Istanbul - Turkey
Regarded as one of the hottest cities on the globe, Istanbul is a place rich with history, with lots of buildings dating back to the Ottoman Empire. But it is also a modern capital city with many art galleries, restaurants and shops, and with a vivid night life in the many clubs. The city has come a long way from a desperate state of poverty to the rich and energetic city it is today.
Back in the age of the Ottoman Empire, the heart of the city was the Hippodrome, with a rich history of political catastrophes; it was the place where the emperor was overturned after a chariot race that ended dramatically. In modern times a spot of equal importance to the tourist visiting Istanbul will be the Grand Bazaar, strategically placed in the center of the town, where tourists can shop to their hearts content. Throughout the ages, this “heart of Istanbul” has been the center for business as it still is today, with many restaurants, workshops and also ancient mosques and other relics from Byzantium times. Another part of the city that will be popular among the shoppers will certainly be the Kapali Carsi where almost everything is sold.
One of the sights that are not to be missed when visiting Istanbul is without a doubt the Aqueduct of Valens, a structure that looks out over the Ataturk Bulvari, completely made up out of limestone. One of the best known monuments in the city is the Aya Sofia, which the Greek refer to as Hagia Sofia, and was built on the orders of Emperor Justinian. A sight not to missed is that from the Galata Bridge, be sure to watch a sunset from there, to see some spectacular panoramas.
Of course a visit to Istanbul is not complete without visiting a few of the many ancient mosques, like The Mihrimah Sultan Camii, with its windows constructed from stained glass. For the scholars amongst us, Istanbul holds many artifacts from the Ottoman era, like the ruins of the palace of Anadolu Kavagi Kalesi, and a tour of the Topkapi Palace is not to be missed out on.
The climate in the area is ideal for a trip to Istanbul during spring or autumn, with mild temperatures and lots of sunshine. It is also the time for the many activities that are held in the city every year, like festivals and musical events. For sports lovers there is Formula 1 racing in June as the Grand Prix starts. The summer months are less suitable for visits to the city, with very high temperatures and the majority of the many attractions are closed during that period.
In and around Istanbul there are many means to move around in the city, like buses, ferries and the popular cabs. Typical transportation in the area is by boat.
Over the years Istanbul has developed into a true world city, with all the comforts of modern day while maintaining its rich culture and history, which is why it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations.
M.A.H.