Athens and Greek and Turkey

After Ephesus you can easily get to the Greek islands by taking the ferry from nearby Kusadasi to Samos. Where you go from there will depend on which islands attract you, and you have not included any information about yourself, your age, or what sort of experience you're hoping to have. As for hotel recommendations, if you tell us your maximum daily room budget we can help once you choose your islands, but otherwise there is just too wide a range of islands and room rates to cover. A good place to start would be the travel guide section of your local library. You need to do some quick research as to your island choices. This map will help you figure out distances: http://tinyurl.com/22wfdvt This is the best ferry schedule website: http://www.gtp.gr

atalos hotel in athens is pretty good. short walk from the metro station you can ask the hotel to give you direction. and for efes i once stayed at the wallabies and can recommend it. you can ask the owner to meet you at the train station or the bus station it's in the downtown area you can walk to it.

Yes, here is more info. I am an active 60 year old, love hiking, swimming, kayaking, biking and I have a background in theology and so love the ancient history! I would like to find the small, "backdoor" sites that keep costs low and experiences high. My girlfriend and I are traveling together and she is also active - enjoying the same things. The romantic vistas and beaches and cafes are definitely of interest! Thanks,
David

I can recommend Hotel Plaka(has AC which will be important when you're there) in Athens. Rooftop terrace has great view of the Acropolis and the hotel is well located for lots of good restaurants and the metro. The area has a safe feel to it.

Can't be sure but I think we stayed in Acropolis View Hotel...reasonable rates and nice rooftop terrace.
Also, if you have a chance you should visit Nafplio...it was beautiful, and what I would call a romantic setting. A few hour bus ride from Athlens.