#istanbul cafe hopping

[sagocukaan34]

İstanbul Beyoğlu'ndaki En İyi 5 Kahve Mekanı

İstanbul’un en ünlü ilçelerinden biri olan Beyoğlu’ndaki en iyi kahve mekanlarıyla sizlerleyiz! Beyoğlu, İstanbul’un en ünlü ilçelerinden biri. Şüphesiz ki bu ün, birçok insanın buraya akın etmesiyle sonuçlanıyor. İstanbul’un Beyoğlu ilçesinde bulunan bu en iyi 5 kahve mekanı, kahve tutkunları açısından en ideal mekanlardan oluşuyor. Orjinal kahvelerin tadına bakabileceğiniz, dostlarınızla…

[hiroshitanaka]

Discover Hidden Gems and Offbeat Adventures in Istanbul 

Istanbul is widely known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Market. These must-see historical sites offer a unique glimpse into the city's rich past. However, beyond these famous attractions, Istanbul has a wealth of lesser-known experiences that are equally captivating and offer a break from the usual tourist crowds.

While visiting these culturally significant sites is essential (and there's no shame in enjoying the classic tourist spots), Istanbul has much more to offer. Once you've explored the main attractions, a whole other side of the city is waiting to be discovered. To truly immerse yourself in Istanbul's diverse culture and vibrant energy, consider venturing off the beaten path. Here’s a list of unique activities and hidden gems to make your trip to Istanbul even more memorable.

The Basilica Cistern

Most visitors to Istanbul walk unknowingly above one of the city's most fascinating historical sites: the Basilica Cistern. This ancient underground water reservoir, built in the 6th century, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and atmospheric experience.

Descent into the cistern's gloomy depths, illuminated by eerie orange lights, and marvel at its centuries-old columns and statues. The space is filled with an otherworldly ambience, enhanced by the dripping water and koi fish swimming in the standing pools.

Two particularly intriguing cistern features are the mysterious statues with the head of Medusa. These ancient artefacts add an extra layer of mystique to this already captivating location.

Plan Your Visit:

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9am to 10pm (except on religious holidays). Admission is 450 TRY before 6:30 p.m. and 1,000 TRY after 6:30 p.m. For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour with skip-the-line entry, typically around 960 TRY.

Offbeat Istanbul: Adventures Beyond the European Side

Istanbul, a city straddling Europe and Asia, offers a unique blend of cultures and experiences. While the European side is often the focus of tourist attention, there's a whole world to explore across the Bosphorus Strait.

Discover the Asian Side

Kadiköy, a vibrant neighbourhood on the Asian side, is a must-visit for those seeking authentic experiences. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring its bustling markets, savouring delicious Turkish cuisine at one of the many restaurants, or embarking on a guided food tour that spans both continents.

Other Must-Do Activities:

Explore Beylerbeyi Palace: Step back in time and marvel at the grandeur of this Ottoman palace.

Ascend Çamlica Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul from the city's highest peak.

Stroll along Bagdat Caddesi: Discover a wide array of shops, cafes, and restaurants on this popular avenue.

A one-way ferry ticket to the Asian side costs 19.50 TRY. So, why not venture beyond the tourist trail and discover the hidden gems of Istanbul's Asian side?

A Budget-Friendly Way to Explore Istanbul: Take a Ferry

One of the best ways to experience Istanbul's beauty is from the water. While many tourists opt for guided boat tours, a regular ferry offers a more affordable and flexible way to explore the city.

Discover Istanbul's Iconic Landmarks

As you cruise the Bosphorus Strait, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, historic mosques, and opulent mansions.

The Istanbul Mosque is an architectural masterpiece that reflects the city's rich history and cultural heritage. With magnificent domes, elaborate patterns, and imposing minarets, it provides a peaceful spiritual experience. Whether admiring its grandeur or researching its historical significance, the mosque represents Istanbul's eternal beauty and compelling charm, making it a must-see site for visitors.

Ferries offer the freedom to hop on and off at various stops, allowing you to explore different neighbourhoods and attractions at your own pace. With fares ranging from 15-23 TRY for a one-way ticket, it's a budget-friendly option compared to guided tours.

By choosing a regular ferry, you'll share the experience with locals, providing a more authentic glimpse into daily life in Istanbul.

