A Sea of Minarets – Istanbul in 2015 Pt I.

From historical to contemporary times, the city of Istanbul has always been a meeting point of culture, marking the border between Europe and the Islamic world. In geographical terms, the border is clearly defined; it is the Bosporus Strait. But not just since the opening of the first Metro line beneath the Bosporus – the Marmaray in 2013 – the cultural borders are not so clear anymore. While some districts like Galata are defined by modern shops, nightclubs, and skating kids with headphones, others are way more traditional and religious. Despite the stark contrasts, there are no apparent tensions. Also, Istanbul welcomes travelers, receiving guests with open arms. Just beware of the merchants in the Grand Basar and do not believe every fairy story they tell, regardless of the oriental charm of the bargainer.