Istanbul

I didn't realize until I'd been around a bit that Istanbul Turkey is a massively large city. Despite it's great size, it is spectacularly easy to get around the city on public transport. From the airport to virtually any spot I wanted, I could hop on the metro, take a bus, or walk a short distance. That's impressive city planning. Many of my friends and students have found scholarships and work in the city. The Turkish government has increased it's international trade and impact across the Sahel in recent years, with notable contributions in the establishment of elementary, middle and high schools.

Notable Moments

• The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque or Ayasofya in Turkish. It's huge, beautiful, and an unusual mix of Christian and Muslim history, symbols, and architecture. Our Turkish guide did a great job of giving us multiple viewpoints on the development of the site. At one point during our tour, the authorities quickly stopped an individual from praying on the main floor -- apparently, this is not allowed. Speaking as a History teacher, the rich and complex history of the city deserves careful attention. I just got a small sample of the depth and variety of civilizations that have impacted both Istanbul and Turkey over the last 3,000 years.
• Boat Tour. It was cheap, a great view, and we had a nice warm tea while we gazed at the truly awe inspiring sites of the city.
• Clay Pot meal. We discovered that at most city restaurants, we could order the clay pot dish. They cook the meat stew in clay, then break the pot at your table when it's done. Fun and delicious!

I would love to return and spend more time here. My friends tell me that going to the interior cities is well worth the extra effort.