Whether to renew your visa, or just for a trip 'abroad', the small sleepy town on the nearby Greek Island of Meis has a few things to offer beyond it's picturesque harbour front.

The island lies a few km off the Turkish coast near Kas and is only a 25 minute ferry ride away.

Museums

There are two small museums in the town (closed Monday’s) and entrance to all the museums is free. The Kastellorizo museum is located just below the castle. The other museum is located in the preserved mosque at the entrance to the harbour. Both museums offer an interesting insight into the trials and tribulations that have plagued the island during the last century as well as costumes and photo's of how life was like over the years.

The Castle

Instantly visible as you approach the harbour, the remains of the castle are worth a stroll around, particularly for the views over the harbours on both sides.

The Old Church

Explore a little further back into the town and you'll find the nineteenth Church of St George.  It's locked as it appears unsafe inside, but from the outside the decayed paint and old bell tower is quite charming.  A nice peaceful stop for a coffee and a muse.

Greek lunch

There are plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants tucked away, and on a sunny day there is nothing better than whiling away an hour or two over lunch while watching the comings and going of tourists and local alike.

Retail therapy

Of course, you should also allow enough time to get in a bit of shopping. There are a couple of small grocery shops on the harbour side selling food and drink but be aware of import restrictions for some items.  There are also a few souvenir shops and a market place.

Cash

There is a branch of the National Bank of Greece on the harbour front with an ATM, so if you haven’t got any Euros or just need some more you can get them at this machine.

Duty Free

The duty free shop opens 1 hour before the boat departs and has a small but varied range of alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, chocolates and electrical items for sale. You will be asked for your name when you buy and your name will be ticked off the passenger manifest.

Speaking Greek

We don't know much Greek but find 'Ef Karisto' (Thankyou) and Kalimera (Hello) just about get us by.  Otherwise you can quite happily stick to your English.

Your Gateway to Greece

Meis is a port of entry to Greece so if you fancy a bit of Greek Island hopping this is a good a place as any to start. There is a regular ferry service between the Island and Rhodes with fares starting form around 20 Euro one way. Once on Rhodes you can travel on to other destinations or return via another route to Turkey e.g. Rhodes to Fethiye or Rhodes to Marmaris (seasonal).

You can also fly to Rhodes from the small airport. Enquire at the travel agent on the harbourside for more information.

Getting there

Day trips are run by various operators from Kas Monday to Friday for around 40 Turkish Lira, return.  You could consider a longer stay as there are also a number of hotels and pansions on the Island.

To get to Kas you can take the regular bus service from Fethiye (takes around 2 and a half hours) or organise a private transfer.