CrossRoads

MERHABA 2 0 1 1

2010-12-30T18:01:00.006+02:00

Athena from the 2011 Pirelli Calendar,
created by Karl Lagerfeld,
Greco-Roman theme 'Mythology'

What makes it gorgeous is not only what I filled in by my own experience and packed into this year 2010, but what I could not. I think there is no any better expression in any language than merhaba. Merhaba is a reason that I have a lot to look forward TO. Merhaba is a reason to BE. Merhaba is hello. Happy New Year 2 0 1 1.

They Call Me Caterina...

2010-12-29T19:05:00.017+02:00

... this is my story.

In Italy, it was the common name given to the slaves from the Constantinople, today's Istanbul, Caterina.

Her son traveled to Turkey and Azerbaijan to discover his Caucasian roots. His findings as well as researches say his mother was hailed from... Azerbaijan and a Muslim. This very well-researched novel about the mother of Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), slave mother Caterina da Vinci, is the best work I have ever read in a long time!

A very colorful story of her relationship with her son who was destined to change the world forever; from his growth, his creative and inventive side to how daring is why his mother felt she had to protect him so long.

Warning: Anyone not interested in historical romance, Turkey and Renaissance Florence will not enjoy this truly captivating book.

"All other cities are doomed, but I imagine that as long as people exist, Constantinople will exist."
~Petrus Gyllius
French scientist,
(Albi, 1490 - Rome, 1555)

Lady Kokkino

2010-12-28T18:11:00.032+02:00

Love them, hate them, you cannot help but see them!

If you ask me, I do not like seeing them everywhere in Istanbul. The photos that including them are kind of not my liking. Maybe the ugly shots that cast a shadow in Istanbul's beauty, however it is the fact of Istanbul life:

Of late, they are on the roads. Like any city in the world, main road flower-shops in down town can be little expensive. We know, things are cheaper if they sell. Shot the gypsies (above) on the Bağdat Avenue when I went for shopping this past weekend. Means red in greek language, kokkino is very popular New Year flower now, that they are hurrying up to sell them.

Not selling only flowers, they can also pick old furniture and old iron stuff. They tell your fortune reading up your coffee cup. They sell lottery tickets. They are interesting musicians who sing and play their accordion in the streets, so they are always hopeful to collect some money if people throw them a few cents from their balcony.

I would like to ask, if we should believe in bloggers?

Since I started the writing work on this community I became aware of one fact, important. Bloggers are chasing the "beautiful things" and sharing the only "best photos" of their town/city. Why is it so?

For example, is Rome a beautiful city? Have been to many times there. Of course Rome is not a beautiful city! Rome is not about fountains, squares, cuisine but also life and public fact sheet! Who shows us those sad Rome/Italy photos in a blog? Nobody. I do not want to talk about the southern Italy, Calabria region. How I was very disappointed when comparing north and southern parts of the same country. What about Paris, Wa DC, NYC, Tokyo, London? I saw the not so good parts of those world cities. Marrakesh in Morocco? I saw really poor and horrible photos of Morocco that made me said "oh my God!". If you read a Marrakesh photoblog, she tells it as a heaven on Earth. Who believes?

Another example. What about Turin in Italy? When I read a Turin daily photo blog that is being managed by Pietro, his blog here, there is no any bad photo of Turin life. All the photos are to say to the visitor as if Turin is a wonderland.

My one wish for bloggers is to be honest and, if not that, to be transparent. Share all the beauty and ugliness of your living zone. Because the world is not a fantasyland. Blogosphere should not turn to be a fantasyland under your pen.

Megakent

2010-12-27T19:11:00.026+02:00

Istanbul is a city of three:

S E A

Underground Basilica Cistern

Ferry Mooring Rope (cool vintage green and texture!)

Galata Tower

Arnavutköy Ferry Pier (the Bosphorus)

Maiden's Tower (the Bosphorus)

P E O P L E

Traditional Mosaic Lamps

Handpainted Ceramic Plates

Decorative Handpainted Ceramic Hanging Balls

Traditional Slippers

T I M E

Baroque-style Historical Buildings in Nişantaşı

Non siete per caso uno di quelli che abbiamo tentato senza riuscirvi di trasformare in un cittadino di Istanbul?

Istanbullulaştıramadıklarımızdan mısınız?

