The Samos Connection – Big Bro Is Watching – An Events Medley

*Bodrum Express Lines hydrofoil “Ege Princess” arrived on Sunday 15 June ’08 in Port Bodrum Yalikavak Marina from the Greek island of Samos (Turkish Sisam) pioneering what is hoped to become a scheduled weekly connection. Aboard on this voyage were various Greek dignitaries and NGO leaders from Samos who were met in Yalikavak by their Turkish counterparts. Both sides expressed hope that this is only the beginning of closer relations. Serving this route will be a Kometa-type hydrofoil with top speed of 32 knots allowing the vessel to cover the distance between the two ports under two hours. Weekly runs to operate every Wednesday; fare approx. €30. For details contact travel agents or Bodrum Express Lines at tel: (+90) 252-316-2309.


**As you walk around Bodrum you may notice one or more of the 75 cameras that are part of the MOBESE security system deployed around town to give the widest coverage on streets, beaches and other venues. Clearly concerns for safety have prevailed over privacy, and to the best of our knowledge there have been no objections raised. The new governor of Mugla province is quoted as saying that these systems will be installed on all coastal areas of the province allowing quick intervention wherever and whenever a violation of the law takes place that could be detrimental to tourism. Turgutreis is expected to complete installing the system by October.

***Some other things worth noting here are: a. Don’t miss the exhibition honoring Bodrum Sponge Divers open to the public in the Oasis Mall. b. Painting exhibitions in progress at Bodrum Municipal Council chamber showing works by Nuran Erbuk; opening on 17 June at the Ottoman Shipyard Art Gallery (by the marina) exhibit works by Namik Birlik; Oasis Jazz Now Art Gallery on 21 June opens with works of Utku Varlik. c. Yalikavak Municipality is pioneering a push to minimize the use of plastic bags by handing out reusable cloth bags at the weekly bazaar, while Bodrum Municipality has begun to distribute boxes to businesses for the collection or used batteries. Both endeavors are well-worth our support so please help by doing your part!!