To Ayvalık and Beyond!

For starters, let me explain that I chose this title because after the first my first trip around Turkey, I can only what this country has in store for me in terms of the limitless possibilities for adventure. With that said, this post should surely please those readers who have been less that pleased with the number of pictures I have posted thus far.

So, Ayvalık. It’s about a two to two-and-a-half hour drive from Balıkesir to this pretty North Aegean town, and man, was it worth the trip. The town and surrounding area was once predominantly Greek, which explains a large number of leftover Greek Orthodox churches. On this trip, we mainly stuck to the touristy beach route, since Russell and I were only there for the day. Let me stress, though: I WILL be back to Ayvalık. I don’t think I’ve had such a relaxing two hours at the beach in who knows how long. 

Now, without further ado, I present to you in all its beachy, beautiful glory… Ayvalık!

FIRST GLIMPSE OF THE AEGEAN! 

One of those houses in the distance will be mine someday.

Some cute little lunch place.

More beachfront property that I will someday own.

Fishermen off Sarımsaklı Beach.

Sarımsaklı Beach

This was some sort of booze/cruise party boat. How do we
feel about an end-of-the-year celebration, Fulbrighters?

YOU GUYS. MY FEET ARE IN THE AEGEAN SEA.
LOOK AT THEM. THEY'RE IN THE AEGEAN SEA.

And because I didn't come prepared, I had to buy a Strawberry
Shortcake towel for 15 TL. Beaching it like it's 1993.

Turk Dondurma! Finally, the stretchy frozen treat
and I became acquaintances .

Red snapper for dinner? Oh yes.

I love Turkey.