Izmir at Sunset
Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean, may no longer be the beauty it once was, before old Smyrna was torched at the end of the Independence War, but the reputation remains. Just ask any Turk where the country’s most beautiful women are and the answer is Izmir. Whether because of the historical mixture of Jewish, Greek, Turkish, Arab and Italian genetics or the city’s seaside liberality that allows more exposed skin than most anywhere in the largely Islamic country, Izmir’s women constitute a disproportionate amount of Turkey’s models and actresses and inspire its designation as Turkey’s most “beautiful” city. If staying the night or taking a private Izmir City sightseeing tour, you’ll find many of the city’s famous beauty at these Izmir hotspots.
Konak Square
This large waterfront square is still Izmir’s favorite place to hobnob and people watch. Arrive at Konak Square on any sunny day and enjoy a sprawling carpet of lollygaggers, tea drinkers, food vendors, and cavorting youngsters. All activity revolves around the Izmir’s most iconic sight, an ornate Moorish style clock tower at the center of Konak Square. Installed in 1901 as a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdülhamid II’s rule, Saat Kulesi remains the city’s timekeeper.
Kordon
Stretching two miles along the waterfront to the Alsancak Ferry Terminal, Izmir’s longest promenade “Kordon,” is the premier place to take an evening stroll under the stars. Whether gazing wistfully out to sea, watching the sun set, inhaling the salty breezes, or dreaming of morning coffee on the balconies of the apartment buildings alongside, the crowds of couples pushing strollers, slick-suited businessmen, mustached fishermen, food hawkers, and gaggles of girls in short shorts and skirts keep the strip alive nearly 24 hours a day, especially when the nearby nightclubs and pubs open their doors.
Pasaport
Between Konak and Cumhuriyet squares, Pasaport pier remains one of Izmir’s most popular places to meet up with friends over tea, beer, or a smoke. Built in 1876, the mustard Selçuk-style building at the end once served as Izmir’s main entry point by sea. Today it hosts several old fashioned coffee houses, hookah huts, and pubs. The patrons’ second favorite activity is tossing pieces of simit bread to the flocks of well-trained seagulls flocking around the pier.
Kemeraltı
The jewelers, haberdashers, shoemakers, florists, tailors, and food vendors of Izmir’s old fashioned shopping district, Kemeraltı, attract all types to the curved, narrow cobblestone street and alleys, including soon-to-be brides and bridesmaids. Although it’s lost some pizzazz and popularity to the glimmering new shopping malls sprouting up elsewhere in the city, the area still bustles morning to night with shoppers looking for cheap and unique products with a traditional flair.
Öküz
Izmir’s reddest bull can be found at Öküz. Judging by the mascot’s devilish grin, randy eyes, and throbbing heart, he’s up to no good. Add in booze and live DJs, and the thick crowds of young Turkish men and women dressed the nines, and you’ve got one of Izmir’s best parties and sexiest scenes.
Photo by Valter Gouveia via Flickr