Istanbul | Bursa | Ayvalik | Kasadasi | Denizili | Fethiye | Bodrum | Didim | Izmir | New York

ISTANBUL---MAY 1st to MAY 3rd

We landed in Istanbul and hit the ground running!!  We had our luggage and there were no flight delays, so other than being a little tired we were in great spirits!  It was straight to the hotel where we dropped off our luggage and headed out for lunch.  Then a boat trip on the Bosphorus and the Grand Bazaar for some haggling.  Saturday we saw Aya Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi (which was a Sultans "little" home once upon a time).  Aylin, our D-2440 chairwoman, was amazing and such a great hostess!  She spent both days walking the city with us, keeping us out of trouble, making sure we ate like kings, all while wearing high heels and a fantastic smile.  As we get ready to leave this magical city, everyone is tired, excited to meet their first host family, and grateful for all of the hospitality we have received so far.  It has been a whirlwind and only two days. D2440 GSE Committee Chair Dr. Aylin Olut (center) with D6060 team member Cindy Kessler (L.) and team leader Carole Murphy. Things we won't forget about Istanbul: Cab rides (some of us are still afraid to open our eys) Cats, cats, cats everywhere Belly dancers in restraunts Erkan, the worlds greatest tour guide