I’m saddened by the recent political developments in Turkey. Istanbul has always been one of my favorite cities to visit and now I find myself avoiding going through it like I normally would on my way east, as I’m sure many others do. It remains one of the most interesting and vibrant mixes of culture, architecture, history, people. I hope things return to what they were before so I can soon drink tea looking at the Bosphorus again.
I’ve been to the city many times, often as a stop over to places like Nepal or South East Asia. And with the little time you have, you’re tempted to always go for the touristy stuff — Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque or Kapalıçarşı, the Grand Bazaar. Don’t get me wrong, those are still worth seeing, but there’s more to Istanbul.
On my last visit in 2015, we decided discover a bit of the hidden Constantinople…
The orthodox church of St. George.
Turkey pride.
Cool corner building.
Colorful Istanbul. And the kid’s face is priceless 🙂
Pals.
I think they wanted to make a statement with the mosque 😉
Candles.
Let’s hang.
Safety first.
Parenting done right.
The back streets
Tried helping her, but she waved me away saying she’ll handle it. Tough lady 🙂
A friendly sniff.
Because there’s no better place for a chat than the middle of the street 😉
It’s hard for me to pick the one I like the most 🙂
Dead end.
Golden.
Favorite shot.
As far as final resting places go, this one is one of the better ones I’ve seen. I think you can tell a lot about a city by how they handle cemeteries.
Contrast at sundown. What a moment.
If you’ve never been to this incredible city, I highly recommend you go. Hope that we’re able to sooner rather than later.
In a Search of Balance 
Agreed! One of my favorite trips. Although it didn’t hurt that we were able to swing by Bulgaria 😉
Good times! You should come over again, I’ve got a place for you to crash now 😉
Yes! Once I’m no longer a poor student. Countdown is on!
I’ve been hearing of this magical moment for a while now 😉 And yet here you are traveling in Asia 😉
I too, love Istanbul. Your photos are very beautiful and full of life.
Appreciate it, Suvi! Have you been there more than once?
Sadly only once, for a week 💕
Such beautiful words about one of your favorite places. Thank you for showing this to us through your eyes. My heart goes out to you at this troubled time – may you have happier days there soon.
Thank you, Betty! It hasn’t affected me directly as much, but considering Bulgaria borders with Turkey, any instability in the region is something to be mindful of. I too hope things settle down, but having seen the rise to power of the current leader there, I doubt he’ll go easily.
Take care and keep sharing your beautiful posts.
Beautiful photos and perspective. I do hope things work out for them politically. Thanks for sharing!
Always glad to see you stop by, Shannon 🙂
Beautiful series of photographs ~ what an incredible photographic eye you have. Bringing to life the wonders of Instanbul even with all the turmoil the country is feeling right now.
Thanks for the lovely words!
Totally agree! I LOVE Istanbul
Those are some great photos! Love them
Thanks, Leen!
lovely captures of raw colors, thanks for sharing