Anzac History: When war broke out in 1914 Australia had been a federal commonwealth for only 13 years. The new national government was eager to establish its reputation among the nations of the world. In 1915 Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula to open the way to the Black Sea for the allied navies. The plan was to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul), capital of the Ottoman Empire and an ally of Germany. They landed at Gallipoli on 25th April, meeting fierce resistance from the Turkish defenders. What had been planned as a bold stroke to knock Turkey out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months. At the end of 1915 the allied forces were evacuated after both sides had suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. News of the landing at Gallipoli made a profound impact on Australians at home and 25th April quickly became the day on which Australians remembered the sacrifice of those who had died in war.

The Importance of Anzac Day: Australians and New Zealand people recognise 25th April in Anzac Cove as an occasion of national commemoration. Commemorative services are held at dawn, the time of the original landing, across the two nations. Later in the day ex-servicemen and women meet and join in marches through the major cities and many smaller centres. Commemorative ceremonies are held at war memorials around the country. It is a day when Australians and New Zealand people reflect on the many different meanings of war.

Every year thousands of New Zealand and Australian people undertake a pilgrimage to Gallipoli through the Anzac Day Tours available to pay their respects to their ancestors who were there many years ago as well as learn more about the history of this important region.  The Anzac Day Tour is the best way possible to make this trip as they are designed to not only give people a quality tour around the Gallipoli region but also introduce them to Turkey and its culture.  Just like back in New Zealand and Australia on the 25th April in Anzac Cove every year those on an Anzac Day Tour can be part of this important day but experience first hand the sacrifice that was made and the conditions that were faced.  Samyeli Travel have a range of 11 Anzac Day Tours all centered around Anzac Day as the important feature and all Anzac Day Tours come with a professional guide who can help unravel the Anzac Day history and the legends.  By booking one of our Anzac Day Tours you can be assured that you are getting a quality Anzac Tour and that your Anzac Day Tour will be one to remember.