Rolling Grape Leaf

2010-12-26T16:08:00.023+02:00

A very popular Turkish dish. Very famous dish. In all regions. Very difficult cooking. Most favorite at tea parties, cocktails, picnics and hosting the guests. Of course, my most loved dish! Can be cooked in two ways. (1) with minced meat (2) olive oil. First way is served with yoghurt. Second is served as cold appetizer. We are now into second way: zeytinyağlı yaprak dolması as we call in turkish, also known as grape leaf rolls with olive oil:

A)) Here's your +++ ingredients list+++

1. 500g vine leaves, but try to find thin leaves!
2. 1.5 cups rice
3. 1 kg onion
4. 1 glass of olive oil
5. 3 cups boiling water
6. 2 teaspoon sugar
7. 1 tablespoon redcurrant
8. 1 teaspoon pimento
9. 1 lemon
10. A pinch of salt
11. A pinch of black pepper

B)) Here's your +++ instructions+++

1. Peel the onions. Cut them very thin. At low heat, sauté without oil. When the color of onions is changing, add oil in.
2. Add the rice. Now continue sauté.
3. Add 1.5 cups of boiling water. Then sugar.
4. Add all of the spices: salt, mint, pimento, blask pepper.
5. Adjust lower heat and simmer until rice absorbs all the water.

6. Fun now starts:) Wrap a spoonful of this mixture in each leaf.

+++Note+++ The vine leaves can be pickled in brine, so easily to be used out of the season. Like my leaves I use today, in December! In this case, what do we do? Leaves should be firstly soaked in warm water to reduce the salt. Don't forget this before starting your rolling process!

7. When finished, lay them all neatly in a saucepan and squeeze a lemon over them.

Now my dolmas (=leave wraps) are ready! I am going for the following steps:

8. Pour 1.5 cups of boiling water. Bring back the heat to the boiling.
9. When water is boiling, get lower the heat, and cook until the water has completely gone.
10. Transfer to a serving dish when cool.
11. Garnish with many lemon slices!

+++ ? +++

If it was your last meal, what would you eat? Share please...

Noelce Bir Gün

2010-12-25T12:00:00.013+02:00

After my beautiful poinsettia, this Cactus de Noel (Turkish: Noel kaktüsü) is blooming now and such wonderful decoration in the red corner of my home. Happy contentment washes over my day. I am very glad to be "me" today!

Lazy Italians

2010-12-24T18:24:00.011+02:00

Invite you to read the news:

[in italian] la tassa di soggiorno da gennaio, La Repubblica

[in english] tax for visitors to the Eternal City, Daily Mail

As you might remember, a few structures collapsed last month in Pompeii, then three chunks of Roman mortar fell from an arched ceiling at the Colosseum last spring. If it was the case that the money would actually go toward the much needed restoration of monuments and artistic heritage maintenance, I would happily pay it!

Stop and think about ancient 2000 year old Pompeii. It alone brings more than ~50 million euro (=70 million $) a year in admission fees!

I don't believe in local councillor Federico Guidi's defensive statement: In order for the City of Rome not to tax Romans, we have decided to tax the tourists.

Could this signal for Italians a coming economical crisis? Portugal, Spain and dolce vita lover "Italy" are on the dark list, I know.

Sometimes It's Just One Word

2010-12-23T20:43:00.029+02:00

There's plenty of same news for weeks! Today I woke and read again:

sport events were canceled. temperatures dipped to -22C/-8F in Scandinavia. endless traffic jams. thousands of travelers sleeping in airports. freezing ducks in the lakes. ice storms affected as far south as Italy. heavy snow blanketed the French capital. problems in transportation in northern Europe. late trains in rail travel. deaths in central Europe from deep freeze. snow even in Australia. freezing much of the US. many travelers waiting in our Istanbul Atatürk Airport for their EU connected flights. snowy chaos.
Ouffff!

Right under of our nose, Europe is freezing however Turkey, in one word "boiling". For example today we felt it 20C in midday! In the south of country people swimming! I wear my shoes with no socks. It is true, the air has moved out the of the arctic. Replaced air in the arctic is warmer, and as a result the air is getting warmer than the same date as previous year. Feeling unlucky and lucky, at the same time, see why now:

morning sun, not flash of my camera!

