A Taste of Ottoman Heritage in Beymelek

As the train gently rolled into the quaint village of Beymelek, I felt a familiar sense of nostalgia wash over me. The village, with its 200-year-old Ottoman buildings, seemed to whisper stories of a bygone era. Our journey began with a delightful brunch stop, where the air was filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and local delicacies. The villagers, with their warm smiles, welcomed us into their world, offering a taste of organic specialties grown in their greenhouses.

The leisurely pace of the morning allowed me to soak in the beauty of the stone houses, lovingly restored to their former glory. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, much like the slow train journeys I often write about. As I sipped on a cup of aromatic Turkish tea, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to the past, a time when life was unhurried and full of wonder.

Sailing to the Sunken City of Kekova

With the sun casting a golden glow over the horizon, we set sail to the enchanting island of Kekova. The gentle lapping of the waves against the boat was a soothing melody, reminiscent of the rhythmic clatter of train wheels on tracks. As we glided over the crystal-clear waters, the submerged ruins of the ancient town of Simena came into view, a testament to the passage of time and nature’s enduring beauty.

The allure of the sea was irresistible, and I found myself diving into the inviting waters, feeling the cool embrace of the Mediterranean. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of the joys of exploration and discovery. As we continued our journey, the sunken walls and steps beneath the water seemed to tell tales of a vibrant past, much like the stories etched in the landscapes I traverse by rail.

Discovering the Legacy of St. Nicholas in Myra

Our final destination was the ancient city of Myra, where history and legend intertwine. The Church of St. Nicholas, with its bare Byzantine architecture, stood as a silent guardian of the past. As I wandered through its hallowed halls, I imagined the life of the man who inspired the legend of Santa Claus, a figure who has brought joy to countless generations.

The Lycian rock-cut tombs, carved high into the cliff face, were a marvel to behold. Each intricate detail told a story of a civilization long gone, yet still alive in the echoes of the amphitheater. As I stood amidst the ruins, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past, a reminder of the timeless beauty of history and the stories it holds.

This journey from Kemer to Kekova, Myra, and St. Nicholas’ Church was a tapestry of experiences, woven together by the threads of history, nature, and human connection. It was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where every moment is savored, and every story is cherished. Much like my beloved train journeys, this adventure was a celebration of the past, a journey through time that left me with memories to treasure.