So yesterday I did the western tourist thing and went to the Blue mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi palace with a girl I meet from (ironically) Berlin. What is there to say about them? they are all amazing in terms of design and the materials used to build and decorate them. Topkapi was the most interesting simply because of how much there was to see. But Hagia Sophia had some interesting elements as some of the iconic from the Greek Orthodox Church remained when it was turned into a mosque, see photos below.
Today we went with hoards of Istanbul Turks to the Princes Islands, named such as they were where the Byzantine princes were exiled. about one hour by fairy. We rented bikes and rode around the biggest of the islands, the island was nice because there were no cars, although there were lots of horse carriages we had to dodge, and then we went swimming on one of the beaches. No photos from the princes Island. Meet a couple from LA, I am happy to say I have not seen any "ugly American" tourists, though I can't say the same for Italian tourists. Ate at an amazing restaurant tonight, a "gourmet" Turkish restaurant which has a daily menu and uses seasonally foods. And best of all, or almost as good as the food, was the fact that a 3 course meal plus desert and tea cost the two of us less then 40 lira which is less then $30!
Hope everyone is well.
Joshua
Hagia Sophia, note both Islamic and Christian iconics.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, with Blue Mosque in background
Blue Mosque, does not even begin to do it justice
Beutiful photos! I have always wanted to go to Turkey and see the Hagia Sophia. Now I know I will be able to afford to eat once I get there.
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