Early this season I bought them with a big heart-beat. Super long, suede, leather. Wore only 2-times! Today I replaced my très chic boots to the deep back side of my wardrobe.

Just because...

All I need is: strawberry, cruising in a yacht and my flip-flops.

Time To Invest

2010-12-22T18:22:00.033+02:00

These questions arise. Do you have any idea?

(1) Where am I going to?

(2) What's stopping me now?

(3) How do you measure delight?

(4) What fuels you?

As how we look matters, it is important how something looks matters. Being a woman or a man, looking younger or older, that matter as well. Whether I like it or not, I use my senses to make decisions. Personal to environmental conditions, things have an impact on maximizing the flow of my creative juices.

Within a few minutes walking from my home, I face to a pretty nice pink dressed this building that is located in the corner like a candy seller. Most of the time, I forgot its commercial identity because I love pink! I love the old house converted, renewed identity, smart money house:

Göztepe branch of a leading Turkish Bank, Türkiye İş Bankası. Actually the Bank's logo color is dark blue, not gold as seen above. But the outlook is very nice pink, you see. Looks like there is no logo that the Bank hides behind. Other branches of the Bank are in logo colors, but this one in my neighborhood is different having a freedom to look and dress as the management pleases.

When I look at things that we can change like how we wear, many questions come in my mind. The take home message for me is that we should be true who we are, and also remember that how we wear changes how we feel to impact what we do.

!mportant

The Asian side of Mega City Istanbul is becoming a financial hub as of new year 2011! Capital Ankara headquartered Turkish Central Bank, the Istanbul Stock Exchange, many financial institutions, headquarters of all Banks will be moving in my living zone to Ataşehir that is ten minutes drive from my home. So Gov't is aiming Istanbul to make the strongest candidate as a regional and global financial center in the region between London and Tokyo. As you can imagine, buying up lands in this area are boosting the prices. Is there any country which is seriously quickly changing each new day with a different headline on the news, one of the fastest rates of recovery from the worldwide recession?

How does this all come out?

Heat Transfer, Pine Needles, Campus Life

2010-12-20T19:36:00.021+02:00

The temperature of my living room is 23 C now. My hot cup of tea is 45 C. If I allow my hot cup of tea to cool in this room of 23 C, my cup of tea will quickly reach the temperature of the room.

On the other hand, depending upon the size of my cup of tea and the size of my room, the thermal equilibrium temperature will not be 23 degrees. How do I know? Because the energy of my cup of tea will cause the temperature of the room to increase. The 2nd Law of thermodynamics helps me to understand this concept. So it tells me that entropy tends to increase as defined in its formula:

qqqqqqqS = H / T

S = entropy (kJ/kg K)
H = enthalpy (kJ/kg)
T = absolute temperature (K)

The movement of energy, known as Thermodynamics, is the branch of physics and also basis of understanding the behavior of physical systems. Studied thermodynamics I and II, that were one of my most liked lessons. The "grown-up" life is really amazing, I give my appreciation in every stage of the life that there is always something to look forward to but there is nothing like being "university student". I missed being on the campus, studying thermodynamics, taking dynamics classes from our italian professor Antonio (from Milano), the library,...

If you wonder, right now drinking tea and reading the life story of clothing designer Rachel Riley, (above) Sophisticated English Lady. Boring article.

Voice Of The Angels

2010-12-19T13:27:00.032+02:00

When I head down the Istiklal Street of Beyoğlu disctrict on the European part toward the Tünel Quarter, there is a gorgeous greeting just few meters away from St Anthony Church that I love standing on the stairs and looking at this beautiful golden mosaic, depicting the Santa Maria standing on a seashell carried by two angels:

Santa Maria Draperis Church is only one in Istanbul to have the signature of Sultan, that plaque located above the door. The Ottoman Empire's Sultan Abdülhamid II gave his permission for the construction of that church and Rıdvan Pasha, the mayor of Istanbul supported the construction.

Being one of the oldest and holiest Roman Catholic icons in Istanbul, the Santa Maria was built by Genoese Nicolo Draperis in 1584, who was the famed merchants in Galata. Interior of the Church is also interesting and colorfully ornamented, I love it! Sculptor Lorenzo Gerotti brought the marble used for the altar from Italy, and worked on the main hall which both the altar and chancel area feature late baroque and roman catholic styles. Sources say that, this Church survived the great fire in 1881 with a very little damage while other churches in the town were destroyed. Then, Architect Guglielmo Semprini supervised the re-building and renovated.

