All that remains of three intertwined snakes made from melted bronze trophies captured from the Persians.  Istanbul does seem to be full of captured monuments.

A leisurely stroll along the waterfront on a gray Sunday afternoon.

The Istanbul spice market is one of the most interesting places in Istanbul.  To some extent its for tourists, much as the grand bazaar is, however its bustling streets are filled with food, trinkets, coffee, candy and spices.  A fantastic place to wander through and take pictures.  The spice market looks exactly like I thought it should and sometimes that’s what you’re looking for in a sightseeing experience.

A beautiful day/evening on the shore of the Bosphorus.  Note to self, eat more of the delicious fish sandwiches they sell here.

Taksim is the home to the seeming majority of Istanbul’s nightlife (there are exceptions to this, but they’re more than just slightly out of our price range.)  Its a large main street that branches out into dozens of winding, stacked alleys with terrace after terrace of small cafes, sprawling restaurants and bars.  Its a cozy, bustling, towering kind of place I haven’t seen exactly anywhere else in the world.  Perfect for relaxing with friends or starting a night out.

Guns and breakfast.

Admiring the view on the last round of goodbyes.

Frozen custard at the Bob-In on the way out of town.

Stopping to gather supplies before the flight back.

Thanks Susy.