The ancient wonder of Efes (Ephesus)

Yesterday, we traveled from Göreme to Selçuk and we've already noticed a difference between the two places. Our room at the Kiwi Pension is larger than our previous room but not as quaint. It's also noisy due to its location, which right next to the main washroom and the desk with the computer. They need to invest in a new computer because we can hear the computer's fan running from our room. Plus our beds are hard as rocks, perhaps it only feels that way after sleeping on soft heavenly beds prior to coming here.

We miss Göreme very, very much. We miss the peacefulness, the landscape, and Erol's breakfast. We definitely need to go back there.

Today, we went to the ancient site of Efes, 3km outside of Selçuk, and boy, was it ever hot outside. After studying this city and it's architecture, it was fabulous to finally see it in person. It's hard to picture the Romans walking down Marble street heading towards the stadium, the Library of Celsus, various temples, and to their houses. The detail and workmanship is incredible and I cannot fathom how they were able to build such magnificient structures and carve such wonderful friezes. It truly is a lost art. After visiting Efes, we went to the museum and saw sculptures of Artemis, Eros, Marcus Aurelius, Augustus and Livia. I guess I am still in awe and cannot give a better description.

We found library jobs here at the Library of Celsus. We may be here for quite some time as it needs a lot of work.

The theatre, which can seat up to 25,000 people:

Tonight's dinner, the Open House Restaurant specialty, the Open House Kebab (beef, chicken, lamb, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers) and it was delicious:

Tomorrow we are going to Pamukkale/Hierapolis.

Nina's travel tip:

• Bring an extra suitcase or make sure to leave a lot of room in your suitcase for souvenirs.