Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul took us by surprise, we absolutely loved it. The more you spend time there, the more you will discover you will never be able to see everything. It is truly a Gem.

WHERE TO STAY: (Our favorite side was the “European side” so all the suggestions are on that side)
-
Le Méridien Istanbul Etiler
-
Marriott Sisili
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AC Marriott Macka
-
Point Hotel Taksim Square
Restaurants:
Mangerie
Paper Moon
Zuma
Nusret
Chili
Sunset
Sarafina
Ranchero
Four Seasons ( Maybe a bit too expensive to stay the night at, but we highly recommend the outdoor patio for food at night. The view of the Bosporus is awesome)
Amazing View at the top of the Intercontinental

Areas to explore:
- Ortakoy: explore the little shops and the beautiful water view
- Take a ferry to Princess Island and have lunch along the water
- Have brunch and walk the water along Bebek
Shopping:
-Zorlu Shopping Center
- Istinye Park Shopping Center
-Akmerkez
Things to See:
-
Grand Bazaar
-
Spice Market
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Hagia Sofia
-
Blue Mosque
-
Galata Tower
Foods to Try:
“Cay”- Turkish tea
Chicken Shish- Basically a kebab but awesome
Menemen- Breakfast sausage dish
Kumpir- A baked potato with topped (stuffed) with anything your heart could desire
**** Baklava (My FAVORITE!!!)