Apart from being a fine mixture of western and Ottoman architectural forms, Santa Maria Draperis Church stands as unique senthesis of tolerance and appreciation between religions, Christianity and Islam. I am very lucky coming from a beautiful City that is really crossroads and best example for the values.

Turning down the page for 2010. Will we be able to see good tolerance and understanding in 2011's world? Who's the best; hindu? buddist? christian? ateist? Why religion still important problem? What's the point missing, respect or tolerance? Should I select my (blog) friends according to his/her religion?

Unfortunately the same problem exists on this "blogging" community!

A bit of my Joan of Arc soul would like to fight for it...

*you can enlarge my photos*

Russian Mountain

2010-12-17T18:18:00.023+02:00

Riotous colors. Mad geometric patterns. You can skip the annoyance of reading a book, and knit a pair of Colored Happy Feet for yourself! Happy face is the mirror of happy feet, don't you think so:)

Sock knitting in Turkish way is very pretty and fun to what I know from knitters. And, it could be something new if you like sock knitting. Knitting from cuff down in Americas and also western Europe countries, however in Turkey mostly sock starting is at the toe, increasing until the foot width is well fitting, and going on up from there.

Here are five traditional patterns to knit; all wonderful, all great Turkish designs:

Those above the most unusual and vintage Anatolian socks are coming from my Antiques Collection. "Too beautiful to be true"! I always adore our folkloric wovens, but knitting is something like a Russian mountain for me, in particular above richness in no way I could make, nowhere else you could see.

Walking On Salt, ROMANTİK!

2010-12-15T17:29:00.033+02:00

First impression: surprise!

When we reach the edge intense whiteness gives us a freezing sensation. Glinting light to the west and gorgeous view..

Second impression: adjustment our feelings!
Crystals look deceptively like snow and ice.. but are we sure about it, snow?

Third impression: convinced!
Oh, not snow crystals like we guessed, but salt. That is really salt beneath our feet. We start to think about salt, that's one of our life's most important ingredients. Makes up 3.5% of a human body, and did you know... the proportion of salt in the world's seas is also 3.5%. Yes, it is extraordinary testimony to the balance of nature!

Located in Central Anatolia, 150 km SSE of (capital) Ankara, on the way to Cappadocia, visiting Lake Tuz (Turkish: Tuz Gölü) should be included in the itinerary of every Cappadocia traveler!

I saw the same lake twice during my two Cappadocia trips that I took this year, in august and october. Everytime I am amazed by the strange sight of the salt gleaming like silverline beneath the clear lake water. We did not mind sinking occasionally into the "interesting" patches of mud and took long walks across the lake. I enjoyed very much the sensation of wading through this unearthly pure white wonderland disregarding the splashes of water on my bermuda and blouse. Because it was much more romantik than walking on snow:)

Also called Tatta in the past, Tuz Gölü it is the 2nd largest lake in the country. Characterictically, it's shallow. Also one of the richest salt beds in the world! Due to its high salinity (33%), 300 thousand tons of salt is obtained here per year, and this is 60% of the total salt production in Turkey. From July to August, the lake evaporates into reflective white salt. After dirty layer is removed, the clean salt is gathered into mounds and loaded manually onto the wagons of mini trains. So it is how the {TUZ=salt} comes on our tables:)

However, there are some "very sad" alarming rates about this beautiful Lake that are dampening our mood! The water surface of the Lake Tuz decreased to:

216,400 hectares in 1915
92,600 ----"----- in 1987
32,600 ----"----- in 2005
---- no Lake? ---- in 2015

Due to the global warming, the Lake has shrunk by 85% over 90 years. If urgent and necessary measurements are not taken to protect it, TUZ GÖLÜ will no longer exist within 5 years.

Camel train
consists of a "thousand camels",
was each carrying up to
250kg salt
in the ancient times

PS- you can enlarge my photos

Yeni Yıl

2010-12-12T18:35:00.018+02:00

Preparations inside and,

for loved ones outside my house,

are almost finished.

