Living up to my spontaneous nature, I took an impromptu trip to Istanbul last weekend. I went solo – my preferred way of traveling – and in addition to being inspired by it’s authenticity and beauty, I enjoyed my first cup of coffee ever and I actually liked it! I felt so exotic enjoying a cup of Turkish coffee in Turkey.
I was awestruck by the beauty of the city and it reminded me of my first visit to Prague back in 1994 – authentic, culturally rich, and challenging, forcing me out of my comfort zone, as hardly any English was spoken, and most of the city’s signage was in its native language – as it should be. In other words: before Starbucks and McDonalds invaded every corner.
The beauty of the mosques rivaled that of the cathedrals of Paris and Barcelona, and the call for prayers were one of the most moving things I have been blessed to hear. Granted, initially I was taken off guard and didn’t know what it was (thinking we were under some sort of attack), but once I figured it out it was a most moving aural pleasure.
While visiting Kadakoy (on the Asia side) and couldn’t help but feel as though I had stumbled upon a secret neighborhood with its youthful urban vibe.
A street in Kadakoy.
City dwellers in Kadakoy
The vastness of Istanbul offered more than I had anticipated and I embraced all it had to offer. I took in a lot during my visit but know I only scratched the surface. I can’t wait to return!
Breathtaking view.
On a street in Kadakoy.
In Eminonu.
Partaking in one of the many culinary delights I enjoyed.
A beautiful road.
One of the city's many ferries.
At Hagia Sofia.
The university.
Turkish wine!
Reunited with a friend from graduate school. Melis!
