02 Oct 2022
We have enjoyed the knowledge and guidance from many tour guides in the past, but few have been as outstanding as Banu. She was extremely enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the ruins of Ephesus, the Virgin Chapel, St. John's Church, and the history of Turkey and the area. I knew I was going to love the St. Mary site and Ephesus, and I was not disappointed. But when Banu told us about the rug weavers area and the “local meal,” she undersold it. We were expecting a plain meal. It was anything but. The meal was outstanding and too much food. We also enjoyed looking at the rugs in the showroom and we felt no sales pressure at all. After this, we were tired and ready to head back to our hotel, but Banu more or less insisted that we visit the pottery place. Again, not expecting this experience at all. OMG was I wrong. The family there was so welcoming and fun and it was a great time to spin some clay with the master. Both the rug and pottery places were the absolute high points of the day.
Banu has a great sense of humor and a depth of enthusiasm for her role as an educator, and we were grateful to have her as our guide. Do not visit Ephesus and environs without a guide and try to request Banu - you will not be disappointed. And be sure she shows you "I love Elvis" at Ephesus.