Izmir, Turkey

We spent a wonderful day in Izmir with friends. Many thanks to Erin and Mui, who picked us up from the cruise terminal and were the best local tour guides we could ask for.

We began with a pleasant walk along the seaside promenade before visiting the Atatürk Museum. The city of Izmir has a deep connection to Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey. This is where he launched the War of Independence after World War I, and it is also where he met his wife, who was born and raised in Izmir.

After the museum, we settled into a café for a proper Turkish breakfast. Everything was delicious, plentiful, and beautifully presented.

We continued on to Konak Square to see the famous İzmir Clock Tower, the city’s most iconic landmark. Nearby, we also visited the small 18th-century mosque that sits on the edge of the square.

From there, we took the light rail to a park. The weather was gorgeous, and we all agreed that a sunny park stroll beat another museum visit. We did, however, pop into a small contemporary museum located within the park for a quick look around.

All too soon, it was time to return to the ship. We said our goodbyes—for now—until our paths cross again somewhere in the world.Lue lisää