Although known mostly as a summer holiday destination, Bodrum is becoming increasingly popular with visitors in the other seasons. The reasons are many, but probably foremost is the chance to enjoy its attractions more intimately by avoiding the hubbub of high season. Unlike many holiday resorts Bodrum does not close its shutters at summer’s end but continues an active though less frenetic life of its own. The colorful bazaars are open on their scheduled days, temperatures pleasant and local people have more time for each visiting guest.
The beginnings were modest, with a handful of small family-run hotels and humble private homes turned into "pensions" serving undemanding, happy guests. Those halcyon days are still remembered with nostalgia, but it was inevitable for such an enticing venue to be discovered by increasing numbers of visitors and by the mid 1980s tourism was in bloom. Then, encouraged by government incentives, tourist facilities sprang up so quickly that at times the unprepared infrastructure became overtaxed. The latter part of the 1990s saw a rush to enhance the infrastructure and respond to the demand for more luxurious accommodations and provide a wider range of opportunities for recreation and entertainment.
Much of this has now been accomplished and Bodrum today is a trendy, cosmopolitan holiday resort popular with families and with the younger set from all over the world. It is a choice destination of those interested in the rich historical heritage and natural beauty of the region, while its prestigious ranking has attracted a whole galaxy of stars of the Turkish entertainment world. It can truly be said that this diversity of its visitors matches well the variety of its offerings, and is an attraction all of its own.
