American Girls in Istanbul
- elizabethhaus
- Feb 11, 2017
- 3 min read
Istanbul, Turkey had always been at the top of my travel list. Coming from a small town in Missouri, I was not always exposed to the larger world. In college in Florida I took an art history class and was particularly taken with a certain landmark, Hagia Sophia. From that moment I knew I wanted to visit Istanbul. Admittedly, my political knowledge was limited. I only saw beauty and a place unlike I had ever seen before.
Cut to years later, and I had an opportunity to travel to Istanbul with a group of girlfriends for a bachelorette party. You may be thinking what others said: "Why on Earth would you go to Istanbul for a bachelorette party". Well, let's start with price. To fly to Istanbul, we paid between $800-$1000 (the higher end being because I came last minute). A flight to Las Vegas these days can run around $500. We stayed in the beautiful W Hotel
http://www.wistanbul.com.tr/ , which is in a trendy neighborhood just a short ride from the Old City. Our rooms were only $220 each night, and we shared with a friend. Beyond that, Istanbul is well-priced with a lot of options. All in all, for spending just a few hundred more, we truly got the experience of a lifetime. Looking back, I am so grateful for the experience because with the current political turmoil, I'm not sure when the next time I would be able to go is.
My lasting impression of Istanbul is that it's truly one of a kind. It's a unique mix of old and new. The architecture there is older than we can imagine, but there's a burgeoning environment of new, trendy spots. People are incredibly friendly (not the taxi drivers), and as a woman I felt safe even while walking alone. The food, music, and general atmosphere is relaxing and exciting at the same time. Please, if you go, don't miss an authentic Turkish Bath experience (no pictures for obvious reasons) And with that, here are my snapshots
Club Suada, a glorious floating island between the Europe and Asia side of Istanbul. With just a short boat ride, you can spend the day lounging by the pool and sipping rose. At night they have restaurants and great music.
After years of waiting, I finally made it to the Hagia Sophia. It's a remarkable building with years of history. There is a bit of a line to get in, and the crowds are plenty, but it's an unforgettable experience.
There are beautiful mosques everywhere. They require a head scarf and bare feet. I chose to bring a scarf, but if you do not have one, they will provide one for you prior to entering. You may leave your shoes outside (no way jose), or they will give you a bag to carry them in. The inside houses people praying, tourists, and a true spiritual feeling.
An interior and exterior shot of the incredible Blue Mosque.
Karaköy is a trendy neighborhood outside of the Old City. Here you'll find beautiful shops, restaurants, and bars. After dinner one night we decided to have a hookah and tea nightcap at the cutest outdoor lounge. I wish hookah was more of a thing in the States!
Karaköy Güllüoğlu must be at the top of your list. Simply the best baklava you will ever have.
One thing I learned after this picture was taken: After paying to use the restroom, pay attention to what stall you are about to enter. Some are the ones we are used to, and some are simply holes in the ground. I got lucky, my friend did not.
Your trip won't be complete without a trip to the Grand Bazar. Please for the love of the god leave room in your suitcase for all of the goodies you'll get. From leather goods, to unusual jewelry, to delicious spices-it's all available. You could spend all day in here. And remember, everything is negotiable!
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