Torba is a very idyllic, quiet location. However, we decided, that today a bit more adventure was required :) So after breakfast, we made our way back to shore on the tender (Getting pretty good at this now!) We wandered to the small row of shops and followed the hill up towards the main road. Only a 10 minute walk from the shore line. There was a little collection of dolmus (turkish local buses) all awaiting their gaggle of passengers. For the costly sum of 6.5 Turkish lira, or £1.25 for the two of us, we were very comfortably taken into Bodrum, around 10-12 minutes away. These little buses have improved hugely over the years, yes occasionally, you do still have to sit next to an old goat....... yes a real one, and your payment is still passed down through the many passengers, with any change you require, coming back much the same way ! The view as you reach the hilltop in front of Bodrum is stunning. An amazing glimpse of what you are about to be absorbed within. From the spectacular scenery of mountains either side, Kos (the Greek island) directly ahead. To the bustling town, beautiful harbour and eyecatching castle. Very exciting :) The magnificent scent of herbs and spices, together with busy market stalls, Turkish carpets billowing from their hanging place on old stone walls, brightly coloured glass and the Mosque calling in the background, it transports you to another world. A 10 minute stroll downhill slightly from the Otogar (bus station), will take you directly to the seafront. What a sight they have in store for you, from the Pazar markets full of vibrant colours, sounds and of course the spices........ to the tranquil promenade decorated in marble and sandstone, beautiful old stone buildings with Turkish red flags flying from every possible location, it can take your breath away. On the south side of the castle, Gulets line the whole harbour, millions of pounds worth of stunning wooden boats ready to take you on a cruise around the bays and inlets of the area. Their gleaming chromework, highly polished wooden hulls and colourful cushions becken you on board. Of course the crew are eager to have you on board, delighting you with their tales and wit. Taking some of your hard earned spending money too, no doubt :) but what a wonderful, novel way to experience Turkey. Along the entire length of the harbour / promenade on the roadside are a huge assortment of eateries and drinkstops, from the cheap and chearful to the down right extravagant. All however, have an amazing view of these gulets and the local fishing boats working side by side to make a living. There are a few small fish stalls filled with unusual species, a variety of colours and shapes of fish can be bought for a reasonable price. Bartering can be attempted in most gift and clothes shops. The less expensive goods are more likely to be knocked down in price, please however, do not try this in the more exclusive, designer style places!! In some of the marine stores, we have had good deals and discounts for some of our items, without the embarassment of asking. At the south tip of the harbour lies the marina, a spectacular collection of super yachts, fishing boats, Gulets and everything in between. North of the castle, is another large bay where the anchorages are easy to come by, many anchor buoys line the bay, just not sure if the belong to anyone in particular! The sea is shallow for a few meters from shore, then there is depth enough for all sizes of keel / hull. Again the same variety of super yachts, powerboats, gulets and smaller vessels sway alongside each other in the afternoon breeze. The vast shoreline if filled with yet more snack bars and restaurants, some with their own stretch of beach, sunbeds and waiter service. At the far end of this bay is the cruise liner port, which this year, maybe somewhat quieter with the recent world events! In the centre of these two large bays is the castle, an outstanding construction dating back to 1402 and built initially by the knights of St John. The chapel was the first fully complete structure within its square green volcanic stone walls. Peacocks and crows can be heard throughout the stone construction, tortoises stroll alongside tourists through the twisting passageways and turrets. Only the tourists, however, can ascend the numerous steps and ramparts leading to amazing views of both the north and south bays of this beautiful city. Once we have had our fill of archeology and history, we head back down to the south bay promenade for a stroll and some food. Waffles, well you cannot possibly leave Bodrum without a visit to the Waffle King! So without hesitation, we were seated, order taken, delighted tastebuds and full tummies later, ready for an afternoon beer. We headed through the busy Bazar, gazing at the cake shops and kebab houses, jewellery stores and gift shops, while listening to the Turkish chatter and music. On the north side is another Belediyesi (council cay bar) with the most amazing view of the bay. This is our spot for a beer, lots of Turkish chattering alonside us, we strive to pick out words we are familliar with, in order to enjoy their conversations. It is really hard to eavesdrop when you only undertsand some of the language !! :( Feeling really snoozy, we wander back to the otogar to find our dolmus back to Torba, they are all colour co-ordinated for your ease.
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April 2019
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