Bodrum,

What It Is Like to Retire in Bodrum

Bodrum, in southwest Turkey on the Aegean Sea, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is also a favorite spot for many Europeans to spend the winter.  It is a sophisticated town with a long history - it was settled by the Dorians in 1000 B.C. 

The city has  a very long cove that feaures sandy beaches, seaside restaurants and cafes, and shops of every description. Grape arbors provide shade along the narrow streets. Although thousands of tourists can throng the streets, there is a relaxed atmosphere. Broad, tree-lined streets along the avenues yield to white washed homes and villas sweeping up the hills overlooking the Aegean. These homes have breathtaking vistas of Bodrum Castle and visiting sailboats moored in the harbor.

Summer is the busy season. It is also very hot then. Winter temperatures average 19C and 66F. It rarely rains in Bodrum, even in winter. Although you will occasionally see women in headscarves, Bodrum appears to be a very liberal place> Tourists parade through town in microscopic bathing suits and  occasional topless sunbathers are not bothered.

Retirees will find no end of restaurants to sample.  There are holiday villages, time shares, apartments, and villas for purchase or rent in a range of prices. $100,000 (euros) will purchase a nice place to live.

Other Turkish beach towns that might make good retirement towns are: Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris(much bigger than Bodrum and popular tourist stop), Cesme, Didim, Alanya, and Izmir.

Where to Retire in Bodrum and Home Prices

What Is Special about Bodrum

Famous sites in Bodrum include Bodrum Castle, with itsunderwater museum.  The Mausoleum of Mausalus was a monumental tomb built for the Satrap who gave his name to fancy burial places. The Mausoleum was one of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World. The Knights of St. John (Crusaders) built the Castle of St. Peter (Bodrum Castle) here in 1522; it is still the most imposing edifice on the harbor. 

What Is Not Special about Bodrum

It is hot and crowded with tourists in summer.

Who Will Like Retirement in Bodrum

Europeans looking for a warm and lower cost wintering destination find Bodrum very appealing.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism

Climate and Physical Environment

Bodrum is on the southwest coast of Turkey on the Aegean Sea. Average winter temperature is in the 66 (F) and 19 (C). The area is exceptionally dry, even the winters have little rainfall.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The Underwater Museum of Archeology is an excellent museum. Bodrum has many restaurants and an active night life. Bodrum's ancient history with many conquerors and rulers makes for a fascinating place to live.

Crime

Medical facilities

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Transportation

There is a small airport. Ferry service to other parts of Turkey and Greece is available.