Experience the Authentic Turkish Bath: A Hammam Visit

Hammams, or Turkish baths, are a centuries-old tradition in Istanbul. While many modern hotels offer their own versions of hammams, these often cater to Western sensibilities with a more sanitized and modest experience. To truly immerse yourself in Turkish culture, visiting a traditional hammam is a must. Traditional hammams are typically segregated by gender and often involve transitioning through several rooms of varying temperatures. The highlight is the hot steam room, similar to a sauna, where you can relax and sweat. Many visitors also choose to indulge in a thorough scrub-down by a professional attendant, a unique and invigorating experience.

Popular Hammams in Istanbul

Çemberlitai Hamami: Dating back to the 16th century, this historic hammam offers a classic Turkish bath experience.

Cagaloglu Hamami: Another popular choice in the Old Town, Cagaloglu Hamami provides a traditional and authentic atmosphere.

Plan Your Visit:

Both Çemberlitai Hamami and Cagaloglu Hamami are open daily from 6 am to 12 am. Admission starts at 1,050 TRY per person and can vary depending on the additional treatments or services you choose.

The Prince Islands

Looking for a tranquil retreat from the bustling city of Istanbul? The Prince Islands, a chain of nine islands just off the coast, offer a peaceful and idyllic escape. These charming islands are easily accessible by ferry and make for a perfect day trip during the warmer months. With the e visa Turkey, you can easily and quickly unlock the wonders of Turkey. A simple online procedure that will help you visit the ancient monuments, modern cities and beautiful landscapes.

The four largest islands – Büyükada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Kinaliada – are the most popular among visitors. Explore historic buildings, savour delicious local cuisine at cozy cafes, and admire the beautiful architecture as you wander through the streets.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Prince Islands is their car-free status. This creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere, providing a much-needed respite from the noise and chaos of the city. Get around by walking, renting a bicycle, or taking a horse-and-carriage ride.

Tips for Your Visit

Early Bird Gets the Worm: To avoid the crowds, take one of the early ferries to the islands.

Travel Time: The ferry journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your chosen island.

Guided Tours: For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation, a local guide, and lunch. Round-trip ferry tickets are typically around 45 TRY, while guided tours cost around 650 TRY.

Discovering Istanbul's Jewish Heritage

While Turkey is primarily a Muslim country, its Jewish history dates back thousands of years. The Ottoman Empire's welcoming policy towards Jews, particularly after the expulsion from Spain in 1492, led to a significant growth in the Jewish population.

Exploring Jewish Istanbul

The Galata and Balat neighbourhoods in Istanbul offer fascinating glimpses into the city's Jewish past. Discover historic synagogues, learn about the contributions of Jewish communities, and explore the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Jewish experience in the country.

The Jewish Heritage Tour offers a guided walking tour of the Galata Jewish Quarter and includes a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. This tour is a great way to delve deeper into Istanbul's rich Jewish history.

Plan Your Visit

The Jewish Museum of Turkey is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm (closed on Saturdays). Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Visitors must present a valid passport or other official identification.

Watching the Fishermen on Galata Bridge

One of the most iconic sights in Istanbul is the row of fishermen lining the top level of Galata Bridge. Countless local men gather here to cast their lines and hope for a daily catch. The scene is both fascinating and heartwarming, as these men spend hours patiently waiting for the thrill of a bite.

Many fishermen sell their freshly caught seafood directly from the bridge, offering a unique opportunity to purchase authentic local produce. Even if you're not interested in buying fish, watching the fishermen at work and admiring their skills is fascinating.

At the base of Galata Bridge, you'll find a bustling fish market filled with various colourful stalls. The market is a sensory overload, with the sights, sounds, and smells of fresh seafood creating a vibrant atmosphere. 

Conclusion

For curious travelers looking for something different, Istanbul’s hidden gems and offbeat adventures are perfect. Wander through the vibrant streets of Balat, discover the mystical Basilica Cistern, or drink tea in hidden rooftop gardens with views. Want to explore more? Let’s explore colorful murals in street art, wander through local markets or kayak the Bosphorus for an adventurous twist. Truly priceless gems ensure you a unique experience that will interweave history, culture and adventure, all in one. Prepared to discover the secrets of Istanbul? Let’s go!

[planturkiye]

"Discover Istanbul's Top Tourist Destinations: A 7-Day Journey through the City"

Hey, Tumblr fam! Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Istanbul? I've just stumbled upon an amazing post that highlights the top tourist destinations in this mesmerizing city. If you're planning a 7-day tour of Istanbul and want to make the most of your visit, this guide has got you covered!

