What to expect in... Istanbul
13. Increasing affluence
The economy's been growing since the 80's, leading to a steep increase in standard of living. They have tried for years to join the European Union.
The coast is beautiful, and boasts some of the world's best ancient greek ruins.
11. Ataturk
His name means "father of the turks," and there's tons of things named after him around the country. He was the first president of modern Turkey who made a big push to westernize the country.
10. Riding the Bosphorus
This Bosphorus forms the boundary between Asia and Europe. As you ride up and down the strait, you'll enjoy incredible scenery.
You come across many people named Mehmet, which means Muhammad in Turkish.
This Mehmet ordered the initial construction of Topkapi palace in the 1460's.
8. Baklava
Pastries filled with nuts and loaded with really sweet syrup.
It's pretty good, but nobody does dessert like Europe and America.
7. Constantinople
This used to be the capital of the Roman Empire. It was also the capital of Christianity.
I think it's some of the most beautiful stuff in the world.
5. Kebabs
They cut lamb off this big rotating blob and put it in a pita and it's really good.
4. Incredible mosques
The mosques are incredible.
Women must wear scarves.
The one unpleasant thing is that it smells like feet because everyone has to take off their shoes.
3. Bazaars
Bazaars are shopping areas with fun and colorful products.
The Grand Bazaar dates back to the 1400's!
This city of mosques is one of the prettiest skylines in the world.
Turkey has been struggling to balance between the influences of Europe and the Middle East for a long, long time. There is a constant tug of war between tradition and Westernism and this battle has a huge impact on the politics.
----- The End. Click on the archive at the top right to view more cities.
No comments:
Post a Comment