Made a difference this year! I thought for those poor and hungry people around the world, and also many people who are squeezed for money because of the tight economy. Instead of purchasing UNICEF or Hallmark cards, I went to create my own greeting cards, 100% hand-made. Materials simply are daily newspaper, travel brochures, buttons, pine, red felt... It was fun weekend that enjoyed so much. Result is quite satisfying, and I advice you all to give it a try.

Meanwhile, did you start practicing? "two-thousand-eleven", or dropping the thousand and simply "twenty-eleven".. In just 19 days it will be the newest of years that I am impatient to hug (in turkish) Yeni Yıl, meaning New Year.

Being Second Isn't Enough

2010-12-11T15:12:00.022+02:00

Behind expectations! Turkish economy grew 5.5% in the 3Q, and 8.9% in the first 9-months of 2010.

Türkiye is one of a few countries that is still able to make very good progress in a post-crisis environment that left many trying to recuperate from serious losses. Indicators say that we are Europe's the 2nd fastest growing sizeable economy after Sweden which grew 6.9%.

What could I see happening in 2011?

Well, no prediction. Because Turkey's role will be bigger than usual in 2011. To be the #1 economy in Europe and in OECD is what I expect. Follow us, or follow me:)

Read more news from:

Businessweek

Swedishwire

Intersection..... Glacial. 2 Degrees.

2010-12-10T17:02:00.042+02:00

Irrevocable cold, undesirable white of the Istanbul.

=getting closer possible with double click on my photos=

And now, all snow painting the town is making me think of warm and being warm. I am averse to cold and cold places either. So I was just browsing. Because it's the only way to move ahead without baggage...

Bodrum, my summer @2010

Supportive posts about Bodrum can be reached here:
B1 - B2 - B3 - B4 - B5

Generous Jupiter

2010-12-09T19:53:00.027+02:00

I am the member of a Turkey's leading private on-line shopping club, Markafoni. Offers members at a saving of up to 80's percent off. The site, as you may know, is for quality goods of very well-known and/or world famous brands. Last day I was pretty excited to receive e-mail. Was about a gift check to me. So I made up my selection for the following so-beautiful-necklace among many items: very nice mix of crystals and white pearls. This is from a Hong Kong based jewelery company that has opened its first and new store abroad in Istanbul this year. Sometime next week I should receive it from cargo.

As based on invitation, do not hesitate to send me e-mail if you want to become a member. Only for residents in Turkey, of course.

Oh thanks very much to Jupiter; the giver of luck, gifts, expansion and opportunity. It is traveling in my sign, and natural ruler of my significant houses if I have had a burst of luck since the beginning of current year!!!

After A One Hour Walk

2010-12-07T15:47:00.026+02:00

One of those perfect Sonbahar (:autumn) days. Warm in the sun and warm in the shade. Enjoying the beautiful yalis (:mansion) by the Bosphorus on Asian side (I live) and dancing with the flowers. Walking is the best way to taste of the town and way of getting around that does not pollute, improves my health, save my Liras, and unlike driving, might even result in unexpected and spontaneous interactions with my neighbors and friends of nature..

-- click to enlarge my photos--

-- west meets east via bosphorus bridge --

When back to home, it was nice to warm inside with chrysanthemums I picked on the Bosphorus side. Would be nicer to insert a few tealights floating and use my Blue-Eye glass vase as a lampshade in dark evenings. Also some music? Addicted nowadays to this written in the stars from tinie tempah..

-- following does not enlarge, no click --

Autumn is about to finish here, and we enjoyed the 99,75% autumn under the blue sky with gentle sunlight.

Mozart Sunday In Turkey

2010-12-05T10:19:00.014+02:00

-
In Vienna there is a park called "Türkenschanzpark", means Turkish trench park. The words inscribed in Turkish and German on the fountain that was erected in this green area exhibit the traces of Ottoman influence: "The heart is the home of the friend, I came to give heart."

Combing the golden pages of our great history, of our great the Ottoman Empire.

Beginning of the 17th century. Stretching from southern Hungary to Jerusalem, to Mecca, to Cairo, and to the earternmost frontier in Algeria. The most powerful state in the world, the Ottoman Empire reached its largest historical size! Famed for its strong and efficient central government, military power and extraordinary wealth at its height. The Ottoman's ambitions extended all the way to Austria...

