuel prices, airfares, and currency exchange rates in effect at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul RATES INCLUDE the time of brochure printing and are subject to change without notice. Deviations Eagle, stabled overnight at a nearby station. including the Cathedral of Vank, and the Palace of Chehel of antiquities with elegant prehistoric pottery, priceless from the scheduled itinerary are at the expense of the individual. vessels in precious materials, and statues of Darius the Great Two nights at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, Istanbul; three RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE The participation of the Met is limited to educational U.S.A. DEPARTURE EPHESUS Sotun (Forty Columns) set in a beautiful park. After a nights at the Espinas International Hotel & Resort, Tehran sponsorship of the program described in this brochure (The Program). AAA acts only traditional Iranian lunch, continue to the breathtaking and other ancient Persian kings. Following lunch, visit the as an agent for the participant with respect to transportation, accommodations, and Wednesday, April 20 Monday, April 25 Ten nights aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express all other services, relating to The Program. AAA, the Met and/or their agents assume Maidan-e Naqsh-e Jahan, a World Heritage Site. Admire impressive Carpet Museum and the Abguineh Museum to no responsibility or liability for any act, error, or omission, or for any injury, loss, Breakfast daily, fourteen lunches, fifteen dinners, and one accident, delay, or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any defect in see pre-Islamic and Islamic glass and ceramics displayed in Depart New York on an overnight flight to Istanbul. Return to Ephesus for additional morning visits. St. Paul Balloons over Cappadocia the Ali Qapu Palace, with its enchanting music rooms, and reception; local wine / beer with lunches and dinners (except in any aircraft, ship, train, bus, or other carrier, or through neglect or default of any Iran, where alcohol is not permitted); bottled water and coffee / subcontractor or other third party, which may be used wholly or in part in the performance preached here on his second missionary journey, and we tour the great Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. an early 20th-century mansion. Celebrate our journey with a of their duty to the participants of The Program. The passage ticket issued by the ISTANBUL, TURKEY Conclude at the Qeisarieh Bazaar, one of the oldest in farewell dinner at the hotel. tea with all meals carrier is the sole contract between the participant and the carrier. Nor will AAA or will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important CAPPADOCIA the Met and/or their agents be responsible for loss, injury, damages, or expenses to Escorted sightseeing by private motorcoach with entrance fees Thursday, April 21 Christian monument in Ephesus. Dating to the early 5th Wednesday, April 27 the Middle East, featuring hundreds of shops displaying persons or property, due to illness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, TEHRAN U.S.A. for all included visits terrorist acts, acts of nature, or other such causes in connection with The Program or century, it served as the seat of the Bishop of Ephesus regional art and handicrafts. Dinner is on board. anything beyond their reasonable control. AAA is not responsible for transportation Thursday & Friday, May 5 & 6 Private airport transfers; hotel / train group transfers and Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the Pera Palace Hotel throughout late antiquity. Reunite for breakfast on the train. Attend lectures and or other program delays and changes, nor additional expenses or loss of time that may PERSEPOLIS SHIRAZ, IRAN porterage; taxes and service; gratuities aboard and on land be incurred. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for the comfort or well- Jumeirah for a two-night stay. First opened in 1892 to serve being of the participants, or for any reason whatsoever, to alter the itinerary at any relax on board as we travel east through pristine Central Enjoy a morning tour of Saadabad Palace. After lunch, visit guests arriving on the Orient Express, this luxurious hotel was CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY Monday, May 2 NOT INCLUDED IN RATES Airfare; passport and visa fees; meals time, without notice to the participants, such alterations will be made without penalty Turkey toward Lake Van. Reza Abbasi Museum to admire ceramics, important finds not specified; alcoholic beverages other than local wine / beer at to AAA or the Met. Additional expenses, if any, shall be borne by the participants. recently restored to its original elegance. Gather this evening Tuesday, April 26 lunches and dinners (except in Iran); optional hotel night and balloon Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the participant at all times. in gold and silver, and classical Persian book painting. Early ride in Cappadocia; personal items and expenses; airport transfers The Met and AAA reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a participant at AKDAMAR ISLAND VAN, TURKEY Persepolis, founded 2,500 years ago, was the ceremonial any time, or to require any participant to withdraw from The Program at their own for introductory remarks and a short talk about Istanbul by for those not on suggested group flights; baggage in excess of one Explore Cappadocia in Central Anatolia, known for its Thursday, April 28 capital of the great Achaemenid Empire. This morning this evening, a light dinner is arranged prior to transferring expense when such an action is determined by AAA or the Met to be in the best interest Joan Aruz, followed by cocktails and our welcome dinner. suitcase; trip insurance; optional Istanbul prelude; any other items of the participant’s health and safety, or the general welfare of the other participants. to the airport for flights home, arriving on May 6. fascinating moon-like landscape, “fairy chimney” rock we explore the remains of the palaces of Darius the not specifically mentioned as included. CANCELLATION POLICY AAA must strictly adhere to its cancellation policy to ISTANBUL Today