Either I conquer Istanbul or Istanbul conquers me. – Mehmed the Conqueror

If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital. – Napoleon Bonaparte

People were right when they say there is no other place on earth as beautiful looking as Istanbul. – Chateaubriand

Istanbul is inspiring because it has its own code of architecture, literature, poetry, music. – Christian Louboutin 

If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul. – Alphonse de Lamartine

Istanbul, a universal beauty where poet and archaeologist, diplomat and merchant, princess and sailor, northerner and westerner screams with same admiration. The whole world thinks that this city is the most beautiful place on earth.  – Edmondo De Amicis

Istanbul is a magical seal which unites Europe and Asia since the ancient times. Without a doubt, Istanbul is certainly the most beautiful place of the world. – Gerard De Nerval 

Istanbul… the constant beating of the wave of the East against the rock of the West… – Susan Moody 

All other cities are doomed, but I imagine that as long as people exist, Constantinople will exist. – Petrus Gyllius

* Constantinople is the old name of Istanbul

Life can’t be all that bad, I’d think from time to time. Whatever happens, I can always take a long walk along the Bosphorus. – Orhan Pamuk

If they say “you have your last chance to look at the world”, I wish that look would from Çamlıca of Istanbul.- Alphonse de Lamartine

* Çamlıca is a hill in Istanbul  

Read more: Istanbul Tulip Festival: the best parks to see spring flowers (+map)

14 smells of Istanbul that always bring you back there

30 inspirational travel quotes that you haven’t heard a thousand times

Pin it for later because you never know when you’re gonna need a good quote about Istanbul:

>>> Discover more thematic collections of travel quotes.

The post 11 quotes about Istanbul that explain why everyone loves it appeared first on 203Challenges.

Overview

Turkish cuisine is a perfect mix of flavors and ingredients. It is mainly derived from Ottoman cuisine – and bearing in mind how big and ethnically diverse the Ottoman Empire was, it is easy to understand why influences from at least four different cultures can be found in Turkish food today: Balkan, Asian, Arabian and Mediterranean. Though typical dishes vary across the different parts of the country, there are some common key ingredients that can be found almost universally: lamb, beef, rice, eggplants, peppers, onions and of course – for Turkey’s famous desserts – pistachios, almonds and hazelnuts.

Some must-tries

You can’t get a taste of authentic Turkish food without trying the meal that made the Imam (an Islamic Leader) faint – at least that is the legend behind the name of the famous onion and tomato stuffed eggplant dish “Imam Bayildi”. The name literally translates as “the Imam fainted” and the story goes like this: one day the wife of the Imam cooked this meal and it looked so delicious that the Imam fainted just at the sight of it.

Another star of Turkish cuisine is rice – pilaf – which is served as a side dish with almost every meal. The most popular and easiest version of this is just plain rice, cooked in water and stirred through with butter, though sometimes tomatoes, chickpeas, eggplant and various spices can be added.

And since one of the few well-known truths about life is that “pizza is always a good idea”, while in Turkey you can substitute that for what is often referred to as “the Turkish pizza” – lahmacun. The meal consists of thin dough topped with minced meat and vegetables, then sprinkled with parsley and lemon juice. It goes very well with ayran (a salty yogurt drink) and is a relatively cheap, fast snack.

Lahmacun

The sweet side of life in Turkey

Think of the sweetest thing you’ve ever eaten. Multiply that by three and you get the flavor of Turkey’s most famous dessert: baklava. Today’s baklava recipes date back to at least the 15^th century, though the initial time and place of its origin are still debatable. What’s for sure though is that baklava is one of the most popular snacks to eat between meals or with a cup of tea. Traditionally it is made from filo pastry filled with pistachio, almonds or hazelnuts and held together with syrup.

A lighter and rather fresher dessert is the Turkish muhalebbi – a creamy, milk-based pudding. It is thickened by rice flour, topped with syrup and often flavored with cinnamon, saffron and some pistachios on top.

And a trip to Turkey doesn’t even count if you don’t return home with some treats like the delicious Turkish delight (gelatinous candies made from starch and sugar), tahin (crushed sesame seeds), flour or semolina helva, or marzipan (Turkish marzipan is considered to be among the best in the world).

