
Every year, on 25 April, Australia and New Zealand commemorate those lost during various wars involving both nations, with ceremonies held across both countries. The date 25 April is known as ANZAC Day and it is regarded as one of the most important occasions in Australia's and New Zealand's history, as it marks the anniversary of the first military action that was taken by Australia and New Zealand in the first World War. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and soldiers still fight and take pride in the tradition of ANZAC today.
Australia had only just become a country itself 13 years before war broke out in what would become later, World War I, and with the government looking to establish its international reputation, the Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed an expedition to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. The objective was to capture Constantinople, the city that is now referred to as Istanbul in Turkey. When the Australian and New Zealand forces arrived on the beaches of Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, they struck resistance from the Turkish army and the campaign continued for a period of 8 months with over 100,000 soldiers killed from both sides.
The ANZAC legend was then created and formed a significant part of the identity of Australia and New Zealand. April 25 has now become a day representative of the sacrifice those soldiers made and this day for both ANZAC countries is celebrated more strongly than Rememberance Day on 11 November. April 25 is officially called ANZAC Day and it is now commemorated by Australian's and New Zealanders across the globe in memory of those who sacrificed their lives and to uphold the legacy of the nations. Included as part of these ceremonies, thousands of people travel to Gallipoli each year to commemorate the battles that commenced there on 25 April 1915. 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli and large contingents of Australian's and New Zealander's will make the pilgrimage to ANZAC Cove in Turkey to mark the celebrations
All year round you can visit Gallipoli to explore the battlefields and to commemorate the lives that were lost, with tours commonly beginning and ending in Istanbul. The trips that take place for the ANZAC Day commemorations are the most important, where a Dawn Service is held in Gallipoli. This Dawn Service is followed by the Australian Memorial Service at Lone Pine (10am) and the New Zealand Memorial Service at Chunuk Bair (1130am). For those interested in tours to commemorate ANZAC Day, there are many established companies offering affordable travel packages for those who wish to experience a rich part of history.
The ANZAC Day ceremonies include prayers, laying of wreaths, the Last Post, and a moment of silence that is followed by the national anthems. The trenches and battlefields can be explored with the option to pay your respects at the memorial. The tours that extend over a period of a few days enjoy an array of Turkish adventures and there are many companies offering packages that range between 2 to 14 days to suit the budget and lifestyle interests of travelers. Deals can be combined with an exploration of Egypt involving a boat cruise and memorial service. Tour companies offer trips that are filled with excitement and cultural history suited to your travel interests. Some of the biggest companies specialising in ANZAC Day Tours catering for more of a youth audience include Topdeck Travel, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, Contiki and PP Travel. Viator also has a great 6 Day ANZAC Day Tour for people looking for a more higher levels of accommodation.
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ANZAC Day in Gallipoli Tours
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