Read ull blog from the link below:

📍 Post Link: [https://planturkiye.com/top-tourist-destinations-in-istanbul-how-to-plan-7-days-tour-of-the-city/]

In this comprehensive post, you'll find a carefully crafted itinerary that takes you through the diverse and enchanting neighborhoods of Istanbul. From ancient landmarks to vibrant markets, you'll experience the city's rich history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Trust me, you won't want to miss a single moment!

Day 1: Start your journey by exploring the iconic Sultanahmet Square, home to the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the breathtaking Blue Mosque. Dive into the vibrant streets of the Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of Turkish delights and unique souvenirs.

Day 2: Embark on a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where East meets West. Marvel at the stunning views of Istanbul's skyline, dotted with impressive palaces, including the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace. Don't forget to visit the charming neighborhoods of Ortaköy and Bebek.

Day 3: Head to the Asian side of Istanbul and discover the vibrant Kadikoy district. Indulge in delicious street food at the Kadikoy Market and explore the colorful streets lined with trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Enjoy a serene sunset at the beautiful Moda Park.

Day 4: Uncover the secrets of Istanbul's historical district, Beyoglu. Wander down the lively Istiklal Avenue, visit the iconic Galata Tower, and explore the trendy shops and cozy cafes in the Cihangir neighborhood. End your day with a taste of Istanbul's nightlife in the vibrant Karaköy district.

Day 5: Venture to the Princes' Islands and experience a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hop on a ferry and enjoy a leisurely bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour around Büyükada, the largest island. Relax on the pristine beaches and savor delicious seafood.

Day 6: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Istanbul's Asian side by visiting the historic Uskudar district. Explore the elegant Maiden's Tower and stroll along the picturesque coastline of the Bosphorus. Don't forget to try the famous Turkish tea at a traditional tea house.

Day 7: Wrap up your unforgettable journey with a visit to the enchanting Topkapi Palace. Explore its opulent halls and gardens, where sultans once resided. End your tour by savoring a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul.

So, are you ready to embark on this incredible adventure through Istanbul? Head over to the post linked above to get all the details, tips, and tricks for planning your 7-day tour. Get ready to create lifelong memories in this captivating city!

[travismjustm]

I been on the road, #KnowTime kNew Merch soon come! 👕 (Drop a comment if you buyin!) #OneLove to @iamcasme and @tamarajademusic from #TheVoice #TeamLegend since we was in #NOLA I had to hop on the 2nd line 🎼 🎺 🎶 Shoutout to My sister for rollin w/ Me #TheMisUnderstood #Misfits (at Cafe Istanbul NOLA) https://www.instagram.com/p/CPj66s0h5AV/?utm_medium=tumblr

[arvholidays123]

Best Tourist Places in Singapore in year 2020

Singapore- ‘A garden in a city or city in a garden’.

Attracting visitors by the facades of old colonial buildings that has been carefully restored, Singapore no wonder has been an excellent destination for people round the globe with numerous modern architectural buildings, numerous museums, gardens and other famous attractions, streets teeming with crowd. Singaporeans attach a great deal more to activities and lifestyles within the district. The lion city is much more than the sum of its numerous attractions. It is constantly evolving, reinventing, and reimagining itself, with people who are passionate about creating new possibilities.

Singapore, the island city state off southern Malaysia is a global financial centre with a tropical climate. With a reasonably consistent weather, the most effective time to go to best time to Singapore is December to June welcoming tourists round the year. However, if you wish to avoid any crowd flocking the places, then July to November is the best time to visit.

The glitz and glam of the city!

The fascinations in Singapore like Marina Bay sands, garden by the bay, art science museum, Merlion Park. Marina bay sands and gardens by the bay on the left and the Flyer on the right.

Strolling around little India and soaking altogether the features of an ultramodern society with its impressive skyline, contemporary architecture, high end shopping malls, and highly efficient subway system. Everything is clean orderly and easy. Definitely a place everyone should experience. People are warm and welcoming. They don’t make you feel like a stranger even if it’s your first time in the city. Singapore is sorted and easy to navigate.

