A Wild Night In Istanbul

My final destination is perpetually changing just like my travel plans.

I’m facing the tarmac of the JFK airport and I’m already accustomed to the incredibly loud announcements that sound like an old Chinese lady is yelling into a tin can. Let’s take a moment of silence for those who are late to board or even missed their flight because they didn’t realize the voices screaming on the speakers were actually giving pertinent information regarding their flight.
I want to add that I’m sitting next to the Starbucks booth just to be by the barista who grinds another batch of coffee grounds because I’m drawn to that deliciously deep aroma. I’m like a moth drawn to the flame that is freshly ground coffee beans.

I’ve lucked out with a layover in Istanbul. Considering all of the political turmoil in that country and the tense situation among the U.S., Turkey and Russia, I’m not sure I’ll get another chance to visit this epically historic and beautiful country.

Recently, while conducting some research of the situation there I came across a truly eye-opening article from zerohedge.com if you’re in need of a website to set as your homepage- besides steemit.com of course- look no further than The Hedge. This is a great article written by Tyler Durden and I think it sheds an important light on what and why the U.S. military and it’s advisors are doing in Syria. This article tactfully explains the situation in Syria and how our country's and military leaders have positioned themselves to be at odds with Russia and now also possibly against Turkey. It will be interesting to see how this all pans out. I'm praying that our government won't continue to assert itself in Syria where it clearly is conducting illegal operations and causing even more conflict in that country.

In the meantime I’m awfully excited to be flying on a massive Turkish Airlines Airbus on which I’ll be served free wine (woohoo!) with a couple great meals (all included of course). Excuse me while I live out the fancy life- and ignore the fact that I booked the flight because it was the cheapest option. I am however most looking forward to setting foot in a country that has seen many historic events, some even dating back to ancient times. That’s one of the aspects of traveling that truly gets me excited. I feel like in a way I get to humbly experience history. I become acutely aware of my place in this world and the work of those who truly wanted to make a change to improve it. I know I’ll come away from this one feeling humbled yet inspired and completely filled with respect.

During the 9 hour flight and between the couple of naps that I managed to sneak in, my mind began to wander. I found myself rationalizing where I’d be safest spending my time in Istanbul. I’m embarrassed to have to admit the media attention portraying Turkey at the moment was getting to me and making me nervous. Yes, I’m well aware that mainstream media has agendas set by those who own the companies and are designed to instill fear in the minds of the citizens, the fact that it's affected me is proof that they're really good at it. I couldn’t help playing out the worst case scenarios in my head on repeat. On one hand I could take my chances at the airport, even though Nassim Taleb would beg to differ by reminding my of his Black Swan Theory, after already having been bombed in the past 3 months, the chances of that happening again would be pretty slim. Or I could venture out into the city- which I’d already decided ahead of time this is obviously what I’d be doing. I guess I like to play my own devils advocate when I have too much time on my hands. In reality I'd only be in the city for a couple hours. The city, as I would learn in a few short hours, is filled with many people who aren't suicide bombers, who wanted to just enjoy the beautiful Friday evening by strolling around the parks and eating grilled corn on the cob.

I arrive and finally make it to the airport exit after waiting in the passport control line. To say that I like this city would be an understatement. I’m already wishing I had more than 8 hours before I have to catch my next flight. I know where I want to go and finally find a taxi who will negotiate with me.

I met some really nice people from Iraq who were also visiting Istanbul to take in the sights. They were so friendly after I asked to get a photo with them that they reciprocated by taking a selfie with me on their phone.

Istanbul is unique in that it’s lined with quietly quaint cobble stone roads occupied by nice restaurants and green trees lit up by twinkling white lights. Yet the skyline is decorated by magnificent mosques that are so impressive I had to stop walking each time to fully appreciate the architecture. They’re old, with marble, gold and glowing lights that illuminate them in the best possible way. They command your respect with their stoic sight.

I want to plan a trip here again, something about this place just makes me feel happy. Maybe it’s the beautiful views of the architecture, maybe it’s the perfectly mild and sunny weather, maybe it’s the calm side streets that look like the dream location to take a lazy stroll with the one you love. But if I’m being honest it’s probably because of the awesome schwarmas.

Mmmm… schwarmas.

I could’ve had 5 after speed walking through as much of the city as I could in the few hours I had. I took my first bite of the chicken-y herb-y deliciousness and was immediately transported to my childhood memories with my parents and grandparents in the kitchen using fresh herbs, lemon and garlic. I love it when your senses like taste and smell can instantaneously remind you of memories and leave you smiling.

After spending a day full of quick steps and wide open eyes, I now have to make my way back to Ataturk Airport. I’ll be landing in Cape Town after a 12 hour flight. I’ll officially be the furthest from home that I’ve ever been and I can’t wait for the real adventures to begin!

Update: I’ve made it to Cape Town! Stay Tuned for updates on this leg of the journey in the next few days, things may get a little out of control!

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