Sacred Journeys and Romantic Retreat: Umrah in Makkah and 2nd Honeymoon in Istanbul, Turkiye

Introduction:

Embark on a journey of spiritual fulfillment and romantic bliss with our DIY exclusive package, "Sacred Journeys and Romantic Retreat: Umrah in Makkah and 2nd Honeymoon in Istanbul." Tailored for travelers taking advantage of Saudi Arabia's 96-hour stop-over visa, this unique experience includes a complimentary one-night hotel stay in Saudi Arabia (subject to availability), facilitating a seamless transition between your sacred pilgrimage and romantic escapade.

You need to inform Saudi Airline that you and your partner require a stop-over visa, please notify them in advance of your travel plans. While the stop-over visa itself is complimentary, nominal processing fees and insurance charges may apply, ensuring your journey is safeguarded and hassle-free. For travelers flying with Saudi Airlines, enjoy the convenience of a direct flight, where you're advised to don Ihram attire in preparation for your Umrah journey. If you're from Malaysia or ASEAN countries, your designated miqat location is Qornul Manazil, announced by the pilot upon reaching the vicinity.

Please visit our shops at Tik Tok or Shopee for Ihram set & dua notes 

Kedai Affiliate Shopee Aara
Kedai Affiliate Tik Tok Aara

and read our blog below for other guidance;

1. DIY Umrah - Step 3:Accommodation: Booking in Madinah and Makkah with Kiwi.com & Booking.com
2. Expanding the Umrah Experience: Additional Explorations in Medina, Makkah and Jeddah
3. 19 Aksesori Umrah Terbaik untuk Wanita 2024
4. 14 Aksesori Perjalanan Umrah Terbaik 2024
5. Embracing Change: Pilgrimage in the Modern Era

or simply click our Travel >> DIY Umrah for more readings

Ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience by downloading the Nusuk app and obtaining approval for your Umrah permit in advance. Otherwise, be prepared to remain in Ihram until your permit is processed.

Don't forget to download the Nusuk app and book your Umrah and Tawaf. Available for iPhone here, Android here, and Huawei here.

Day 1: Arrival in Jeddah - Transfer to Makkah

Upon arrival at Jeddah airport, proceed through immigration and customs seamlessly. Arrange for a train or private transfer to Makkah, where you'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring presence of Masjidil Haram. Check into your hotel and embark on your Umrah journey, immersing yourself in the sacred rituals with reverence and devotion. After completing Umrah, dedicate the remainder of the day to prayer and introspection, basking in the spiritual energy of the holy city.

Online booking for Haramain Highspeed Railway (SAR) Train here

Online booking for Northwest BUS here

Affiliate  Airport Transfer with GoTransfer

Day 2-3: Tawaf in Makkah

Rise early to commence your spiritual journey with Tawaf around the Kaaba. Delve into the profound significance of each ritual as you offer prayers at revered sites like  Maqam Ibrahim and Zamzam Well. Engage in acts of worship and seek solace in the sanctity of Masjidil Haram. Embrace the opportunity for personal reflection and spiritual growth, allowing the sacred ambiance to envelop your senses.

Check our blogs at  Travel >> DIY Umrah for more information

Day 4: Departure from Jeddah to Istanbul

Bid farewell to the holy city of Makkah as you embark on your onward journey to Istanbul. Complete any remaining religious obligations with a heart full of gratitude and reverence. Check out of your hotel and transfer to Jeddah airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival in the enchanting city of Istanbul, revel in the anticipation of new experiences and adventures awaiting you.

Day 5-8: Exploring Istanbul

Search for the accommodation in Istanbul from our affiliate Kiwi.com or Trip.com ( and read our blog ‘DIY Umrah - Step 3:Accommodation: Booking in Madinah and Makkah with Kiwi.com & Booking.com’ as guidance)

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Istanbul's cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Visit Hagia Sophia, a testament to Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur, and marvel at its majestic domes and intricate mosaics. Explore the Blue Mosque, an architectural masterpiece adorned with delicate blue tiles and graceful minarets. Wander through the labyrinthine corridors of Topkapi Palace, where echoes of sultans and courtiers resonate through time.

Top 7 Best Things to Do in Istanbul - 2024 

 

Hagia Sophia	The Hagia Sophia Museum was originally an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the Byzantine Empire. Its construction began in 537 AD at the beginning of the Middle Ages and then converted into a mosque during occupation by the Ottoman Empire.
The Blue Mosque	Situated on the bank of the Bosphorus Strait is one of Istanbul's landmarks, the Blue Mosque. It features a magnificent and eye-catching, enormous round dome. The Blue Mosque, also called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built under the rule of Sultan Ahmed during the Ottoman Empire. The Blue Mosque derives its name from the more than 20,000 blue ceramic tiles used to decorate its interior.
Basilica Cistern	The Basilica Cistern is located next to the Hagia Sophia Museum and was built under the orders of Byzantine Emperor Justinian. It has a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water, served as an underground reservoir used by the Byzantine and Ottoman Palaces and is still in use today.

Stroll through the vibrant lanes of the Grand Bazaar, where centuries-old traditions blend with modern commerce in a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Cruise along the scenic waters of the Bosphorus, admiring the city's skyline punctuated by iconic landmarks. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Turkish cuisine, savoring aromatic spices and culinary delights at local eateries.

Bosphorus	The Bosporus Strait, which divides Istanbul in two, is also known as the Strait of Istanbul. It connects the Black Sea in the north to the Marmara and Mediterranean Sea in the south, splitting Turkey into a European side and an Asian side. Both sides are famous historical districts in Istanbul. A common way to enjoy the Bosporus is by tour cruise.
Grand Bazaar	The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest bazaars in the world and has been the urban center of the entire Istanbul for centuries. You can't say you've been to Turkey if you haven't been here. The Grand Bazaar is close to Istanbul University and the Blue Mosque, and its entrance is so ordinary that tourists can easily miss it.
Galata Tower	The medieval Galata Tower gives a fairytale feeling to the hilly Beyoelu district, on the north part of the Golden Horn. Topped by a conical tiled steeple and gold finial, the 67 meter high stone tower was built by the Genoese in 1348. Explore the outdoor observation place at for a marvelous panorama reaching to Sultanahmet, have dinner or a snack at the tower-top restaurant.
Topkapi Palace	Topkapi Palace was the official residence and main residence of the Ottoman sultans in the city from 1465 to 1853. Now it has been transformed into a museum, showing the past and amazing treasures of the royal life to the world. The palace was ordered to be built in 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II, who conquered the Byzantine Empire.

Day 9: Departure from Istanbul

As your journey draws to a close, bid farewell to the captivating city of Istanbul with cherished memories etched in your heart. Check out of your hotel and transfer to Istanbul airport for your return flight home. Depart Istanbul with a sense of fulfillment, enriched by the experiences of your sacred pilgrimage and romantic retreat, ready to embark on new adventures with renewed spirit and purpose.