The coffee culture

Turkish coffee is a big part of the country’s cultural heritage. Drinking coffee is a social ritual here and has been so ever since the 16^th century, when the first coffee houses appeared in Istanbul. In fact, the Turkish lifestyle is so influenced by the beverage that even the world for breakfast (“kahvalti”) translates literally as “before coffee”. It plays a big part in some special occasions like engagements, when the bride’s coffee-making skills are judged by the groom’s family.

When you are done with your coffee, it is common for your hostess in Turkey to use the leftover ‘mud’ in the bottom of the cup for fortune telling and discovering your true thoughts and feelings.

There are some special techniques for brewing Turkish coffee that make it unlike any other. The coffee is first blended, then roasted and ground. Some special tools are needed from this point on, like the copper boiling pot (cezve) in which the coffee slowly brews, and the artistic ceramic cups in which it is served.

The tea culture

Turkish tea is black and strong and served boiling hot in a tulip-shaped glass. In the past century it has become the drink of choice for most people and is sure to be offered to guests at Turkish people’s homes. Just like coffee, there is a specific ritual for preparing Turkish tea – in a double-level teapot made specially for that purpose. First the water is poured into the bottom level, and some herbal leaves placed in the upper one. When the water starts boiling, part of the liquid rises to the top one for about 15–20 minutes. The strong drink is then served along with the rest of the water, which can be added to dilute the strength of the tea, depending on the person’s individual preferences.

The street food

The Turkish kebab that can now be found all over the world has an interesting origin. When Turkish soldiers were away from home, they used their swords to grill meat. One cook from Bursa – Iskender – took that idea, but decided to place the rotisserie vertically instead of horizontally. In doing so he became the father of the most famous Turkish kebab – the döner kebab – which is well known as one of the most delicious and popular street snacks all across Turkey (and the whole world, really!).

Another on-the go breakfast favored by a lot of Turkish people, especially in Istanbul, is the simit, which is actually one of the symbols of the city. It is easy to understand why when you smell the tempting aroma of the freshly-baked, sesame-encrusted bread rings early in the morning while the city is still waking up.

Pin it for later:

The post Turkish cuisine – menu ideas for beginners appeared first on 203Challenges.

Embracing Millennia of History

Tracing the Footsteps of Empires

Istanbul’s history is as diverse and layered as the city itself. From the days of Byzantium to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul has witnessed the rise and fall of empires that have left their mark on its landscape. The Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, stands as a symbol of the city’s historical significance.

The Blue Mosque, with its stunning blue tiles and elegant minarets, is a testament to the Ottoman era’s architectural prowess. The Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, offers a glimpse into the opulence and intrigue of a bygone era. Exploring these historical sites is like stepping into a time capsule, where the echoes of the past resound with each step.

Istanbul on a Budget: Navigating Affordably

Experiencing the City Without Breaking the Bank

While Istanbul boasts grandeur and history, it’s also a city that can be explored without straining your wallet. Istanbul on a budget is not only possible but also offers a chance to experience the city’s charm without compromising on experiences. Opting for affordable accommodations in neighbourhoods like Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu allows you to stay close to the city’s attractions.

Public transportation, including trams, buses, and ferries, is an economical way to navigate the city and reach its various districts. The Istanbul Museum Pass provides access to multiple museums and historical sites at a discounted rate, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers who want to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural offerings.

The Grand Bazaar and Beyond

Discovering the Soul of Istanbul

No exploration of Istanbul is complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinthine marketplace that has been a hub of trade and culture for centuries. As you wander through its bustling alleys, you’ll be immersed in a world of vibrant textiles, intricate ceramics, and the tantalising aroma of spices.

For a taste of local life, head to the Spice Bazaar, where colourful stalls overflow with exotic spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delights. Bargaining is a cultural norm in these markets, so don’t hesitate to engage in friendly negotiations as you discover unique souvenirs to bring back home.

