It’s true what they say about the country of Turkey: “Throw a stick and you’ll hit some ruins.”
Situated smack-dab between Europe and Asia, it was traveled through and occupied by most large European civilizations throughout ancient history. Romans, Greeks, Ottomans and several more empires all left their marks in the form of artistic stone ruins and massive archaeological footprints.
It’s a very fascinating history and culture to visit.
It was 2010 when my wife, her mother, a dear friend and I arrived in Istanbul, on the west side of Turkey. We rented a car and proceeded to travel south and east along the Mediterranean Sea and its scenic coastline. A good time was being had by all, soaking up the beauty and culture. Friendly people, small towns and villages, and always lots of history.
Someone along the way told us about a small town farther along the coast that went by the name of Side (pronounced See-Day). We arrived there days later, and it proved to be charming and welcoming. After settling into a small hotel close to the water, we set out for a walkabout to explore our new surroundings.