Day 09 - Western Coast : Ephesus, Sunset Harbor Cruise

Our last day in Turkey started with a four hour visit of the ruins of Ephesus. It is hard to describe all of the impressions of this site. Suffice it say we all felt like we gained a better understanding of the world in which the early church was planted. Praise God for the Apostle Paul and other committed believers who sacrificed so much for the sake of the Gospel.

Our lunch was at Mama's Kitchen, a delightful family owned restaurant with a smorgasbord of more than 25 different authentic Turkish dishes. After enjoying all the delicious food, we went to the Ephesus museum to see more of the artifacts that were discovered at the site and are now preserved inside. Many of us then enjoyed some local ice cream made with goat milk, as well as some Turkish coffee.

We arrived back at our hotel early enough to enjoy the pool and other amenities. A number of the group also swam in the Aegean Sea next to the hotel.

Our plans to go on a sunset cruise were almost thwarted by a car that blocked our bus in the parking lot. Fortunately, the situation was eventually resolved, just in time for us to drive into town and board a boat that sailed around the harbor. It was a pleasant and fun-filled excursion. We returned to the hotel to have our final Turkish meal. The weather was beautiful as we dined outside enjoying the lights on the water.

We will have just a few hours sleep before we have to get up and head for the airport at 3:30 AM. We are all grateful for an incredible experience, but are looking forward to returning home. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!

- Mark Shetler