WHAT can you say about Istanbul that hasn’t already been said, written about, depicted in film and more often than not in this social media era, been overly featured on travel-TikTok?
It is old, but also charmingly modern. It is busy, breathtakingly beautiful, and even the sojourns into the less-known back lanes on a quest for what locals eat is a worthy adventure.
Istanbul is a city that is not unfamiliar to Malaysians. The vibrancy of its food culture, its fascinating history and its many tourist attractions make it a fixture on anyone’s bucket list.
The temperate weather year-long, the favourable exchange rate, the assurance of mouth-watering halal fare, and the direct flights from Kuala Lumpur via Turkish Airlines also make Istanbul very attractive to Malaysians.
Istanbul and Ankara are two of Turkiye's most exciting and intriguing cities, with each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and slick cosmopolitanism.
Visiting these two cities in April is a great idea, as the weather is generally pleasant and the tourist crowds are still relatively low.
Istanbul
My journey began in Istanbul, a city that straddles both Europe and Asia and is steeped in history that dates back to the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The moment I arrived in Istanbul, I was struck by the city's vibrancy, energy, and beauty.
The architecture in Istanbul is a fascinating blend of old and new, with ancient mosques and palaces standing alongside modern skyscrapers.
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I started my tour of Istanbul by visiting the Hagia Sophia, a stunning cathedral that was converted into a mosque and then into a museum, and back into a mosque.
The intricate mosaics and frescoes in the Hagia Sophia are a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
One is immediately transported back in time to the days of the Byzantine Empire. The interior of the building is a mesmerising blend of Christian and Islamic art and architecture, reflecting the rich history of the city.
The soaring dome and towering pillars all bear testament to the beauty and skill of the artisans who built this incredible monument.
But it's not just the interior of the Hagia Sophia that's worth exploring. Visitors can also take a stroll around the grounds of the monument and discover the beautiful gardens that surround the building.
The gardens are filled with colourful flowers and fragrant trees, and they provide a peaceful oasis in the midst of the busy city.
The surroundings of the Hagia Sophia are also home to many other historical and cultural attractions.
The nearby Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Islamic art and culture.
The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water storage facility, is another fascinating site that is just a short walk from the Hagia Sophia.
From there, you can go to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans.
The palace is an enormous complex with numerous courtyards, gardens, and buildings, each more impressive than the last, housing jewels and other treasures in the palace's museum.
A stroll through the Grand Bazaar can never be missed on a trip to Istanbul. This magnificent structure has a labyrinthine interior featuring thousands of shops selling all kinds of products from textiles to antiques and has been a destination for shopping for centuries.
The foundation of the Grand Bazaar, one of the most important landmarks in İstanbul, was laid in 1461 with the structures erected by Fatih Sultan Mehmet to bring income to Hagia Sophia.
The Grand Bazaar, which became the region’s most important trade centre over time, has started to serve as an important financial centre where jewels and precious metals from all over the world are traded.
Historically and culturally important, the Grand Bazaar – Kapalıçarşı in Turkish – has a prominent place in literature, travelogues and art, and continues to draw attention as one of the most visited historical bazaars in the world.
Galataport, Galata Tower, and the Ataturk Cultural Centre are three of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, each offering a unique insight into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Galataport is a new addition to Istanbul's tourism landscape, having been opened in 2020. It's a modern cruise port that serves as a gateway to the city's many attractions.
Galataport offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Istanbul. The port also hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Istanbul.
The promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenic views while savouring a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
Another popular activity at Galataport is exploring the local art galleries and boutiques.
The area is known for its trendy, contemporary art scene, and visitors can browse through the many galleries and art studios showcasing works by local artists.
Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most recognisable landmarks. The tower was built in the 14th century and served as a lookout tower during the Ottoman era. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction that offers breathtaking views of the city.
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul, including the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and the city's many minarets.
The Ataturk Cultural Centre, also known as the AKM, is a cultural hub in the heart of Istanbul. It's a multi-purpose venue that hosts concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, and other cultural events throughout the year.
The building was designed by the renowned Turkish architect, Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, and is a striking example of modernist architecture. The AKM is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Turkish culture and the arts.
Ankara
After three days in Istanbul, I headed to Ankara, Turkey's modern capital city. Unlike Istanbul, Ankara is a relatively young city, having been established as the capital in the early 20th century.
Despite its youth, Ankara has a rich history and plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.
My first stop in Ankara was Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkiye. The monument is an enormous structure with stunning views of the city.
I then visited the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, which showcases the history and culture of the Anatolian region, from the Stone Age to the Ottoman era. The exhibits were fascinating and gave me a deeper understanding of Turkey's rich history.
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The museum is housed in a restored ancient castle and features exhibits on the history of Anatolia, dating back to the Palaeolithic era.
Visitors can see artefacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, and Byzantine periods, as well as Islamic artefacts and ethnographic exhibits. Be prepared to spend the entire day here, as there is so much to discover.
I would have come back again the next day had my tour been extended! I do hope to revisit this museum again in the future.
The Ankara Ethnography Museum is also one of the best museums in Turkiye, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.
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The museum features exhibits of traditional Turkish clothing, crafts, and folk art, as well as Islamic calligraphy and Ottoman-era artefacts.
Visitors can also see a recreated traditional Turkish house, complete with furnishings and decorations from different regions of the country.
Visiting Istanbul and Ankara was an unforgettable experience. Both cities offer a unique blend of old and new, with plenty of history, culture, and modernity to keep visitors enthralled.
Whether you're interested in ancient architecture, modern art, or delicious Turkish cuisine, these two cities have something for everyone.
Ramadan in Turkiye
Of course, Turkiye is a predominantly Muslim country and Ramadan is currently being observed by a large number of the population. If you're planning to visit Turkey during Ramadan, do note the change in the pace of life at this time.
Many restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day, and people will be fasting, which means they'll be less energetic and more relaxed.
However, in the evenings, the streets and restaurants come to life as people break their fast and enjoy traditional meals with family and friends.
Also, keep in mind that some tourist attractions may have reduced hours or be closed during Ramadan.
But, many attractions will be open in the evenings, so you can still enjoy them after breaking your fast. It's a good idea to check the opening hours before your visit.
One of the highlights of visiting Turkey during Ramadan is experiencing the festive atmosphere during the nightly iftar, the meal that breaks the fast.
Many mosques and public spaces will host iftars where everyone is welcome to attend, regardless of their religion.
This is a great opportunity to try traditional Turkish food and to meet locals.
Visiting Turkey during Ramadan can be a unique and rewarding experience. While there may be some adjustments to your itinerary, you'll get the chance to experience the traditions and customs of this important religious observance.
Just be respectful and mindful of those who are fasting, and you'll have a great time exploring this beautiful country. – The Vibes, March 31, 2023
