This morning (Sunday, February 23, 2025), Istanbul was once again covered in heavy snowfall (it has been snowing since Wednesday). Belgrad Forest (Belgrade Forest), which is just a 5-minute walk from my home, looks stunning under the snow. So, I…
Istanbul Technical University (ITU), one of the most prestigious institutions in Turkey, transforms into a winter wonderland when covered in snow. The tree-lined paths, modern buildings, and serene campus roads take on a peaceful, almost surreal quality under a fresh…
On February 19, 2025, Bahçeköy was blanketed in a thick layer of snow, transforming the quiet streets and old buildings into a picturesque winter scene. From my window, I watched as heavy snowflakes fell steadily, covering the rooftops, parked cars,…
Did you know you can watch Istanbul live 24/7 via Live Stream? The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality provides a live streaming service through its “İstanbul’u Seyret” website, featuring a total of 19 cameras across the city. The 24-hour, 360-degree live stream…
Recently, I watched a video filmed by an American couple who visited Istanbul as tourists. The video was titled Turkish Street Food, BEST in the WORLD? Throughout the video, they explore the streets of Istanbul, tasting various Turkish dishes. It’s…
Ivan Aivazovsky, a celebrated Russian-Armenian artist, holds a special place in the hearts of Turkish art lovers. With over 200 paintings dedicated to Istanbul, Aivazovsky’s works form one of the most comprehensive visual records of the Ottoman capital during the…
Istanbul is a city of contrasts and surprises, where history and modernity, and also two continents, collide. Here are 5 fun facts about Istanbul.
On Istiklal Avenue at night, Istanbul’s nostalgic tram glides gracefully along the tracks, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city. The glowing lights of the bustling street and the red tram create a timeless scene, drawing locals and tourists…
This morning, I stood on the subway bridge stretching over the Golden Horn to watch the sunrise, when the city of Istanbul unfolded in a serene yet mesmerizing canvas. The soft light of the rising sun pierced through the morning…
Hagia Sophia was completed in 537 AD, and it must have been a magnificent sight for the people of that era. Let’s try to imagine what a passenger aboard a ship approaching Constantinople might have experienced when seeing the Hagia…
On a September morning, just before sunrise, I decided to take my bike out for an early ride along the Bosphorus. There’s something magical about the city at that hour – the calm before the day fully awakens, with only…
Why do people want to leave Istanbul and live in Izmir? In a previous article, I explained why, despite their desire, people find it hard to leave Istanbul, and even if they move to another city, they often return after…