Savouring Culinary Delights

A Gastronomic Voyage

Istanbul’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse heritage, where flavours from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East converge to create a unique tapestry of tastes. Exploring Istanbul on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on its delicious cuisine. Street food vendors offer an array of affordable options, from mouthwatering kebabs to savoury börek pastries.

For a budget-friendly culinary experience, head to local eateries known as “lokantas.” These traditional restaurants serve homestyle Turkish dishes at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to indulge in a cup of Turkish tea or coffee as you soak in the city’s ambiance.

The Bosphorus: A Voyage of Beauty

Cruising Through Istanbul’s Heart

The Bosphorus Strait, which divides Istanbul into its European and Asian sides, offers a scenic journey that showcases the city’s unique geography and architecture. Taking a Bosphorus cruise is a budget-friendly way to experience Istanbul’s beauty from a different perspective.

As you glide along the tranquil waters, you’ll pass by majestic palaces, historic mansions, and iconic landmarks. The beauty of the Bosphorus is a reminder of the city’s role as a crossroads of cultures and a testament to its enduring allure.

The Call to Prayer and Cultural Harmony

A Symphony of Faith and Diversity

Istanbul’s cultural tapestry extends beyond its historical sites and bustling markets. The call to prayer, echoing from the city’s numerous mosques, is a reminder of Istanbul’s deep-rooted faith and the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and religions. The city’s skyline is adorned with minarets that punctuate the landscape, inviting both locals and visitors to pause and reflect.

Exploring Istanbul’s religious landmarks, such as the Süleymaniye Mosque and the Chora Church, provides insight into the spiritual heritage that has shaped the city. While the city’s history may have been marked by empires and conquests, its true beauty lies in the way it has embraced diverse faiths and traditions, creating a harmonious blend that is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Conclusion

Istanbul, a city that wears its history and culture with pride, is an invitation to explore the intersection of civilizations and the treasures they’ve left behind. From ancient marvels to vibrant markets, Istanbul offers an array of experiences that cater to every traveler, even those on a budget. By immersing yourself in Istanbul’s history, savoring its cuisine, and navigating the city affordably, you’ll unveil the layers of its charm and create memories that will stay with you long after you’ve departed. As you traverse its streets, absorb its beauty, and connect with its soul, Istanbul will weave itself into your heart, leaving an indelible mark on your travel journey.

The post Istanbul Unveiled: Exploring the Crossroads of Culture and History appeared first on 203Challenges.

#1 Explore the Viennese coffee culture

Coffee is an inseparable part of the lifestyle in Vienna. The city’s coffee culture has even been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, where Viennese coffee houses are described as places

“where time and space are consumed, but only the coffee is found on the bill”.

There are some cafés in the city that, aside from serving amazing coffee, can also tell some interesting stories. One of them is Bräunerhof café (Stallburggasse 2). In the last century, it was a literary café whose bohemian spirit attracted many young writers and artists – including the famous Austrian poet and novelist Thomas Bernhard. It is also home to one of the biggest collections of old newspapers in the country.

Another one worth visiting is Café Frauenhuber – the oldest coffee house in Vienna, as well as the place where Mozart had his last public performance. The café, located in Himmelpfortgasse 6, was actually a favorite haunt of the legendary Austrian composer.

Café Frauenhuber

#2 Drink coffee like an Italian

Nowhere is coffee as much of a cult as it is in Italy. As such, there are certain rules that must be followed, which should be well examined before setting off on the adventure of drinking coffee like a local. Here are the basics:

1. Espresso is simply a technical term – not your order. Neither is anything consisting of more than the one simple word – caffè (a strong shot of espresso).
2. Drink it fast (not more than three gulps) while standing at the bar, having a small chat with the barista.
3. Never order a cappuccino after 10 am.

#3 Take part in a Buna coffee ceremony in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is famous for being the birthplace of coffee and the ceremony of coffee preparation is an important part of its culture. An invitation for such a ceremony is a way to show respect towards the guest. The ceremony itself can last hours, since it includes roasting, grinding and brewing the beans. For brewing, Ethiopians use a special clay pot called a jebena. When the brewing is over, you are served with three cups of dark, bitter coffee.  The ceremony is a social ritual, where sharing and communicating with the people around is as important as the beverage itself.

