I knew Europe was in my future. I just didn’t know how. As long as I can remember, I’ve been entranced by Europe—the cozy walkways and coffee shops, the family-run stores, the food, and the “step back in time” feel many European cities offer. Yes, I, like countless other girls, envisioned kissing my Prince Charming at the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Instead, I kissed him beside the Bosphorous Sea. My husband is from Turkey. We met in California while he was getting his MBA here. He planned on returning, but, as all good fairy tales go, we fell in love and he stayed…for me. I’ve been to Turkey twice and each visit is lovelier than the last.
If you’ve never been to Istanbul, imagine a modern city with Old World charm. There is big business to be done in Istanbul. There is also big shopping to be done. Take a stroll on Bada Street and you’ll find the finest in clothing and accessories. Hungry? Stop in at one of the delicious, cozy cafes lining the street. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal of Kepbabs and rice. Trust me when I tell you Turkish food is the best I’ve ever had.
If you’re in the mood for culture, you won’t have to look far. Amazing historical sites fill Istanbul; sites like Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahce Palace, and of course, the famous bazaars. The mosques are amazing to see in person and the architecture is unlike anything you’ll find here. .
Take a boat across the Bosphorous Sea to the Prince’s Islands. There, you can take a carriage ride along cobblestone streets, amidst baked potato vendors and family-owned stores beckoning you inside.
But I’d have to say my favorite part of all when visiting Istanbul, was looking outside my mother-in-law’s window at dinnertime. The sun was setting and a golden light shone on the mosque in front of us. In every direction, I could see women in the kitchen preparing meals or families outside on their balconies enjoying dinner or a friendly game of Tavla.
Istanbul is a modern city, but it sticks to its roots. Though major grocery chains now abound, small markets still line the streets. And although Gloria Jeans and Starbucks now attract locals, there’s still nothing quite like the cozy coffee shops, where you can sip Turkish coffee in an espresso-type glass, while sitting next to the aqua ripples of the Bosphorous Sea.
If you’ve never been to Istanbul, I hope you’ll go someday. The people are welcoming and kind, the food is delicious beyond words, and the scenery is culturally and aesthetically awe-inspiring.