Bridging the divide.

Istanbul not only bridges the geographical divide between Asia and Europe, but also the cultural and spiritual divide. It does so beautifully, by rooting itself in its glorious history, embracing the present and by preparing for the future. Like/Share/Comment

Opening the window

Let me open this window and explore this incredible city. Go on a journey through time, look at the architectural wonders, sip chai while I cross continents, be touched by the warm heartedness of the people I meet, get lost in the crowd or lose myself listening to the sound of the ocean. Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. Like/Share/Comment

Coming together.

The omni present Hagia Sophia has stood the test of time. Today it stands tall as a symbol of secularism and pluralism. Like/Share/Comment

Kubbe

Kubbe is dome in Turkish. This is one of the most significant architectural design element that I observed dotting the skyline of Istanbul. In this picture I am looking at the mouth of the Bosporus straight from the Süleymaniye külliye(Sueleymaniye mosque complex). Like/Share/Comment

Tranquility

With water below and the roof above, reflections giving you a sense of eternity... I let my inner self take control as music guides me trough the maze of columns in Basilica Cistern. Like/Share/Comment

Stepping in...

As motor vehicles replace horse chariots, the theatrical sensation still remain as they pass through the Valens Aqueduct. Like/Share/Comment

Life in Megalopolis

People from all walks of life come together here. Here, the tower of Galata overlooking the district of Beyoğlu across the Golden horn. Beyoğlu is the heart of Istanbul where culture and entertainment thrive. Like/Share/Comment

Crossing the Golden Horn

History has seen several ways of crossing over the Sea of Marmara at the Golden Horn. Today there are several options too... but the Galata bridge is by far the most interesting experience. It's always buzzing with activity from men fishing from the bridge, the ultra modern tram zipping past me, the ferries sailing towards me, to the restaurants serving freshly grilled fish. There is never shortage of activity here.. Like/Share/Comment

Stairway's & Cat's of Istanbul

As I hit the streets of Istanbul I noticed two distinctive elements: preying eyes that followed me... it was not a person but the cats of Istanbul... and the number of Steps, in various Forms, Colors & Steepness. They left me breathless, literally and figuratively. Like/Share/Comment

Bazaar

Just like a beehive the Grand Bazaar is always buzzing with activity. Traders collecting items from across the globe have been bringing it here for centuries now... and the tradition continues. Like/Share/Comment

Beliefs

The society is deeply religious. Religion gives people a strong sense of identity only to be surpassed by nationalism. The adoption of religion is by choice, with strong mutual respect amongst people of different beliefs. Like/Share/Comment

Grace

People place immense trust in one another, even if it be a complete stranger. People in Istanbul are welcoming, and are never hesitant to start a conversation. They are inquisitive and want to know you, have a cup of chai together and let the conversation flow. Like/Share/Comment

Watching over

There is a very strong bonding between family & friends. These bonds are not closed but open in structure. New ties are forged with existing ones and before I knew it I was a part of this structure. From what I perceived... women are respected in society and are fiercely independent. They have strong opinions and express them freely. Like/Share/Comment

Çay

Çay(pronounced chai, is tea in Turkish) together with Raki(anise-flavored spirit) and Nargile(water pipe), form the center of Turkish Social discourse. Three rules of Çay, never say no to çay, any time is the right time to have çay... day-or-night, and any location is right location to have çay. Like/Share/Comment

Melting pot!

I was spoilt for choices. Simple and tasty! With eastern and western influences the possibilities for a culinary journey is endless. Like/Share/Comment

Fresh Catch!

Be it fish, meat, vegetables or fruits one is never far away from fresh produce. Like/Share/Comment

Seyyar Saticilar

Seyyar Saticilar stands for Street food salesmen. Chestnut, corn, fresh fruit juice or mussels! Istanbul has a thriving street food culture. Like/Share/Comment

Melody & Lights

As the sun sets and the darkness falls... the shops are open, the streets are still buzzing, the music does not stop playing... The night replaces the bright sunlight, it's reflection off the blue sky and the turquoise colored sea surrounding the city with bright mercury and neon lamps. Under these lights the city wears a mystique look. Like/Share/Comment

Let's move forward

As aspirations of a young nation moves on the path of development, it preserves the soul that is handed over from one generation to another. Like/Share/Comment

The Crossing

Istanbul has stood the test of time and adapted itself with changing times to benefit from it. It continues to do so today too... Like/Share/Comment

Awaiting a new day...

As the sun sets on Istanbul, the sprit of Istanbul held together by brotherhood stays afloat, looking forward to the dawn of a new day. Like/Share/Comment