Istanbul

Istanbul - a city at the crossroads of Asia and Europe. It is vibrant, electric, chaotic, and so much more.I was lucky enough to spend two weeks there recently for work, and took every opportunity I could to explore this incredible place.I was based in the neighbourhood of Besiktas, and it was insane. Streets were constantly thronged with people, no matter the time of day or night; giant banners of black and white were strung up across buildings and above the streets, celebrating their local football team that had won the local Turkish league two years running; food stalls peppered every corner, selling anything from freshly cooked and grilled corn on the cob, to bread, to fresh mussels; and the smell of kebab hung heavy in the air.                     But it wasn't just this neighbourhood that was constantly buzzing with activity. Everywhere I went, the streets were constantly choked with people going about their daily lives, whether it be haggling over some goods in the many shops and stalls scattered throughout the city, or just sitting (or standing) and enjoying some Turkish tea.And through it all, the ubiquitous cats of Istanbul. I didn't realise this before I arrived, but this is a city of cats as much as it is a city of people. Everywhere you look, you will be sure to see at least one cat lounging anywhere it wants - whether it be on the seat of a parked motorbike, or just in the middle of a busy thoroughfare, the cats seem to rule this city. But they're not pests, nor menaces, and they definitely aren't pets. They are the city's, and the city is theirs. These cats are looked after by the community; fed, watered, loved by any and all that pass by. It is an interesting take on the old saying 'It takes a village to raise a child'.                     This city is truly best experienced on foot; winding your way through narrow cobblestone streets; climbing up and down the seven hills this city is built on; peeking into hidden courtyards; stopping for tea or coffee every hundred metres so you can just sit and take in the sights, sounds, and smells. You have to have a keen sense of your surroundings as these roads aren't just for pedestrians - motorbikes and scooters constantly weave in and out of the streams of people, pushing their way through the crowds to their destination.                      Walking the streets also gives you a chance to meet new and interesting people, and the people of Istanbul are all incredibly friendly and welcoming, often inviting you in for tea and Turkish Delight - though sometimes it's said just to get a sale, most of the time they're just sharing their hospitality with you.Not only that, but they also don't mind having their photos taken!This is a city that is constantly shifting and changing and growing. It is an incredible place to explore, and it's easy to get swept up in the buzz that permeates the streets. In all the time I spent wandering with purpose I never felt unsafe, even with all my camera gear loaded up.So for now, so long - but definitely not goodbye.