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Arrived early in Turkey and I have yo say it really wasn't what I expected. Turkey is a beautiful place and rich in biblical history. Today we have a tour booked that took us to the final home of The Virgin Mary. The drive there was beautiful with rolling hills and long winding roads on the side of mountains. Beautiful green sections go olive, fig, and other various fruit trees. Out tour guide was very informative as he described the countryside and views of the city with the rich blue ocean in the distance. We arrive at the historical site of Mary's last known home. It is a religious place where the pope comes and conducts small intimate mass for the lucky locals. The house a shrine to Her and outside you can light a memorial candle if you wish. As you leave the shrine yuk the right are taps in the stone where you can gather Holy Water and bring it home. I have to say I was a bit scared to tough the water. Was afraid i might combust having something so a holy touch me. We wander back to the bus through beautiful pathways lined by huge olive trees. All the trees were full of olives as it is close to harvest season. But we were told not to eat them from the trees. They are very bitter and the taste stays in your mouth for days. Pretty sure I know how to kill that but since I don't like olives I took his advise. Out next stop on the journey was yo the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This is a city that was built thousands of years ago by a greek leader. It was built next to the sea so the people could capitalize on the shipping trading business. Not is approximately 6km from the sea. The settlement was eventually destroyed by an earthquake and buried under land slides from the mountains. It is only about 25% excavated but even so it takes 2 hours to see what is there. They have recovered the ancient library, the ancient theatre, many statues, houses, and even a brothel. Imagine all these ruins built and sculpted or carved of white marble. It was like walking back into time. The streets here were also on cobble stones and marble. The public toilet for the people were seats carved into marble. In the winter the slaves were sent in to warm up the seat for their masters. Talk about a crappy job lol. Once we finished the ruins we were on our way to the carpet factory. Now u need to know this up front. Mark and I decided long ago we will not buy a carpet. We had lunch at this place that was authentic Turkish food. I was a little hesitant but I must say it was amazing!! Various grilled veggies, chicken screwers, meat balls and rice. Delicious!!!!! They then take us in to see how silk is made and how the carpets are made. Quite amazing how the get the silk strands of the cocoon. No easy feat I have to say. You will have to wait for the pics in FB. After the demonstrations of how the rugs are hand woven comes the big show of all the beautiful carpets comes the pitch. Now in my mind I'm thinking no, we can't afford one. Not one, we'll maybe a small one. Imagine my surprise when Mark starts bartering with the guy!! Let's just say, it arrives in 6 weeks lol. After everyone escaped from the sales pitch we were back on the bus to the ship the ship but Mark and I continued exploring the city a bit at the local market. Turkey is a beautiful country to visit. Once on board we styled in for our journey to the next Greek port. Santorini. The one place I couldn't wait to get to!!!!
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Deb Can't wait to see the carpet!!!!