TURKEY
Country Overview:
"Turkey, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, where delectable cuisine and a resilient spirit intertwine."
My journey to Istanbul in August 2020, during a time of limited travel options, was a serendipitous escape. The city embraced me with open arms, its rich history, bustling streets, and culinary delights leaving a lasting impression. I spent nearly three months exploring Istanbul's hidden corners, immersing myself in the local culture, and savoring every bite of its world-renowned cuisine. Although my time in Turkey was shorter than I would have liked, the memories of its welcoming people, breathtaking landmarks, and mouthwatering street food will forever hold a special place in my heart. Turkey is a destination that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul.
Istanbul Is Awesome
The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of Istanbul. It is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and offers a panoramic vista of Istanbul's historic peninsula. Unfortunately, it was closed for restoration, so couldn’t go inside.
Galata Tower was the tallest building in Istanbul at 219.5 ft when it was built in 1348.
I thought this was interesting: In 1875, during a storm, the conical roof on the top of the building was destroyed. The tower remained without this conical roof for the rest of the Ottoman period. Many years later, during the restoration works between 1965 and 1967, the conical roof was reconstructed. IT DIDN’T HAVE A ROOF FOR ALMOST 100 YEARS! Come on, Turkey…
The split picture of me is half in front of the real Hagia Sophia and half in front of the miniature version from the Miniturk park.