Istanbul is one of those cities which I hardly can put in words. Its vibrant and at the same time its stuck somewhere between asian and european. It moves forward and backwards and ends up being the most mixed up city, I have ever visited. Its shaking and holding its feet together facing Erdogans political system. But there is a warm feeling of home for every visitor. The feeling of being able to ask everybody for help and the crazy way of loving live, despite all the struggles that are facing the arabic world. Only two days after we left, was a bombing in a touristic area. I feel ready now to show you how I have visited Istanbul with my boyfriend and will take you for a walk through the hidden Parts. Lets start:
1. We start our Day in Beyoglu, the western Area of Istanbul. We get a Pomme Granate Juice for 3 TL, which is less than one euro. We drink it, its so sweet that we get goosebumps - feels detox though.
2. We move up the Fatih Sultra street, in the direction of some turkish coffee shops. There are so many cats on the streets, they literally rule the city. It feels like we have a thousand pets and every one of them is cuddly and sweet. I wanted to touch all of them, but he is definitely the King: Cat Master.
3. From there, we recommend to get a cab (they are very cheap there, probably 1/3 of the German prices) to SantralIstanbul - where a wonderful private University awaits you. Its placed next to an old heat station - and its huge (and for free) we literally hung out there for hours, took pictures, explored the old techniques and watched kids discover the world of electricity. Downstairs, you can get Boza, a turkish beer - drink made with chickpeas and starch.
4. When you leave the Santral Istanbul, you cross the river in direction of Eyüp, walking close to the water in the beautiful modern Park. Watch the people feeding the Birds with yesterdays bread. Its breathtaking how many Birds come from all directions, collecting themselves in the air above the dry slices, flying in a secret system and landing on the surface. Keep on walking and you will see to your right the Pierre Loti with old grave yards and a beautiful view if you climb up. (or take the ropeway)
5. Finally arrived in Eyüp, take a cab again, because walking would take one hour. Drive down the river to Fener, one of the most authentic and beautiful Areas of Istanbul (my opinion). All those little streets and shops show you a wide variety of lifestyles and cultural edges. Between woman who do not cover their hair and complete burkas, you might spot tiny mosques, fresh foods and secret spaces. Definitely worth visiting!
