Istanbul

Istanbul, capital to one of the world's greatest empires for over 1500 years, is today a buzzing, cosmopolitan modern city. Too crowded for my liking, but I must admit it is full of breathtakingly elegant architecture and wonderful surprises. It kind kind of grows on me little by little with each visit.

It is famous for the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque because of its interior blue Ottoman tile works. This imperial mosque built in 1609-1616 is an example of classical Turkish architecture and it is the only mosque that was originally built with six minarets. I do not particularly like going there in the day as it is always crowded, but its the best time to have its photos taken. But I do enjoy the countless quiet moments that I have spent sitting on one of the many old wooden benches just in front of this majestic mosque.

Another favourite touristy place of mine is the Hagia Sophia Museum, one of the most impressive and important buildings ever constructed. It served as a church for about 1000 years, a mosque for about 500 years and finally now a museum since 1935. The interior still leaves me gawking, even after visiting numerous times.

There are, of course, other places to visit like the Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Egyptian Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, Ortakoy, Pierre Loti, the Bosphorus, Dolmabahce Palace and the list goes on. All these are a must see. But the most important thing for me when I am in Istanbul is to just sit among locals where I can enjoy a cup of tea while witnessing the sun setting beyond the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace. Away from the hustle and bustle of the other tourists. Drop me an email if you want to know my secret place :) but then again, it might not even be a secret place anymore.