Highlights of Istanbul

We took an impromptu trip to Turkey and fell in love with the city of Istanbul. With a city that lies in both Europe and Asia, it is a city of dualities. Buildings that date back to the Byzantine Empire stand right next to a modern new structure—the contrast of old and new is quite remarkable. We visited the Hagia Sophia that was built in the year 360. It was originally a church and then later converted to a mosque. Arabic writing stands next to pictures of Jesus. It’s so interesting to see such contrast side by side.

A short stroll away from the Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque.

Istanbul is a walkable city, we strolled the streets of the Sultanahmet and visited the Grand Bazaar, the historic train station, Silk Road, the New Mosque, and the Spice Bazaar. The people are very friendly and serve the best Turkish tea in tulip glasses.