Turkey is culturally, historically, and geographically the cradle of civilization. It has been the fountainhead for the three most powerful societies in history: the Hitite, the Byzantine, and the Ottoman Empire. Situated between the continents of Europe and Asia, the country is a fusion of the East and West. It is considered as the link between cultures, as eight countries borders this transcontinental land: Greece on the west, Iran to the east, Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan to the northeast, Bulgaria to the Northwest, and Iraq and Syria to the southeast. It is surrounded by the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean Sea to the West, and the Mediterranean Sea to the South.

Although Ankara is the state's capital, Istanbul, being the country's most populous city, has steadily grown to be the financial and cultural center. This developing metropolis, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is one of Europe's most exciting and alluring cities. Encompassing 25 districts, this vibrant city stretches towards the European (Thrace) and Asian (Anatolia) side of the Bosphorus Strait. Thus, making it the only city in the world whose home belongs to two continents. The sights, smells, and sounds will intoxicate the senses--with its inspiring architecture, savory selection of street food, and sound of prayer--makes this city a truly physical and spiritual experience.

Istanbul is not only caught between two continents, but also by two worldviews--the traditional and the modern. Despite this, most of the population live in harmony with one another. It is one of the few cities in the Muslim World that embraces both the cosmopolitan way of life and religious conservatism.


Ayla (moonlight glow) in the sky: Istanbul Events Guide

The abundance of events in Istanbul lead to an exotic and exciting trip. The Holy Month of Ramazan would have most of the people fasting from sunrise to sunset (at the exact times), therefore be polite and save your feast for sunset when they break their fast. If you really cant help yourself, there are a few restaurants and cafes open for the rare individuals choosing not to participate and for the non-Muslims. The end of Ramazan, the festival of Şeker Bayramı, is the feast of all feast. It turns into a massive party full of food, dancing, and mingling. Its also a massive cavity-fest, wherein the most tempting and delicious sweets are distributed. This three-day national holiday is when the city is truly alive with businesses closing and public transport being heartily championed.

Turkey's most important religious celebration is the Kurban Bayrami. This four-day event is the commemoration of Abraham's near sacrifice of his son Isaac on Mount Moriah. The celebration results in the city sky being filled with fireworks and sheep being sacrificed and distributed to the poor. Thus, if you would like to participate in the festivities, early planning is essential, since hotels are often fully booked and public transport tends to be packed like sardines.

Turkey, being predominantly Muslim, follow the lunar year of Hejira which is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year. Thus, every year Muslim events occur 11 days earlier.

Another interesting times to visit this thriving city is in April for the Istanbul Film Festival, where the brightest stars of Turkey come to walk the red carpet. Other great events include the Conquest of Constantinople ceremony in May, the International Istanbul Music Festival and International Istanbul Jazz Festival in June and July, the International Istanbul Biennal in September and October.


City Passion: Eating Guide

One of the most exciting aspects of travelling is trying out the local cuisine. Istanbul, for foodtrippers, taste-test junkies, and just plain old food lovers, is a 24-hour gastronomic feast. A fusion of Eastern and Western delights, the delicacies of Istanbul will invade the senses. From traditional Turkish and Mediterranean fare to international dishes, there is something to be found for every kind of palate.

The gala of food can be found anywhere and everywhere in Istanbul, such as the Divan Yolu and Akbiyik Caddesi in the Sultanahmet, but for a true 'taste' of variety, head to the Beyoglu. Walking along the Istiklal Cadesi, you'll find an array of restaurants and eateries. Ranging from doner kebap places to international style taverns, there's little chance of leaving this area on an empty stomach.

Another prime area for food aficionados is the Kumkapi fish market. With rows and rows of fish restaurants, you'll feel as though you've entered some strange "fish wonderland." At nights, the area is ablaze with firelamps, fairylights, and glittery tambourines. It's also a prime shopping location, with stalls and wandering sales people selling everything from rugs to rag dolls. Here you can fill your, if not already bloated, stomach with fillet kebaps, tamarind juice, arabic hummus, fish chowder soup, and ayva dolmasi (stuffed melon).

For those wanting to do a cook's tour of the city, check out the local markets. If you still havent had enough of fish from the Kumkapi, check out the Eminou waterfront where you can literally, buy the 'catch of the day' from the fishermen who'll even cook their catch for you for the all-inclusive price of 1 Euro. Another great area is the Egyptian market on wednesdays, where you'll find a diverse selection of spices, dried fruit, sweets, and yes, fish.

Istanbul is a city for the senses and food is its most tangible delight. With specialty restaurants, historic markets, and mouth-watering street food, eating is not only a passion and a pleasure in Istanbul--it's a way of life.

Under the carpet of stars: Accomodation Guide

To prevent a wasted night of searching for a place to sleep, head over to the Sultanahmet-Cankurtaran district South of the Blue Mosque. Here you'll find a vast selection of hostels and pensions with competitive prices. If you want a private room, make reservations during the summer when the hostels and facilities are stretched to capacity. For the more daring types, you can sleep on available roof space for 5 Euros. For those rugged souls, camping is not recommended as it is inconvenient, very few locations, and it costs as much (and sometimes more) than a cheap hotel.

For details regarding locations, check out www.mydaytrip.com

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