the train cars are uncoupled for a six-hour ferry Great, Xerxes, and Artaxerxes I. Continue to Naqsh-i offset costs incurred prior to the commencement of The Program, which may include but formations, underground cities, and cave churches featuring are not limited to: advance payments to land operators; ship charters; communication Friday, April 22 outstanding examples of Byzantine art. After a lunch of crossing on Lake Van. You may choose to accompany the Rustam to see the Kaba-i Zardusht “fire temple” and expenses; development/promotional expenses, and the loss of time that might have permitted resale of reserved space. All cancellations must be made in writing to the local specialties, visit one of Cappadocia’s networks of train or drive along the southern coast of the lake to Van, the Royal Tombs; and to Naqsh-i Rajab, a nearby grotto T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT offices of AAA and are subject to a $350 non-refundable administrative fee. All Discover the Old City, beginning at the famed Sultan with Sassanian reliefs. Then journey to Shiraz, “the City refunds are limited to amounts actually received by AAA and are the sole responsibility ancient underground settlements. Following dinner, return stopping en route at Akdamar Island to visit the stunning Treasures of Anatolia & Persia: Istanbul to Tehran April 20 to May 6, 2016 of AAA; the Met shall have no liability for refunds. At the time AAA receives written Ahmet Mosque (known as the “Blue Mosque” for its to the train. Alternatively, transfer after dinner to the Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian of Roses and Nightingales.” See the Qur’an Gate before notification of cancellation, the following cancellation charges will apply: cancellations RESERVATION APPLICATION received between 120 to 91 days prior to departure, 20 percent of the program cost stunning tiled interior) and the magnificent sixth-century unique Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel for an overnight stay and cathedral whose walls are adorned with elaborate bas-relief lunch and visit the tomb of the celebrated 14th-century To reserve a place, please return this form along with your deposit of OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE per person; cancellations received between 90 and 61 days prior to departure, 50 basilica of Hagia Sophia. After lunch, browse the Grand $2,500 per person (of which $350 is non-refundable for administrative percent of the program cost per person; no refunds will be given for cancellations hot-air balloon ride at sunrise (at an additional cost). carvings. After lunch, continue to Van for a walking tour poet Hafez, located in a lovely garden. Explore the Vakil I/We wish to join the optional Istanbul prelude ($1,995 per person; received within 60 days of departure. No refunds are given for cancellation on or Bazaar, where more than 4,000 shopkeepers offer spices, of the old town. Dinner is on board. This evening, our Complex, housing a bazaar, mosque, caravanserai, and fees) payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad, 1040 Avenue of the single supplement $515) after the day of departure, or for unused portions of the tour, for any reason. Air Americas, 23rd Floor, New York, NY 10018-3721. Hotel Room Preference Double Twin Single cancellation charges, if any, will be assessed in accordance with airline regulations. carpets, and handicrafts. Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque with train crosses the border into Iran. teahouse. Dinner is on board. All group fare tickets must be issued no less than 30 days prior to departure. its lavish use of Iznik tiles. An exclusive Met evening of Black Sea ______FORM OF PAYMENT NOTE: Neither AAA nor the Met shall be liable for any airline cancellation penalties Names in Full as on Passports. Please Print. incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket. In the case of a cancellation due Caspian TABRIZ, IRAN Enclosed is my check (payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad) cocktails and dinner is planned at a local restaurant. Istanbul Sea to shortage of participants, AAA will attempt to notify all participants at least 45 ______ Credit card (may be used for deposit only) days prior to departure. However, AAA reserves the right to cancel The Program prior Friday, April 29 to departure for any reason and, in such case, reimbursement of refundable costs of TURKEY Lake ______the trip by AAA shall constitute full settlement with the participant. In the unlikely ISTANBUL Van ______Name on Credit Card event that a dispute arises between a participant and AAA or the Met, the following Saturday, April 23 Cappadocia Arrive this afternoon in Tabriz, a former historical capital Address Van Tabriz conditions will apply: (a) the dispute will be settled by binding arbitration administered Ephesus ______by the American Arbitration Association in New York, NY; (b) the dispute will Tehran of Iran. Browse the vast, UNESCO-designated Grand ______Credit Card Number be governed by New York Law; (c) the maximum amount of recovery to which a City State Zip participant shall be entitled under any and all circumstances will be the sum of all Tour legendary Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman Bazaar, where the variety of merchandise reflects the ______IRAN monies actually received from the participant by AAA. The participant agrees that sultans for 400 years and now a fascinating museum. Mediterranean Sea city’s historic role as a gateway to the Silk Road. Still the ______3- or 4-Digit Security Code Expiration Date this is a fair and reasonable limitation on the damages, of any sort whatsoever, that a Telephone (Home) (Business) participant may suffer. Upon payment of the deposit to AAA, the participant agrees Following lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy time at Isfahan commercial center of Tabriz, the bazaar is filled with locals Yazd I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read and agree to the Terms & to be bound by the above terms and conditions. ______leisure, perhaps to visit the nearby Spice Market. Drive shopping, taking tea, and otherwise going about their daily Conditions of this Program. I/We agree to full