18th.
545am wake up for the ancient city of Ephesus!! So, so excited! We have an absolutely, amazeballs breakfast with Monica, and are pumped to start our day! Turkey realistically is pretty similar to Greece, slightly more middle eastern in design pro-haps, but as all the cities and country have been completely different in reality, I don't feel so confident making to comparison as I once was. We walk though the bazaar to our bus and meet our lovely tour guid, Isha (very likely spelt wrong). We have a 45min drive to the city and take in the beautiful Mediterranean coast line, which contrasts with the rocky, hilly landscape. Although its not even 9 we are already feeling the heat so getting started on our tour asap! The city was discover by uncovering a chimney in the side of a mountain, and it's wasn't until an archeologist team arrived, did they discover a whole civilization hiding under the mountain (kind of pompi style). Settled first by he Greeks then Romans for a time, it was a marvelous place and absolute wonder to talk though. Magnificent murals on the side walks, 3 story mansions, theaters, temples, it was an a thriving metropolis during its time, and evening boasted hosting Anthony and Cleopatra on their honeymoon. It used to be on the sea but it dried and moved out to its now current location, hence forcing the people to abandon it and become lost in the landscape throughout the ages. It was also famous for the gigantic temple of Artemis (Greek goddess of hunting and fertility) which was one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world. People would pilgrim from all over to see the hundred pillared temple. Reluctantly we leave, but it was a historical adventure that will stay with me for a long time. On the way we stop by an leather outlet store and have a bizarre fashion show an are served apple tea. But random but we went with it haha. We then make our way back to the port and have a quick poke about the bazaar shops and buy some Turkish delights:). We headed back on board for lunch, a little frolic in the pool, and a snooze. We have a quick dinner with a few others before getting ready for a wild toga party! Lets just say, that there were many confuse and judgmental looks from some of the older, more sophisticated passengers. Lots of fun though, I call it quits about 1, with Troy continuing on will about 330.