Bodrum Estate Agents: Living in Bodrum

The Bodrum Peninsula is situated on the South-West coast of Turkey and is speckled with a wide variety of villages and quiet bays, ranging from the sleepy fishing village charm of Gumusluk to the commercial excitement of Gumbet.

The busy town of Bodrum offers much to do and see but for those interested in relaxing in more subdued environment there are over a 150 tranquil bays nearby.

The coastline, famed for its crystal clear waters, is 174 km long and surrounded by many big and small islands. Swimmers and snorkellers will enjoy the deep blue waters crowded with living sponges, star fish and tropical colored fish.

Bodrum, known in antiquity as Halicarnassus, is now a lively holiday resort. Nature and history embrace each other on the peninsula. Bodrum's castle (built by the Knights of St. John in the early 15th Century), site of the Mausoleum (one of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World), Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Amphitheater (The Mausolus started and finally finished by the Romans), and shopping centers and beaches.

The big hearted sponge divers, captains who are in love with sea, the fishermen, the white washed houses, the purple flowering bougainvillaea that climb the walls, the clean coves and most of all the long entertaining nights that stretch to dawn in the city.

Bodrum's fame, especially within Turkey is often associated with its nights, as every night during the season is an ecstatic fiesta. Many people enjoy the daytime pleasures of sun-kissed beaches and carefree exploration and come back; but many come back, again and again, for Bodrum by night.

Bodrum is well-known for its clubs and discos which present exotic floor-shows with noted artists and latest hits. Dancing in Bodrum is not confined to their premises, frequently spilling into the streets.

The world-famous open air Halicarnassus Disco in the bay of Bodrum is the biggest and best in Europe with its laser shows, light and sound systems, and floor-shows. Also concerts in the historic Castle or the Amphitheatre or let music be from boats in bays under the stars make many Bodrum residents remember 'the good old days' with nostalgia. Those who long for the nocturnal scenes however can still find them in the vicinity of Bodrum's villages and towns.

The main reason Bodrum peninsula is so attractive to domestic and international travellers is the feeling of freedom one experiences. The source of this feeling is due to the attitude of the local inhabitants. They are extremely tolerant and never interfere in the activities of others.

No guide on Bodrum would be complete without a write-up on Bodrum and its surrounding resort towns. The Bodrum Peninsula in the North, South and West are carved by dozens of coves, inlets of various sizes and dotted with various different resort towns.

The road to Bodrum from Bodrum International Airport (located 40 km from the city) is in excellent condition and International flights are available throughout the year. There are charter flights starting March through October from most major European cities at very reasonable prices.

Weather

Bodrum is on the Southeast Aegean coast of Turkey and benefits from exceptional weather conditions; clear, blue sky, warm sun, a climate without humidity and a cooling breeze called the Meltemi. This is a constant, refreshing breeze from May until October. The water is crystal clear and very warm too.

All this means that Bodrum has a very long Summer season. More than six months of glorious sunshine with very low humidity and virtually rain-free. Year round temperatures are very mild.

Although known primarily as a summer holiday destination, Bodrum can be very enticing in other seasons. Many who visit Bodrum in the Spring or Autumn welcome the opportunity to more intimately enjoy Bodrum's many attractions without facing the inevitable crowds and lines at some tourist sites.

Bodrum does not close down in September. The town continues an active yet much less frenetic life and temperatures are still pleasant.

Spring and Autumn are especially wonderful seasons in Bodrum and along the Southeast Aegean coast. The Turkish words for Spring and Autumn are 'Ilkbahar' - the first spring and 'Sonbahar' - the last spring. Imagine, two Spring seasons.

In Spring the scent of early blossoms fills the air, the hills and valleys are green with vegetation. The temperate, sunny days are ideal for hiking and crowd-free sightseeing.

During Autumn the sea is still warm for swimming and it's a pleasure to visit historical and natural sites in the cooler weather.