| Visiting Istanbul |
| Written by Arthur Thomphson |
| Tuesday, 15 December 2009 08:26 |
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Istanbul is a city which impossible to split into distinct areas besides its European & Asian side which separated by Bosphorus. Its origin starting from Black Sea and runs into the Sea of Marmara spreading about 10-13 million of its local population. It is a city which described as one of the chic, cultural and historical centers among surrounding European countries with its diversity in Islamic and Christian backgrounds.
Istanbul is a city which impossible to split into distinct areas besides its European & Asian side which separated by Bosphorus. Its origin starting from Black Sea and runs into the Sea of Marmara spreading about 10-13 million of its local population. It is a city which described as one of the chic, cultural and historical centers among surrounding European countries with its diversity in Islamic and Christian backgrounds. Being one of the youngest populated cities in Europe, Istanbul has its characteristics of high end living and center for young to enjoy their social atmosphere to the fullest. Even though it is not considered to be an actual capital of Turkey, it has predominant influence on its economy and cultural structure. It is more opened to the modern influence of the bordering European countries and allows foreign products to be sold in shopping centers, restaurants and local service centers. Kebap houses, bufets and fast-foods joints can supply cheap meals on the run. But, there are many nice restaurants out there as well. If you would like to eat at a authentic restaurant fishermen's quarter of Kumkapi behind Sultanahmet, Istiklal Caddesi and its side alleys (Cicek Passage, Nevizade Sokak) are the best places. If you are traveling during high seasons, you must book your accommodations in advance. Most of the hotels might be booked or not offering great prices. If you are conducting your search, you should start from looking into the areas which interest you the most. If you are looking to visit mostly tourist places, you should consider staying in Sultanahmet. It is minutes of walking from Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofya. Most of the hotels in this sear are reasonable priced but you can consider bargaining if you think the price seem to be high. Most travelers to Istanbul stay in Sultanahmet but one of the chic & busy areas of Istanbul is Taksim. Taksim and Beyoglu is becoming a popular alternative to Sultanahmet because of the food and shopping areas. You would be able to find fine places to eat and shop, book business meetings and discover high end life of Istanbul. The reason it considered to be a perfect location is also because of views of Bosphorus which starts from the Black Sea origin and flows into Sea of Marmara. If you are in the search of historical journey, you should definitely stay in Sultanahmet, you are going to be situated in the middle of Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofya. Hotels in that area considered to less pricey but still would be considered expensive for the local visitor. You should be able to find boutique hotels in this area. About the Author: Want to find out more about Istanbul, then visit Sarah Ashley's site on how to choose the best Istanbul Hotels in Turkey. |
