The next day in Istanbul was an embarkation day on the ship, which would normally prevent me from going out, but I had this particular day off, so I decided to go see EVERYTHING I could. I wasn’t sure how long it would take me to get where I wanted by walking, so I just began and hoped for the best. I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t really take me any time at all to get across the river and into the old part of town where my main stops were. As I wandered up a hill I grabbed some lunch at a kebab stand and continued to the gate of Topkapi Palace.
This enormous compound was the home to the Sultan for many years. It is made up of a series of courtyards and small pavilions that serve as different rooms. Each building is unique and decorated to the HILT! We are talking major mosaic and intricate painting that covers every surface inside and out of these buildings. Among the pavilions was one containing the Sultan’s ceremonial robes from the 16th Century and earlier. Another was the treasury, which contained the most elaborate gem and jewel-covered thrones, swords, pendants, etc. I have ever seen. There was even one stone that was 86 carats!!! I couldn’t believe this stuff. I also was able to go into the turban room, libraries, the pool and many other rooms. I spent a lot of time here because it was just some of the most beautiful grounds I had ever seen. It reminded me very much of what I would imagine the palaces in the eastern Asia would look like.
Following my visit to Topkapi I continued walking through a park which sat between two of the city’s most famous mosques, the Aya Sofia and the Blue Mosque. I took some pictures and headed to the Blue Mosque. Again I had to remove my shoes before entering and I marveled at the incredible tile work…21,000 blue tiles cover the inside of this mosque! What I was most taken with, though, was the smell. The first mosque I visited had no smell at all and was nice and quiet. This was a whole different story! Because of all the sweaty tourists cramming in to the building, this place smelled like FEET!!! I was just glad I had the first point of reference and didn’t think that was how all mosques smelled! Ha ha! Needless to say, I moved on fairly quickly and began following my map as best as possible through the strange, ever-changing streets to my next stop.
I had heard so much about it and had gotten a small taste of what the bargaining could be like in a covered market, but nothing can prepare you for the Grand Bazaar! I made my way through one of its many entrances and the stalls went on and on in front of me. In this particular market they have everything: leather, jewelry, clothing, dishes, appliances, tools, etc. I couldn’t believe the variety and just quantity of shops all under one roof! There are approximately 4,500 shops in this MAZE of a market. Now- I have pretty good sense of direction and very rarely get turned around, but after going to one stall and saying that I would return…I practically gave up. I had no clue which way was up and I felt like I kept walking in some sort of crazy circle or something. I had no idea where I was, but I did a little shopping and bargained very well. I was told before going to never pay more than half of what the shop owner offers for an item. I considered my shopping a success because I was able to stick to that principle! Ha ha!
Leaving the market I knew I needed to get back to the ship, but I had one problem...I had no IDEA where in the world I was. I was spit out of the market and decided to just start heading downhill. I figured water must be at the bottom of the hill and I would find the ship there. I was right, thankfully. A bit later Brett, Elena and I went out to a traditional Turkish restaurant near the port for her birthday. (Long birthday celebration, huh?! Ha!) It was a cute little place covered in teal, black, and white tiles that my tour guide the previous day recommended. We were having hard time communicating with our waiter, but he found a guy to help translate. We started with some amazing Mezes, or cold appetizers, including eggplant, hummus, and dolmades. Next I had some filo dough straws with feta cheese inside and koftes (meatballs). It was an amazing meal made that much better by great company and a helpful staff!
To finish up the day we headed back to the ship where some local entertainers were performing. First we saw a belly dancer who had a very elaborate costume and was very good, but we laughed because no one was paying too much attention to what her belly was doing. She happened to be blessed in other areas ;) and the girls were joking that she was more of a “booby dancer” than a belly dancer! Ha! It was a good time, though, and some folk dancers finished up the night getting the audience to dance with them.
While all my experiences and sight-seeing in Istanbul were just superb, I was much more impressed by the people I encountered throughout my visit. I heard the same sentiment from the guests on board, as well. The people of this city were so gracious and accommodating. I have never experienced something quite like it, but everyone I met from waiters to guides to ticket sellers to the man at the juice bar was happy to teach me about their culture, show me the language, help point me in the right direction, etc. I NEVER felt overwhelmed or like I was in any danger whatsoever because I knew these were good people. I don’t know what it is about the Turks, but I seriously can’t wait to return. I hope many of you have the chance to travel to this completely stunning city. I certainly will never forget my time here.
Love you all!
Tripp
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