Capturing Istanbul

“On the meeting point of two worlds, the ornament of Turkish homeland, the treasure of Turkish history, the city cherished by the Turkish nation, İstanbul, has its place in the hearts of all citizens.” – Atatürk

My Top 10 Things I love about Istanbul

– The sound of seagulls early in the morning

– Street doner kebab at midnight

– Haggling for rugs and walking away with a great deal. See here.

– Apple Tea. Period.

– The history and fusion of cultures and religions in the Aya Sofya

– The flowers and landscaping of Istanbul

– The linen towels from Dervis– obsessed

– My new favorite purchase: the pomegranate figurine

– The view from Topkapi Palace– that was someone’s “patio”

– The Turkish sweets that filled every store window

 

Here’s a recap of our days in Istanbul, with photos of the everyday in a city that’s constantly bustling….

{ Our very first moment in Istanbul- exhausted and excited }

{ Small streets filled with restaurants }

{Fuego Cafe & Restaurant }

{ The gardens at Aya Sofya }

{ Outside the Topkapi Palace }

{ In front of the Harem }

{ The view of the Sea of Marmara }

{ Flowers, gardens and minarets }

{ A photo in front of the Blue Mosque }

{ Gardens and park benches at the Palace }

{ View of the Aya Sofya  }

{ The view of the Bosporus- breathtaking }

{ A whirlwind of lights at the Grand Bazaar }

{ Ending on a sweet note – desserts }

Stay tuned for highlights on Santorini, Greece next week… ‘Till then, Happy Friday!

– Y

{ My Friday Floral arrangement and my pomegranate! }