Istanbul , Turkey, what an amazing city. When we were coming into the countryside from Romania it looks very poor and like the villages in Romania. Then you get to Istanbul and its 17 million residents. WOW, this place is very big and has lots of things to do and see. Turkey, has a major Muslim population with masques everywhere and the Blue Masque is the major attraction. We went there today and it was really interesting. The building is very huge with amazing art work on the domes and huge pillars holding up the dome. Yesterday, we went to the royal palace and it was like walking through the sultans castle in Aladdin. The people have been incredibly kind and helpful. There have been times when we have needed directions because the transit system is rather poorly labeled, and the people have been really friendly and helpful, one guy even walked us to the station before he got his train. The people really rival the Irish and Spanish for friendliness.

I have loved walking the streets of Istanbul, everything is for sale. They take capitalism to the max, you want a razor, sunglasses, socks, shoes, they are all over the streets sold by guys that lay out a sheet in a popular area and its all for sale. I think this is very funny and when you walk by shops, "Yes, please, welcome" guys trying to draw you into their store. I am having a blast eating the street food. They have corn on the cob for $ 0.70 or 1 Turkish Liras, or breads and fish sandwiches for 3-4 liras.

Oooo Also its worth looking at your map and looking at what countries border turkey… I wont tell you, for fear of heart attacks, so look at your map at your own risk. FYI I am fine here its far away from the borders like 800 miles and very much dependent on tourism from the west and Europe and is very distant culturally from their neighbors.

: ) Staying safe : )

Kevin