Homer's description of Bodrum as "The land of eternal blue" and the words of another resident of Bodrum, Cevat Şakir, who said "The heavenly bliss of life in Bodrum is better than any eternal bliss that may await us" were not without foundation in reality. Throughout history Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others.

Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbors, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbors.

Bodrum has all the facilities to meet the expectations of tourists from all income levels ranging from the rich yacht owners to the penny counting tourists who just want a reasonable room to make his vacation last all summer. Bodrum is also known internationally with its dazzling nightlife and huge discos.

History
Bodrum has been the cradle of several civilizations. Down through the ages it has suffered from the countless invasions of those coming from the Aegean islands and has been important to all those powers wishing to dominate the Aegean. Halicarnassos(Bodrum) was an important city in the Caria civilization, which was located between its much more powerful neighbors Lykia and Ionia. The region boasts such greats as the historian Heredotus, history's first woman admiral Artemisia I, and the just-as-skilled Artemisia II as well as artists like Leachares and Shepas.

Bodrum experienced the dominance of various civilizations throughout the history such as Persians, Mecedonians, Roman Empire and Byzantines. Byzantines lost their power in Anatolian region after they were defeated by the Seljuk Ruler Alpaslan at Malazgirt in 1071. Rhodian knights constructed the present Bodrum castle and established their rule over the region. Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent on his military expedition to Rhodes conquered Bodrum together with Rhodes and added them to the territory of Ottoman Empire.


Two-Day Tour to Bodrum: (Post tour on Sept. 11 – 12)

Day 1 :

Following the breakfast at your hotel in Kusadasi, depart for 2 days tour to Bodrum, the Holiday paradise on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. Following 3 hours drive upon arriving in Bodrum, first visit the Crusaders Castle.The initial small Bodrum town was located surrounding this castle. Drive to the famous small villages which are around the Bodrum Peninsula. The first stop will be at Turkbuku, famous for its fish restaurants and bars. Here a fish lunch menu will be served in one of the Sea side restaurants. Next stop will be at Gümüşlük where you can find the authentic Bodrum souveniers. Last stop before returning back to Bodrum will be at Turgutreis, Dogus marina, one of the best marinas on the Aegean Sea. Here you will be offered Turkish Coffee or Tea. Overnight and dinner will be at your Hotel located in Bodrum town, which will allow you to explore the night life of Bodrum on your own.

Day 2 :

One should not leave Bodrum without having a boat cruise around the peninsula on a handmade wooden Gullet type boat, typical of the region. So today, there will be 5 hours boat cruise, which will take you to the close-by islands and coves of Bodrum. Lunch will be prepared by boat crew. Those who wish to have a quick dip into the tourquise waters can do so. Return back to Kusadası by 19:00.

Price :	USD 264 per person in double USD 318 in single room
Tour Includes :	Qualified English speaking guide Transportation by deluxe air-conditioned buses Overnight accommodation on half-board basis in a 4-star hotel 2 lunches 1 dinners Boat cruise Admission fees