Cruises from Kusadasi

Situated on the Aegean coast of Turkey is the resort town of Kusadasi. Unlike many ports, the Port of Kusadasi is in the city’s downtown. Heading away from the port tourists can walk to many parts of the city. The city has about 50,000 residents and is a good place to shop and visit some phenomenal archaeological sites.

Kusadasi began as a small fishing village many years ago and has grown into one of the key tourist destinations and cruise ship ports of call. This is a small resort with a beautiful bay, lovely beaches, great shopping and interesting sites to visit. Lovely palm trees line the boulevards adding pleasure to a walk in the heat of Kudadasi during the summer months. The winter months have pleasant temperatures. Some say the climate is very similar to the climate in San Diego, California.

The beach is within walking distance from the Port of Kusadasi, as are hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. The Kusadasi Bazaar is along the main street of downtown. Shops line both sides of the main street, as do some great little boutiques and mini-malls. You can find fabulous clothing, leather goods, jewellery, watches and more.

There are special shops for those seeking gold or emeralds. After investigating, the shops in this part of the city walk past the Kusadasi Bazaar until you come to some narrow pedestrian streets going off in different directions. Shops, boutiques, ceramics, electronics, Turkish crafts and collectibles are available along these streets. Bartering is the method for determining the price you pay. This is really the best shopping in Kusadasi.

If you have never bartered, stand back and observe how others, especially locals, barter for good prices. Then prepare yourself to barter for purchases. Set your highest price and do not exceed this amount. Walk away or begin bartering on a new item. It is a game and sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, but be sure your loss is the item not your money. Bartering can be great fun!

The most forceful salesmen are those selling carpets; they are all around you. Always shop with someone and keep your eyes open and your head up. Guard your money and personal papers with great diligence

Take the time to travel over to Ephesus to see the Temple of Artemus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. See the home of Mary, Mother of Jesus and John the Apostle plus over twenty additional sites. Visit the Great Theatre and the Library of Celsus. A short distance from Ephesus is the town of Selduk where you can find real, nice boutiques.

There are three hotels and a hostel in Kusadasi, the Royal Apart & Hotel is a four star, full service hotel near the beach, resort centre, shops, bars, and restaurants. US citizens must have a valid passport and a visa to enter Kusadasi. Visit a currency exchange to get Turkish lira before your trip begins and become very familiar with the lira to avoid being a victim of short-changing, while travelling in the Kusadasi area.