Would like to know the following,1-Hotels in Bodrum 2-Anybody take a day tour from Bodrum to Ephesus. 3-Is there any boat service between Bodrum and Rhodes? Thanks Stan <BR>

Boat service goes from Rhodes to Marmaris (hydrofoil - takes about 1hr 1/2 - departure tax applies). Compared to the rest of Turkey, Bodrum was a downfall. Over-touristy, a lot of package tour young English on "piss trips". Prices quoted in British Pounds and US $$$ instead of Lira (and much more expensive). English football advertised in every pub. The beaches weren't that nice. Consider staying a bit further up the peninsula. I even preferred Marmaris to Bodrum - much more to do and friendlier more genuine people. <BR>Just my opinion of course though! <BR>

Stan, <BR> <BR>I agree with Jo. Bodrum was the only disappointment in Turkey. Just too touristy....

Perhaps the last few years have altered Bodrum significantly, or December is the time to travel in southern Turkey, but I was in Bodrum in December '96, and absolutely loved the town. I highly recommend the Hotel Myndos (it had only recently opened at that time). I didn't take any day trips from Bodrum though. We traveled from Antalya to Izmir and marveled at every stop in between.

In my estimate, the drive from Bodrum to Ephesus should take about 3 hours ... I would say that 6 hours driving is a bit too much for a day trip. If you want to visit all sites in Ephesus/Selcuk - the ancient site, the museum, Mary's house, St. John's cathedral and Isa Bey mosque (skipping the 7-sleepers' cave and the temple of Artemis) you should allow some 6 hours. <BR> <BR>We visited Bodrum out of Marmaris (2 1/2 hours one way) and though it's true that it's very touristy (mainly Brits, BTW as in Marmaris) we liked it very much (and regretted not staying there for the night). <BR> <BR>If I'm not wrong, to ferry directly to Bodrum you have first to reach Kos. The hydrofoils from Rhodes to Marmaris leave around 8am and take no more than 40 minutes. <BR> <BR>Paulo <BR>