The 1st Siege of Vienna in 1529, led by Sultan Suleiman l the Magnificent.

1600's... Sadly those years marked the beginning of a long and slow decline that would lead to the dissolution of the Empire 300 years later, after World War I.

Then again in 1683, the 2nd Siege of Vienna. Ottoman leaders was hoping a new victory might restore the Empire to its full glory. After this 2nd siege of Vienna City, the figure of Turk and also Turkish Culture -exotic clothes, harems, to waterpipes- became popular throughout Europe. Turkish characters cropped up in all sorts of plays and operas.

Although in Mozart's time (Salzburg, Jan 27, 1756 - Vienna, Dec TODAY, 1791), the Ottomans ["Turks"] were no longer a serious threat to the Viennese or all Europe, it was still a recent memory. Made Mozart inspired by the Ottoman siege, above you played his famous Turkish March.

I like our March, the great Musician's piano sonata A major, a gift to Turks in highest value. So Turks are important for Mozart. And, Mozart for us. TODAY remarks the day of a man's 219th death anniversary that is highly avant-garde piece of music. Thank you, Mozart, we all love you.

Da Voi Scomparirebbe!

2010-12-04T15:07:00.044+02:00

art = sanat

nature = doğa

woman = kadın

(replicas of jewelery used by ancient Anatolian Civilizations;
ottoman tile and kilim motifs in silver)

Do not be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve, and let others how much she means to you:) Forget the season and remember life is jolly because of Kadın.

My images of today are daily & seasonal which come from: europe (the gallery), and asia (all others) that I live on with. If you are a good visual thinker, this article will help you a lot, go direct to imagine the Queen City. If not, remember ALL of those fantastix are disappear; best is come closer, to Istanbul, in person:)

An Incident?

2010-11-30T20:03:00.026+02:00

I can say this hereafter:

Oh my, what a secret-less world;)

I think we are in the beginning of a new "information war" in the "information age"! WhatİKnowİsLeaks earthquake began Sunday night showed that confidential remarks, field cables, thousands of pages of data and intelligence reports can be easily made public. Easy as that?!

A sort of cake fighting for all countries at door. For what I am sure about is the diplomatic style and relationships will be influenced. Seriously. I think we are getting ready for what I might call new world order. In near term, not long. Can I expect more than it? Yes I can. Yes I do. Because it is said that there are still more documents to come, say more dirty(!) tricks on the waiting list.. We will see.

Until the day that we will see, I can't stop thinking that not they are bad guys who are behind of WikiLeaks. It is gonna be better than today. Welcome WikiDays ahead, and wondering who said them to push the button? I wish this could be made public as well.

A Star In His Eyes

2010-11-29T12:58:00.027+02:00

(i wrote a haiku for it)
Every single leaf,
in the hopes for fresh,
A brilliant star.

} i like spraying silver powder {

It is more than a holiday icon for me! My most favorite. Because nothing dresses up my home like its vibrant bi-colors... çok çekici ve bambaşka güzelsin sen ya!

Our Father figure, founder of modern Turkish Republic, Atatürk loved so much this flores de noche buena, and pioneered for the plantation and recognition of this fantastic poinsettia all over the country. Since then, we call it with his name as Atatürk Çiçeği in turkish, meaning the Flower of Atatürk. Rarely we may also call it Noel Yıldızı, meaning Christmas Star.

Is there any plant in the world that is being called with a statesman name? I did not hear, except ours!

Spinning Coin

2010-11-27T11:16:00.029+02:00

23MIO+ tourists enjoyed TÜRKİYE in 2010 (Jan-Sep). 6% increase compared to the same term in 2009 (J-S). Most visitors from: Germany 15%, Russia 12% and UK 10%.

My enlargeable 'Visitor' photographs are from the trips that I took in various spots at home this year. If you break your promise, no matter how small or big your travel plans about TÜRKİYE, you will be angry and upset, so be decisive and tactful:)

Long-time dreaming African Safari (particularly in Kenya), Pyramids and Nile in Egypt and Iran are in my plans for next year. Oh come 2011 come quickly!

Happy Mehmet

2010-11-25T20:10:00.015+02:00

Mehmet is Turkish. Pierre is French. Karl is German... Mehmet likes rakı (the traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage). Pierre the wine. Karl the beer... They are the names of happy people who come from a different country around the world.