Coffee beans roasting as part of the Buna ceremony

#4 Visit coffee plantations in Brazil

Brazil is the biggest coffee producer and exporter in the world. Coffee is one of the main sources of income for the country, so it is easy to understand why here the beverage is a lot more than just a drink to wake you up. The most common type of coffee in Brazil is cafezinho – a small cup of filtered black coffee – and is drunk frequently throughout the day, at any possible moment.

While here, you have the unique opportunity to visit one of the many Brazilian plantations and coffee farms. Here you can learn about the coffee-making process from A to Z, from planting to brewing the beans. Many of the big cities like Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte offer guided one-day tours to nearby plantations.

#5 Have street coffee in Cambodia

From sidecars on motorbikes and rickshaws, people in Cambodia sell coffee in tied-up plastic bags. Drinking this coffee through a straw is an experience all the coffee lovers out there should try at least once. The coffee is served with ice to create a fresh start to the day for locals, who can often be seen carrying bags of coffee on their motorbikes on the way to work or back home.

#6 Drink coffee brewed on hot sand in Turkey

Coffee plays a big part in everyday life in Turkey, as well as on some special occasions like engagement and marriage. Turkish coffee is unfiltered, thick and strong. The best way to drink it is with some Turkish delight on the side, and the best way to prepare it is on hot sand. That gives the coffee-brewer perfect control over the temperature and is, moreover, spectacular to behold. Some skilled coffee-makers can make the coffee-preparation process into a real show, and turn something as simple as having your morning coffee into the highlight of your day.

#7 Master the skills of frappe-making in Greece

The foam-covered iced drink is a life-saver during the hot summer days in Greece and Cyprus. The drink was invented in 1957 and became a symbol of post-war Greek outdoor coffee culture. Frappe comes from the French word for ‘shaken’ and is best consumed either right on the beach or in a beach bar on a Greek Island. Though the ingredients are only instant coffee, ice cubes and sugar, and the preparation process is quite easy, a few sneak-peeks of how exactly the bartender is doing it might help you master some techniques and come back home with something better than a souvenir – an instant memento in the form of an authentic frappe recipe.

Pin it for later:

The post 7 travel challenges for coffee lovers appeared first on 203Challenges.

Every year in April, Istanbul turns into the capital of tulips. This is when millions of bulbs show up in the parks and gardens of the city and transform old Constantinople into a flowery fairy tale.

In 2017, more than 26.5 million tulips of 160 varieties were planted across Istanbul.

If you are visiting the colorful fiesta that is the Istanbul Tulip Festival, here’s some useful information on where to go and what to see.

When do tulips in Istanbul bloom?

The exact date depends on the weather from year to year, but in general you can expect the tulips to start blooming at the end of March or the beginning of April. The flowers flourish for several weeks, until the beginning of May.

Tulips in Istanbul | Daxis/Flickr

What are the dates of the Istanbul Tulip Festival?

Usually, the festival spans the whole month of April. However, as you will see from the information below, you don’t need to plan your visit around any exact dates, as special events and brilliant spring flowers grace the city throughout the whole month. Although it’s called a ‘festival’, it would better be described as a rather loose series of events (like concerts, art workshops, and exhibitions) taking place mainly in Emirgan Park. The festival doesn’t have an official website, so the best way to discover what’s going on is to ask the staff at your hotel/hostel.

Why is the tulip a symbol of Istanbul?

The tulip is one of the most recognizable symbols of Istanbul. The flower was imported centuries ago from Iran, and its arrival created a real fever among locals, who competed to grow the best and most unusual bulbs in their gardens. A rare bulb could cost an absolute fortune at the height of tulip popularity in the city. Tulips made their way from Istanbul to Europe where, especially in the Netherlands, they caused a similar craze.

Tulips in Istanbul | Nezih Durmazlar/Flickr

Which parks in Istanbul have the most beautiful tulip gardens?

