Bodrum, Turkey

Spread out between two crescent bays, Bodrum exudes an "artsy" ambiance. With its gleaming white houses and colorful flower gardens it is one of the prettiest resorts on the South Aegean coast. Recently, it has become very popular with the jet set crowd, while at the same time maintaining an intimate air; there are strict zoning laws preventing over development. Bodrum's main draws are pristine beaches, a busy yachting center and historic sites - a great combination to attract those sailing the Aegean Sea.

Bodrum was known in antiquity as the site of Halicarnassus, a city whose origin dates back as far as 1000 BC. It was known for its splendid mausoleum, an enormous white marble tomb that King Mausolus had planned for himself. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although the structure was obliterated by the ravages of time, archaeologists have arranged models and drawings at the site to provide an idea of what the mausoleum looked like. Bodrum was also the birthplace of Herodotus, who wrote the first comprehensive world history.

Today's major cultural attraction is the massive Castle of St. Peter. In particular, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed in the castle complex, should not be missed.

Please Note: For your convenience, shore excursions offered for this port of call are available to reserve in advance at www.silversea.com until (DATE), as well as offered for purchase on board, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Going Ashore in Bodrum

Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off Bodrum. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship's tenders. The pier is within a short walking distance to the Castle of St. Peter and the town. Taxis can be found at the end of the pier for trips farther afield.

Shopping Bodrum is easy to get around on foot. From the center square, small streets fan out, lined with shops selling arts and crafts, leather articles, jewelry and carpets. Artists display their works along the harbor front. There is also a market offering a variety of clothing and goods in addition to local produce. Most shops are open throughout the day and until late in the evening. The local currency is the lira.

Cuisine Bodrum has no lack of places to eat, but in general is not famous for its food. Your best bet is to sit in one of the sidewalk cafés and have a light meal, drinks or coffee while people-watching. Typical local appetizers consist of a selection of mezes; the main course may include grilled meat or fish. Turkish wines will round out your meal nicely.

Other Sights The Theater Cut into the rock of the hillside behind the town, the theater's location provides a splendid view of the town and the castle.

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus

Once among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, all that is left today are a jumble of masonry and tumbled columns. The site includes an exhibition gallery, which features bits of sculpted marble, models of Halicarnassus and the Mausoleum in addition to various diagrams and plans. Its location is a short way inland from the shore of the western bay.

Private arrangements for independent sightseeing and trips farther afield may be requested through the Tour Office on board.

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