It’s nice to watch out popular sights and explore the back alleys of this amazing city. There are different streets in Singapore like little Indian, Chinatown, Arab street etc. The décor, lights, loud music and vibes everything is charming. There is a mini block near Arab Street or Haji lane that has colorful streets and street art. It is a true mishmash of culture with the hipster shopping Haji lane alongside traditional cloth merchants at Arab Street. Walk around and you can discover more cute cafes, bold graffitis and hints of Malaysian heritage all around the area. Ann Siang Hill near Chinatown is pretty happening area with bars and restaurants and a blocked off road for pedestrians to roam freely. There are so many places to hold out.

Marine bay sands- An improbable experience watching the 360 degree view of the Singapore skyline from the world’s largest infinity pool, Marina bay sands. They host spectra exhibit within the water every evening which is a magnificent water fountain, light and sound show. The music is highly emotive and inspired by live orchestra. It is a requirement thing to try to when you’re in Singapore.    

Chinatown- This can be visitors one amongst the favorites. Just in case you’ve never visited china, then this can be the place that takes you right there. From authentic Chinese food to bright red lanterns, there’s excitement and hustle within the place. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Center to work out Buddha Tooth Relic temple. People go there to hear the morning drum ceremony after viewing the relic.

Merlion Park- It is the world famous Singapore mascot. A blend of lion and the fish. It has been related several times for welcoming and allowing visitors to pose for photograph at the Merlion Park.

Gardens by the Bay– Could be a showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry entertaining while educating visitors with rare plants from different habitats. Floral fantasy is the latest thematic attraction at gardens by the bay escaping the city buzz for an instant. Flowers, artistry and technology come together to create a dream like fantastical experience for visitors. Ensure to go to the impressive National Orchid garden as well.

Night Safari- Night Safari in Singapore is a sort of an incredible thing to possess once in a lifetime experience especially for biologists and keen for wildlife and nature. You get an opportunity to experience nocturnal lives of the residents. You can take trails and acquire a glimpse of leopards, porcupines, civets, flying foxes and other wildlife. There are fishing cat trails that are native to Singapore, pangolins and others that are endangered.

Sentosa Island- It is one place that is really liked by visitors. It has a cycling track, jogging track and ample space for camping. Perfect spot for moving into beach time. You can spend hours walking along and sitting in between to relax and recap your trip. There are attractions like underwater world aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins. 

Blue plate special!

Hawker food is what makes Singapore’s cuisine enticing. Frankly, I’d skip the restaurants and hop in for local food when travelling as trying traditional food of a place is largely connected with that cultural experience. There is also a very rich and diverse mix of food from all different cultures that you can find in most hawkers center. There are some very famous touristy hawker centres recommended by locals to check out are Old Airport Road Food Centre and Tiong Bahru Market, both very popular with Singaporeans.

If you are keen on restaurants, you can check out local food websites like hungrygowhere, burpple and Yelp Singapore reviewed by Singaporeans. These might offer you a robust sense of the local favorites. You can try lamb Kabsa at Istanbul restaurant in Arab Street or turn to Maxwell market famous for Chicken Rice.

There’s nowhere within the world quite like Singapore. You are sure to have an unforgettable vacation with full exciting experiences.

[kawinh]

Cafe’ hop #แวะฉี่ 🤣 (at Turkey / istanbul) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cg1QbDyrvvP/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[mergersacquisitionsadvisory]

Seaside Factory Outlet Shopping Center On Oregon Coast

At the Buddha Kat Winery Tasting Room in Oregon Coast shopping consumers can indulge in and buy all of their red and white wines, award-profitable ports and delectable fruit wines.

Central Park Mall and Taman Anggrek mall are two of the most important malls within the metropolis, that i never observed any mall in Australia or Singapore better than these two. A numerous and inclusive neighborhood, Hawthorn is the type of place lots of people envision once they think of Portland.

Best Shopping & Malls In Oregon, United States

Many mediums are supplied including glass, work, images, wood, stone, bronze, sculpture, ceramics and jewelry. Beach Puppy offers shoppers all kinds of things for dogs. They have every little thing from collars to clothing, to treats and bling, and all sorts of toys for pets. Beach Books is a domestically owned book retailer that includes greatest sellers and titles by regional authors. Monthly creator visits, annual e-book fairs and other events are provided as nicely. World of Gifts in Seaside is the place shoppers can find a large selection of odds and ends as well as trinkets and souvenirs.

Woodburn Company Stores is the biggest tax-free outlet mall in the western a part of the United States and the most important outlet within the state of Oregon. The outlet is situated off of I-5 in Woodburn, OR. It's around a 20-minute drive south from Portland earlier than you get to Salem.

