I woke up this morning to the most jaw-dropping view — the kind you only get when you arrive in the dark and your surroundings decide to reveal themselves with a dramatic “ta-da!” at sunrise. What an awesome surprise to start the day.
Oman spent the whole morning giving me the grand tour and showing me the ropes (which, in this house, mostly means understanding cat politics). Then we wandered over for coffee at the house behind us, where the lovely neighbour just happens to co-own an animal sanctuary for cats and dogs. Naturally, I’m already excited to visit — because who wouldn’t want more animals in their day?
There are 19 cats here. Yes, Nineteen. Two are disabled but absolutely thriving, and the rest live their best lives like tiny furry overlords. Tomorrow I’m flying solo, so after my morning chores I’ll head out exploring.
One of the funniest things? The daily cat release! Between 8 and 9am (weather permitting), the felines are let out for their morning wander. Then later you simply blow a whistle and call, “Gat gat!” or “Come come!” — and they trot back like a tiny fluffy army. Some lounge on the front lawn, others slip into a sunny bedroom and claim it as their own for the day.
Only one didn’t come back on time… of course it had to be Nisa’s favourite. But Google Translate on high volume, shouting her name in Turkish, saved the day. Technology: 1. Sneaky cat: 0.
All in all, a pretty magical first day — with views, coffee, and 19 new four-legged friends.
The last photo is the villa house I am staying in.
