Imagine walking through the same streets where Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and the Apostle Paul once stood and visiting the majestic Library of Celsus, the awe- inspiring Temple of Artemis, and the impressive Great Theatre. You can certainly do that all in a day in Ephesus. But it’s not just about the ancient history here. There is a genuine warmth and welcoming culture that permeates through the locals. As someone with the privilege of visiting often, I’ve developed friendships with many Kusadasis who welcome me back with open arms whenever I’m in port. From business owners who pour you a cup of tea to engaging in lively conversations at the fish market, their hospitality knows no bounds. Our voyages often have extended stays throughout Turkey, especially in Kusadasi, which allows our guests to immerse themselves in the local culture as they shop, dine and explore. First-time visitors often ask for my recommendations of what to do in port, and I’m happy to share them with you in the hopes that they inspire you to experience this wondrous region and make new friends along the way. SAVOR A TURKISH BREAKFAST Mornings are made for a Turkish breakfast. The meal typically includes cheeses, black and green olives, spicy sausages, fruit preserves and fresh-baked white bread, served with freshly brewed tea. There are plenty of cafés and corner restaurants near the port. If you want to make fast friends, order your breakfast by saying, “Serpme kahvaltı alabilir miyim lütfen? ” EXPERIENCE TURKISH-GREEK CULTURE Jump at the chance to visit Sirince, a quaint village surrounded by hills blanketed with peach orchards, bountiful vineyards and lush olive groves. Farming remains the principal town activity, and many Greek Orthodox villagers make wine and olive oil. They’re so friendly, not to mention eager to show you around. SHOP AND SHAVE IN KUSADASI There are all types of shops to choose from, both high-end designer boutiques and family-owned stores offering authentic, hand-woven carpets, hookahs, and wares made of meerschaum. My personal favorites are a store called Twins (that is actually run by twins and their friend Servet) and another called the Magic Tailor, owned by a local character named Fevzi. Both are easy walking distance from the
pier. The store Twins has an extensive stock of everything I could ever want, except for custom-tailored suits (which is where Fevzi comes in). If neither the twins nor Fevzi have it, they’ll point you to the store that does. No matter how long it’s been between my visits, I can always count on their genuine elation as soon as I walk in the doors. “My friend! So good to see you again!” For the gentlemen, please don’t leave the area without stopping for a shave; it’s more like an exfoliating ritual. Kusadasi barbers make you look and feel a decade younger. Plus, the camaraderie in the shop is as close as the blade to your cheek. TOUR THE RUINS WITH GUIDES You’ve made it to Ephesus; of course, you should take excursions to the ruins. Lucky for you, some of the most knowledgeable and affable guides I’ve ever worked with are here. The ruins of Ephesus are one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean and once the location of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Among the excavated treasures of Ephesus are the Odeon and the nearly 24,000-seat Grand Theater, where St. Paul once preached. Known for its beautiful acoustics, the theater is still used today for musical performances. Stand before the two-story Corinthian-style façade of the third richest library in ancient times after the Alexandra and Pergamum. Not only did it hold more than 12,000 scrolls, but the Celsus Library was also a monumental tomb for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, the governor of the province of Asia. Three miles south of Ephesus is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The House of the Virgin Mary is located on Mount Bulbul. The house was discovered in the 19th century but is estimated to have been built in the 4th century CE. It is believed that the Virgin Mary lived here until the age of 101; therefore, it was a very important place of pilgrimage. That’s only scratching the surface of what awaits you on your call on Ephesus. It’s not just any ordinary tourist spot; it’s an ancient city steeped in history and a beautiful culture that warms the heart. Born in the Canadian capital of Ottawa and raised in the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver, Dru Pavlov is a Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Cruise Director. He studied Theatre at the University of British Columbia and lives in Jacksonville, Florida with his wife Melanie.
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