payment by check or wire Copyright © 2015 Arrangements Abroad, Inc. CST 2059789-40 Fax E-mail Persepolis to nearby Izmit to board the Danube Express and begin lives. Also included is a visit to the Azerbaijan Museum and Photo by Behzad NoPhoto transfer 120 days prior to departure. Each participant must sign below. Shiraz ACCOMMODATIONS our journey through Turkey. adjacent Blue Mosque. Relief carvings, Persepolis ______Hotel room/cabin preference Double Twin Single Signature (Required) Date Front cover: The Conference of the Birds. Page from a manuscript of the Mantiq al-Tayr ______(The Language of the Birds) of Farid al-Din Àttar, ca. 1600; Safavid, Iran (Isfahan), Opaque T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA I S T ANBUL T O TEHRAN A BOARD T HE GOLDEN E A G LE D ANUBE E XPRESS I wish to share a room/Golden Eagle cabin with ______Signature (Required) Date watercolor, ink, silver, gold on paper (63.210.11) Back cover: Danube Express enroute to Tabriz (top) and Akdamar Island on Lake Van (bottom). For additional information, please contact Academic Arrangements Abroad Telephone: 212-514-8921 or 800-221-1944 Fax: 212-344-7493 E-mail: [email protected] www.metmuseum.org/travel T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA YAZD ISFAHAN, IRAN TEHRAN, IRAN T ERMS & C ONDITIONS AIRFARE Academic Arrangements Abroad (AAA) will be pleased to assist with Saturday, April 30 Tuesday, May 3 air travel arrangements for this program, including specially negotiated group Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express airfare when available, suggested group flights, or your own individual requests, for a processing fee of $40 per person. Complete details will be provided in your Spend the morning in Yazd, one of the oldest cities in the Following breakfast, arrive in Tehran. Disembark the Danube April 20 to May 6, 2016 confirmation mailing. world and a center of the Zoroastrian faith, founded in Iran Express and transfer to the Espinas International Hotel & PAYMENT SCHEDULE A deposit of $2,500 per person, payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad, of which $350 is non-refundable for administrative fees, is ____________3,500 years ago. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Amir Resort. Visit the Treasury of National Jewels, in the vault of required with the reservation application. Final payment, by check only, must be Chakhmaq Square, and the 14th-century Friday Mosque, the Central Bank of Iran, to marvel at the dazzling collection received 120 days prior to departure. HEALTH All participants must be in good health. This program involves extensive with its exquisite faïence mosaics. Re-board the train for of crown jewels and the legendary Peacock Throne. Discover walking over uneven surfaces and climbing stairs at monuments and other locations EPHESUS, TURKEY not handicapped accessible, and climbing in and out of various conveyances. Any Sunday, April 24 lunch and an afternoon lecture. Arrive this evening in Isfahan. the Golestan Palace complex. Visit the mirror-encrusted condition that may require assistance or special medical attention must be reported at Marble Throne Hall, used for the coronation of the last shah, Bar Car, Golden Eagle Danube Express the time of your reservation. ISFAHAN PHOTOGRAPHY Photographs or, in some cases, videotapes of participants of Spend the day in Ephesus, the Roman capital of Asia and stroll the garden to view the ornate tile-covered walls. A Travel With the Met trips may be used for educational and promotional purposes Sunday, May 1 highlight will be the state rooms used for official receptions. PROGRAM RATES by The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Minor and one of the best-preserved sites from antiquity. INSURANCE TRIP CANCELLATION / EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATION / BAGGAGE / See the recently restored Temple of Serapis, said to be DELUXE Twin (83 sq. ft.) $22,995 per person ACCIDENT AND SICKNESS INSURANCE IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. CANCELLATION As the 17th-century capital of the great Safavid Dynasty, TEHRAN PENALTIES ARE STRICTLY ENFORCED. AAA will send an insurance application upon receipt of deposit, although you may select an alternative insurer of your choice. the largest temple in Anatolia; the beautiful friezes of Isfahan was once so wealthy and powerful it inspired the Wednesday, May 4 DELUXE Single (83 sq. ft.) $39,995 CHANGES IN ITINERARY & COSTS The itinerary is subject to change at the the Temple of Hadrian; and the reconstructed Library of HERITAGE Single (33 sq. ft.) $22,995

Photo by José María Gómez de Salazar rhyming proverb “Isfahan nesf-e-jahan,” or “Isfahan is discretion of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) and AAA. All prices quoted Celsus, originally built in 114 A.D. Re-board the Golden half the world.” See the churches in the Armenian Quarter, This morning, view the National Museum of Iran’s collection are based on prevailing fuel prices, airfares, and currency exchange rates in effect at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul RATES INCLUDE the time of brochure printing and are subject to change without notice. Deviations Eagle, stabled overnight at a nearby station. including the Cathedral of Vank, and the Palace of Chehel of antiquities with elegant prehistoric pottery, priceless from the scheduled itinerary are at the expense of the individual. vessels in precious materials, and statues of Darius the Great Two nights at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, Istanbul; three RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE The participation of the Met is limited to educational U.S.A. DEPARTURE EPHESUS Sotun (Forty Columns) set in a beautiful park. After a nights at the Espinas International Hotel & Resort, Tehran sponsorship of the program described in this brochure (The Program). AAA acts only traditional Iranian lunch, continue to the breathtaking and other ancient Persian kings. Following lunch, visit the as an agent for the participant with respect to transportation, accommodations, and Wednesday, April 20 Monday, April 25 Ten nights aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express all other services, relating