Emirgan Park (or Emirgan Korusu) – with its colorful pavilions, millions of tulips and other spring flowers, plus its stunning views over the Bosphorus, this park is the headquarters of the festival. Open stages pop up in April to host musicians, actors and other performers. You will also see traditional marble drawing demonstrations, calligraphy, glass blowing, and photo exhibitions.

Göztepe Park – This is the other festival hot spot, with plenty of events on its schedule. It is located on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Beykoz Korusu – This is another green oasis in the Asian part of Istanbul. Here you can enjoy relaxing walks along the Bosphorus, with the strait on one side and lush greenery on the other.

Gülhane Park – More than a million tulips are planted here every spring.

Yıldız Park – This park is located close to Yıldız Palace, hence the name. It used to be the sultan’s private hunting ground, but today its thick forest areas and Ottoman pavilions are open for visitors.

Sultanahmet Square – The square next to Sultanahmet Mosque – one of the main attractions in Istanbul – turns into a carpet of flowers in spring.

Çamlıca Hill – This hill is a secret part of Istanbul that few tourists ever visit. If you don’t mind a bit of a climb, you will be rewarded with the sight of thousands of tulips on the way up and a magnificent vista from the top.

Here’s a map of the best tulip parks in Istanbul:

Read more: Keukenhof: where you can see more than 800 varieties of tulips in Holland

11 quotes about Istanbul that explain why everyone loves it

14 smells of Istanbul that always bring you back there

Pin this post for later:

The post Istanbul Tulip Festival: the best parks to see flowers (+ map) appeared first on 203Challenges.

There are cities around the world that managed to become the biggest, the wealthiest, the best of the best in their own country, failing to achieve only one thing – to become a capital.

And as these cities are the best of the best, they are so famous, that people frequently confuse them for capitals. Have you fallen in this trap? Check your knowledge:

Is Rio de Janeiro the capital of Brazil?

Rio de Janeiro by Agustin Diaz

If you host the biggest carnival in the world, you can’t be anything less than a capital. It’s easy to get confused when the major tourist attractions in Brazil are in Rio, too.

The actual capital of Brazil is…  Brasilia. It was a planned city that replaced Rio as a capital in 1960. Nowadays, the most populated city is neither Rio nor Brasilia but Sao Paulo.

Is Sydney (or Melbourne) the capital of Australia?

Sydney by Alex Wong

Both Sydney and Melbourne vied for the honor to be the capital of Australia.

The actual capital of Australia is… As a result, in 1908 Canberra was given the role as a compromise. It’s a planned city, like Brasilia and Washington, DC, with its architect selected following an international contest.

Is Istanbul the capital of Turkey?

Istanbul

Yes, it was until 1922, when it was known as Constantinopole.

The actual capital of Turkey is… Ankara, chosen for its central position and to distance the secular government of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk from the former Ottoman rule. Today, Ankara has a population of 5 million people, while Istanbul has more than 14 million people.

Is Toronto (or Montreal or Vancouver) the capital of Canada?

Toronto by Scott Webb

Yes, Toronto was the capital of the united Province of Canada for two brief periods in 19th century (1849-1852 and 1856–1858). And yes, Montreal used to be the capital of the Province of Canada (1844-1849). Vancouver has never been a capital of Canada. 

The actual capital of Canada is… Ottawa with three times less inhabitnats than the biggest city Toronto.

Is Zurich (or Geneva) the capital of Switzerland?

Bern, Switzerland

You may have heard of many cities in Switzerland and still its capital may have never come your way.

The actual capital of Switzerland is… Switzerland is a decentralized, federal country that has neither a president nor prime minister. So Bern is the de facto capital referred to as a federal city in Switzerland.

Is Marrakesh (or Fez or Casablanca) the capital of Morocco?

Marrakesh

In fact, both Marrakesh and Fez used to be capitals of Morocco, exchanging roles several times. Since medieval times up to the beginning of 20th century Morocco was often referred to as the Kingdom of Marrakesh. Casablanca, on the other hand, is the biggest Moroccan city today.

The actual capital of Morocco is… Rabat. It was chosen as capital by the French who arrived here in 1912 and considered Marrakesh as quite a rebellious city. When Morocco gained its independence in 1956, king Mohammed V decided to keep Rabat as the capital.

