Turkey

In May 2022, I visited Istanbul with my mates Cam and Nick M, and the city quickly became one of my top five favorites. From the moment we experienced a Turkish breakfast with coffee, to exploring the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia mosque, Istanbul never stopped impressing. The Blue Mosque was under construction, but glimpses of its beauty left me eager to return. We also took in a mesmerizing display from the whirling dervishes and explored the diverse neighborhoods by ferry. One of the most unforgettable experiences was attending a Besiktas football game— the atmosphere was electric. Though we didn’t shop much at the Grand Bazaar, the vibrant aromas stayed with me. Istanbul’s unique mix of cultures, stunning architecture, and the prevalence of friendly stray dogs made it a truly special trip. I can’t wait to return to explore more, with Cappadocia on my list next.