The Broadway developing was constructed by the Del E. Webb Corporation. Apart from its tourism and good accommodations, Thailand’s largest metropolis, Bangkok, could be a low cost buying vacation spot. Clothing, coats, hats, and toys in many shapes and sizes, together with kids’s sizes. Fun T-shirts are a perfect method to keep in mind your go to to Seaside. Welcome visitors to the Seaside Carousel Mall, a must stop for vacationers and locals for shopping, household enjoyable and meals. No matter what you are in the temper to buy we've you lined.

Italians are critical about style Oregon Coast shopping and their buying capital, Milan, is among the most fashionable cities on the earth. A strip mall or a mini-mall is commonly an open-air mall where the outlets are arranged in a row, with a sidewalk in front.

Generally, the downtown space is considered to be between thirteenth Avenue and the Willamette River , Burnside and Jackson Streets . Those are the perks of Portland, Oregon's best malls and shopping centers. Loads of local shopping options include excessive-brow and low-forehead shops, together with food choices do you have to need a drink or a chunk along the way. Pioneer Place is situated in the coronary heart of downtown Portland near Pioneer Courthouse Square. This is downtown's main shopping vacation spot, spanning 4 metropolis blocks and housing designer name brands and top of the range eating and leisure options.

Anchor stores embody H&M and Tiffany & Co.; smaller excessive-finish retailers embrace Ann Taylor, Coach, Eddie Bauer, J. Crew and Nine West. Unfortunately, you'll more than likely should park in a parking garage to go to this mall. Mall companies include strollers, wheelchairs, a customer's data middle and an on-web site ATM. Including four department stores, with one being the state's largest Nordstrom, Washington Square Mall attracts patrons with its wealth of buying opportunities and numerous merchandise. Over a hundred and seventy specialty shops also name this landmark mall residence. They have one of many only Brighton Jewelry Stores in Portland and the one Cheesecake Factory. Crew retains consumers happily filling up their bags till the doors close.

The Purple Pelican offers buyers a selection of jewelry, pottery, collectible figurines, crystal items, glassware, unique presents and extra. The Old Crab has clothing and swim wear along with souvenirs, items and jewelry. Visitors can find beach toys, boards, blankets and seashells. They additionally function authentic Nascar licensed and licensed pictures and die-forged cars. The Heron's Nest features a large selection of presents, collectibles and souvenirs for all ages.

C&R Mercantile goals to outfit the complete family to enjoy a weekend getaway at the seashore, a climbing journey in the mountains, or any journey you might find in between. They have hand selected an array of Women's, Men's and Children's attire, sneakers, accessories, games, hiking gear, seaside blankets, and far more. By The Sea provides shoppers a wide range of seashore related and nautical items, greeting playing cards, desk ware, fossils, collectibles, image frames, decor and extra.

In the early part of the 20th century, this area was dedicated to trade and commerce. In the previous couple of many years, the original warehouses have been converted into art galleries, fashionable eating places, brewpubs, hip retailers and boutiques. Pearl, named for the sweetness inherent in the unpleasant exteriors, is an apt moniker for this reinvented district, which is now one of the city's more fascinating destinations. The area is bounded by the Willamette River, I-405, West Burnside and NW Broadway. Catering to hip professionals and trendy city denizens, this space is considered one of Portland's busiest.

A large meals court docket and an expansive parking construction with a sky bridge to Nordstrom and Sears are convenient. Bridgeport Village is a beautiful, sprawling outdoor mall that features a mix of local retailers and nationwide retailers. Be sure to put on your strolling footwear, as a result of there may be plenty of places to go to here. Bridgeport Village can be house to well-liked restaurants just like the California Pizza Kitchen and PF Changs. One of Portland's hottest meals carts has a everlasting location here, Koi Fusion.

The Largest Shopping Malls In Europe

Seaside, Gearhart, and Cannon Beach are a shopper's dream come true! Take your time exploring for antiques and unique imports in Gearhart. Discover the perfect showpiece in your residence in considered one of Cannon Beach’s many distinctive galleries and shops. Seaside is teeming with nice retailers for every interest and budget. The coolest thing about buying on the beach is that you can find distinctive, uncommon, and even uncommon items that you just aren’t likely to find anyplace else. This is an incomplete list of currently present buying centers and malls in the U.S. state of Oregon. Aptly named “the land of many malls,” Paramus possesses 4 massive malls in one zip code, which embody Westfield Garden State Plaza and the Outlets at Bergen Town Center.

