the bul

Istanbul, aka 'The Bul', aka one of the most inspiring places I've ever been. I didn't know what to expect from Istanbul, thinking back I think I thought it would be more like Morocco without much westernisation. I was totally blown away. It is so much more European than I ever imagined it to be. The architecture is impressive and grand; the winding streets through the hilltops are absolutely breathtaking. It was nothing like I had imagined it to be. The contrast between the upper and lower classes was captivating and in your face, shanty-like housing up against the imposing and over the top mosques set an amazing scene. The people are warm and friendly, the culture is consuming. The Grand Bazaar... I have no words, it deserves its own post. It was my idea of both heaven and hell, you could be lost in there for days and never find your way out. I couldn't blow Istanbul's trumpet more. The colour, the culture, the architecture, the vibe. GO. You have to, it's not an option.