We welcomed the new year in Istanbul and explored one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. It is the only city that spans two continents, with a long bridge connecting its European and Asian sides. Thanks to its strategic location, Istanbul has long served as a hub for regional trade routes. We had the opportunity to experience its unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Turkish Food and drink

The prospect of Istanbul’s cuisine excited Zander. In Switzerland, the Turkish döner kebab is our favourite street food. Turkish immigrants caused döner kebabs to gain popularity in Germany during the 1970s. Inexpensive, tasty, and filling, they quickly became a favourite meal for workers, students, and late-night revellers.

One of the most popular drinks to accompany street food is Ayran, a salty, light, and frothy yoghurt drink. Ayran quenches thirst and replenishes the salt lost through sweating in the hot Turkish summers.

We treated ourselves daily to Turkish tea and sometimes enjoyed a sweet treat like Baklava. Baklava consists of layers of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

We also tried Salep, a beloved winter drink in Turkey. A differentiating ingredient in this warm and sweet beverage is the powdered roots of various orchid species. People from the Ottoman Empire introduced Salep to Istanbul. People valued warm and sweet Salep as a comfort drink and an aphrodisiac. We loved Salep which reminded us of milk tart filling spiced with cinnamon.

They also use Salep powder in Turkish ice cream. It gives the ice cream a firm texture and makes it resistant to melting. This is a useful feature in the scorching summer heat.

Bazaars

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. They began construction in 1461 and the purpose of the bazaar was to organise and regulate the city’s trade activities. People often consider it one of the first shopping malls in the world. Today, the bazaar features 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops offering various local products. Haggling for better prices is an essential part of the experience, and Zander skillfully negotiated to buy accessories requested by his friends at great prices.

The Egyptian, or Spice Bazaar, is a historic indoor market established in the 17th century. It is renowned for its extensive selection of herbs and spices. We enjoyed sampling a variety of delicacies in this vibrant and aromatic market.

Locals shop for household items at various street markets, where all produce is seasonal and mainly grown in Turkey.

Landmarks representing Four Empires

Istanbul boasts a rich history, having served as the capital of four empires: the Roman Empire (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395-1204), the Latin Empire (1204-1261), the Byzantine Empire again (1261-1453), and the Ottoman Empire (1453-1922). We explored several landmarks and experienced the unique blend of Christian and Islamic sites.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, a prime example of Ottoman architecture, is an active place of worship open to all visitors, provided they wear appropriate clothing. Blue Iznik tiles featuring intricate floral patterns, geometric designs, and calligraphy adorn the interior walls.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, meaning “Holy Wisdom” in Greek, is one of Istanbul’s most sacred and breathtaking landmarks. Built in 537 AD, it has a history spanning over 1,400 years and has served as a centre of religious, artistic, and political significance. It attracts countless visitors annually and people often call it the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Hagia Sophia was originally a church, later a mosque, and now a museum. Its stunning architecture reflects the influence of both Byzantine and Ottoman design.

Our accommodation was next to a mosque, and the call to prayer broadcast over the loudspeakers reminded us of regular daily prayers. Being so close to the conflicts in Istanbul’s neighbouring countries heightened my awareness of the need to pray for peace in the world.

Basilica Cistern

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies the Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century marvel that once stored water for the city. The 336 columns, some adorned with haunting Medusa heads, support the ancient underground reservoir.

Notable films such as Inferno and From Russia with Love have used the cistern’s eerie atmosphere as a dramatic backdrop, enhancing its allure and cultural significance.

Pedestrianised Istiklal Caddesi

Istiklal Street, the city’s most famous thoroughfare, is a vibrant entertainment centre. This pedestrian street buzzes with activity and is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and street performers. We visited just before New Year’s and saw Istiklal Caddesi beautifully decorated with festive lights.

Balat

Historically, Balat has been a haven for minorities in the city, particularly Jewish and Greek Orthodox families. We will remember Balat for its colourful houses lining the sloping cobbled streets.

Many of these homes are over 50 years old, with some dating back up to 200 years. The cafés and restaurants are picturesque, and the food offerings reflect the district’s diversity.

Our pictures share more about our visit.

Our visit to Istanbul was a positive experience and we returned with colourful memories. Travel is a gift that keeps on giving.

Regards

Emsia