How I’m Saving My Summer
Like Most, I usually spend my summer months traveling. Living in Turkey, this summer I was looking forward to spending it traveling all over Europe. I had my bucket list that included Malta, Italy and Budapest. So when Covid hit, I was really bummed out that I would not be able to do so. Being in the military, I’m fortunate to be able to take advantage of the local tours that are offered. I’m speaking of beautiful places that you would never imagined yourself visiting and very budget friendly.
I kicked off the first trip in Foca Turkey. It’s a town and district in Turkey’s Izmir Province on the Aegean coast. The town is located about 43 miles northwest of Izmir’s city district. The day started with a 9 am meet up and after ensuring everyone was there that had signed .up we took a short 1.5 hour ride. Because I’m active duty, the transportation, tour leader and lunch was only $14.00. Who can beat that?
Upon arrival, we had 30 minutes to walk around the quaint town before setting sail. Did I mention this was an all-day boat trip? What a way to kick off my summer.
My next destination was a getaway to Pamukkale. This trip was all about relaxing for me. After a stressful work week, I was looking forward to this short getaway. Although I had visited the area before, it was during the much cooler months. We know that I’m usually not one for going to the same place twice (except for Cancun!). I used this oppopportunity to relax poolside at our hotel.
On Sunday you had the option of going on a tour to Hierapolis or going to the lake. As I mentioned, I did the tour before so about five of us headed to the lake. They joke that it takes 1.5 hours to get anywhere in Turkey. I’m starting to believe it. It was roughly 1.5 hours from our hotel. We arrived prior to any crowds and the view was just breathtaking.
Lake Salda is considered the Maldives of Turkey and I can absolutely see why. Although it’s a lake, it’s nothing like the Ohio lakes I grew up around. The water was so fresh and pure which is also believed to offer remedies dermatological diseases. I absolutely could have spent the entire day here but sadly we had to meet back up with our group and head home.
The next weekend adventure had me off to Dalyan, Turkey. This trip offered both adventure and relaxation. We arrived to Dalyan Resort Hotel late Friday night and started the next day with a rafting trip. An entire day spent on the river. Exciting to say the least, you can read how I got out of my comfort zone in my latest lifestyle post. Once we arrived back to the resort it was time for dinner before we headed out to explore the night life. We settled on a cute outside bar that offered great music. It was here that I discovered my new summer drink of choice. A refreshing gin and tonic.
Our last day was spent on a boat trip. It started off with us heading to Iztuzu Beach. This beach is known as a natural nesting ground for carretta carretta (loggerhead turtles).
Although I only saw one once we were headed back on the boat. Our guide was so nice. He allowed us to play our music as we took in the sites along the river. One of the most famous feature Dalyan offers along the river is the mighty Kings’ Tombs of Ancient Kaunos. The last stop was by far my favorite. Hidden alongside the river was the Sultaniye hot springs and mud baths. The Egyptian Queen Cleopatra owed her beauty to the baths. If it’s good enough for a queen then surely I can benefit!
My last trip of a month’s excursion was to the Aegean region of Turkey in Bodrum. Titled the “Saint Tropez of Turkey” by NY Times magazine. The region is the country’s most fertile area of growing fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons and grapes.
We stayed at the Salmakis Hotel Bodrum with all-inclusive accommodations. The grounds were breathtaking. Very reminiscent of a Greece location with the all-white buildings and blue steps. I was surprised to see how many tourist were staying at the hotel. This by far has been the most people I have seen on my trips and it wasn’t even crowded. At no time was there ever a fight for a lounge chair at either the beach or pool.
We danced the nights away with a live band that played both Turkish and American music. It didn’t matter, it was an opportunity for all cultures to embrace each other and have a awesome time.
How has Corona affected your summer plans?
