And on the third day she went shopping! We went to the Grand Bazaar. We had planned to go down the Bosphorous but changed our plans after a night on the town! We were a bit anxious about the bazaar, at least I was after lurid stories about pickpockets and weeping women being forced into unwanted purchases but we were there early and it was all … [Read more...] about Istanbul- the third day
Archives for 2012
Istanbul – Asian city
On my second day in Istanbul I was woken by the call to prayer some time around five in the morning. The first time I had heard it so clearly. No other sounds at all. It was very beautiful - long and modulated, soft then loud. All the mosques have different singers and I think this one, from one we pass every day on our way to the tram stop, is the … [Read more...] about Istanbul – Asian city
Istanbul – views from the tower
We visited the Galata Tower. Built by the traders of Genoa when they were in charge and the place was called - Galata. The apex of their fortifications. The Ottomans used it to house prisoners working in the shipyards. And legend has it in the 1600s someone launched himself off it using artificial wings to fly across the Bosphorous. Well worth the … [Read more...] about Istanbul – views from the tower
Istanbul – a Whirling Dervish
Our first day's sight-seeing in Istanbul ended with a meal and a wander around the Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque late at night in the course of which we saw a Whirling Dervish. We ate at a place recommended by friends, Amedros in Sultanahmet. A 10 minute walk from our hotel along a street full of people selling things - handbags, leather jackets, … [Read more...] about Istanbul – a Whirling Dervish
Istanbul – Getting Here
So, we made it. No denying it's a long flight! Tullamarine deserted at 2 am except for passengers from our Emirates flight that included two of my cousins and their friends. Off to Paris to celebrate a 50th birthday leaving husbands home. Five women ready for a good time! Off on time. Lots of families, babies and all. A full plane. But all … [Read more...] about Istanbul – Getting Here
Istanbul – European City
Our first day in Istanbul. Here is our street by day. It seems quieter than when we first saw it. Joe has our day planned out, a tram ride, a promenade, a tower; but first breakfast on the roof of Hotel Niles. What a lovely spot and lovely to have our girl and her friend back with us if only for a couple of weeks, they have scrubbed up … [Read more...] about Istanbul – European City