Kusadasi

Kusadasi, Turkey

            Kusadasi is a charming quaint port city and known best for its location in juxtaposition to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. With the exception of a small “Ocean Majesty” vessel, we were the only cruise ship in the harbor on this, we learn, the last day of the tourist season. This had its advantages and disadvantages the former outweighing the latter. Brian, Angela, Becky, and Justin – after some tough negotiation by Becky – board a taxi for a ride to Ephesus followed by a visit to a small nearby village. There the skill, talent, and explanation of how Turkish rugs are made are appreciated. Becky’s explanation of how silk worms from Mulberry trees are ultimately spun into weaving material is spellbinding, and then over a period of two years, a rug is produced. Brian purchases two of them to be shipped back to California. They love the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Angela the remnants of the Library (the best preserved ruin) and the mosaics; Justin the stadium (in which Saint Paul preached) which has a 24,000 capacity; and Brian the main road running through the city constructed of marble.

            I vicariously experienced Ephesus when Justin brings back to me a rather large perfectly shaped piece of marble that will make an excellent paperweight. Having been there three times previously, I know how the area is policed, and picking up marble is a strict no-no. Nevertheless, Becky must have told Justin that I treasure rocks that I have picked up from all over the world – sand from the base of the pyramids, a rock from the Arctic Circle, lava (which Justin also picked up for me) from Mt. Etna in Sicily, rocks from the Straight of Magellan going from the Atlantic side to the Pacific, and so on. However, the marble from Ephesus will hold a prestigious spot in my shrine that continues to grow on our mantel at home.

            Ray enjoyed walking about the harbor; the fishermen, the fort, and the marketplace hawkers were of special note. Monica loved the bazaars and watching the rug makers. Overall, strolling through the various shops and along water’s edge was extremely relaxing for the two of them. I believe Ray said it was perhaps his most enjoyable port-of-call so far.

            As for Debbie and me, we found our favorite little beach restaurant that butts up against the sea with a spectacular view of the very blue Mediterranean. Being the last day of the tourist season, it was pretty much closed, but a man was on duty to serve visitor’s soda or coffee. We ordered one of each and sat at a table as close to the sea as we could get. Memories of swimming in the sea here with my oldest and only grandson, Matt, were special. The only disappointment was finding the fort and its fortifications closed. In 2011 we were able to enter through a large medieval-like door and climb to a vantage point to survey the harbor and sea while standing beneath beautifully large shade trees. This time our wish was denied.

            Free WiFi at a Starbucks allowed us to send to and receive communications from home. It too was by the sea and we enjoyed watching hundreds of large fish in the clear blue water below our veranda. The “Very Berry Refresher” lived up to its reputation.

            After dinner we all tried our luck in the casino but alas, it has not proved too friendly to anyone but Justin. Thus it did not take long to take leave to the 14^th deck card room for a round or two of Hand & Boot. This particular night Debbie and I are the big winners and proud of it.

            This was a delightfully relaxing day.