bodrum
DESCRIPTION
Bodrum is a magnifi cent place as it has an amusing contrast between its ancient past where fragments of the old city can be found everywhere. It’s a playground home and a holiday resort for the rich people of the country and foreign visitors. Bodrum is considered the centre of the Turkish Tourist Industry and also a market for numerous nearby villages and towns for organic and natural food such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Bodrum was a fishing town until the 1960’s, though, the story changed when Turkish intellectuals such as Cevat Sakir (an Oxford Educated writer) started to write about Bodrum. His book called “Blue Voyage” describes the gullet trips around the Turkish coast and the clear blue seas the Aegean holds. Lots of people were inspired by his works and embarked on the same journey he once took which made Bodrum the centre of tourism.
Bodrum is also known to be a sailing destination and thanks to its warm but humid free weather, it’s a top destination for visitors who would like to enjoy the ancient past and modern attractions.
HISTORY
According to Herodotos, the city was forged by the Dorians. The Megarans enhanced the city in B.C. 650 and changed its name to Halikarnassus, the Persians started to rule from B.C. 386 Halikarnassus was going through its golden age under the rule of Karia civillisation in B.C. 353. It held one of the seven wonders of the ancient period, the Mausoleum, was built by Artemisia in memory of King Mausolos. After the Roman and Byzantium rule, the Ottomans took control of the city in 1522 during the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent. The city was declared ‘Bodrum” after the birth of the Turkish Republic.
WEATHER
During winter and spring, the weather in Bodrum is generally very good with a few showering periods which usually takes place during November, January and April. February is a pleasant time to travel to Bodrum, as the nights are not too cold and the almonds start to blossom. There is always an abundance of wild ruccola all over the place. If you’re there during summer, expect the weather to hit 40°C.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Holders of UK, EU and US passports require visas. Visa’s must be obtained in advance, passengers need to obtain an e-visa prior to their arrival. This can be done online at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ for approximately US$20. The visa is valid for a stay of up to three months (dependent on passport holder’s nationality). For a longer stay a visa from a Turkish Embassy is required.
No vaccination required
HOT TIPS
Exploring the neighbourhoods in Bodrum is an attraction on its own. Ancient fragments, shops, bars, restaurants and many more stuff can be seen. Walk down any of its back-streets and explore tradition and vibrancy.
Have you ever tried salty cheese and olives, flavoured tomatoes, and Turkish bread? Head down to a local restaurant and try a full Turkish breakfast. Homemade jam and Turkish tea goes well with together, we assure you.
Each town and village has a Each town has farmers market in Turkey. You can feast on organic vegetables and fruits. Textiles, house wares, souvenir, you can can find anything.
Depending on the time you go, Bodrum can get very hot and cold in the night. If your'e going during Summer, it's best to take with you a couple thick layers especially if you're going to take part in activities. Turkey is a Muslim and Secular country, this means you can wear whatever you want, the only exception is when you enter a Mosque, you will be required to wear long trousers and woman must cover their hair.