to The Program. AAA, the Met and/or their agents assume Maidan-e Naqsh-e Jahan, a World Heritage Site. Admire impressive Carpet Museum and the Abguineh Museum to no responsibility or liability for any act, error, or omission, or for any injury, loss, Breakfast daily, fourteen lunches, fifteen dinners, and one accident, delay, or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any defect in see pre-Islamic and Islamic glass and ceramics displayed in Depart New York on an overnight flight to Istanbul. Return to Ephesus for additional morning visits. St. Paul Balloons over Cappadocia the Ali Qapu Palace, with its enchanting music rooms, and reception; local wine / beer with lunches and dinners (except in any aircraft, ship, train, bus, or other carrier, or through neglect or default of any Iran, where alcohol is not permitted); bottled water and coffee / subcontractor or other third party, which may be used wholly or in part in the performance preached here on his second missionary journey, and we tour the great Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. an early 20th-century mansion. Celebrate our journey with a of their duty to the participants of The Program. The passage ticket issued by the ISTANBUL, TURKEY Conclude at the Qeisarieh Bazaar, one of the oldest in farewell dinner at the hotel. tea with all meals carrier is the sole contract between the participant and the carrier. Nor will AAA or will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important CAPPADOCIA the Met and/or their agents be responsible for loss, injury, damages, or expenses to Escorted sightseeing by private motorcoach with entrance fees Thursday, April 21 Christian monument in Ephesus. Dating to the early 5th Wednesday, April 27 the Middle East, featuring hundreds of shops displaying persons or property, due to illness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, TEHRAN U.S.A. for all included visits terrorist acts, acts of nature, or other such causes in connection with The Program or century, it served as the seat of the Bishop of Ephesus regional art and handicrafts. Dinner is on board. anything beyond their reasonable control. AAA is not responsible for transportation Thursday & Friday, May 5 & 6 Private airport transfers; hotel / train group transfers and Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the Pera Palace Hotel throughout late antiquity. Reunite for breakfast on the train. Attend lectures and or other program delays and changes, nor additional expenses or loss of time that may PERSEPOLIS SHIRAZ, IRAN porterage; taxes and service; gratuities aboard and on land be incurred. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for the comfort or well- Jumeirah for a two-night stay. First opened in 1892 to serve being of the participants, or for any reason whatsoever, to alter the itinerary at any relax on board as we travel east through pristine Central Enjoy a morning tour of Saadabad Palace. After lunch, visit guests arriving on the Orient Express, this luxurious hotel was CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY Monday, May 2 NOT INCLUDED IN RATES Airfare; passport and visa fees; meals time, without notice to the participants, such alterations will be made without penalty Turkey toward Lake Van. Reza Abbasi Museum to admire ceramics, important finds not specified; alcoholic beverages other than local wine / beer at to AAA or the Met. Additional expenses, if any, shall be borne by the participants. recently restored to its original elegance. Gather this evening Tuesday, April 26 lunches and dinners (except in Iran); optional hotel night and balloon Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the participant at all times. in gold and silver, and classical Persian book painting. Early ride in Cappadocia; personal items and expenses; airport transfers The Met and AAA reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a participant at AKDAMAR ISLAND VAN, TURKEY Persepolis, founded 2,500 years ago, was the ceremonial any time, or to require any participant to withdraw from The Program at their own for introductory remarks and a short talk about Istanbul by for those not on suggested group flights; baggage in excess of one Explore Cappadocia in Central Anatolia, known for its Thursday, April 28 capital of the great Achaemenid Empire. This morning this evening, a light dinner is arranged prior to transferring expense when such an action is determined by AAA or the Met to be in the best interest Joan Aruz, followed by cocktails and our welcome dinner. suitcase; trip insurance; optional Istanbul prelude; any other items of the participant’s health and safety, or the general welfare of the other participants. to the airport for flights home, arriving on May 6. fascinating moon-like landscape, “fairy chimney” rock we explore the remains of the palaces of Darius the not specifically mentioned as included. CANCELLATION POLICY AAA must strictly adhere to its cancellation policy to ISTANBUL Today the train cars are uncoupled for a six-hour ferry Great, Xerxes, and Artaxerxes I. Continue to Naqsh-i offset costs incurred prior to the commencement of The Program, which may include but formations, underground cities, and cave churches featuring are not limited to: advance payments to land operators; ship charters; communication Friday, April 22 outstanding examples of Byzantine art. After a lunch of crossing on Lake Van. You may choose to accompany the Rustam to see the Kaba-i Zardusht “fire temple” and expenses; development/promotional expenses, and the loss of time that might have permitted resale of reserved space. All cancellations must be made in writing to the local specialties, visit one of Cappadocia’s networks of train or drive along the southern coast of the lake to Van, the Royal Tombs; and to Naqsh-i Rajab, a nearby grotto T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT offices of AAA and are subject to a $350 non-refundable administrative fee. All Discover the Old City, beginning at the famed Sultan with Sassanian reliefs. Then journey to Shiraz, “the City refunds are limited to amounts actually received by AAA and are the sole responsibility ancient underground settlements. Following dinner, return stopping en route