{ designer with his design }

On the basis of drinking traditions of a nation, celebrated industrial designer Karim Rashid designed the Happy People Collection for the award-winning Turkish design house Gaia & Gino

{ our belief on 'eye' brings good luck against evil, so it is blue }

Are you doing what you are passionate about, or is your job simply how you support your lifestyle? Join the discussion.

Fenerbahçe Parkı

2010-11-20T14:21:00.039+02:00

There was an ancient lighthouse garden at the Fenerbahçe cape. So the name of this so beautiful park "Fenerbahçe" comes from fener meaning 'lighthouse' and bahçe 'garden'. Located on the Asian side at the shore of the Sea of Marmara, it is also one of the upscale districts in the City, having the same name like the park, Fenerbahçe. A few minutes walking from my home, I always like come here and take tours inside. One girl + Two Season + Twentytwo shots:

FP is actually home for 'everything', particularly for historically important trees!
One of them is above; Pistacia Atlantica [Sakız ağacı in turkish]. It is the natural species of Turkey. This tree is 250 yrs old!

The blueer part of this beautiful Fenerbahçe Parkı is here: Romantika Café. The great delight is to stop here to take some drink/gelato viewing the matchless islands and all around, just splendid. A note to yourself, spring and especially summer are the times the Park returns to be an oasis for every kind of greens and live events, guitar concerts, more..!

Above is the only tree coming from the Imperial Garden of Majesty Grand Sultan in the Ottoman Empire, known as the Lawgiver, Suleiman the Magnificent (1494-1566)! Cupressaceae [Servi ağacı in turkish]. This tree is 450 yrs old!

The tree is giving small berries in rosé wine color on these days (below), soooo beautiful.

Season? I am not able to name it... Calendar says it is November in Istanbul in my photos. To me, like "no trenchcoat" warm! Summery goodness:)

~You might enlarge my views taken on 11/18, pls click on.

Which Yellow Design For Big Apple?

2010-11-18T17:03:00.041+02:00

What is to expect from a winning design?
"Must create an iconic vehicle that can be identified with New York City and exemplifies the character of the City."

1. Turkish Karsan?

A Turkish company, that makes cars for such brands as Fiat and Hyundai. Futuristic design! 360degrees unique panaromic glass roof, impressive! Especially for curious eyes to view the skyscrapers and admire the beauty of world top city while driving thru the streets. Continue to read more about Karsan USA here

2. American Ford?

I have a big sympathy for this vehicle because of Ford and Turkish! Ford's commercial Transit Connect is a Turkish-built (assembled) vehicle at Gölcük Plant in Kocaeli province under the joint venture between (Turkish) Koç Group and Ford, venture name as Ford Otosan. We all know that Ford is also a leading provider of taxis in North America. But I have to be honest if this Transit Connect taxi is a dream investment for future?

3. Japanese Nissan?

Striking more muscular concept. Where's the change as it looks like a footprint of its NV200 van and vanette as well?

If you are a New Yorker?

You will decide up for the Taxi of Tomorrow among these three finalists. The Winner will be announced early next year 2011 and have the right to provide the taxicab for 10 years. Officials expect the new taxicab to be on the road by the fall of 2014.

Entries must be received from Nov 8, 2010 to Dec 20, 2010, visit here

What do you think, which design seems attractive for you?

My internship with Ford was a rich learning and also my very first work experience. After that, most of my work life has been realized with japanese discipline (and culture). And, here's two Turkish companies in the competition; one is fully Turkish, Karsan -- other is semi-Turkish. Oh it would really be a hard decision for me if I were in NYC:)

Red Brush

2010-11-15T16:10:00.037+02:00

名前も知らなかったけれど
あの日僕に笑顔をくれた

I never knew the name but
that day it made me smile

誰も気づかないような場所で
咲いてた花のように

We too are like flowers that bloom in places
where noone pays no attention

そうさ僕らも
世界に一つだけの花

Yes, we too are each..
a flower unlike any other in the world

一人一人違う種を持つ
その花を咲かせることだけに
一生懸命になればいい

Each and everyone of us carries a different seed
we should focus all our efforts on
trying to make that flower bloom

小さい花や大きな花
一つとして同じものはないから
NO.1にならなくてもいい
もともと特別なOnly one.

