By Max
As somebody who has traveled only minimally outside of the US, I feel like I am seeing a greatest hits collection of places you have to visit. Each one not necessarily topping the one before, but standing on its own as a “must see” site. We loved Dubai for its efficiency and architectural wonder; Ethiopia for the people and rich sense of pride and tradition, Petra/Wadi Rum for the magnificent landscape and ancient cities; Israel for what the country and its people have accomplished and the how the region holds great religious significance for Christians, Muslims, and Jews. And now, Istanbul; an incredible city filled with people from all over the world, and teeming with history, religion, and of course great food!
Driving from the airport we first viewed Istanbul as we crossed over the Bosphorous River which divides the city between Europe and Asia. Before us was a hilly city covered in buildings of all sizes and colors. As soon as we got off the bus, our next impression is that the city has more people than we have ever encountered. This is an old city with narrow streets and sidewalks, and everywhere you go, these sidewalks and streets are filled with people. Everybody is moving, but it sure feels crowded.
Istanbul skyline
The busy streets of Istanbul
Once we got used to maneuvering around and through all of the people, we began to notice that everywhere you look, you see the spires of mosques. Not just your average everyday neighborhood mosque, but beautiful grand mosques that sprinkle the city in every direction (an estimated 3,500 in Istanbul alone!). Some of the most famous and magnificent mosques in the world are here including the Sultan Ahmed Mosque also known as the Blue Mosque.
The Blue Mosque
Inside the Blue Mosque
The Aya Sofya
For the more than 14 million people that reside in Istanbul, there seems to be as many restaurants, cafes, coffee and tea shops, food carts, and sweets stores! Imagine New York City or San Francisco and then add even more eating establishments per square mile. If you love fresh grilled vegetables, chicken and lamb wraps (doners), coffee, baklava, and jelly candy with powdered sugar on top (turkish delight) Istanbul is the place for you!
Our favorite doner sandwich seller
Turkish delight and baklava
Such an incredible journey so far. Getting into the culture and way of life of the locals is an amazing experience. I am especially envious of your food experience. You know me “it’s all about the food”
Thanks Michael! As you can imagine, food has been a big part of the trip for us.
Max,
It sounds like Istanbul was very memorable!
Such a cool city!
V
Istanbul sure sounds like a place I would love to travel too. The mosques look beautiful but it is all about the food. Yum
Max,
Just the meat spinning on the skewer was enough to convince me. I’m bookin my ticket.
Joe
Loving your posts. 3,500 mosques! Wow… And now I am hungry.