ISTANBUL

Europe meets Asia at the Bosphorus. Istanbul is the capital of Turkey and much like Mediterranean cities, it is where many cultures meet. The country and city are predominantly Muslim which is evident the minute you step out of the airport by the number of Mosques and spires that you see across the horizon. This is part of what makes the images of the Istanbul so iconic and why the city and its skyline are often featured in the media.

STAY
Mama Shelter, 50 Istiklal Street
The Istanbul location opened in March of 2013. Although this location was not open during my visit, based on my adoration for both the Paris and Marseille locations, I am definitely planning to stay here during my next trip to Istanbul.

EAT
Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet, 1 Tevkifhane Sokak
Grab lunch in the beautiful garden. This hotel is a converted prison, but you would never guess that by the looks of it. The flowers are amazing and the center courtyard garden, where lunch is served, is a nice break from the action of the city and the main tourist sites.

Doner
Fast food-Turkish style. There are Doner restaurants all over the city.

Chestnuts
Sold all over the city from carts where they are roasted.

Turkish Delight
I’m a big fan of Nougat and Turron so naturally I love Turkish Delight and it is a treat that is available any and everywhere-from the hotel lobby when you check-in to boutiques that offer while you shop.

Turkish Tea
There is a wide variety of teas that you can find in the market and it is of the highest quality and purest form. Turkish Coffee is also a more concentrated version. Try this too if you are a coffee aficionado.

Marina Balik Restaurant, Vapur Iskelesi Sk
Restaurant located on the Bosphorus in an area that comes to life after the sun sets.
Traditional Turkish cuisine and fresh seafood. The restaurant is set on the Bosphorus so you have great views while you dine.

EXPLORE
Grand Bazaar(Kapalicarsi), Taya Hatun Mh.
One of the oldest and largest markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is an experience like none other and a dream for anyone that would like to outfit their home in Turkish textiles or buy Turkish jewelry. I visited the Bazaar on a Friday and was there during Jumu’ah-Friday prayer. Shop owners/workers will close down for a short period of time in order to participate.

Hagia Sofia
One of the 7 Wonders of the World, Hagia Sofia is a Basilica turned Mosque where both Muslim and Christian symbols/artwork collide in one location. The Christian mosaics and symbols were covered or removed during the conversion to a Mosque and an altar was built to face Mecca. Now the building is a museum and some of the original Christian artwork has been restored/uncovered.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
Located directly across from the Hagia Sofia, known more commonly as the ‘Blue Mosque’ because of its interior walls that are covered with blue tiles.

Bosphorus Boat Tour
The Bosphorus is the divide that separates the European side from the Asian side of Istanbul. There are boat trips that travel up and down the strait.

Istiklal Avenue
A main pedestrian road in Istanbul where people gather to stroll this street which is lined with restaurants, bars, boutiques, etc. Istiklal is also, the location of Mama Shelter Istanbul.