5 days walking, talking, smelling the sweet aromas of musk, cherry and apple teas, I found myself almost hypnotised by a city I had no pre-conceived ideas about. Istanbul is for lovers, adventurers, familiıes, party-goers, discerning travellers and backpackers. There’s something for everyone!

Recommend a Bosphorous Cruise – take the city government boat as opposed to the smaller private operators. Its cheaper and better. Also do the spice market and dont miss the blue mosque (inside and out). And for the art lover, a quick tram ride across the water takes you to the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art – dont miss ıt!

Istanbul will definitely be revisited.