Page 19 - LIN JAN 1-51.indd

My ideal approach to travel is with a private guide, preferably a
photographer. I was fortunate to uncover Kemal, a National Geographic
photographer through WithLocals.com. The Grand Bazaar is a maze
of shops and back areas where craftsmen work. Kemal introduced
me to his artisan friends. At a gold melting facility, jewelers melt
their unsold products and leave daily with gold bullion, only to start
over with new creations. In less than an hour, I witnessed over a
hundred ounces of 24-carat exquisite gold jewelry melted.
The jewelry stores in the Grand Bazaar are tremendous,
servicing international appeals. Regrettably, the silver meltdown
operates only two days a week. The reason is the lack of interest in
the younger population. They don’t want sterling silver housewares
such as utensils, etc. Turkish coffee is served everywhere in the city
and especially in the Bazaar. It reminds me of the coffee I drank
growing up in New Orleans, coffee and chicory, but considerably
stronger in Turkey.

The Asian atmosphere verses the European side of Istanbul was
striking. I took the ferry across the Bosphorus Strait to Kadikoy.
My guide, Ceren, met me in the late afternoon for a walking tour
(over 12,000 steps) of the city, waterfront, evening hot spots, and
dinner. It was picture-perfect to experience the area through the
eyes of a young adult. The town was full of youthful people mingling
and having a good time. There were blocks and blocks of restaurants
and bars. Streets were adorned with hanging lights and charming
embellishments such as umbrellas. Ceren’s favorite café offered
street seating, great for people watching. The environment appeared
less populated, more laid back, and casual. I didn’t see women
wearing head veils or scarves. The cab ride back to my hotel was less
than thirty minutes via the bridge.

Istanbul has over three thousand mosques. The most famous
Blue Mosque was closed for renovation, and the Hagia Sophia is
vast and beautiful. Exploring the ruins underground of previous
empires was a treat. Located only 55 steps below the streets is the
Basilica Cistern. The Cistern is adorned with 330 marble columns
illuminated with amber lighting and had a capacity of 20 million
gallons of water. To convey all the marvels seen would take a book
to do it justice. Following an adventure into Istanbul, you will
ponder the fact that life is short, but history is forever.

www.RonMcGinty.com

Life in Naples | January 2020 19