Well folks, here are some pictures from today. I went sight-seeing with my friend. It just so happens to be a major holiday here, so we weren't able to take in all that the European City typically has to offer. That being said, we still had a delightful day. The two of us ventured off on our own, with our map in hand. We first took the train from to the ferry (wohoo, we got a new train). This was my first experience on a train here. It was packed. We were squished in and people didn't hesitate to push their way through the crowds. I don't think I will get used to that, but what can you expect in a city of 13.5 million people (not counting all of the tourists who visit on big cruise ships, or otherwise). After the train, we got on the ferry. It was a beautiful day- blue sky and spectacular view of the city. We sat on the ferry and drank our chai and ate our "grilled cheese" sandwiches. My apologies, I don't know the Turkish word for the sandwich we ate today. When the ferry docked we saw lots of fishermen along the dock and smelled the seafood restaurants. We took the tram over to the Grand Bazaar; however, both the Grand Bizaar and the Spice Bizaar were closed due to the Holiday. Although it was too bad, I'm sure there will be lots of other opportunities to visit. We did go to the Blue Mosque. I have always felt strange about touring religious sites. This was particular uncomfortable becuase the mosque is open to the public, even though people go there to do their daily prayers. So at the front of the mosque, men were engaging in prayer and then at the back, in a closed section, women were doing the same. Afterwards got a sweet treat, as you will see pictured below. Then we went for lunch. Yummy! After lunch we enjoyed Starbucks- my first one in this city and sat on a bench and had a heartfelt conversation. It was kind of neat to just sit and "people watch." Here are the pictures from our day.
picture taken on the ferry
Where the ferry docked on the European Side
Today was especially busy because families were traveling during the Holiday
M and I eating our sweet candy
sweet candy- like a starburst!
Blue Mosque
- 2-
Simit- an inexpensive breakfast favourite. I have yet to try it.
Balik- Fish
