Colors of Bodrum - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The city on the coast of the Aegean Sea seems to attract tourists with everything: open and friendly locals, many interesting festivals, and, of course, many opportunities for cultural and active recreation. In general, the local people are famous for their openness, friendliness and politeness. The city is a favorite holiday destination of the French, Italians, Belgians and the Netherlands - all those who are used to being surrounded by good-natured and open people.

By the way, Herodotus, the "father of history" was born here (formerly the city was called Halicarnassus). No guide will fail to mention it during the tour, as local residents are very proud of this fact. Speaking of their mindset, it is worth noting that it's quite difficult to offend them. However, they will be surely offended by the rejection of the invitation for dinner from a person they like. Therefore, you should not do this, especially if you want to get acquainted with the multifaceted local culture, know local people or maybe even find friends among them. It has to be said that they know how to be good friends - always ready to held and stand up for their loved ones.

However, it should be taken into account that it is one of the most expensive cities in Turkey, so those who came here for the sake of shopping may fail to fulfill their main mission. Also, there are a lot of other interesting activities - for example, attending festivals. One of the most popular events taking place in the city is the International Ballet Festival. The festival lasts 3 weeks, starting in mid-July and ending in early August. Visiting the festival is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a wonderful kind of art, as well as to admire ballet dance troupes coming from all over the world. The venue for the event is an amphitheater in St. Peter's Castle. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Visiting Bodrum in early September, you can witness such a musical event as Sunsplash. The international event is fully dedicated to dance and club music. Despite the fact that the open-air festival is held on Zuma Beach, it is not a large-scale event, and therefore, it's better to think about tickets in advance, if there is a desire to attend Sunsplash. Be sure to take care of this, as Sunsplash is considered the most stylish festival in Turkey. Among its headliners are DJs who have already made a name for themselves on the world stage, and among visitors are people from all over the world.

In early September, in Bodrum you can hear jazz riffs - it's time for the International Jazz Music Festival. The venue is a fortress bearing the name of the city, as well as shopping malls. Moreover, jazz musicians delight visitors just in the sea, playing their favorite music on boats. The next important local event is the International Baroque Music Festival, which traditionally takes place in the Antique Theater. In addition to the music program, the audience will enjoy fantastic scenery, colorful installations, costumed performances and interesting special effects bringing nothing but vivid impressions.

At the end of May, the International Dance Festival awaits visitors. The event is considered one of the best in the whole of Eurasia. The amphitheater of St. Peter's Castle serves as a venue that is regularly visited by hundreds of dance groups from all over the world. Special emphasis is placed on folk arts and crafts, and therefore it's a great chance to get acquainted with the dance culture of Bodrum and all of Turkey. The age of the participants is unlimited - here you can see both children and adults. In addition, while walking along the streets, you can stumble on dance teams. The fact is that they participate in marches and parades, and, of course, all this is available for free.

The end of July is marked by the Gümüşlük International Classical Music Festival. It is held in the ancient city of Mindos located near Bodrum. The musical program includes not only concerts for visitors, but also piano competitions, as well as master classes from the best maestros. In addition to traditional classical works, here you can listen to jazz, which is also a kind of classic. The main highlight of the festival is extraordinarily beautiful views of the wonderful city. The program is presented in the form of three performances - "guitar on the sand", "jazz on the water" and "classics on the stone".

In mid-June, visitors to Bodrum will enjoy a colorful show widely appreciated by yachting enthusiasts. We are talking about Eurasia Yacht Show. You can see both "old" beauties that have already proved themselves more than once and new ones, premium-class yachts ready for launching. Besides watching the spectacular yacht show, visitors will be able to buy boats they like for their own use. Luxury yachts are in great demand. A really unique program is prepared for the audience, many representatives of neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, United Arab Emirates are eager to attend the event.

Arriving in the city lying on the Aegean Sea coast in late October, you get a unique opportunity to visit Filmekimi Film Festival presenting works awarded in major festivals around the world, and, of course, premiere screenings. All movie fans and those wishing to enjoy quality cinema (and numerous awards is a reflection of the fact that the movies are really worthwhile) are invited to the event. The event is not always held in Bodrum, so before the trip, it is worth to clarify whether the festival is taking place in the city this time.