The one place I really wanted to go to in Europe was Istanbul, and I’m so glad I made it there. The city and culture is so unique compared to anyplace in Western Europe. While at first I was cautious about our safety, we had no problems and enjoyed a great experience. The Turkish people are known for their hospitality, and there was plenty of it!

The people at our hostel were so friendly and inviting. They showed us the meaning of true hospitality in giving us great information, treating us to apple tea and a water pipe, and even driving us personally to the airport when our shuttle didn’t show up. While enjoying our free water pipe outside, they all came and sat with us and talked. We talked about where they were from, Turkey in general, and what we were doing there. I even got a free birthday shot for my birthday

… yay 21! This initial experience just added to the overall atmosphere of the country.

Our first destination was the Blue Mosque, which was conveniently located a few blocks from our hostel. When we arrived, there were TV crews and a crowd of people gathering around the entrance. This would usually be a time that our adviser would tell us to quickly leave the area, but we decided to check it out anyways. And I’m so glad we did. We got to see none other than Christian Wulff, the President of Germany… in Turkey! It was probably the most random and most exciting thing to happen to us thus far in Europe. Happy birthday to me!

After all of the hoopla died down, we were able to go into the mosque. Cate, Brenna and I all had to cover our hair with scarves and everyone had to take off their shoes. It was so beautifully decorated on the inside, and the atmosphere was entirely different than a church. We also went into the Hagia Sophia (20 Lira later) and saw the most beautiful architecture. The cultural experience gained from just entering these places of worship was fascinating to me.

Overall, I am so glad we were able to go to this enticing country. We were so well blessed to have safe travels especially since a terrorist attack happened only a few days ago at the National Monument in th

e New District. We were standing in Taksim Square where this occurred only one week ago. It is a blessing that no one was seriously injured, thus reported, in the suicide bomber’s attack. This attack has only made me count my blessings for our safety in our travels, but in no way would I not recommend going to Istanbul. The city is too beautiful to miss, and the atmosphere too rare to find elsewhere.