After a sleepless flight we were all very relieved to arrive in Istanbul! Once through a very trying Turkish customs, we bused to the Eresin Crowne Hotel which was fabulously located in the heart of Istanbul. After marvelling at the splendour of the hotel's lobby (which also displayed fascinating relics) we had a quick much needed shower before hitting the streets with our guide, Burcu. The weather was appalling, but we braved the bitter wind and heavy rain armed with umbrellas embodying the ANZAC spirit. Our first encounter with Turkish street sellers, was quite comical when they insisted we purchase more umbrellas!
The Blue Mosque dominated the city skyline with its noticeable six minarets. Built in 1631, the interior of the Mosque provided welcome shelter from the pelting rain and also exceeded our expectations with its stunning decoration. The floors were carpeted and the walls and high roofs beautifully mosaic-ed predominantly with blue tiles, giving the mosque its name. We heard men chant calling the faithful to prayer.
Our first Turkish meal,consisting of dolmades (rice wrapped in vine leaves)and a range of other Turkish delicacies, was lunch. This was followed by the traditional Turkish dessert baklava and a cup of apple tea.
Then we walked to Topkapi Palace, former home of the Sultan. Huge and elaborate, the rain did not detract from the beauty. Different parts of the Palace served various purposes, including rooms filled with precious jewels and artefacts and rooms for circumcision! 
A surprise visit to the Basilica Cistern, which was an enormous underground chamber that had provided the ancient city with its water supply. Built in 565 by an Emperor, amongst the columns were two Medusa heads for support.
We then moved on to the Spice Market which was alive with friendly stall holders and exotic cuisine. The Turks particularly loved our Akubras and kept calling us cowboys and asking where our horses were! We also received a few proposals of marriage...! Turkish delight was a particular favourite for all, with flavours ranging from Rosewater to Pistachio. It did not take us long to discover that Turkey has a very distinct, lively culture like no other.
We then headed back to then hotel, exhausted and very much looking forward to a real bed.
No comments:
Post a Comment