ISTANBUL
I don't know exactly how many times I have visited Istanbul.
I kind of lost tracks of my visits and transits in this mesmerising city.
Historical architectures with elaborated designs, turquoise ceramics and delicious chicken adana kebab are only a few things that make me so fond of this city.
The long history of this very city, dotted with intrigues, love stories and adventures, is truly an invaluable lesson.
Not to mention the clear blue sky and plush green trees.
Colourful, exotic spices, one-of-a-kind souvenirs and friendly people of Istanbul add more I-heart-you feeling whenever I am around.
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Morning at the Germain Fountain, next to the Blue Mosque
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Since I travel quite frequently to Geneva and New York City for works, I have been using Turkish Airlines a lot.
I have to admit that the route as well as the ticket fare are friendly.
And that means I have to transit in Istanbul.
Well, happy to do so.
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| a piece of history.. |
As I have the chance to see its many faces, I tried to see different part of the city.
I have been walking around Sultanahmet area for God knows how many times, letting myself being timelessly absorbed to the glory of the past.
Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Basilica CIstern and Topkapi Palace have been my favorite historical spots.
Moving further, I have walked acress Galata Bridge and took a ferry ride on Bosporus, all done in different seasons of the year. Besides enjoying summer sale in Taksim Square as well as Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, I was lucky to reach Dolmabahce Palace and enjoyed the grandeur of Ataturk's palace. Mind-blowing intricate details and rich history never fail to amaze me.
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| Busy Istanbul. the city and Marmara sea.. |
This time, as we landed on the European side, the location of the new Istanbul airport, we got to see the city from the other side.
We took the bus from the airport, heading straight to the historical part of Istanbul, Sultanahmet Area.
We had a brief stop at Eminönu, right across the Spice Bazaar.
The glistening reflection of Marmara sea welcomed us merrily that morning, as ferries ad boats started their journey of the day.
A lovely summer morning indeed.
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| feels like stopping by and joining the walkers.. |
Speaking of the new Istanbul Airport, I have to say I am impressed!
It's huge!
It certainly looks modern and uses cutting-edge designs that pay attention to beautiful details here and there. I love to see the ceilings and how they are brilliantly reflected on the shiny floors. Not to mentions lines of world-brand shops and vintage collection Turkish items you can find in the airport. I guess I will definitely continue my adventures in the airport alone on the next visit. Oh, and the Turkish Airline lounge, as always, is a five-star one. I never miss my time to have a little break here enjoying my fresh orange juice, pide and lentil soup, while enjoying Andy Williams concert on the theatre. Heaven!
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| The new Istanbul airport.. |
Well, now..let me share more snaps taken with my iPhone while enjoying my transit in Istanbul. As colourful as ever, I wish you enjoy it even more than I do.
You know, whenever I see all these wonderful craftmanships, I feel like taking them all home LOL. And I have to remind myself that I already got more than dozens of small bowls, sets of big ones and 2 table lamps.
So, that's why I keep coming back to Istanbul.
Tell me which one is your favorite ... the food, the souvenirs, the architectures, or else!
Cheers and till the next adventure!
