I pack up and head south on Monday, officially escaping just in time — it’s forecast to be a brisk -2°C here, which feels like a very good cue to leave. Saying goodbye will be a little bittersweet, but the thought of my next adventure makes it easier — especially knowing it comes with dogs.
While other cats bring back the occasional leaf, Mustafa returns like a proud provider, delivering fish, chicken legs, and the odd “where on earth did that come from?” prize. We’re not running a restaurant… but apparently, apparently he is. 🐾😄
Another early start, another zero-degree morning, and I was off on the ferry to Kadıköy — often called the Asian side of Istanbul. Asian influence? I didn’t really see it. What I did see was Istanbul at its most lively and charming. The journey took just under three hours with a few stops along the
The morning began in spectacular fashion — the sky painted itself in oranges and yellows, as if it knew it had an audience. Absolutely breathtaking. A perfect start to the day… visually, at least. Temperature-wise, it’s a brisk 5 degrees outside. We’re promised a generous high of 12 degrees today, though only between the very
The evening had settled into a peaceful hush when, out of nowhere, Demet, Karim and Ranyar appeared “just to say hello.” A few laughs in, the lights suddenly went out. Next thing I knew, they reappeared with a cake, singing Happy Birthday. Completely unexpected, completely heart-melting. Such warm, generous souls — I felt incredibly lucky
This year, I spent my birthday in Turkey, not celebrating in the usual way, but giving thanks for the life I’ve been able to live. I visited tombs and graves, including those of former sultans. Standing there was a reminder that no matter how powerful, wealthy, or influential a person once was, life is finite.
Today started off feeling a lot like Groundhog Day. I hopped on a minibus, a friendly passenger assured me, “Yes, this one goes to the square,” and—poof!—before I knew it, I was right back where I started, with the driver looking mildly baffled at how I managed that. He patiently mapped out my new quest:
The heart of the city is famous for its ancient mosque—one of the oldest in all of Turkey —along with beautiful silk scarves and unbelievably smooth coffee served in your very own hand-picked cup. Honestly, picking the cup felt like choosing a tiny porcelain soulmate. I was spoiled with a feast, starting with a Muradiye
Yesterday was an absolute treat! Niss and Demet whisked me off to see Nisa’s studio—and wow, what a place. The walls sparkle with her athletic medals, and sitting proudly among them are her golden-soled boots, gifted by the Turkish government for being the fastest 400-metre runner in all of Turkey… at just 13 years old!
What a day! After a breezy 2.5-hour ferry ride, I docked at Yenikapı and hit the ground running, determined to squeeze every last drop out of Istanbul before my 3:30 pm return. My little adventure followed this route: Yenikapı Port → Seaside Path → Kumkapı → Laleli → Grand Bazaar. First impression? Istanbul is spotless.