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Day 13, Tuesday 15 October
Final Day…….. Today is the final full day in Istanbul for both of us as we prepare to return to our own countries. In Katoon’s case, that will be just after midnight so the tour must be wrapped up by early evening. With much of the morning occupied with packing and rearranging, it’s close to midday again before we venture out. Up the hill at the Bayazit tram station we decide not to take the tram but head towards Sultan Amet Camii, a well-known site, also known as the Blue Mosque, built in 1616 and containing its founder's tomb. Having visited this mosque in section one of this tour, a re-visit is necessary to allow Katoon her first visit. The mosque is still very popular despite partial closure for repairs. Nearby is the public square with remnants of an ancient hippodrome, with prominent & historic buildings nearby. With a visit to the Blue Mosque taking up little time we walk through the local Arasta Bazaar then up past Ayasofya Müzesi (Hagia Sophia Museum). In terms of historical importance, Ayasofya Müzesi is unique and a major attraction in this area designated by UNESCO for special recognition. However, neither Dave on the original visit to Sultanamet Square nor Katoon now, feel the need to visit this museum. It has to be remembered, of course, that there is a fee to pay at all museums in Turkey.
Shopping of Course…….. From Sultanamet Square Katoon decides to walk through the narrow streets to Eminönü where we take a late lunch. Now there is little more than 2 hours of practical time left before we need to head back. That time has to be used wisely now as up to this point very little shopping has been done. We need to get to the Spice Bazaar now without delay and use up any outstanding Turkish Lira. By 6pm we have to wrap it up and call it a day having purchased spices, coffee, tea, dried fruit and Turkish delight and in Katoon’s case a copper-bottomed tea pot.
Final Day…….. Today is the final full day in Istanbul for both of us as we prepare to return to our own countries. In Katoon’s case, that will be just after midnight so the tour must be wrapped up by early evening. With much of the morning occupied with packing and rearranging, it’s close to midday again before we venture out. Up the hill at the Bayazit tram station we decide not to take the tram but head towards Sultan Amet Camii, a well-known site, also known as the Blue Mosque, built in 1616 and containing its founder's tomb. Having visited this mosque in section one of this tour, a re-visit is necessary to allow Katoon her first visit. The mosque is still very popular despite partial closure for repairs. Nearby is the public square with remnants of an ancient hippodrome, with prominent & historic buildings nearby. With a visit to the Blue Mosque taking up little time we walk through the local Arasta Bazaar then up past Ayasofya Müzesi (Hagia Sophia Museum). In terms of historical importance, Ayasofya Müzesi is unique and a major attraction in this area designated by UNESCO for special recognition. However, neither Dave on the original visit to Sultanamet Square nor Katoon now, feel the need to visit this museum. It has to be remembered, of course, that there is a fee to pay at all museums in Turkey.
Shopping of Course…….. From Sultanamet Square Katoon decides to walk through the narrow streets to Eminönü where we take a late lunch. Now there is little more than 2 hours of practical time left before we need to head back. That time has to be used wisely now as up to this point very little shopping has been done. We need to get to the Spice Bazaar now without delay and use up any outstanding Turkish Lira. By 6pm we have to wrap it up and call it a day having purchased spices, coffee, tea, dried fruit and Turkish delight and in Katoon’s case a copper-bottomed tea pot.
top row: Arasta Bazaar, Hagia Sophia Museum (Ayasofya Müzesi), Obelisk of Theodosius in the public square,bottom row: Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Instanbul International Airport
Katoon's Departure……..
Heading back, I’m conscious of the fact that I wasted too much time earlier on this tour. I could have done much better. However, I can’t dwell on it as I’m committed now to accompany Katoon to the airport aiming for 10pm. By this time, I’ve already made one trip from the airport in section one of this tour and realise how far it is from downtown districts of Istanbul. The crowded streets ensure reaching the bus stops is not easy but, on this occasion, the owner of La Casa Suite has offered to transport us to Sultanamet coach terminal. From Sultanamet Square coach pick-up/drop-off there always seems to be a bus waiting and we lose little time, making the 40-minute trip and bringing us to the departure terminal even before the check-in desk opens at 3 hours before departure. Here I will wait until Katoon has checked in and passed through passport control. Presently the airport is less than busy and the job is done. I’m in time to catch the 11pm bus back to Sultanamet Square. Katoon’s flight to Muscat with Oman Air is at 00.55. My much shorter journey will see me arrive back in Sultanamet Square, take the tram to Bayazit tram station and walk the final 15 minutes to La Casa Suite. Grabbing a beer on the way, I’m back in the room by 00.30 and send my last messages to Katoon who is already on board the aircraft. The best I can do now is get 4 hours sleep before my own departure. Next Page.