Kuşadası is a major holiday resort center that, during the summer months, teems with swimmers, fishermen, sunlovers and sightseers.

Once known as Scala Nova, the town boasts wonderful seafood restaurants, lively cafes, beautiful parks and superb beaches. The shopping is rich with everything from beads and bangles to leather, jewelry and carpets. The Kuşadası Setur Marina is one of the best­equipped marinas in Turkey, with wintering capabilities for boats both afloat and on shore. Scuba diving has become very popular. The night life is renowned along the coast thanks to numerous bars, jazz clubs, discos and cabarets that promise evenings filled with excitement and entertainment.

Not far from Kuşadası, the ancient site of Ephesus, an important city of antiquity, remains a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple was rebuilt several times and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The ancient theater there has found new life as a major concert venue. Nearby is the site of St. John's Basilica.

Between Kuşadası's southern, shores and Pamukkale lies the valley of the Menderes River (the Meander) where several ancient civilizations built major settlements, including Priene, Miletus, Didyma (Didim), Aphrodisias and Hierapolis (Pamukkale). The Temple to Apollo at Didim was one of the most sacred places of antiquity. Though many times looted and burned, the sanctuary still possesses elegant beauty. Not far from this archeological site, the beautiful beach of Altmkum tempts visitors with sailing, swimming and relaxation. lt is the last stop before entering the Güllük Gulf.

This gulf can provide a whole vacation in itself with four large natural bays and numerous coves and inlets. The whole area has excellent moorings, and scuba divers will be particularly interested in exploring these waters. The fisherman's town of Güllük has a pretty port and numerous guest­houses and hotels. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kıyıkışlacık (Lassos). As you sail out of this beautiful gulf, the Bodrum Peninsula comes into view.

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