KOS

Kos (from the Greek Κως) is an island of the Dodecanese located very close to the coast of Turkey, specifically opposite the town of Bodrum, from which it is only 4 km away. It can be reached by sea, for example, from the Greek port of Piraeus (192 nautical miles), from Rhodes or Kalymnos, or by air (Hippocrates International Airport).

It has an area of 290 km² and a population of about 30,000 inhabitants.

The island is predominantly flat but does have some scattered hills, the highest of which is Mount Dikeos, measuring 846 meters. The land is fertile, and the island is rich in springs, including thermal ones. The inhabitants, in addition to tourism, are engaged in agriculture (olives, grapes, almonds, melons, watermelons, and various vegetables), fishing, and livestock farming (especially poultry). Handicrafts (ceramics and textiles) are also active.

The capital of the island is Kos, where the main port is also located.

Currently, it is a well-established tourist center (second only to Rhodes among the Dodecanese islands). Its charm lies in the simultaneous presence of antiquity and modernity. In the past, it was famous for being the birthplace of the father of medicine (Hippocrates), who practiced his profession on the island. Today, tourists flock to the island in increasing numbers both for its archaeological remains and its characteristic villages, as well as for its crystal-clear sea with beautiful fine sandy beaches and rocky coves. A characteristic of Kos is the presence of the Islamic world, mixed with the Orthodox one. During the day, you may hear the muezzin calling the faithful to prayer, and the island's cuisine also offers Turkish dishes.

The island's road network is good, and public transportation is widespread, connecting the main places on the island. However, a nice and traditional way to get around Kos remains the bicycle. It is also possible to get around by taxi or rent cars and scooters.