Istanbul

A beautiful, vibrant city which is hurting. The recent terrorist incidents in the city have massively affected tourism, which is understandable, but such a pity. I was very apprehensive before we left home, but having spent the morning on a tour felt comfortable and unthreatened. Security is tight with a high presence everywhere which enabled us to visit the Ancient Hippodrome, the Mosque of Sultan Ahmed 1 (otherwise known as the Blue Mosque) and St Sophia Museum. We then had apple tea and cake during the talk about carpets!! Before moving on to the Grand Bazar. All of these were interesting in their different ways.

The city is buzzing with people, land traffic and boats, which dash back and forward across the Golden Horn and Marmara Sea.

Afternoon tea was taken in the Queens Room, the room where the ballroom dancing is done, shown in an earlier blip. It was nice to be served for a change rather than “help yourself” from the buffet in the Lido.

There was a slight technical blip last night at dinner. A small group of waiters normally sing “Happy Birthday” after dinner to any passenger celebrating a birthday on that day. They forgot B last night, but I received an apology today (unsolicited) and have been informed that they will do it this evening:0)

This is a city with lots to offer and I would love to see more!!

Thank you for the comments and stars, I get a very quick peak at them each time I'm connected and will respond when we get home :0)))