-Carew papritz
Visiting Istanbul
On the whole, travelling to Istanbul and experiencing it as a city was eye opening, an experience I am glad I had. Again, this was a family trip, hence why I must say that travelling with family isn’t always easy. First of all, patient is required, and second good communication is essential. However, in spite of this, I treasure every moment and memory I have with my family, and I won’t change them for the world.
In summary, our trip to Istanbul was planned to celebrate my mum’s birthday. She specifically wanted to go Istanbul to see her little brother whom she truly hasn’t seen in years. Hence why this trip was a no brainer. So, off we went. Myself, my sister, my mum and my nephew who at the time was one years old.
First of all, before travelling I knew little to nothing about Istanbul, except that it’s a city in Turkey and people travel there to do mass shopping. However, subsequently during our stay I quickly discovered that there is so much more I needed to learn about Istanbul. My sister and our tour guide made me realise that Istanbul carries so much history, thus, this is reflected in the landscape of the city and also in its culture. Additionally, some of their cultural influences is inputted from the many empires that once ruled there.
What We Got Up To
Furthermore during our stay, we saw the Roman-era- Hippodrome which for centuries was the site for chariot races, we also saw the Egyptian obelisks, Christian mosaics, the Adile Sultan Palace, which is the former royal residence of Ottoman princess Adile Sultan.
Additionally on a guided tour, we visited Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighbourhood which currently includes the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Grand Bazaaar. Afterward we also went to the Dolmabahce Palace, the Maidens Tower and the Galata Tower.
We ended our tour of the city with the Bosphorus Bridge cruise, where we saw the Bosphorus Bridge itself. The bridge connects Asia and Europe.
Finally, at the end of everything and after all I experienced, I learned that Turkish culture is great. Turkish people are open and welcoming, moreover we got to eat authentic traditional Turkish meals. Also, the cherry on top of this trip was that we got the chance to reconnect with my uncle, my mum’s brother, and we saw the life he has built there.
Be well and be the best of YOU!
