Turkey - Izmir/Ephesus

November 20, 2011

We arrived at dawn in the Turkish port of Izmir, a city of 3.5 million on the western coast of the larger portion of Turkey situated in Asia Minor (versus Istanbul and the small portion located in Europe). Unlike our other destinations and their well-known history, we had few pre-conceived notions of what to expect from Turkey.

In the end, Turkey was the highlight of the trip by all accounts. Clean, beautiful, friendly and interesting....not to mention the best tour guide we have had of any tour, EVER!

Izmir was the jumping off point for a relatively short bus ride through the scenic agricultural countryside to the fabled ruins at Ephesus. Having toured Pompeii two years ago, these ruins were equally fascinating. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Our day also included a visit to a carpet-maker, located on an idyllic Turkish farm surrounded by rugged hills. We watched silk and cotton Turkish rugs being made by hand, before they plied us with wine and an impressive carpet demo that resulted in more than a few purchases amongst the group. In order to preserve their industry, the Turkish government actually subsidizes the effort, including covering all shipping, duty and taxes, and insurance for rugs to be shipped direct to your home, using a rebate program.

Yes, we brought home a SMALL Turkish rug, more of a "runner" that we can hang on the wall, n light of the cats and all. It helps the bargaining situation to be one of the last cruise ships of the season. :)

Izmir itself was also quite lovely, especially the waterfront promenade on the Mediterranean. We took the opportunity before boarding the ship to enjoy authentic local cuisine, beer and Turkish coffee at a seaside eatery.