Turkey
Want a quick snapshot of Turkey...don't want to travel all the way out to Ankara or Pamukkale (a LONG way from Istanbul)? Then grab a short lift on a jet (40 mins by Atlas jet) from Istanbul to Izmir on the Aegean coast. A fascinating city in its own right, Izmir is a good spot to start a trip back to Istanbul visiting Ephesus (a must), Pergamon and the place of the wooden horse, Troy. A stay at Canakkale is a good stepping stone to visiting Gallipoli (Gelibolu) and Anzac Cove - again a must for us Aussies. Using a Turkish speaking (or local) guide and driver is also recommended.
Izmir
South east Turkey
www.allaboutturkey.com/izmir.htm
The archaelogical ruins at Ephesus are simply amazing. Frequently on visiting ancient ruins, all you can see is a small bit of rubble.
However, Ephesus has many buildings including Celsus Library, Roman latrines and an ampitheatre among many other ruins.
There is a very special atmosphere there and on one section of the road, you can see the ancient worn-in tracks of Roman chariot wheels. A carved effigy of Nike the ancient goddess can also be viewed there. The city is inland and it gets incredibly hot there, so bring plenty of sun lotion and water and remember to wear your hat.
Any resorts like Gumbet, Bodrum etc run trips there.
Search Been there