Your Store

Bargain hunters and excessive-finish fashion lovers, Hong Kong is your metropolis. Millions of individuals around Asia and the world flock to this tiny island yearly to select up a incredible deal or discover one thing unique. This huge mall attracts 22 million guests every year, because of its massive-name brands like Nordstrom, Macy’s and Bloomingdales, plus totally different luxury retailers. This is the biggest buying centre in Europe at a formidable three.forty seven million square ft, situated on the Büyükdere Avenue within the Şişli district of Istanbul. There are 343 shops and forty eight consuming places within the buying centre, which take up six flooring.

There is definitely a hippy, different, homosexual-pleasant ethos within the space. This is reflected in the classic clothing retailers, boutiques and unbiased cafes. Powell's books has a branch right here which is now the most important bookstore on Portland's East Side. The Bagdad Theater is a popular McMenimin's location, and a number of other pubs provide nightly stay music.

At Hop and Vine Bottle Shop and Taproom you can store a large choice of wines and beers. Freedom USA is a clothing store that additionally does display screen printing, graphic design and extra. They provide all kinds of prints to choose from, together with Seaside Oregon designs not discovered anywhere else. If visitors have an thought they need to see on a shirt, Freedom USA could make it occur, on the spot. They have memento apparel, swimwear, hats, t-shirts, and hoodies. Shoppers may also discover jewelry, video games, toys and fun items for the seashore.

We have a variety of unique presents and classic treasures. Our customers value our private touches and high quality merchandise. Immerse yourself in the finest bath & body care, select a whimsical card or stationary merchandise, discover Oregon Coast shopping a distinctive present for a good friend or yourself, jewellery, sweatshirts, candles and a lot more. Stop by our new location and watch us create amazing glass artwork or schedule a glass blowing class to create your individual signature piece.

Health Haven Vitamins offers dietary consultation by appointment. Includes device and equipment catalog, retailer locater and training information. provides consumers the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of hand-made glass floats and bowls, or to make one themselves. In addition to the fabulous glass art made right here in the store , The Edge presents a spread of art in other media, including paintings, ceramics, and fiber arts, many by local artists. Marine Discovery Tours cruise during holiday purchasing season, yow will discover a number of the finest Newport-themed apparel at Marine Discovery Tours’ headquarters and reward store. They often have terrific sales on sweatshirts, T shirts, hats, and jackets in addition to a wide range of other presents. Cruise gift certificates additionally make fantastic holiday gifts.

The King of Prussia Mall, the second biggest mall within the US, is situated in Montgomery, Pennsylvania. Although the developer of the mall initially estimated that the mall would have 50,000 customers a day, as of 2004 the actual amount was far smaller, as few as 20 in an hour. One drawback was that prices of most gadgets offered had been far previous the shopping for capacity of most strange Chinese. Another barrier was the inaccessibility of Golden Resources Shopping Mall to overseas customers as a result of its location exterior the center of Beijing. “The emergence of leisure as a part of the shopping heart is popping into essential,” he stated. It is owned and developed by Thailand’s largest property developer Central Pattana. Over the years, different retailers and purchasing facilities also opened on or near Metro Parkway, the ring freeway surrounding the mall.

Shoppers can even enjoy a treat at one of the many shops that feature sweet, ice cream, and coffees. The Freedom Clearance Outlet is a clothing retailer that provides clients a wide variety of clothing and items for a day at the seashore, together with Seaside Oregon designs. Seaside’s three distinct purchasing districts offer a wide range of tax-free buying experiences, whether you’re excited about antiques and apparel or surfboards and smoked salmon. A downtown Broadway core offers a wide range of boutique choices while North Seaside supplies high nationwide brands within the type of tax-free factory outlet purchasing. South of downtown, choices embody a recent fish market that is among the finest in the region.

Bridgeport Village can be house to popular restaurants like the California Pizza Kitchen and PF Changs.

One of Portland's hottest meals carts has a permanent location here, Koi Fusion.

Bridgeport Village is a beautiful, sprawling out of doors mall that options a mixture of native outlets and nationwide retailers.

A large meals court and an expansive parking structure with a sky bridge to Nordstrom and Sears are convenient.

Be sure to wear your walking shoes, because there may be a lot of locations to visit right here.

