Destination: Istanbul

As summer comes to a close our team headed to Istanbul this week, that modern-day city that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and most definitely straddles both the ancient and modern worlds. The Bosphorus is still a route for maritime trade with the sounds of merchants and construction keeping the area buzzing with the various cultures.

Whenever you travel it is best to rise early to partake in the historical sites, visit museums, but while in Istanbul you must drink tea, enjoy a Turkish breakfast or visit public bathing called ḥammām.

Faith [historically Constantinople] is the capital district in Istanbul, and Beyazit Square is located in the European section of the city.

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque [Ottoman] near the fountain of Sultan Ahmed III in Faith Turkey

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami 
Every visitor to Istanbul should experience a Turkish bath, and at Kilic Ali Pasa they offer the traditional ḥammām. This service includes an attendant who will wash and massage you., but no matter which service you choose you may use the facility for as long as you wish.

One of the most picturesque sights in Turkey is the Ortaköy Mosquethat sits on Bosphorus. Designed by Armenian architect Garabet Balyan in 1855 in neo-Baroque style.

Most churches and mosque have exquisite features, and these 13th century Byzantine mosaic’s in the Hagia Sophia are absolutely spectacular.

Travel stylishly,
K

Escape in Style

For the last few weeks escape is a word that sounds great to my world-weary ears. Fantasies have become my path of least resistance when it becomes difficult to disappear without notice. So, this weekend pressing errands and daily activities have taken a backseat, as I dream up new possibilities for travel, food and art.

Me in New York this summer lunching at Lucky Strike on Grand Street, and when visiting the Guggenheim, I was immediately drawn to this painting by Pablo Picasso- Trois Baigneuses {Three Bathers} in the town of Juan-les-Pins, which is a health resort and spa in Antibes. {August 1920 Pastel, oil, and graphite on paper}.

When in Austin a visit to Clark’s Oyster Bar is a must: cold-water oysters, ceviche, and wood-grilled shrimp served with the best Bloody Mary in the city made an unusually hot day bearable.
1200 W. 6thStreet, Austin, TX 78703

The Bacaro Jazz bar in Venice offers buy one get one free cocktails in early evening so, after a day of sightseeing it is relaxing listening to jazz while sipping cool drinks.
S.Marco, 5546, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

K