Destination attractions things to do in istanbul

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Istanbul, the capitol of the fallen Ottoman Empire, is perhaps one of the most historically significant and diverse travel destinations available, and is no further from the west than the outlying Greek Islands. Its historical attractions are innumerable, and often are inseperable from the city itself; Istiklal Avenue, near Taksim Square, in the business district, sports a United Colors of Benneton, and a Burger King situated only a few hundred feet from a centuries-old Mosque. While the anachronisms might be disturbing, at times, as one travels the city one will find that they are not altogether out of place. Istanbul is a city of the 2nd Century, the 13th, and the 21st in very much equal parts.

One of the supposed seven wonders of the world resides in Sultanahmet, the Hagia Sophia, or to locals the Ayasofia. Completed in 532 in what was then Constantinople, the eastern capitol of the Holy Roman Empire, the Hagia Sofia has been hailed as one of the most considerable architectural and artistic works of mankind, supporting a vast apparently unsupported dome. It is home to numerous mosaics depicting the Saints and Christ, which have been restored in the past years after their coverage by Turkish invaders in 1453, when Istanbul became the central hub of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can walk within feet of these mosaics, and can enter most of the sections of the building, including the original second tier, which looks out over the incredible apparent expanse of the interior. The Sophia is known for the illusionary accentuation of its already formidable interior. The floors are marble, worn soft and deep from many centuries of foot traffic, and the stairs to the second tier are original cobblestone with small windows and torch-racks, supporting a catacomb-like atmosphere until one reaches the top. Unknown to many, the Sophia's banisters are marked in places with actual Viking graffiti, including a few full names readable to historians. The Ayasofia is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

The famous Blue Mosque, a one-time competitor to the beauty of the Ayasofia and a construct of the city's later Ottoman rulership is an active mosque, as opposed to the Sophia's museum construct. Visitors are welcomed, but asked to observe the peace of the mosque. Women are expected to use head coverings, which are provided upon entry. The scarves are not obligatory, but it is in good form to submit in this case, no matter what your pride. Shoes are not permitted on the woven fabric carpets of the interior, and can be taken off at the entrance. There is a large visiting area, where one can see and, if refraining from flash, photograph the immaculate tiling that gave the mosque its name. On exit, a small donation of any appropriate amount is asked of visitors.

The final, and perhaps most historically rich member of the city's three "absolutely obligatory" sights is Topkapi Palace, the former headquarters of the Ottoman Empire, now a museum to the achievements of the empire and to the Moslem faith. Its name actually means "Cannon Gate", for its incredible fortification in past times. As with many museums in Istanbul, non-residents of Turkey are required to pay an entry fee that is quite small by foreign standards. It's well worth it. Inside you'll see the incredible courtyard, numerous historical exhibits, and most impressive, a holy room dedicated to the relics of Muhammad, including personal items, a personal letter written by him to a subordinate, his sword, a lock of his hair and other sacred treasures of Islam.

Most of the city's sights are found in Sultanahmet, the historical district, though you may have to travel around a bit for some others. Istanbul is a big city. Cab fares, however, are entirely reasonable, so long as you are confident and don't get cheated. Carry Turkish money, and small denominations (a few 5 million bills are sufficient), if you think you might look like an unwary traveller. Travel across the city for one or two people should run something under 12 million liras. You'll notice this is a good deal cheaper than, say, US cab fares, as one million liras is (as of 2004) about seventy cents, making twelve million liras about eight bucks--and Istanbul is, as I said, a big, big city. Food in the city is exceptionally cheap, as well. A good restaurant off the beaten path can cost five million for a kebap entree, which comes with vegetables and is usually quite excellent (if you've got a taste for spice, I might recommend the Adana kebap).

Turkish wine and beer are world-renowned. Efes is the Turkish "Budweiser", so to speak, in that it's everywhere, but it is an exceptional drink in every way that American domestics are not. Its best seller is the original Pilsner, which is a bit heavier than German or Dutch beers, but is not so filling as to be a poor dinner choice. At a 7-11 (yes, they have them in Taksim), you might pay 1.25 million for a large 50cl bottle of Efes (33cl is closest the American 12oz, by the way). With dinner, Efes will run somewhere between three and five million per large glass. If you drink beer, do not leave Turkey without trying Efes, if possible, without taking some back with you. Efes Dark is also sold, which is a bit lighter than, say, Guinness, and tasty, but not exceptional in the manner of the Pilsner. A light is also available that tastes quite a lot like MGD.

Sweet red wines are the turkish specialty, and can be found at a convenience store for about five million (palatable low end) to fifteen million for a reasonable high-end. Forty, fifty, or one hundred million lira bottles certainly exist, but are found at more glamorous locations than the 7-11, or private convenience store. Watch out for imported liquor like whiskey and tequila, because it will not be cheap. However, be sure to take home a bottle of Raki, a local licorice-like clear liquor that can be purchased almost anywhere for reasonably little, usually under the Yeni brand. It's about half alcoholic content, but it's usually mixed with chilled water to create a milky, slightly sweet alcoholic drink that's quite palatable with or after dinner. Shots are, of course, excellent too, and go down very smooth as compared to drinks of similar alcoholic content, like vodka.

The clubs stay open late, all night in places, as Istanbul is dedicated to its dance scene. Despite the 99% Moslem population of Turkey and the popular conception of it as a conservative nation, its cities have gay and lesbian populations roughly average for a European nation, and the city is home to many gay clubs. Specific information on gay tourism to Istanbul can be found in travel guides or on the internet. One major attraction to Turkey for Europeans and Americans is its incredibly low cost of living, by international standards. A kilo (more than two pounds) of cherries from a street vendor will run about three million liras, or $2 USD. Dinner for two can come to less than $15 USD, with multiple alcoholic drinks.

Last of all, the Turkish people love Americans and Europeans, and are eager to learn English and other languages. Many people will flag you down, wishing to sell you things, but many will also flag you down in order to make friends. On my trip, I met a lot of unexpected well-wishers and pen-pals after being waved down for a hat compliment, or something equally suspicious, and even got free drinks out of the deal. Be careful of pickpockets and the like, and don't be afraid to politely ignore carpet dealers (who really do get a bit pushy), but don't be afraid to have fun, either. Istanbul is a wonderful, safe, developed city, and it's full of people who are entirely open to new ideas and Western visitors. Be as cautious as you would visiting Washington or London, and you will have a wonderful stay in Istanbul.