In early April, I made the decision to travel to India to complete my Work Visa stamping. The process ended up taking much longer than expected (as government-related tasks often do), and once I received my Passport back, I began exploring unconventional options for my return journey to the United States.
Instead of booking a direct ticket from Mumbai to Seattle, which was readily available, I decided to explore some unique countries that offered on-arrival visas. Dubai and Singapore seemed like mainstream options, so I stumbled upon Istanbul! Here’s how my new itinerary shaped up:
- Mumbai to Istanbul
- Istanbul to Chicago
- Chicago to Seattle (but there’s more to this part, which I’ll explain later on)
Turkish Airlines has this program called “Tour Istanbul” where they provide free tour to anyone who is traveling via Istanbul and has a layover of more than 6 hours in the city. All the visitor has to do is was to apply for a Turkish Tourist E-Visa before the arrival – which was a super easy process.
I was ecstatic as I was suddenly going to embark on an adventure in a new country! The flight to Istanbul was relatively short, taking around 8 hours from Mumbai. What struck me as pleasantly surprising about Istanbul was the abundance of greenery. In contrast to its neighboring countries, which were mostly barren, Istanbul appeared as an evergreen city with numerous lakes and trees.
Upon arrival, I was amazed by the sheer size of Istanbul airport—it was one of the largest airports I had ever seen. It boasted a shopping mall, gaming center, sleeping pods, and a wide array of cool restaurants. Without wasting any time, I made my way directly to the Tour Istanbul checkpoint conveniently located within the airport.
Since I was traveling solo, I was eager to make new friends and explore the city together. Tour Istanbul turned out to be a perfect solution. Our group consisted of six individuals, each from different countries and backgrounds, all filled with excitement to experience the great city of Istanbul.
Here’s a fascinating fact about Istanbul: it is the only pan-continental city in the world, straddling both Europe and Asia. This unique geographical position adds to the city’s allure and makes it a truly extraordinary destination to explore.
Feeling hungry and eager to experience Turkish cuisine, we decided to visit Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a renowned restaurant in Istanbul. To my delight, the service was impressively fast, and the food was absolutely delicious! One dish that truly stood out was the Special Semolina Halvah—it was simply out of this world! The flavors and textures left me in awe, making the dining experience truly memorable.
After indulging in a delightful meal, we headed off to explore the mesmerizing Blue Mosque in Istanbul. As we stepped inside, the sight of its grandeur took our breath away. The beautiful blue tiles that adorned the walls added a touch of magic. Fun fact: The mosque has six majestic minarets, which is quite unique! Walking through the prayer hall, the gentle sunlight streaming through the windows created a peaceful atmosphere. It was a humbling experience, immersing ourselves in the rich history and stunning architecture of Istanbul.
After that, we headed to the magnificent Hagia Sophia. The huge interior, adorned with beautiful mosaics and intricate designs, left us spellbound. Interesting fact: Hagia Sophia was originally a Byzantine church, then it became a mosque, and now it’s a museum, blending different cultures. While exploring its corridors, we couldn’t help but admire the majestic dome and the rich historical vibes all around. It was an unforgettable experience, witnessing the architectural marvel and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia.
Simit is a popular Turkish street food that can be found in stalls throughout Istanbul. They are circular bread rings, covered in sesame seeds, and have a chewy texture. Simit is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, and it’s commonly eaten plain or with various accompaniments like cheese, jam, or Nutella.
When it comes to Istanbul’s markets, two must-visit gems are the spice market and the fascinating “eye” amulets. The spice market, known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a haven for spice enthusiasts. As you explore its vibrant aisles, the fragrant aroma of exotic spices fills the air. With a wide range of colorful powders, aromatic teas, and fragrant herbs, the market is a feast for the senses.
On the other hand, the captivating “eye” amulets, called Nazar Boncugu, can be found everywhere in Istanbul’s markets. These eye-shaped talismans are believed to ward off the “evil eye” and bring good luck. Their striking blue and white colors add a touch of spiritual protection to the bustling market atmosphere. Exploring Istanbul’s markets, with their enticing spices and intriguing cultural symbols, is an immersive experience that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant traditions and customs.
Continuing our exploration of Istanbul, we decided to take the famous Bosphorus Tour.
Embarking on a Bosphorus tour, we were greeted by breathtaking views of Istanbul’s stunning skyline and the majestic bridges that connect the European and Asian sides of the city. Cruising along the gentle waves, we marveled at the historical landmarks that lined the shores, each with its own story to tell. The panoramic vistas of palaces, waterfront mansions, and bustling neighborhoods painted a vibrant picture of Istanbul’s rich heritage.
In the end, my journey to Istanbul was a remarkable experience filled with amazing sights, delightful flavors and unforgettable encounters. I ended up making new friends, exploring a different culture and most importantly had lots of fun. Off to the next adventure!
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