It is pleasing to report that our tour group is now fully assembled, with the recent arrivals bedded down recovering from jet-lag.
Those who arrived yesterday were able to enjoy the great views from the breakfast platform at the Point Hotel where the many cranes that mark Istanbul's building boom stand out.
Adventurous members explored the nearby alleys on foot, with some taking a "big bus" tour gaining a small insight of what will be experienced when we return from the Gallipoli Peninsula in a few days' time.
Bob Stenhouse arrived from another tour totally dehydrated and can be seen below preparing to rehydrate. Joe Flemming's family supporting him with online messages, and he has only been on the tour half a day.
Those still awake managed to head out together to a local restaurant.