Istanbul

- Submitted by JoAnn Johnson

Istanbul

Istanbul—the name alone sounds exotic and mysterious.  My friend and I spent several days there at Easter and loved it!  The spring flowers were in bloom which was an added bonus.

Must see attractions include:

Hagia Sophia – Church completed in A.D. 537.  Fantastically beautiful!  If you can only see one thing in Istanbul, make this it!

Topaki Palace – Wander the grounds at your leisure and drink up the beauty!

The Grand Bazaar – One of the largest and oldest shopping areas in the world—4000+ shops!  Try some Turkish Delight (candy)!

Mosque of Slueiman the Magnificent and the Blue Mosque – The minarets (towers from which the summons to prayer are cried) symbolize Istanbul.  Take a tour inside the mosques.

Cruise up the Bosporus Strait – Sit back and relax and view the many palaces, etc., along the way.  Sail under the bridge connecting Europe and Asia!

Cistern – A “different” type of attraction!  It’s an ancient underground water storage area!  Look for the two Medusa heads!

One of the best things about Istanbul, however, is there are CATS EVERYWHERE!

During this trip we felt completely safe.  The people were very friendly and many of them speak English.  Watch out for the taxi drivers trying to cheat you at the Grand Bazaar!

Country countdown for 2012:  Goal is to visit 8 new countries this year.   2 down.  6 to go.