Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a great city! When we sailed into the harbor I could see the skyline lined with many Mosques. They are beautiful! I did a full day tour and was very lucky because Irene (tour staff) came with me. Istanbul is very interesting, especially because its spread over two countries, half is in Europe, the other half in Asia. We toured the Blue Mosque where we had to cover our shoulders, legs and remove our shoes. We visited St. Sophia, one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe, and Topkeki Palace which was amazing and sat high on a mountain. We saw the underground Cistern palace, which was so incredible, all built underground with waterways, and pillars, it was cool! We enjoyed a traditional Turkish lunch served in a beautiful outdoor courtyard like restaurant. Later we had free time in the Grand Bazaar (2nd biggest in the world). It was a never ending marketplace full of all the clothes, leather, ceramics, souvenirs, and Turkish delight you could ever want! I got some amazing bargains and we had a lot of fun!