at Akdamar Island to visit the stunning Treasures of Anatolia & Persia: Istanbul to Tehran April 20 to May 6, 2016 of AAA; the Met shall have no liability for refunds. At the time AAA receives written Ahmet Mosque (known as the “Blue Mosque” for its to the train. Alternatively, transfer after dinner to the Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian of Roses and Nightingales.” See the Qur’an Gate before notification of cancellation, the following cancellation charges will apply: cancellations RESERVATION APPLICATION received between 120 to 91 days prior to departure, 20 percent of the program cost stunning tiled interior) and the magnificent sixth-century unique Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel for an overnight stay and cathedral whose walls are adorned with elaborate bas-relief lunch and visit the tomb of the celebrated 14th-century To reserve a place, please return this form along with your deposit of OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE per person; cancellations received between 90 and 61 days prior to departure, 50 basilica of Hagia Sophia. After lunch, browse the Grand $2,500 per person (of which $350 is non-refundable for administrative percent of the program cost per person; no refunds will be given for cancellations hot-air balloon ride at sunrise (at an additional cost). carvings. After lunch, continue to Van for a walking tour poet Hafez, located in a lovely garden. Explore the Vakil I/We wish to join the optional Istanbul prelude ($1,995 per person; received within 60 days of departure. No refunds are given for cancellation on or Bazaar, where more than 4,000 shopkeepers offer spices, of the old town. Dinner is on board. This evening, our Complex, housing a bazaar, mosque, caravanserai, and fees) payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad, 1040 Avenue of the single supplement $515) after the day of departure, or for unused portions of the tour, for any reason. Air Americas, 23rd Floor, New York, NY 10018-3721. Hotel Room Preference Double Twin Single cancellation charges, if any, will be assessed in accordance with airline regulations. carpets, and handicrafts. Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque with train crosses the border into Iran. teahouse. Dinner is on board. All group fare tickets must be issued no less than 30 days prior to departure. its lavish use of Iznik tiles. An exclusive Met evening of Black Sea ______FORM OF PAYMENT NOTE: Neither AAA nor the Met shall be liable for any airline cancellation penalties Names in Full as on Passports. Please Print. incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket. In the case of a cancellation due Caspian TABRIZ, IRAN Enclosed is my check (payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad) cocktails and dinner is planned at a local restaurant. Istanbul Sea to shortage of participants, AAA will attempt to notify all participants at least 45 ______ Credit card (may be used for deposit only) days prior to departure. However, AAA reserves the right to cancel The Program prior Friday, April 29 to departure for any reason and, in such case, reimbursement of refundable costs of TURKEY Lake ______the trip by AAA shall constitute full settlement with the participant. In the unlikely ISTANBUL Van ______Name on Credit Card event that a dispute arises between a participant and AAA or the Met, the following Saturday, April 23 Cappadocia Arrive this afternoon in Tabriz, a former historical capital Address Van Tabriz conditions will apply: (a) the dispute will be settled by binding arbitration administered Ephesus ______by the American Arbitration Association in New York, NY; (b) the dispute will Tehran of Iran. Browse the vast, UNESCO-designated Grand ______Credit Card Number be governed by New York Law; (c) the maximum amount of recovery to which a City State Zip participant shall be entitled under any and all circumstances will be the sum of all Tour legendary Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman Bazaar, where the variety of merchandise reflects the ______IRAN monies actually received from the participant by AAA. The participant agrees that sultans for 400 years and now a fascinating museum. Mediterranean Sea city’s historic role as a gateway to the Silk Road. Still the ______3- or 4-Digit Security Code Expiration Date this is a fair and reasonable limitation on the damages, of any sort whatsoever, that a Telephone (Home) (Business) participant may suffer. Upon payment of the deposit to AAA, the participant agrees Following lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy time at Isfahan commercial center of Tabriz, the bazaar is filled with locals Yazd I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read and agree to the Terms & to be bound by the above terms and conditions. ______leisure, perhaps to visit the nearby Spice Market. Drive shopping, taking tea, and otherwise going about their daily Conditions of this Program. I/We agree to full payment by check or wire Copyright © 2015 Arrangements Abroad, Inc. CST 2059789-40 Fax E-mail Persepolis to nearby Izmit to board the Danube Express and begin lives. Also included is a visit to the Azerbaijan Museum and Photo by Behzad NoPhoto transfer 120 days prior to departure. Each participant must sign below. Shiraz ACCOMMODATIONS our journey through Turkey. adjacent Blue Mosque. Relief carvings, Persepolis ______Hotel room/cabin preference Double Twin Single Signature (Required) Date Front cover: The Conference of the Birds. Page from a manuscript of the Mantiq al-Tayr ______(The Language of the Birds) of Farid al-Din Àttar, ca. 1600; Safavid, Iran (Isfahan), Opaque T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA I S T ANBUL T O TEHRAN A BOARD T HE GOLDEN E A G LE D ANUBE E XPRESS I wish to share a room/Golden Eagle cabin with ______Signature (Required) Date watercolor, ink, silver, gold on paper (63.210.11) Back cover: Danube Express enroute to Tabriz (top) and Akdamar Island on Lake Van (bottom). For additional information, please contact Academic Arrangements Abroad Telephone: 212-514-8921 or 800-221-1944 Fax: 212-344-7493 E-mail: [email protected] www.metmuseum.org/travel OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT