Melting away in Istanbul

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We're doing well. It's pretty hot and humid here in Istanbul. Everywhere we go there is free Wifi - so happy we brought the netbook. We spend our mornings out doing touristy stuff (i.e. visiting the Blue Mosque, Aya Sofia, etc). After lunch we hang out in our air-conditioned hotel room, and generally take a nap, read, or go through photos, as it's too hot to do much else. Then in the evening we head out and do more touristy stuff.

Some of our favorite things we've done while in Istanbul are:
1. Explore the Bosphorus, using the local ferry system
2. Drinking tea and tasting the local food
3. Relaxing and watching the sunset at the Blue Mosque
4. Walking around at night, exploring the various side streets and shops
5. Visiting the Aya Sofia
6. Eating Turkish delight and Baklava for dessert.

Tomorrow we meet up with the tour group, and will begin our 3 month journey along the silk route going from Istanbul to Xi'an. We're excited and curious about meeting the new group and trip leaders, having had such fond memories of doing the group travel thing in Africa for an extended period of time.

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Photos

Adana Kebab
Mmmm, spicy...

Aya Sofia interior
Incredibly huge.

Kittens
Kittens and dogs are everywhere on the streets. Haven't seen a single mouse though...

Corn on the cob
A popular street food item.

Comments

[Dorothy Mindach]

Wow!
I've been following the blog and just have to comment on the fantastic pictures you are getting. I can already see another book coming out of this trip!!!

[Jennifer janes]

Hi
Hi Kathy -enjoying living vicariously through your blog. China is high at the top of my travel list so I am poking forward to hearing your impressions! Enjoy and travel well!

[liliram]

3 months!
Wow! 3 months on the road from Istanbul to Xian. Is that all with the travel group? I am jealous. Safe travels. Btw, I like that traveling style. Out in the morning, back after lunch. Out again late afternoon. We need not "suffer" on holidays!

[murray]

ohhh. I was there a few months ago. And I want to go back.. Great pics. Hope you enjoy Turkey

[Jim S.]

Istanbul scenes
Guys - Your photos and commentary make a nice diversion from staring out across the high plains, 30 miles east of Denver. I expect to be home before you are decently on your way - even if only for a week. Good luck, and keep up the travelogue.

[Dustin]

How do I get on a mailing list here?
Hey guys - I dont know if you have set up a mailing list this time, but I would love to follow you on your journey...and dream.....Humid, Toronto is the same yuck! I hope you guys have a great time....I'm sure you will. Be Safe...watch out for Gypsys ; -) And I hope to see you soon (whenever you get back) : -)

[Scott]

I remember...
Hey guys! great photos - it brings back so many memories. Great food, the smoggy skyline, the amazing mosques. How are the salesmen? Are you getting harrassed and did you have to negotiate the prices of entrees and desserts while ordering them ? =) Have you gone to the Grand Baazar yet or rug viewing/shopping? Scott