The Adventure Continues…
After yesterday’s marathon seven-hour tour of Istanbul’s historic sights, we woke to beautiful sunny and warm weather, ready to continue our exploration of this captivating city.
We began our morning at the stunning Dolmabahce Palace. After tiring of the traditional Ottoman style of Topkapi Palace, and inspired by visits to the grandeur of Versailles in France and Windsor Castle in England, the Sultans commissioned this magnificent palace that brilliantly blends both European and Ottoman architectural styles. The palace sits along the Bosphorus waterfront, surrounded by expansive, beautifully manicured gardens.
Leaving the palace, we boarded a boat for a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Seeing Istanbul from the water offered an entirely new perspective on the city.
Our knowledgeable guide recommended we experience a different side of Istanbul by visiting the modern shopping district along Kadikoy Carsisi. This area was a complete contrast to the historic sites we’d been exploring—bustling, energetic, and crowded all the major brands. It gave us a wonderful glimpse into contemporary Istanbul culture.
After enjoying lunch, we made our way to Istanbul’s famous Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. This sensory experience was absolutely delightful! Everywhere we turned there were wonderful sights—mountains of colorful spices, dried fruits, nuts, teas, and Turkish delights artfully displayed. The aromas of cinnamon, saffron, cumin, and countless other spices filled the air.
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