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We're coming to the end of our trip. After arriving in Istanbul yesterday we went on the compulsory trip along the Istiklal, which has to be one of the busiest streets in the world - no private cars, just pedestrians, a tram and official vehicles. It is always abuzz and the atmosphere is usually good humoured, although I've never been there when riots are happening in the Taksim Square area, which is at the top of the road, and it may be a little different in those circumstances. We also went to a hamam and got rid of all the travel weariness. It was on a side road from the Istiklalwhich was full of amazing old nicks and nacks. Kathy was in here element.
Today wasn't a great day for touring. It's a religious holiday and many of the museums and other tourist venues were closed when we arrived. We did get to see the Binbirdirek Cistern, which is just as impressive as the much better known and frequented Basilica Cistern around the corner. In fact we had it to ourselves. We also enjoyed a walk around the lanes outside the Spice Markets (closed) where we appreciated the banter, bargaining and general good humour. We also came away unscathed financially. The New Mosque (started construction in 1597!) is in that area, so we had a look around it. Another really impressive building. But we didn't get to see the Parma Museum, the Hagia Sofia, or the Chora Church. But there's always next year. Instead we had a great time fossicking around an antique book fair that is being held just near the hotel. It was fascinating with many glorious looking books, and a surprising number of English language ones too.
We're both ready to go home. It's been a wonderful sojourn, but long enough. I fell out of love with Turkey for a while yesterday, but after the Hamam, a decent sleep, and the touring today, all is forgiven.
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