Here at last after an arduous flight - 19 hours in the air and it certainly took its toll on our bodies. But that was yesterday. Istanbul is absolutely amazing - big, beautiful, fascinating and friendly. Everybody we have met, from hotel staff, guides, shopkeepers - all are courteous to a fault and seem to genuinely want to help to make our stay memorable. And it will be.
Went to the Spice Market this morning - incredible sights and smells. Accepted cups of tea from one stallholder (and only spent about $20 dollars with him - we just hope that we can bring vaccuum-packed spices back into Australia). Then on a cruise of the Bosphorus, almost to the Black Sea, with a backdrop of castles, mosques, defensive towers and walls, and magnificient private homes. Then up the Galata Tower, built in 528 by Byzantine Emperor Justinianus, for spectacular 360 degree views of Istanbul. Then after a walk across the bridge joining the two sides of Istanbul (and in fact walking from Europe to Asia in the process) we have made our way back to our hotel to rest before a night of feasting and belly-dancing (as spectators if not participants).
Tomorrow we look at palaces, mosques, museums and the Grand Bazaar before taking off early Saturday for a two day tour of Gallipoli and Troy.
We're loving it!
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