Istanbul - First Full Day

 

Our first full day in Istanbul started of with a "Turkish Breakfast" at the Crowne Plaza.  BTW - nice place right in the heart of "old town" tourist section.  We (the tour committee) decided on having a private guide to drive us around.  Promptly at 8:30 a.m. a very nice man by the name of Arman showed up.  Beverly asked him how his English was and his reply - “My English is better than your Turkish.”  Nice comeback!  He also informed us that he is the second best driver in all of Istanbul.  Of course, we had to ask him “Who is the best driver?”  He replied “Oh he’s still in the hospital!” Istanbul has a population of 15 million and is a combination of San Francisco hills, New York traffic and narrow European streets.  You cannot be of the faint of heart  to  drive or, for that matter, be a passenger in this city!

We started out by crossing over the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian Side.  This bridge closely resembles the good old Golden Gate.   We proceeded to Camlica Hill which is the highest point of Istanbul and provides a great view of th one city.  This is also where we encountered our first feline friends.

After a relaxing break at Camlica Hill with a cup of Turkish coffee for me, Turkish tea for Bev and Judy, Turkish Cola for Mary (it’s so strenuous being on vacation and being driven around) we proceeded to the Topkapi Palace.  Beautiful place and neat to see how the Sultan’s lived (OH - to be a Sultan!).  Especially the history of the Harem’s.  Helpful hint – if you plan on visiting Turkey, take comfortabIe shoes and buy Turkish Lira!  You will walk your --- off and stand a good chance of getting ripped off using US$ for taxi, etc.

We next visited the Blue Mosque.  Remember to take off your shoes!  Very interesting as to the areas that we were allowed to “walk on”.  Historical fact – there are approximately 3,000 mosques in Istanbul (so there is no excuse not to pray). 

Somewhere along the line we stopped at a rug merchant store who showed us some breathtaking rugs.  Problem was – frankly the prices – Yikes! 

Our last official stop of the day was at a mini bazaar.  Everything a tourist does not need to take home.  However, Mary was saved as we found  market that sold – Coca-Cola! 

We are planning on visiting the Haghia Sophia (aka The Church of Divine) tomorrow along with the BIG bazaar and a spice factory before returning to board our cruise ship. 

Each day I plan to post a picture that will test your mental well being to the ultimate.  Watch for it!  FYI - scroll down for blog pics!  I don't really know how many I can upload at a time so I am being cautious!