Çeşme: The Jewel of the Turkish Riviera

• HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [Hosh-cha kal]
• YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
• NoHayır
  [Ha-yur]
• Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
• Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Te-shek-kur ede-rim]
• Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zur di-le-rim]
• How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Na-sıl-sı-nız]
• Fine. And you?İyiyim. Ya siz?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Ya siz?]
• Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Ing-ili-zje ko-noo-shu-yor mu-sun-uz]
• I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [An-la-mı-yo-rum]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Me-nu-yu gur-mek is-tee-yo-rum, loot-fen]
• I don't eat meatBen et yemem
  [Ben et ye-mem]
• Cheers!Şerefe!
  [She-re-fe]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [O-de-mek is-tee-yo-rum, loot-fen]

• Help!Yardım!
  [Yar-dum]
• Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zak-laş]
• Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Po-lee-si a-ra-yın]
• Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [Dok-tor cha-ğır-ın]
• I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kay-bol-dum]
• I'm illHasta'yım
  [Has-ta-yım]

• I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [Sat-ın al-mak is-tee-yo-rum]
• I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sa-de-je ba-ku-yo-rum]
• How much is it?Kaç lira?
  [Kach lee-ra]
• That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [Bu chok pa-ha-lı]
• Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-yatı in-di-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]

• What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
• It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
• Half past (10)On buçuk
  [On boo-chuk]
• MorningSabah
  [Sa-bah]
• AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [O-le-den af-te-ru-na]
• EveningAkşam
  [Ak-sham]
• YesterdayDün
  [Dun]
• TodayBugün
  [Bu-goon]
• TomorrowYarın
  [Ya-rın]
• 1Bir
  [Beer]
• 2İki
  [Ee-ki]
• 3Üç
  [Oo-ch]
• 4Dört
  [Dort]
• 5Beş
  [Besh]
• 6Altı
  [Al-tı]
• 7Yedi
  [Ye-di]
• 8Sekiz
  [Se-keez]
• 9Dokuz
  [Do-kooz]
• 10On
  [On]

• Where's a/the...?... nerede?
  [... ne-re-de]
• What's the address?Adres nedir?
  [Ad-res ne-dir]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(Haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [(Ha-ri-ta-da) gos-te-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]
• When's the next (bus)?Sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Son-ra-ki (o-to-bus) ne za-man]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'a)
  [Beer bee-let (....'a)]

The history of Çeşme dates back to ancient times when it was part of the Ionian League, a confederation of Greek city-states. The ancient city of Erythrae, located near modern-day Çeşme, was one of the twelve Ionian cities. Erythrae was known for its significant contributions to Greek culture and its strategic location, which made it an important trade hub in the Aegean region.

Under Roman rule, Erythrae continued to flourish, becoming an important center for trade and culture. During the Byzantine period, the region saw the construction of fortifications and churches, reflecting its strategic importance and the spread of Christianity. The remnants of these structures can still be seen in and around Çeşme today.

In the 14th century, the Genoese, a powerful maritime republic from Italy, established a presence in Çeşme. They built the Çeşme Castle, a significant fortification that still stands today and serves as a museum. The Genoese influence is evident in the architecture and the layout of the old town, blending European and Anatolian styles.

Çeşme became part of the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century. During this period, it transformed into a bustling port town. The Ottomans expanded and reinforced the Çeşme Castle, and constructed numerous mosques, baths, and fountains, many of which are still in use. The Ottoman era also saw the development of the town’s famous thermal springs, attracting visitors from across the empire.

One of the most significant historical events in Çeşme's history is the naval Battle of Çeşme, which took place in 1770 during the Russo-Turkish War. The Russian fleet, commanded by Admiral Alexei Orlov, decisively defeated the Ottoman navy in the waters off Çeşme, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict. The battle had far-reaching consequences for the Ottoman Empire's naval power and its hold over the Aegean Sea.

In the 20th century, Çeşme evolved into a popular holiday destination, known for its stunning beaches, thermal springs, and vibrant cultural scene. The town has preserved its historical charm while also embracing modern tourism. Festivals, such as the Çeşme International Music Festival, celebrate both its rich heritage and contemporary culture, making it a vibrant and dynamic destination for travelers.

Çeşme is located on the western coast of Turkey, about 85 kilometers west of İzmir. The nearest major airport is Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) in İzmir. From the airport, you can take a direct shuttle service, rent a car, or use a combination of public transport options including the İzban train and bus services. The journey from İzmir to Çeşme typically takes around 1.5 hours by road.

Çeşme is a relatively small area, and many attractions are easily accessible on foot. For longer distances, local minibuses (dolmuş) and taxis are readily available. Car rentals are also a popular option for those who wish to explore the surrounding regions at their own pace. Bicycle rentals are another great way to explore the town and its scenic coastline.

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Çeşme, allowing easy access to cash if needed.

Çeşme is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions are advised. Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects to ambulance, fire, and police services. There are hospitals and clinics in Çeşme that provide medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations and eating on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Merhaba' (Hello). A handshake is customary, but always use your right hand. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Çeşme like a local, visit the local markets such as the Alaçatı Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Turkish goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss trying the local specialty, Kumru, a delicious sandwich that is a must-try. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to explore the beautiful bays and islands around Çeşme.