I have been pleasantly surprised to find that traveling in Turkey is quite easy. The people are friendly and many of them speak English. While dragging our suitcases through cobblestone streets to find our hotel no less than 10 people offered directions, completely unsolicited. The directions were such that it took all 10 sets to actually find the hotel, but it was nice to see how willing people were to help. With the people of Turkey determined to make sure Courtney and I have a pleasant trip and don't waste any time being lost, I'm sure it's going to be a great couple of days.
Istanbul is yet another amazing city. There are beautiful old buildings everywhere you look. Although it is a mostly Muslim country, it's not Muslim in the way Jordan and Egypt are. Women dressed in traditional clothing with everything covered make up the minority of women out in the streets here.
Here is the Blue Mosque. Even though it is still used as a mosque, visitors are allowed inside. I was excited because it was the first time I can think of that I have been inside a mosque.
Then there was the Hagia Sophia--the most spectacular church I have been inside. The amount of detail and beauty is incredible.
We've had a lot of fun just wandering and eating food from street vendors. Most notable are the doner kebabs and baklava in its many forms. Because it is during Ramadan, the streets are filled at night with people celebrating the fact that they can eat again. The festive spirit makes being out even more enjoyable.
Istanbul is yet another amazing city. There are beautiful old buildings everywhere you look. Although it is a mostly Muslim country, it's not Muslim in the way Jordan and Egypt are. Women dressed in traditional clothing with everything covered make up the minority of women out in the streets here.
Here is the Blue Mosque. Even though it is still used as a mosque, visitors are allowed inside. I was excited because it was the first time I can think of that I have been inside a mosque.
Then there was the Hagia Sophia--the most spectacular church I have been inside. The amount of detail and beauty is incredible.
We've had a lot of fun just wandering and eating food from street vendors. Most notable are the doner kebabs and baklava in its many forms. Because it is during Ramadan, the streets are filled at night with people celebrating the fact that they can eat again. The festive spirit makes being out even more enjoyable.
2 comments:
Gosh--that looks so gorgeous! I'm glad you're enjoying it. I'd love to go there someday!
First time in a mosque? No visitaste la Gran Mezquita de Córdoba?
I am so so so jealous. Are you guys getting tired of hearing me say that?
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