2014 First Stop: Istanbul

We touched down in Turkey and found ourselves in crisp, spring-like weather outside the plane at Ataturk Airport.  At first it felt warm, compared to the sub-zero temps back home, but as the sun went down we found ourselves relying on our jackets and scarves to keep warm.

Touch down at Istanbul, Jan 29 about 4 pm.

Touch down at Istanbul, Jan 29 about 4 pm.

We decided to make the most out of our 8-hour layover in Istanbul by taking a tour of Old Town and seeing some of the most historic sights.  So we hopped on the Metro for an adventure.

Beautiful mosaic at the Metro public transport, Ataturk Airport, Istanbul.

Beautiful mosaic at the Metro public transport, Ataturk Airport, Istanbul.

What we discovered were the most beautiful sights and the most historic landmarks from the Ottoman empire, along with the unique colors and designs we found in the many  Turkish shops along the way.

Shopping on the streets of Istanbul

Shopping on the streets of Istanbul

Islamic architecture everywhere

Islamic architecture everywhere

Turkish cat sleeping among the Turkish pillows

Turkish cat sleeping among the Turkish pillows

Pomegranates and fruits for sampling

Pomegranates with other fruits and vegetables for sampling

From the Ottoman Empire...

From the Ottoman Empire…

Brilliant bazaar lights

Brilliant bazaar lights

Yes, we made it to the Grand Bazaar!  But it was closed.... Something to look forward to for next time.

Yes, we made it to the Grand Bazaar! But it was closed…. Something to look forward to for next time.

 

Now, we’re off to see the Blue Mosque.

 

 

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