1. From Kos: Roundtrip Ferry Ticket to Bodrum
In only 30 minutes from the port of Kos, you have the chance to visit another country, another continent. Bodrum is ancient Halicarnassus, one of the most important cities of antiquity. Here is where Herodotus, the Father of History, was born. The first image of the port will steal your heart. White houses built amphitheatrically, dozens of sailboats and yachts, plus one of the most imposing castles in the world compose your first impression. After ID or passport control at the customs, you are free to get to know the city, as you choose, until departure time (16:30). You can visit the famous Castle that was built by the Knights of St. John and walk through the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus. Bodrum offers significant and marvelling sights, such as the Windmills and the ancient Greek Theatre of 13000 seats. The Castle is worth visiting and you should spend time in the Museum of Underwater Antiquities there, where you can find the biggest collection of amphorae in the world and impressive shipwrecks. Do not miss any of the four Castle Towers, German, English, French and Gatineau, each has something unique to offer you apart from the magnificent view. The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus is also worth visiting. You will only see ruins but you can take pride in witnessing one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If you are not antiquity lovers, take a stroll through the city “sokaks” (small streets), get to know the local cuisine, have a Turkish coffee or tea at a traditional coffee shop, try “kebab” and other traditional “mezedes” and if you have a sweet tooth, Kazandibi, one of the most popular Turkish delights, will excite you. A really big bazaar awaits you if you like walking, crowds and bargaining for a better price. You can find anything imaginable there, from all kinds of souvenirs, folk art and crafts to clothing and food. Experience intense scents and images at the stalls with flavorings and spices. You will find it hard to resist buying something but beware of clothing brands, as they may seem cheap but are not necessarily genuine. Many stallholders accept euros and almost everyone speaks Greek or English. After all this intense wandering around the city, you will need some relaxation. If you have the time, an authentic oriental Hamam bath, near the bus station, awaits you for a full package of relaxation, wellness and fun which includes sauna, scrub, hamam and body massage among other services. As the heat in Bodrum can be insufferable in summer, do not forget a bottle of water and wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes.
