City of Istanbul
I went to Istanbul for a short break. There are countless reasons to visit Istanbul – it’s a fascinating city, has captivating history, intricate architecture, lovely people, delicious food and the best shopping in all of Europe, just to name a few! Istanbul has been the capital of three empires, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman and which sits on two continents. Turkey may be known for classics such as Turkish Delight or Turkish Coffee, but it is actually the world’s largest producer of hazelnuts. Turkish hazelnuts make up around 72.9% of the world’s supply. However, amongst all the attractions history makes Istanbul a special place. I spent one whole day in and around Sultan Ahmet Square. The area was extremely busy, there was no difference between day & night and it was fasting month for the followers of Islam.
Harem & Topkapi Palace.
Topkapi Palace served as the main residence & administrative headquarters of Ottoman Sultans. The palace & Harem are likely to have more colourful stories than most of the world’s museums put together. Harem was a part of a Muslim house dedicated to the family & closed to the outside world. It was in these special quarters of Ottoman Palace that the dynasty lived. Non-Muslim concubines were sometimes accepted in the palace harem. thus, they had a chance to become part of the dynasty as sultan’s wives & even becoming queen mother. I spent the day in the palace & very colourful and interesting place-Harem
Hotels & Restaurants
I stayed in Beyaz Konak an Ajwa Home, ideally situated in Old City Sultanahmet district of İstanbul, very close to famous landmarks of Istanbul. It was a cosy place & felt like a mini palace.
