Istanbul

     Last week we have finally checked Istanbul off of our places-to-go wish list! It was a short, 4-days trip and I find myself in the situation of not really knowing what to say about it... So I have come up with this:

+ Istanbul

• It is rightfully called the Gate of the Orient, since it has the most amazing mix of cultures between Europe and Asia
• Their mosques - found absolutely everywhere, set to offer guidance to so many
• The "cool" factor - I believe that some of the coolest people in the world live in Istanbul
• The places - apart from the very touristic areas, Istanbul has really cool spots, bars, eateries, shops, libraries, etc.
• It is modern - the youth of Istanbul is by no means behind of the times
• The food - börek,  kebab, köfte, gözleme, hamsi, pide, baklava, künefe, muhalebi, helva, dried fruits and nuts of all kinds...delicious!
• It is unbelievably clean - this was a true surprise considering there are around 15 mil. people living there, not to mention the tourists
• the politeness and friendliness of locals - no matter where we were or what it was that we needed, people were very open and friendly
• Turkish pride - there were flags hanging everywhere, on the streets, in shops, on people's windows

- Istanbul

• be very careful with the hotel you choose, as some will shamelessly lie about their location and standards
• the crowd - it is absolutely insane how many people there are and there is no way of escaping it
• lack of language skills - unfortunately a lot of people don't really speak English, apart from a few needed phrases
• beware of the street sellers - ready to rip you off and trying to shove whatever they sell down your throat!
• be careful with your pockets