Newport Liquor Store

Blue Bond Studio and Gallery options paintings by artist Blue Bond done in oil on canvas. Animals, people, nonetheless life, and scenery pictures delight guests.

Where To Shop?

Other shops found listed here are Barnes & Noble, Icing, Made in Oregon, Ulta, the Children's Place, Old Navy, Gap, Forever 21 and many more. The prime-stage hosts a big food court docket and throughout the street is a cinema multiplex displaying the newest film releases. Northeast Alberta Street has turn into considered one of Portland's most funky and creative neighborhoods.

Food decisions range from fashionable pubs and hip cafes to traditional taquerias and food carts. Though there are only some devoted galleries, the realm is perfused with art, a lot of it being of the outsider variety. Most of the retailers and restaurants adorn their partitions with rotating exhibits of local artists. Alberta Street celebrates on Last Thursday, with an artwork walk that can be a raucous road honest. Made In Oregon shops are proud to supply the very best quality products made out there from the most effective Oregon vendors and have accomplished so for the past 32 years. Our goal is to provide an excellent shopping expertise for our native Oregon clients as well as our guests and tourists. We satisfaction ourselves on our massive selection that is a true reflection of what Oregon artists have to offer our state.

[espiritulibre-blog]

Day 278 - Mexico City - 5988 km

Bike stolen..!

The trip is on hold, but this time beyond my control. The bike is gone. Stolen. Earlier in the evening I was having dinner at a restaurant in Roma Norte, CDMX with my friend Antonio, whom I’d cycled together with to Nevado de Toluca. We were both on the bike and had parked it in sight, locked it against a pole. People at the restaurant could watch. I do it all the time, it’s safe. Roma is one of the richer and developed neighbourhoods in Mexico City. After dinner I met with Martha and we decided to watch a movie in the cinema on Insurgentes, the 2nd largest avenue in Mexico City. First we were at her house, the moment I should have decided to leave the bike inside and take an Uber to the cinema. But we didn’t, we hopped on the bike. Perhaps a Dutch instinct. At the cinema I asked if I could park the bike inside. The guard didn’t allow it. Then to the parking garage, but there were also no bikes allowed. We walked around and parked it in front of Cafe La Lombarda, a restaurant with an open store front, where people and staff could watch the bike. I locked the frame with a 12mm cable lock to a lantarn. It seemed safe. The film took a little longer than expected and we returned after 12. The street was quiet and I didn’t feel good about leaving the bike here. We walked to the corner of Chiapas and Manzanillo where it was parked. There were some taco stands around which were cleaning up. I’d eaten there a couple of times, I lived here in an Airbnb a few weeks ago. A familiar neighbourhood. Walking through the street I reached out my head to be able to see the bike. “Don’t worry, you’re bike will be there.” Martha tried to comfort me. We took 10 more steps and we both saw it wasn’t there. My heart sank. A second I doubted if we didn’t park it elsewhere, but then I realised it was gone. I loved this bike. In a way it was my home, equipped and tuned exactly to my wishes. So many memories, so many challenges I’ve been through with this bike…

The lock was on the street, cut through. You need a big cable cutter, but if you have that, it takes two seconds and the bike is yours. Nobody’s going to stop you. I felt stupid. Was it my fault? It feels like it. In the end it’s always your fault. You can’t be careful enough. But then again there are so many ungarded moments, anything could happen. Everyday when I’m cycling I leave it outside when I go to a supermarket or store. Most of the time I take the Carradice and Brooks bag with me, containing the most valuable parts like MacBook, hard disks, cameras, lenses, drone, wallet… but at a small shop I even leave that on the bike. It takes one organised bad guy to take everything with him, and I have nothing. During 25.000 km around the world the only thing that got stolen was a rear light in India. I had left my bike parked outside in places like Budapest, Bucharest, Istanbul, Tehran, New Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, Singapore, Vancouver, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles and nothing happened. The lock has lots of little scars in the plastic though, from people attempting to cut using something like a pocket knife. But so far it remained my property.

I recall what exactly has been stolen. Luckily most of my luggage was stored in my room. But then it’s not only the bike. There’s a lot of add-ons which almost double the value of the bike. Tubus and Blackburn racks, Schmidt Son Edulux II headlight, dynamo, 3 Blackburn anything cages, Gilles Berthoud saddle, Ortlieb 6L Frame bag, Primus Omnifuel stove, lens filters, bike pump, several small tools, Blackburn top tube bag, Quad lock phone holder, Profile Design aero bars and a Carradice bag quick-release. All of these are highly durable, top-quality products and were a considerable amount of my travel budget all together.

