Jake's Bodrum

For a dog used to open pastures, forest paths and the occasional romp over an archaeological site,  a winter spent in central Bodrum might have been a bit of a let down but both dog and owner have had a great time.

Jake soon remembered which streets have drinking fountains, unfortunately a few Bodrum individuals do not have such good memories and two drinking bowls are now no more - destroyed by lackadaisical drivers parking on the pavements.

Early morning starts gave us the harbour front to ourselves except for those keeping fit on the Municipality provided machines.

It's not every town that harbours a film star.  Walking by, we can only imagine how exciting it must have been for the crew of Regina as they carried  James Bond to a deserted island in Skyfall.

Not all boats have such exciting lives, but watching this one being built in a garden was an education.

We didn't have to abandon the archaeology completely. Our daily walk starts on "Temple of Mars" Street so its not surprising that there is still plenty of history to be found underfoot.

Trial trenches in a bus car park have provided plenty of interest. There is nothing I like more than looking down newly dug holes.

Jake has made friends along the way. 

Tintin was a nameless, shaggy, matted stray when we first met her, darting from a side street to the main road and back, risking life and limb daily, until a kind lady adopted her and gave her a haircut and a home.

A rabbit took up temporary residence  on our site for a few weeks then mysteriously disappeared. I'm sure Jake's not guilty.

He would be to blame however if he was let loose amongst the chickens.  He's developed hen-hate.

Ducks are ok. This one is particularly friendly

Stray cats are usually too busy to pay us any attention 

but this domestic one is not hanging around to get better acquainted . 

Generally we've had a great time discovering the back streets of Bodrum,  enjoying the quiet time before the tourist storm.  

There has been plenty to occupy us; reading back through the winter blogs shows just how much goes on in Bodrum in the off-season.  We've come across Gerhard Schröder having lunch in the Gemi Başı Restaurant, seen a clown in full make-up driving a car,  Jake has made friends with a famous actress who says hello to him every time she drives past and knitted oranges regularly make an appearance in the town square.  The village may seem a little quiet after this. 

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