Destination Turkey

Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

Bodrum, known in the ancient times as Halicarnassus which was the capital of Caria, was the birthplace of Herodotus and the site of King Mausolous' Tomb (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbor, the Bodrum Castle, or the medieval castle of St. Peter, is a fine example of 15th century crusader architecture, and has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archeology, with remains dating as far back as the Bronze Age. The stunning panoramic view from Goktepe, nearby, is much photographed by visitors to the Museums' 2nd century theater.
The reputation of Bodrum's boatyards dates back to ancient times, and today, craftsmen still build the traditional yachts: the Tirhandil with a pointed bow and stern, and the Gullets with a broad beam and rounded stern. The latter, especially, are used on excursions and pleasure trips, and in the annual October Cup Race.
Bodrum has gained the reputation as the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. This community has encouraged an informal day-time life style and a night-time of excitement. The evenings in Bodrum are for sitting idly in one of the many restaurants, dining on fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties. Afterwards night clubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn.
Lately, many foreigners have bought (and continue to buy) property in and around Bodrum for their holidays or for the retirement.

Kissebükü, Bodrum, Turkey

Kissebükü (Alakışla Bükü) lies on the northern part of Karaburun and Yıldız Adası.
The water is crystal clear, there are beautiful pine and olive trees cover the slopes. The bight on the west part of beach, is pretty with its limited berthing capacity. There are ruins of the old Byzantine Village on the beach you can reach with a small path connection from the road.

Cleopatra Island, Marmaris, Turkey

According to history, Cleopatra’s island was once the meeting place of Queen Cleopatra and her lover Mark Anthony. Cleopatra is said to have ordered shiploads of white sand to be brought here from Egypt to create her own secret paradise.
About 12 km from Marmaris is Gelibolu Bay, surrounded with mountains covered with fragrant pine forests. From the beach, a traditional Turkish wooden motorboat will glide you through the peaceful turquoise waters to Cleopatra's island.
After a short work through rocky olive groves you reach the “sandy” beach that is actually made up of millions of tiny, perfectly round and empty seashells, resembling pearly sand, that have taken millions of years to accumulate. Because the formation of the sand takes such an extremely long time, a great effort is made to conserve the beach, and it is therefore prohibited to take towels etc. onto the sand itself. It is said that sufferers of rheumatic aliments find that lying on this 'sand' significantly eases their complaints.
You can follow a stoney path from the beach to the well preserved ruins of an amphitheatre on the island. Near the top of the hill are the ruins of a temple (converted into a church by the Byzantines). Running parallel along the eastern shore are ancient city walls and towers that have stood the test of time. The Agora, containing stones carved in the shape of hearts is a delightful attraction and also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Löngöz Bay, Marmaris, Turkey

Löngöz lies on the west of point ;Kargılı Burnu. There is a channel where there is 2 meters dept then it ends by a circular inlet. There is a restaurant. You can reach there by dinghy. This bay is an enchanting spot with attractive surroundings. A rough path joins to the forest road and reaches to the other coves nearby.
Keep in mind that if you don't take these walks, you are missing a little bit of paradise.