Then on the third day, a glorious turn. The Facebook post about the stolen bike gets shared +200 times, mostly through Mexico. Pipe Llanos, a member of the Facebook groups MTB Friends, offers me his (almost new) mountain bike for free to continue my travels. An amazingly generous gesture. Not a brand that wants to sponsor me, just an individual with heart of gold. We meet at at La Bici Urbana, a bike shop in the centre. Pipe is born and raised in Mexico City. We take the bike from his car and take it for a spin. It’s a good mountain bike, a size smaller then my Surly ECR, but it doesn’t feel too bad. The biggest challenge will be fitting all the luggage on this bike, because it’s regular mountain bike, it’s doesn’t have all the braze-ons and attachement points for racks and backs, like the Surly ECR. But at this point I can only be grateful. And the generosity doesn’t stop here. The bike shop donates a heavy U-lock, for preventing a second robbery. I’m speechless. Hope in humanity is more than restored. I agree with Pipe to borrow the bike for a few days to see if it is realistic option to continue the trip to Patagonia.

(picture taken in La Romita, Roma, Mexico City)

[istanbullandmarks]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[istanbulpalaces]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[istanbulsguide]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[newcityistanbul]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[foodistanbul]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[culturalifeus]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[istanbulmarket]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.

[bookingistanbul]

Traffic in Istanbul is plain

Don’t… bother with taxis if possible.

Traffic in Istanbul is plain ol’ slow, especially during rush hour. Give the cabs a miss — buses too.

If your journey is too far to walk, look into Istanbul’s extensive subway, Metrobus, and tram lines. They’re crowded but speedy.

Do… map your route on foot.

Istanbul street life is one of the subtlest glories of the city — the narrow alleys, laundry hanging overhead, the sudden slopes and hills.

Steep-but-pretty Galata, where many cars fear to tread, is a hub of cool music stores, cafes, and arty residential pockets.

Don’t… misunderstand dress codes when visiting mosques.

Women queuing at the visitors’ entrance of the Blue Mosque are often seen fretfully wrapping their heads in bazaar-bought pashminas to cover up tightly, headscarf-style.

Here, it’s not necessary for non-worshipers to cover their hair completely. Some guides will tell you it’s not necessary at all.

What’s more important is for your sleeves, neckline, shorts, and skirts to hit a modest length. No tank tops or short shorts, or you’ll be asked to use your new pashmina as a sarong.

Do… let worshipers worship.

Mosques have specific prayer times, but visitors can choose to pray whenever they visit. This means that while the mosque is open for tourists, worship is still taking place.

Try to talk quietly, please don’t use your cell phone, and if you want to snap pictures of people in prayer, at least be discreet about it. Also, be mindful of the separate men’s and women’s sections.

Don’t… live off doner and baklava.

They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and oh so tasty, but you’d be shortchanging yourself by staying in this food rut.

Other common, delicious Turkish foods are saucy iskender kebap, lentil (mercimek) soup, and desserts like rice pudding (sutlac) or sticky ice cream (dondurma). Check out the sweets at a Mado Cafe. o… try a point-and-choose restaurant.

There’s a point-and-choose place on every street in the city. From the window, you’ll see a dozen trays of different foods and a cafeteria-style counter.

These restaurants are inexpensive and fresh. Each dish will cost 2-5 lira, and if you go with a friend or two, you can sample and share the whole menu.

Don’t… take the Bosphorus cruise.

It’s a pretty tour, yes, but a relatively pricey one. The boat has plenty of seating, but the window seats fill up fast.

Your 3-hour stopover on the Asian side provides views of the Black Sea and the ruins of a small pre-Ottoman fortress. That leaves another 2 hours and 30 minutes of touts trying to draw you into their seafood shops.

Do… take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands.

For a better day trip, do what the Istanbullians do and hop a ferry to the Prince’s Islands in the Marmara Sea. It’s far cheaper than the Bosphorus cruise but still provides views of Istanbul and its southern waterfronts.

Once on the islands, you can swim, hike, and rent bikes. Buyukada, the last island on the route, is my favorite for its car-free streets and weathered wooden villas ranging from old-world gorgeous to 70s gaudy.