Is Johannesburg the capital of South Africa?

Cape Town

Although Johannesburg is the largest city, it couldn’t make it to any of the three capital positions available in South Africa (executive, legislative, judicial). Instead, those to win the race were…

The actual capitals of South Africa are… Pretoria (executive), Bloemfontein (judicial), and Cape Town (legislative).

Is Yangon the capital of Myanmar?

Naypyidaw, Myanmar

It was until 2006. However, few people heard the news and the majority of travelers still believe Yangon is the capital of Myanmar. At least until they visit the country and discover that…

The actual capital of Myanmar is… Naypyidaw. But don’t worry, there are even people who still haven’t heard the news that Myanmar is the new name of the country formerly known as Burma.

Pin it for later:

The post 8 cities regularly mistaken for capitals (will you guess them all?) appeared first on 203Challenges.

There are cities around the world where you’d love to get lost again and again and again. Control freaks might find the idea unbearable but think twice, how can getting lost do you any harm if you can get a taxi back to your hotel at any time?

In the cities on the list below “getting lost” actually means “finding” – finding people, places and experiences otherwise hidden away from your tourist eyes.

Challenge alternatives:

• If with friends/spouses: get lost separately and try to find each other after 5 hours (if you find a place your friend would love, stay there and wait for him or her to come). Or just get lost separately (a good option for long-time partners who need some fresh time alone!).
• By public transportation: get on a local bus and get off at a random stop.
• Try to get lost in your own hometown – it might be hard but then you should just try harder.

Istanbul, Turkey

The moment you find yourself away from the main tourist areas, you will be able to enjoy genuine Turkish hospitality. Life is good in the City on the Bosphorus while sipping strong and sweet tea and enjoying the sun in a side street cafe.

Unexpected discovery in Istanbul

Venice, Italy

There’s no use of bringing a map with you in Venice, this city just can’t stand maps and will do its best to get you lost. Everything even a street away from Canale Grande is a labyrinth where you can only enter but never get back to your starting point. Feel free to enjoy the colorful, sometimes decrepit buildings along the canals, hunt for passing gondolas and stop for wine at the first bar.

P.S. You know they call the wine “shade” (ombra) in Venice, right?

Chiang Mai, Thailand

It’s not such a big city but if you dare to get lost, you will come across your best discoveries in a Thai city full of expats. An English bookshop? The food stall with the best pad thai? A friendly monk to chat about life?

© Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Atlanta, USA

While many US cities use a quadrant street system with streets heading north-south or east-west, Atlanta can be confusing as many of the streets follow the natural relief. Leave your map in Downtown Atlanta and let the city surprise you (A historic cemetery? A skywalk? A popular eatary?).

Tokyo, Japan 

In Tokyo and other Japanese cities the numbers of the streets and buildings have nothing to do with their location but rather with the time of their construction. Thus, the first building that appears on the street will be #1, while next to it might be #113. You don’t have to do anything special to get lost there.

Perth, Australia 

Perth will invite you to get lost in its maze of creative bars and it might not be so easy to find your way after the third beer… Where were you actually going?

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The best places to get lost in Rio are the art quarters of Santa Teresa and Lapa in the city center. Climb the steep streets but don’t search for the best view – it will reveal itself unexpectedly. Shop around for unique souvenirs by local artists and get lots of water. 

Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro

The post 7 cities to get lost on purpose appeared first on 203Challenges.

Your nose knows best – there are smells that will always send you back in time to when you were strolling the busy, sweet and sour-smelling streets of Istanbul. Even with your eyes closed, you can be sure that you are in the city on the Bosphorus when you feel the whiff of hot simit or freshly pot-simmered Turkish coffee.

Here’s a list of some of the most prominent aromas that you can smell in Istanbul.

1. Steaming simit from the red carts early in the morning.

2. The aroma of Turkish coffee served from a cezve (pot). If you are used to drinking your coffee without sugar, don’t forget to order it “şekersiz” ([shay-ker-seez], no sugar) or otherwise, you will be served a cup of thick teeth-melting sugar substance.

