Is Ephesus/Kusadasi safe for tourists?

Question

I am traveling to Turkey; given the current political climate is this safe for tourists? I have read of a group planting bombs in tourist destinations.

Answer 1

I lived, worked, and travelled in Turkey for +2 years. I felt safer there than most other places I have travelled (Greece, Bulgaria, USA). I felt safe because I made an effort to learn the language and culture as quickly as I could. Plus, while I was living in Istanbul, my neighbours would always watch out for me, and the other teachers I lived with.

I have also been to Efes (Epheseus)and all along the Aegean and Med. sea. I travelled alone and had no problems I couldn't handle. I found the most touts to be at Selcuk, near Epheseus, and they kept trying to steer me into their stores, hotels, etc. I was firm. As it happened, one or two touts were really too much, and wouldn't leave me alone. Other Turks intervened and sent them on their way, apologizing to me profusely, offering me tea, etc.

The Turks I encountered in Istanbul, and all thoughout my travels in Turkey were, by and large, the most benevolent, friendly, warm people who'd give you the shirt off their backs. I was invited to attend their weddings, to their homes for dinner, to be shown around sites free of charge, etc.

You are going to have an exceptional time in Epheseus - it is spectacular and this is the perfect time of the year to be there. Well, second perfect. I walked from the town of Selcuk to the Epheseus site in mid-August, through peach orchards that were bursting to the seam with peaches the size of softballs. The sky was so blue, the temperature perfect. I am jealous - you are going to have a great time.

Don't forget to check out Mary's home while you are there - it's adjacent to the Epheseus site. It is so peaceful.

As for the comment by 'Dumb American', ignore it. Anyone who thinks that Osama bin Laden is from Turkey obviously isn't playing with a full deck. Turks are Muslim, but they are secular, and dually proud of being secular, and of being Muslim.

Don't worry about bombs. It's unfortunate that these incidents scare off tourists. Well, now that I think about it, I'm fine with there being fewer tourists in Turkey. More space for me. On the other hand, I support the Turks trying to make a living in the tourist trade - don't let this stop you from enjoying a truly unique travel experience.

Answer 2

nice to hear almost everybody talking positively about Turkey. I myself being a Turk can announce you that it's quite safe here, since i have been to the given places (Kusadasi and Ephesus) both of which are at Selcuk a province of the city of Izmir where i live (Western Turkey), lately. There were many tourist groups wandering happily all around, since the season is very appropriate for touristic trips. Bombing cases can happen anywhere around the world (we've witnessed them altogether). Tourists are never the target of any kind of violation by any means in Turkey. That's a wrong information. As it has been stressed it's the worlwide terror aiming no special center but all humanity with no realistic reasons. God save us from them, but i can frankly tell u once again that it's all so safe and sound here..Have a lovely travel to remember throughout all your life.

Answer 3

I went to Kusidasi last year and it is worth it to go to Ephesus and some of the other historical sites. About a week after I left there was a bombing of a bus in Kusidasi and then another one shortly after that. That is strange because both tourists and locals take the buses. To be honest it is no more dangerous then going to London in that respect. I think it is worth it to see. You can always stay in Selcuk instead, which is closer to Ephesus.

Answer 4

It's perfectly safe in Kusadasi. I just came back from Turkey a week ago. Ephesus is a very nice place. Worth visiting.

Answer 5

Hello,
I'm Ali Can from Izmir Turkey. The bombings were for provocation. There are no more in touristic areas. Kuşadası is a touristic place near Izmir. I would well advise to all of you http://www.izmirturizm.gov.tr/default.asp?L=EN as a source to know more about izmir. British Airways has direct flights from London to Izmir. For Kuşadası well go to: http://www.aboutkusadasi.com/ it will provide you enough information. But you must also see istanbul the capital city of Istanbul which has wonderful landmarks such as Haghia Sophia, Topkapi and Blue Mosque. Please do not listen extremist sentences about Turkey, come and see. When you return home write to Yahoo questions: "Why people have prejudices?"
Do not forget to see Tourism Ministry's website: http://www.kultur.gov.tr/EN/Default.aspx?17A16AE30572D313D4AF1EF75F7A79681D9DD78D03148A6E
Have a nice flight

Answer 6

The U.S. State Department has put out a travel announcement for Americans planning to travel to Turkey. There is no particular information about Ephesus/Kusadasi--the announcement pertains to the whole country. Here is the link:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_2861.html

Answer 7

The person with the nick DUMB AMERICAN is just that. I am Italian been to Turkey many times, guarantee you that it is safer than New York. I have lived in both countries. You have no worries. Very nice people and an amazing place to see.

Answer 8

Egypt safer than many other countries in the world. Cairo is the city that never sleeps, that means you can walk very late at night. I work in tourism and I have many friends from other countries who use to come to Egypt many times every year. Beside the usual attractions of tourists, my friends enjoy the weather, the friendly kind people and the feeling of safety. Good luck in your trip and welcome in Egypt

Answer 9

of course it is very safe police forces are reaaly strong in turkey and you can have a great holiday there

Answer 10

is this a joke??? go to google sattilite maps and check how beatuful is turkekiye why wouldnt it be safe its like safer than france