A TURKISH DELIGHT
We’d been told by many that Istanbul is a massive city with a massive population and a massive heart so we only got to scratch the very surface in our four days there. We chocked in so much but could still do with another few weeks and be only half way through it. We checked out the regular haunts and jaunts like the Blue Mosque, Aya Sofia, the underground Cisterns (a possible fave), Taksim Square… the list goes on. Of course, we checked out the Grand Bazaar as well as the Egyptian/Spice Bazaar – along with the entire Istanbulian population of 16 million. The Spice Bazaar was absolutely incredible with all five senses being tickled by the plethora of exotic goodies, particularly the freshly ground herbs, teas, olives, cheeses and of course their staple Turkish Delight – running rings around ol’ Frankie Frasca’s offerings. Spoilt for choice, we sampled the best Turkish Delight in the world, possibly the universe, and are both willing to return to Istanbul just for another slice of that incredible pistachio-riddled, chewy goodness. We also crossed the Bosphorus river and were literally in Asia – as Istanbul is sprawled over Europe and Asia meaning that this amazing city defines the expression “East Meets West”. Contrary to what some imagine back home, Istanbul is one of THE friendliest places in the world. In fact, we’re going to call it and say that the people of Istanbul are the friendliest in the world and considering the cultural diversities, that’s a big call. People would literally stop us in the street just to chat, help or make conversation – and then go on their merry way without trying to sell you a genuine fake Rolex. By far, the most obvious cultural contrast was our experience in the Hammam (traditional Turkish baths). Of course, we couldn’t take the normal option and go to the most popular ones where all of the tourists go, so we found a 300 hundred year old one in the back streets where just locals go. Without giving away too much detail, let’s just say that any prudish inhibitions are put on ice as you strip down and are scrubbed by a stranger with their “bare essentials” on, minus the “essentials” in the Kez’s instance. Armed with nothing but a language barrier, Kez held back as much embarrassment-fueled giggling as practicable as her 70 year old “washer lady” took off her kit to just her holey undies representing a similar age to their owner. And how does a non-English speaking Turk instruct a non-Turkish speaking Aussie to turn around? A soapy slap on the ass of course!
WIN:
Turkish Turkish Delight.
FAIL:
Australian Turkish Delight.
SHOUT OUTS:
Cath Berben – pretty sure we went to the same Hamam as you.
To the folk to flipped their car alongside us : hope you had a speedy recovery.
theflightclub 