3. Freshly prepared apple tea, poured in a tulip-shaped cup, of course.

4. The smell of too many people in the tram in the summer.

5. Baked fish sandwich (balik-ekmek) at the Galata Bridge. All cooking being done on an open fire on board swaying boats.

6. The smell of the Bosphorus.

7. The smell of new leather at the Grand Bazaar.

8. The rich mixed aromas of hookah tobacco.

9. The smell of feet in the mosques.

10. The refreshing pomegranate juice.

11. The mixture of exotic spices and herbs at the Egyptian Bazaar.

12. The underground moisture at the Basilica Cistern.

13. The horse smell at the Prince’s Islands, where no cars are allowed and the only way to move around is to ride a bike or to get a horse carriage.

14. The heavy oriental musk perfumes that you can smell on the streets.

The post 14 smells of Istanbul that always bring you back there appeared first on 203Challenges.

Balat is the old Jewish quarter of Istanbul, located on the southern bank of the Golden Horn between the Ataturk and Fatih bridges. Centuries ago, many Jews expelled from Spain used to live there along with Christian communities of the Ottoman Empire, the common point between all of them being their extreme poverty.

Nowadays, the neighborhood doesn’t look like it has prospered a lot, but it has kept its charm with the old, beautiful architecture, multicolored buildings and little curtains on the windows, with a blue sky above.

Balat, the colorful Jewish quarter of Istanbul

Many tourists in Istanbul visit the neighborhood for its colors and its pleasant atmosphere. If you would like to visit something more specific, see the two remaining synagogues. Of a total of 19 Jewish religious buildings in the past, only Ahrida and Yanbol currently remain intact. The best known of the old synagogues in town is Ahrida (also called Ohrida), which is situated on Kurkcu Cesme Sokak. Ahrida was built in the end of the 15th century, maybe even earlier.

Yanbol Synagogue is on Duriye Sokak, one intersection away from Ahrida. As the legend goes, they were built by immigrants from Macedonia. To see the synagogues, you first have to contact the Chief Rabbinate, and the visits are only on workday mornings.

In Balat, you can tour the buildings of the Jewish school and the Jewish hospital (120 beds, built in 1897), but for there you will also need an arrangement with the Chief Rabbinate.

The iron Bulgarian church Saint Stephen, built in the 19th century and the only Orthodox church built out of iron, is also in the area. There is also the Chora church – one of the best preserved Byzantine churches with preserved authentic frescoes and mosaics. It was turned into a mosque in the 16th century, and in 1948, it was already a museum.

Other interesting spots are the old, massive city walls and the remains of the Byzantine castle, known today as Tekfur Sarayi (“Palace of the Sovereign”).

Pin it for later:

The post Balat – the colors of Istanbul in the old Jewish quarter appeared first on 203Challenges.

The Lycian Way is 540 km long and you will need around 29-30 days to walk it.

The route curves around the coastline in South Turkey and offers:

– a scenic route between the mountains and the coast

– old Roman roads and offbeaten paths

– some steep parts but with enough resting points

– local transport connection so you don’t have to walk all the way

About the route

The name of the route comes from the ancient name of this part of Anatolia – Lycia. The route was explored and marked by the Turkish-British non-professional historian Kate Clow in 1999. Since then, thousands of hikers have been following it every year and it has gained international popularity.

The coast is far from the major resorts, so you have great blue waters to swim or go kayaking. You’ll also pass through pine forests, mountain peaks, ancient ruins.

Start: Oludeniz (near Turkish resort Fethiye)

End: Geyikbayiri (20 km from Turkish resort Antalya) – the trail can be walked in both directions

Where to stay on the route: You can sleep in village guest houses or small hotels along the way. There are camping areas available, too.

What to eat: You can find groceries and shops in the villages along the way but sometimes the prices are unreasonably high.

Best time to do it: February – April or September – November. Summer is scorching.

Route marks: red and white stripes but have in mind that in many places the marks are poor and you’ll need a map and compass.

Self-guided routes and various options for the route here.

Photos: flickr/sunriseOdyssey

The post The Lycian Way in Turkey – a 540-km route to walk appeared first on 203Challenges.