The area north of Izmir, is not well known to overseas traveler, mostly because of time limitations while touring
Turkey. On the other hand, European traveler knows the region quite well. Small cities and villages along the coast
are visited mostly by Scandinavian, English and German tourists as a regular vacation spot.
The most popular destination of the North Egean is Ayvalik. The area is famous for not only its sandy beaches at
Sarmisakli, but also the small island of Cunda (Alibey). The island was once popular for its fish restaurants,
but now that the island is connected to the land by a highway many buildings, vacation villages have been built.
Now for the best of the island, you should travel all the way down to where the old town is. These are old small
Greek houses with all their charm. Many of them are turned to become guest houses (pansiyons) serving both Turkish
and foreign travelers.
The region is famous for olive oil and soap. You may find some the best in the region. About one hour drive from
Ayvalik, stands
Pergamon
as one the best preserved ancient Greek cities, where parchment is invented. The site
also offers a great view to the valley below.
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Guide
