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Istanbul

Istanbul, the most populated city of Europe is the home to 27 districts. An interesting historical fact that is associated with this city is that it acted as the capital of many empires. To be specific, it could be said that it was the capital city of the Roman Empire from (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395-1204 and 1262-1453), the Latin Empire (1204-1261) and the Ottoman Empire (1453-1922). However, this city makes for an interesting place of visit as it is the home to several tourist attractions, great shopping centers and excellent restaurants for dining as well as wining. The most interesting places of visit at Istanbul are the Suleiman Mosque built by Sinan (a well known architect of this city),

Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom), which was formerly a mosque and now its known as a museum and Harem known also as the ‘woman’s apartments’ and only the Sultan, the Sultan’s relatives and the enuchs could enter the Harem and only a portion of it is open to the public now. The other places of visit are the Golden Horn (a natural harbor), Kareiye Camii (the church of St Saviour) known for its stunning frescos and mosaic works, Bayazit Mosque, Aquedect of Valens, Shehzada Mosque and the Yeni Cami (the mosque of Sultan’s mother).

Accommodation in Istanbul is not a problem at all as at this city you can opt for the five star hotel, such as the Hotel Surmeli, Istanbbul. If your budget does not permit you to opt for a five star hotel, then you can go for the four star hotels, such as the Hotel Sarnic, Hotel Best Western Acropol, Hotel Allstar Zurich, to name a few. If you wish, you could also put up at the three star or the two star hotels, depending on your budget as well as your preference.

It’s truly a shopper’s paradise. You can walk up to the Grand Bazaar, which is the home to 400 shops and has every gift item in store. The gift items range from clothes, to accessories, to jewelry to handicrafts, just everything. You can also visit the Spice Market to pick up some spices to carry back home. Also make a trip to the art boutiques that store an extensive collection.

Dining would prove to be a great experience as it is the home to restaurants that serves authentic local as well as International cuisine. The food just tastes just awesome.

The two airports that serve this city are the Sabiha Goke Airport and the Atatirk International Airport. The tram services, the bus services are quite frequent and thus it makes traveling for the visitors within and around the city an easy affair. The metro services as well as the ferry boat services also makes traveling a lovely experience.

Next time, plan your holiday to Istanbul. A stay at this city would definitely prove to be a fantastic experience.

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