Exploring Istanbul

It has been a whirlwind week in Istanbul ... so much to see ... mosques, bazaars, spice markets, the world's largest covered market, Topkapi Palace and the museums and harems to tour along with all the gardens. I LOVE this city ... it is alive with people, noise, smells, surrounded by water like the islands I love. This City in particular has a particular blend of East and West ... took a ferry to the Asia side of the city the other day, they are quick and easy ... today also took the metro which again is easy to navigate. Meeting the wonderful Turks is so easy, they try to sell us everything from a shoe shine to a shave to food/drinks/sweets ... I am thankful Wally is taking lots and lots of pictures to document our travels in/around Istanbul and throughout Turkey. But, a little sadly, tomorrow we are flying to Lviv in the Ukraine ... it will be another fascinating experience Im sure. More to follow ... hello to all...