Our last entry, seems our trip passed much too quickly. Back to the starting point already! We've been lucky to have 35 days of incredible people, amazing places and (we must never forget to mention it) wonderful weather. Overall a truly perfect mix that made for an unforgettable experience. I guess it's back to Canada now, with our pockets feeling emptier and our spirits high. Maybe we'll find time for a little scheming on the way home. Where to next?? India?...

Finally in Istanbul. After a few zombie hours and a nice long nap, we recovered enough to get out and see the city. Busy, busy, busy, was my first impression. Yesterday, was our first real venture to the sights. Started the day at the Topkapi Palace, previous home of the Turkish sultan's. 85 carrat jewel encrusted throne anyone?? The wealth was pretty unbelievable. Took a little break from the scorching afternoon sun and did some shopping, only to discover our ...

Final destination. Istanbul. Gruelling overnight bus ride yesterday - border check, check, border check, recheck - visa, check. Recheck. Sweat bath walk to our hostel. Six hour nap, feeling refreshed, hand washing some laundry, terrace views across the Bosphorous to Asia...what more, honestly. Koprivshtitsa was magnificent. Little town nestled in mountain valleys. Ancient homes...absolutely gorgeous at that. Thunder, lightning, welcoming downpour. Wet trees and ...

On to Koprivshtitsa this morning. Sofia was excellent. Did a lot of wandering about as per usual. Yesterday we visited the Rila Monastery about 1 hr 30 mins from here. It was amazing to see, it's tucked into the valley surrounded by huge, towering mountains. Off to the train now. There are new pictures up finally so check them out! Leave us a message! Much love, Tamra and Devon

Did they really go Those people who came and On these same sun warmed stones Shared some shard of themselves without design? Did they perhaps leave behind ...