Istanbul: mosaic of the city’s soul

I don’t know why, but this city was never on my bucket list – and that was a huge mistake. Istanbul is a place you can see in two completely different lights: vibrant, colorful, filled with spices wafting from the tiny alleyways, glowing with the charm of twinkling lights and the deep blue sea. Or… gray, a bit crumbling, litter scattered across the streets as the buzz of the daily market fades into silence. Both sides are Istanbul, both are real. And here’s what I loved the most:

• The Modern Art Museum – absolutely breathtaking (I wanted to memorize almost everything I saw).
• I could photograph mountains of spices endlessly – their colors brighten even the grayest day.
• The enchanting voices calling locals to prayer.
• Tea, tea, and more tea – it’s less about the tea itself and more about the ritual surrounding it.
• Carpet patterns, ceramic hues, and tile mosaics –vibrant, colorful, and so meticulously crafted!
• An abundance of handmade ceramics – espresso cups, each more beautiful than the last :)