Trying to scout out a good photo place near Topkapi Palace, but candid photos turn out best anyway!
Our first view of Topkapi Palace!
The Council of Ministers. They met in this building til the 19th century!
Imperial Hall, where the women of the court (including the sultan's favorite concubines) would gather and hold company.
When the site for Byzantium (aka modern day Istanbul) was being chosen, the seeking men were told by an oracle to look for the land "across from the land of the blind." Well, when they came across this beautiful harbor with this view, they realized that the tiny little town across the harbor HAD to be for the blind--not that they'd ever actually verify!
Lunch with a view!
Because when you see a tree with a hole in it, what else are you gonna do?
You can see the Blue Mosque in the background!
Split capture photo: me and the ceilings of the Blue Mosque. It might sound strange, but I think the mosque looks better in pictures than in person!
No shoes allowed in the mosque. Off they go--good thing I got them halfway shined yesterday! (;
A kind and welcoming sign in the mosque. We sat in the Islam Information Center for about 20 minutes learning the basics.
Onto the ferry for a cruise through the Bosphorous Strait!
Going around sunset was a good idea!
Turkish baklava--yum!
The name of this bakery/restaurant is NOLA Istanbul. I know that in Tel Aviv, there is a NOLA bakery that takes its inspiration from New Orleans pastries! I loved seeing the NOLA bakery here, but it definitely made me a little homesick for some pralines! (Hint: NOLA=New Orleans LouisianA)
And finally--you can drop me in any city in any country around the globe, and I will ALWAYS find the dog!!!
Not Pictured:
Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Spice Bazaar, where I actually successfully haggled for some souvenirs and gifts!
Numerous backstreets that showed off the residential life and hidden, non-touristy parts of Istanbul
And, the Hagia Sophia--because we wake up at 6 AM tomorrow to ensure we are the first ones there at opening!
Excited beyond belief--but definitely missing home,
Bittersweet Aubrey
No comments:
Post a Comment