Just returned from a trip to Istanbul. It was terrific. The sites were wonderful (the main ones and smaller ones.) The Blue Mosque is a must see especially if you can observe quietly and respectfully in the rear during the late afternoon prayer. I suggest getting out of the main tourist areas and experiencing some of the neighborhoods. I encountered a group of school kids by the Feityeh Camii; they were so excited to meet an American and were anxious to practice their English. They even volunteered to accompany me on my walk to Balat. One played her flute for me! I stayed at an Ottoman style hotel in the Sultanahmet area. Great location. Easy to walk to the main sites, the covered market, Eminonu and surrounding area.. A Bosporous ferry ride is a must although the 3 hour stop at Anadolu Kivagari is too long. The people I met were kind, friendly and helpful. I got lost a couple of times and was able to easily get re-directed by local folks. (For women travellers: I was travelling alone and never had a problem; just need to totally ignore some of the heckling and attempts at conversation; I was able to comfortably walk to most sites in Old Istanbul. Of course, I did not venture out alone in the late evening, although walking around in the early evening was okay.) Thanks to all of you who were helpful in answering my questions about Istanbul and who encouraged me to stick to my travel plans in spite of the PKK activities. Istanbul is a fabulous place -- go if you can!
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Thanks for the info, Marjorie.
We are going soon. Perhaps you could e-mail me, and we
could discuss Istanbul further?