Istanbul

Istanbul

The flight to Istanbul is one to be remember! 

To begin with... I got striped down, sent to extra security for me and Mochi in Tel Aviv because security lady did not like that I was argentinean living in U.S. She couldn't figure it out.

Later the guy next to me kept yawning and doing like Indian with his hand and mouth! Jajaja...ohhhh, need to say there was a CHEF on the plane! Dress as CHEF and everything!  Will try to take pic on next flight.

Once I landed in turkey things went by very smoothly! Took a taxi to hostel. Once at the stray Cat Hostel the staff was super warm and helpful. They gave me a map and showed me all the good stuff to do around here. After dropping my bag in my bed (it's like claiming that this is bed is mine and you better don't touch! Jajaja) left to the Asian side of Istanbul. Literally is on the Asian continent. How cool that one country is in two continents.

The views from there were outstanding! Breathless and with a magnificent sunset! 

That night I just took it easy and hang out at the hostel.

Day 2. 

Woke up bright and early and left the hostel at 9am to start seeing the city. Up the hill I went! It reminded me of my days in San Francisco and how out of shape I am. From there down hill on a beautiful kind of Lincoln rd. 

Cross the bridge from modern town to old town.  Got lost in the spice market, it's just like a shuk! In my modest opinion the shuk has more beauty it still looks old! From there to the grand bazaar where I did some shopping, bargain some prices, and left happy with just why I wanted to buy.

Visited the Blue Mosque, Haga Sofya,  Cistern, walked in Sultanamed, are a traditional Turkish lunch at a local spot that Eda suggested. What a funny and unique experience. Was told to sit at a table with 3 ladies that were having lunch. I introduced my self, chat a bit, and even shared my dessert! Jaja.

Once back to the hostel met 2 girls: Oona and Rosa. We took a boat around the Istanbul coast and to see the sunset.

I need to confess that I fell in the trap: I bought the selfie stick! Omg! It makes taking picture on my won soooooo much better! I'm so happy!

We went for dinner together and then beers to a bar they been the day before.

The manager, Husseim, is from Kazakistan. We started talking about its history and he mentioned that he loves Israel and U.S. Because they are the only two countries that supported them in the fight to become a country. He knows so much about israel! I was surprise!

Day 3

Woke up and took the morning easy! In the afternoon we walked around Cahingir with Rosa. Cahingir is a nice hipster town full of antique shops and cute cafes.

Tonight I am taking a 12 hrs bus to Capadoccia! :) Rosa from Belgium is also traveling!