The long gap between
posts is just that, life goes on and the new different and exciting
is not a feature of the everyday. I have been battling with mice and
slugs eating my seedlings but have at last got some plants to plant.
Today I have been
on this adventure in France technically 1 year. It has had it ups and
downs and after my last break I return with my “eyes wide open”
and a clearer understanding of the challenges and the expectations of
all concerned.
But, last week I was
in the UK, having an MOT: Doctor, Dentist and Optician. I don't have
Lymes disease (but do have a lot of muscle aches and similar symptoms
– just wear and tear), I do have gum disease (now under control
with a multitude of interdental brushes) and my eyes are fine but
have the very first signs of cateracts (they will take years to
develop).
Need to not work
quite so hard at the tough stuff; less tree felling and maybe more
work cooking and gardening!
But then the main
reason for the return was a trip to Istanbul with Andy. Much needed
and hugely enjoyable. Andy had found a small hotel within spitting
distance of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and yet was
completely quiet. We arrived on the first day of a three day Eid
holiday, so along with tourists we had to contend with everybody out
and about. We soon realised that we need to be up and out early and
to take it easier in the mid-day and afternoon heat. But had a great
time. As you can see.
Terrific food,
terrific weather ( a bit too hot?) and lovely people.
Highlights, Haya
Sofia and the Dolmahace Palace (absolutely amazing especially the 4.5
ton chandelier manufactured in Birmingham) . Trip on the Bosphorus
strait local boat for 2 Euros for 90 minutes as opposed to tourist
boat same route 30 Euros.
The Blue mosque
resembled was overcrowded and under renovation (actually EVERYWHERE
we visited was under renovation!)
Also visited the
amazing underground water cistern, the Ecumenical Patriarchate
Cathedral of St George, the Topkapi Palace (not impressed) and local
bazaar.
Great transport
system, especially as the tram stopped 20 metres from the hotel.
Would like to go back off season. Amazingly both Andy and I returned
to the UK with about 40% of our spending money as everything was so
reasonable.
Turkish food and
wine is really really good, varied and full of taste and again so
reasonable.
Here is a selection
of photos.
 |
| view from hotel rooftop bar |
 | |
| The Birmingham Manufactured 4.5 ton chandelier! This is one of the most amazing rooms I have ever seen. |
