Istanbul: The City of Cool

I recently travelled to Istanbul and was pleasantly surprised by this magnificent city. The old city (Sultanahmet) boasts Byzantine architecture, the richly decorated Ottoman-era Topkapi Palace, majestic Islamic mosques and the spectacular Grand Bazaar; in Old Istanbul there was plenty to occupy my time.

I stayed at The Four Seasons on the Bosphorus and the setting of this beautiful hotel was a wonderful retreat after long days of touring.

I spent my days with a local named Ismet, who owned a rug shop in the Old Bazaar. We learned about Istanbul’s rich history and Turkish culture as it exists today and of course a bit about Turkey's infamous rug trade! Seeing Istanbul from a local’s perspective provided a very unique travel experience!

Food is something to look forward to in Istanbul and Ismet introduced us to wonderful local eateries. Pushcarts are a way of life in Istanbul and are definitely worth a try, however being presented with “your choice” of fresh whole fish, pungent spices, yogurts, cucumbers and tomatoes are all items that stay forever in my mind.

If you've made it to Istanbul then you have to drop in on Asia. Yes, Asia! Istanbul is the only city in the world to straddle two continents both Europe and Asia. It is a charming experience to take the ferry over as you watch the seagulls and take in the sights of Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque. Here you will find a hip chic modern society with beautiful parks, neighborhoods with historic mansions and shopping galore. Young hip Turks fill the outdoor cafes, bohemian shops and art galleries line the streets and as you hang out and take it all in, you realize this city beats!
- Tammy Zacks