37. Interesting Istanbul

This Old City depicts cultural influences from numerous empires that once ruled here. Upon arrival from Atatürk Airport, my Mum and I took a taxi to the hotel. I couldn’t wait to see the rooftop view.

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In the morning, we headed to the historic Hippodrome of Constantinople and the popular Blue Mosque.

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Next stop was to see the former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral, Hagia Sophia.

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Soon it was my favourite time of day, lunch! The Ottoman cuisine and foodscape covered a wide spectrum. The doner kebab though was enough to get an authentic first taste of Middle Eastern cooking.

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Then my Mum and I explored the city and found a green space in Beyoğlu district towards Taksim Gezi Park.

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After all the walking we decided to return to the hotel, relax a bit before dinner at one of the best seafood places in the city, Yıldızlar Restaurant Galata Köprüsü which was located under the Bosphorus Bridge.

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The following day, my Mum and I made a plan to go on a horse carriage ride and a trip to the Princes Islands.

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Day three consisted of Topkapi Sarayi, the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Talk about a new experience! Then we spent the rest of the day enjoying other intriguing bits that Istanbul had to offer for the week.

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Photos: Niya Sinckler