Cruise - Day 2 - Kusadasi, Turkey (Asia)

This morning started with a nice breakfast and a view in the distance of a group of dolphins. I had a 90 minite spa appointment that included a hot stone massage, Indian head massage, foot and ankle massage and a facial. Ogan, from Bahrain, got a little carried away with the knots in my back but otherwise was very relaxing.

Everyone in our group went on an excursion today to tour Ephesus. Our first stop was high on a hilltop to visit the house of the Virgin Mary. This is where John the Baptist took Mary for safety to live out her life after the crucifixion. Anne Catherine Emmerich, a Nun, is credited with helping to locate the home through her visions. The site has been visited by at least 3 popes who brought a rosary that is now hanging inside the home. There is water that runs from a spring that many believe has healing powers. There was an opportunity to light a candle here which Mike and I both did.

The next stop was to visit the ruins of ancient Ephesus. We started at the top.of the city and hiked 2 miles down the hill through the remains of the town. It's amazing how well preserved some of the ruins are. Many have been lost due to earthquakes. Our guide explained how the Ephesians lived and what each area represented. The bathrooms were interesting....way too close to each other....this was the spot of much gossip as people did their "business". The library was very well preserved. It was very hot as the majority of the walk was in the sun.

At the end of the walk was a shopping area with very pushy sale people. Pam and I enjoyed a cold, fresh pressed orange juice. Mom and Dad were waiting for us there.

The next stop was a rug factory. They were absolutely beautiful! The demonstrations were very interesting. Afterwards they had snacks and drinks for us. A 10x12 rug was $6,500 all shipping included. If you were in the market for a rug it would pay your way here easily to buy a rug and turn it into a vacation versus buying at home.

Back aboard the Journey we took quick showers and had dinner before enjoying tonight's show which was an acrobatic show to music.Read more