In between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is the only city where you can cross a bridge and pass from one continent to another. It is a place so full of perfumes, spices, smells, noises that you will have the feeling of them even when you leave the city.
People stare. Let them stare and don’t be rude.
It’s a spiritual city. Every time muezzin calls muslims to pray you feel that song almost penetrating your soul. You either love it or hate it. It was a cathartic journey.
But beware of some behaviours:
1. Don’t go during Ramadan. It’s better for you.
2. Girls, cover your legs, because people will stare. If you just go with a tank top and shorts, you can. But you’ll feel embarrassed.
3. Bargain, but learn when you exceed the limit. You are a tourist in the end.
4. Be careful at the Grand Bazaar: everyone will try to stop you and make you buy. Don’t be fooled, prices are way too high to do shopping there.
5. Go to Galata bridge to see the sunset, it is breathtaking.
6. Experience a rooftop with view over the Bosphorus.
7. If you’re a girl, don’t go there alone.
8. Try Ayran, their traditional salted yogurt drink. At least you should learn new tastes, right?
9. Istanbul is not all about Kebab. Remember it!
I’d definitely go back someday.
EJL.
Heatherwood 