April 18 to 21, 2016 T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028 Spend three days in this fabled city, capital of three empires. T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT www.metmuseum.org/travel Admire her majestic skyline during a private Bosphorus Dear Members and Friends of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, cruise at sunset. Visit the Archaeology Museum to marvel at the spectacular Sidamara Sarcophagus and reliefs from During its heyday more than a hundred years ago, the Orient Express was “the king of trains PRSRT STD Palmyra and Babylon. Enter the Süleymaniye Mosque to and the train of kings.” Relive that bygone era of luxury rail travel next April, aboard the Golden U.S. POSTAGE REASURES OF NAT OLIA ERSIA experience the creative genius of Sinan, chief architect of PAID T A & P Eagle Danube Express. Journey from the shores of the Sea of Marmara in Turkey to the foothills of BURLINGTON, VT Süleyman the Magnificent. A visit to the recently renovated PERMIT NO.601 the Alborz Mountains in Iran, discovering less-explored destinations in Anatolia and Persia, six World Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, housed in the sumptuous Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Heritage Sites, and some of the most extraordinary markets in the world. Ibrahim Pasha Palace, is an additional highlight. Deluxe accommodations are at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah. Traveling with us will be Joan Aruz, Curator in Charge of the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Dr. Aruz was the force behind the recent landmark PRELUDE RATE $1,995 per person. Single supplement $515. Includes two nights at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah; two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner; exhibition, Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age, which featured artifacts from many of sightseeing as noted. the regions visited on this journey.

Alcohol is forbidden at all times. Photo by Sara Kosyk Maidan-e Naghsh-e Jahan, Isfahan

After a brief period of adjustment to these regulations, Western travelers should feel quite April 20 to May 6, 2016 comfortable and at ease. Trajan

Photo by José María Gómez de Salazar rhyming proverb “Isfahan nesf-e-jahan,” or “Isfahan is discretion of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) and AAA. All prices quoted Celsus, originally built in 114 A.D. Re-board the Golden half the world.” See the churches in the Armenian Quarter, This morning, view the National Museum of Iran’s collection are based on prevailing fuel prices, airfares, and currency exchange rates in effect at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul RATES INCLUDE the time of brochure printing and are subject to change without notice. Deviations Eagle, stabled overnight at a nearby station. including the Cathedral of Vank, and the Palace of Chehel of antiquities with elegant prehistoric pottery, priceless from the scheduled itinerary are at the expense of the individual. vessels in precious materials, and statues of Darius the Great Two nights at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, Istanbul; three RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE The participation of the Met is limited to educational U.S.A. DEPARTURE EPHESUS Sotun (Forty Columns) set in a beautiful park. After a nights at the Espinas International Hotel & Resort, Tehran sponsorship of the program described in this brochure (The Program). AAA acts only traditional Iranian lunch, continue to the breathtaking and other ancient Persian kings. Following lunch, visit the as an agent for the participant with respect to transportation, accommodations, and Wednesday, April 20 Monday, April 25 Ten nights aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express all other services, relating to The Program. AAA, the Met and/or their agents assume Maidan-e Naqsh-e Jahan, a World Heritage Site. Admire impressive Carpet Museum and the Abguineh Museum to no responsibility or liability for any act, error, or omission, or for any injury, loss, Breakfast daily, fourteen lunches, fifteen dinners, and one accident, delay, or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of any defect in see pre-Islamic and Islamic glass and ceramics displayed in Depart New York on an overnight flight to Istanbul. Return to Ephesus for additional morning visits. St. Paul Balloons over Cappadocia the Ali Qapu Palace, with its enchanting music rooms, and reception; local wine / beer with lunches and dinners (except in any aircraft, ship, train, bus, or other carrier, or through neglect or default of any Iran, where alcohol is not permitted); bottled water and coffee / subcontractor or other third party, which may be used wholly or in part in the performance preached here on his second missionary journey, and we tour the great Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. an early 20th-century mansion. Celebrate our journey with a of their duty to the participants of The Program. The passage ticket issued by the ISTANBUL, TURKEY Conclude at the Qeisarieh Bazaar, one of the oldest in farewell dinner at the hotel. tea with all meals carrier is the sole contract between the participant and the carrier. Nor will AAA or will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important CAPPADOCIA the Met and/or their agents be responsible for loss, injury, damages, or expenses to Escorted sightseeing by private motorcoach with entrance fees Thursday, April 21 Christian monument in Ephesus. Dating to the early 5th Wednesday, April 27 the Middle East, featuring hundreds of shops displaying persons or property, due to illness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, TEHRAN U.S.A. for all included visits terrorist acts, acts of nature, or other such causes in connection with The Program or century, it served as the seat of the Bishop of Ephesus regional art and handicrafts. Dinner is on board. anything beyond their reasonable control. AAA is not responsible for transportation Thursday & Friday, May 5 & 6 Private airport transfers; hotel / train group transfers and Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the Pera Palace Hotel throughout late antiquity. Reunite for breakfast on the train. Attend lectures and or other program delays and changes, nor additional expenses or loss of time that may PERSEPOLIS SHIRAZ, IRAN porterage; taxes and service; gratuities aboard and on land be incurred. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for the comfort or well- Jumeirah for a two-night stay. First opened in 1892 to serve being of the participants, or for any reason whatsoever, to alter the itinerary at any relax on board as we travel east through pristine Central Enjoy a morning tour of Saadabad Palace. After lunch, visit guests arriving on the Orient Express, this luxurious hotel was CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY Monday, May 2 NOT INCLUDED IN RATES Airfare; passport and visa fees; meals time, without notice to the participants, such alterations will be made without penalty Turkey toward Lake Van. Reza Abbasi Museum to admire ceramics, important finds not specified; alcoholic beverages other than local wine / beer at to AAA or the Met. Additional expenses, if any, shall be borne by the participants. recently restored to its original elegance. Gather this evening Tuesday, April 26 lunches and dinners (except in Iran); optional hotel night and balloon Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the participant at all times. in gold and silver, and classical Persian book painting. Early ride in Cappadocia; personal items and expenses; airport transfers The Met and AAA reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a participant at AKDAMAR ISLAND VAN, TURKEY Persepolis, founded 2,500 years ago, was the ceremonial any time, or to require any participant to withdraw from The Program at their own for introductory remarks and a short talk about Istanbul by for those not on suggested group flights; baggage in excess of one Explore Cappadocia in Central Anatolia, known for its Thursday, April 28 capital of the great Achaemenid Empire. This morning this evening, a light dinner is arranged prior to transferring expense when such an action is determined by AAA or the Met to be in the best interest Joan Aruz, followed by cocktails and our welcome dinner. suitcase; trip insurance; optional Istanbul prelude; any other items of the participant’s health and safety, or the general welfare of the other participants. to the airport for flights home, arriving on May 6. fascinating moon-like landscape, “fairy chimney” rock we explore the remains of the palaces of Darius the not specifically mentioned as included. CANCELLATION POLICY AAA must strictly adhere to its cancellation policy to ISTANBUL Today the train cars are uncoupled for a six-hour ferry Great, Xerxes, and Artaxerxes I. Continue to Naqsh-i offset costs incurred prior to the commencement of The Program, which may include but formations, underground cities, and cave churches featuring are not limited to: advance payments to land operators; ship charters; communication Friday, April 22 outstanding examples of Byzantine art. After a lunch of crossing on Lake Van. You may choose to accompany the Rustam to see the Kaba-i Zardusht “fire temple” and expenses; development/promotional expenses, and the loss of time that might have permitted resale of reserved space. All cancellations must be made in writing to the local specialties, visit one of Cappadocia’s networks of train or drive along the southern coast of the lake to Van, the Royal Tombs; and to Naqsh-i Rajab, a nearby grotto T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT offices of AAA and are subject to a $350 non-refundable administrative fee. All Discover the Old City, beginning at the famed Sultan with Sassanian reliefs. Then journey to Shiraz, “the City refunds are limited to amounts actually received by AAA and are the sole responsibility ancient underground settlements. Following dinner, return stopping en route at Akdamar Island to visit the stunning Treasures of Anatolia & Persia: Istanbul to Tehran April 20 to May 6, 2016 of AAA; the Met shall have no liability for refunds. At the time AAA receives written Ahmet Mosque (known as the “Blue Mosque” for its to the train. Alternatively, transfer after dinner to the Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian of Roses and Nightingales.” See the Qur’an Gate before notification of cancellation, the following cancellation charges will apply: cancellations RESERVATION APPLICATION received between 120 to 91 days prior to departure, 20 percent of the program cost stunning tiled interior) and the magnificent sixth-century unique Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel for an overnight stay and cathedral whose walls are adorned with elaborate bas-relief lunch and visit the tomb of the celebrated 14th-century To reserve a place, please return this form along with your deposit of OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE per person; cancellations received between 90 and 61 days prior to departure, 50 basilica of Hagia Sophia. After lunch, browse the Grand $2,500 per person (of which $350 is non-refundable for administrative percent of the program cost per person; no refunds will be given for cancellations hot-air balloon ride at sunrise (at an additional cost). carvings. After lunch, continue to Van for a walking tour poet Hafez, located in a lovely garden. Explore the Vakil I/We wish to join the optional Istanbul prelude ($1,995 per person; received within 60 days of departure. No refunds are given for cancellation on or Bazaar, where more than 4,000 shopkeepers offer spices, of the old town. Dinner is on board. This evening, our Complex, housing a bazaar, mosque, caravanserai, and fees) payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad, 1040 Avenue of the single supplement $515) after the day of departure, or for unused portions of the tour, for any reason. Air Americas, 23rd Floor, New York, NY 10018-3721. Hotel Room Preference Double Twin Single cancellation charges, if any, will be assessed in accordance with airline regulations. carpets, and handicrafts. Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque with train crosses the border into Iran. teahouse. Dinner is on board. All group fare tickets must be issued no less than 30 days prior to departure. its lavish use of Iznik tiles. An exclusive Met evening of Black Sea ______FORM OF PAYMENT NOTE: Neither AAA nor the Met shall be liable for any airline cancellation penalties Names in Full as on Passports. Please Print. incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket. In the case of a cancellation due Caspian TABRIZ, IRAN Enclosed is my check (payable to Academic Arrangements Abroad) cocktails and dinner is planned at a local restaurant. Istanbul Sea to shortage of participants, AAA will attempt to notify all participants at least 45 ______ Credit card (may be used for deposit only) days prior to departure. However, AAA reserves the right to cancel The Program prior Friday, April 29 to departure for any reason and, in such case, reimbursement of refundable costs of TURKEY Lake ______the trip by AAA shall constitute full settlement with the participant. In the unlikely ISTANBUL Van ______Name on Credit Card event that a dispute arises between a participant and AAA or the Met, the following Saturday, April 23 Cappadocia Arrive this afternoon in Tabriz, a former historical capital Address Van Tabriz conditions will apply: (a) the dispute will be settled by binding arbitration administered Ephesus ______by the American Arbitration Association in New York, NY; (b) the dispute will Tehran of Iran. Browse the vast, UNESCO-designated Grand ______Credit Card Number be governed by New York Law; (c) the maximum amount of recovery to which a City State Zip participant shall be entitled under any and all circumstances will be the sum of all Tour legendary Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman Bazaar, where the variety of merchandise reflects the ______IRAN monies actually received from the participant by AAA. The participant agrees that sultans for 400 years and now a fascinating museum. Mediterranean Sea city’s historic role as a gateway to the Silk Road. Still the ______3- or 4-Digit Security Code Expiration Date this is a fair and reasonable limitation on the damages, of any sort whatsoever, that a Telephone (Home) (Business) participant may suffer. Upon payment of the deposit to AAA, the participant agrees Following lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy time at Isfahan commercial center of Tabriz, the bazaar is filled with locals Yazd I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read and agree to the Terms & to be bound by the above terms and conditions. ______leisure, perhaps to visit the nearby Spice Market. Drive shopping, taking tea, and otherwise going about their daily Conditions of this Program. I/We agree to full payment by check or wire Copyright © 2015 Arrangements Abroad, Inc. CST 2059789-40 Fax E-mail Persepolis to nearby Izmit to board the Danube Express and begin lives. Also included is a visit to the Azerbaijan Museum and Photo by Behzad NoPhoto transfer 120 days prior to departure. Each participant must sign below. Shiraz ACCOMMODATIONS our journey through Turkey. adjacent Blue Mosque. Relief carvings, Persepolis ______Hotel room/cabin preference Double Twin Single Signature (Required) Date Front cover: The Conference of the Birds. Page from a manuscript of the Mantiq al-Tayr ______(The Language of the Birds) of Farid al-Din Àttar, ca. 1600; Safavid, Iran (Isfahan), Opaque T REASURES OF A NAT OLIA & PERSIA I S T ANBUL T O TEHRAN A BOARD T HE GOLDEN E A G LE D ANUBE E XPRESS I wish to share a room/Golden Eagle cabin with ______Signature (Required) Date watercolor, ink, silver, gold on paper (63.210.11) Back cover: Danube Express enroute to Tabriz (top) and Akdamar Island on Lake Van (bottom). For additional information, please contact Academic Arrangements Abroad Telephone: 212-514-8921 or 800-221-1944 Fax: 212-344-7493 E-mail: [email protected] www.metmuseum.org/travel OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRELUDE T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT April 18 to 21, 2016 T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028 Spend three days in this fabled city, capital of three empires. T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT www.metmuseum.org/travel Admire her majestic skyline during a private Bosphorus Dear Members and Friends of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, cruise at sunset. Visit the Archaeology Museum to marvel at the spectacular Sidamara Sarcophagus and reliefs from During its heyday more than a hundred years ago, the Orient Express was “the king of trains PRSRT STD Palmyra and Babylon. Enter the Süleymaniye Mosque to and the train of kings.” Relive that bygone era of luxury rail travel next April, aboard the Golden U.S. POSTAGE REASURES OF NAT OLIA ERSIA experience the creative genius of Sinan, chief architect of PAID T A & P Eagle Danube Express. Journey from the shores of the Sea of Marmara in Turkey to the foothills of BURLINGTON, VT Süleyman the Magnificent. A visit to the recently renovated PERMIT NO.601 the Alborz Mountains in Iran, discovering less-explored destinations in Anatolia and Persia, six World Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, housed in the sumptuous Istanbul to Tehran Aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express Heritage Sites, and some of the most extraordinary markets in the world. Ibrahim Pasha Palace, is an additional highlight. Deluxe accommodations are at the Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah. Traveling with us will be Joan Aruz, Curator in Charge of the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Dr. Aruz was the force behind the recent landmark PRELUDE RATE $1,995 per person. Single supplement $515. Includes two nights at Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah; two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner; exhibition, Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age, which featured artifacts from many of sightseeing as noted. the regions visited on this journey.

Alcohol is forbidden at all times. Photo by Sara Kosyk Maidan-e Naghsh-e Jahan, Isfahan

After a brief period of adjustment to these regulations, Western travelers should feel quite April 20 to May 6, 2016 comfortable and at ease. Trajan

T HE M ETROPOLITAN M USEUM OF A RT 1000 F IFTH A VENUE N EW Y ORK, N EW Y ORK 10028 www.metmuseum.org/travel