Istanbul

2 weeks ago a dream came true, i finally visited one of the world's most exciting cities: Istanbul.

And it's true what they say: it is an incredible mixture between Europe and Asia, as a European you don't feel like a complete stranger, but you are taken to another level. You have an oriental flair with the omnipresent, beautiful Mosques, the smell and sounds of the Bazar.

There are streets where you feel there is something missing and you realize there is hardly any women, and then you have streets in Beyoglu where you feel that you are in a hipster-part of a western metropole, with beautiful young people celebrating life in cafes, art-spaces and avantgarde-boutiques.

Istanbul is huge and the population is estimated to up to 17 million inhabitants. The streets and the people are busy but you can always feel some laid-back atmosphere. Life is cheap, even compared to Berlin.
Personally i enjoyed getting up at dusk and walk through the empty streets, getting lost and enjoying the morning light over the Golden Horn. I discovered a beautiful spot, the Cafe Halic in Süleymaniye where you have a breathtaking view over the Golden Horn. I also loved the asian part of the town, a cheap ferry takes you there, you will find lovely shops and charming residential areas, and less tourists. A beautiful spot is the Cafe Halic in Süleymaniye where you have a breathtaking view over the Golden Horn.

 

The best place to stay is with locals: You can rent a room or appartment with 9flats.com: you will get some great insider tips from people that know the place, meet interesting people and save some money on accomodation!

All Photos © Jules Valeron