Small flowers and big flowers,
none are the same as one another,
there's no need to be NO.1
you've always been a very special Only one.

When I was walking to the parking area after shopping in an outlet center, my eyes suddenly met this bright-red colored beautiful brush-like flower! I often come-and-go there but not noticed before, interestingly! My mind seriously locked on to the name of this November Beauty, what it could be, what..? As I shared the lyrics of a japanese song above that I love so much "I never knew the name but one thing for sure is it made me smile". I came back to home with two specimen and also many compliments from the folks like: "(1) Hey, your flower is very beautiful. (2) Wow really lovely, where did you find it? (3) Oh is it live or you made it?..."

I learned that brush is called Callistemon, very close to Eucalyptus. Mostly found in Australia. Thanks to my friend, Research Scientist and Lecturer in botanical science. You might listen this great song "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana (A Flower Unlike Any Other in the World)" by SMAP, five-men japanese group and popular in Japan:

While you get the message that SMAP gave in the song, I am hopping offline to read newly arrived 4-postcards one day ago:

Yes, 4-in-1-day, past Saturday. All in japanese. Different scenic views of beautiful Japan. I am getting closer to the idea of opening up a PM -postcard museum-:) Thanks for not asking me the number of my p/cards 'cus too many!

We're in HolidayTube

2010-11-14T13:28:00.042+02:00

People raring to go.

Changing locations one to another.

{outside clear from inside my clean home}

Crowded everywhere; roads to airports and bus terminals. Hearts impatiently waiting to meet their families. The longest religious holiday in Turkey began. The four-day long Feast will start from tomorrow afternoon, but our cabinet extended the holidays from 13th to next monday on 22nd, oh nine-days. Easy to pronounce, 9..

Morning is spent with weekly shopping: veggies, drinks, tropical fruits like pineapple and avocado, candies, again veggies..

In my absence, pretty men of my home worked hard! mr Bosch's did washing plates and all dry cleaning, then mr Siemens the laundry. After dinner, mr Tefal will help me for ironing. All of boring home-work will be completed before I sleep:)

Toooo long time until next monday. I am planning no-plans, and see where that leads me:

listen the voice of silent Istanbul,
go to nearby Park to view the color gradation and birds,
IKEA visit to see new products,
continue to my fantastic book, Ye (:Eat) Dua Et (:Pray) Sev (:Love)

{me and my book. fixed. on the carpet}

The country is moving.

Seperate The Wheat From The Chaff

2010-11-13T17:13:00.017+02:00

In a quote Alice May Brock says:

"Tomatoes and oregano make it italian; wine and tarragon make it french; sour cream makes it russian; lemon and cinnamon make it greek; soy sauce makes it chinese; garlic makes it good."

Only good, may I ask...?

I believe that sarmısak (garlic) makes every dish the most tasteful! I would make an important addition to her quote, garlic makes it turkish! Because it is the most important element in world famous turkish dish called "kebap".

my garlic in the kitchen

As for myself, I die for it: eating raw garlic. I would like to eat it anytime anywhere with no shame but it seems impossible for example during work lunch and dinner, however the possibility exists only when I am at home. Did you know builders of the ancient pyramids were said to eat garlic daily for enhanced endurance and strength.

By the way, does anyone know what makes Kenyan kitchen? Always interested in Africa and African kitchen with its wide range of ethnic food..

White Heaven

2010-11-09T15:32:00.046+02:00

L' antica città di Ierapoli fu probabilmente fondata da Eumene ll, re di Pergamo, nel 11 sec. A.C. Si suppone che il nome della città derivi da Iera, moglie di Telefo, antenati leggendari dei re di Pergamo.

Il nome di Ierapoli fu interpretato da alcuni anche come "città sacra". Tutte le rovine della città, tranne le fondamenta del tempio di Apollo, risalgono al'epoca romana imperiale.

Le terrazze di Pamukkale si sono formate naturalmente grazie all' acqua calda ricca di bicarbonato di calcio che scorre nella zona ad una tempura di 35gradi. Quando di biossido di carbonio, presente nel bicarbonato, a causa di una reazione chimica, si libera, deposita carbonato di calcio sul fondo dell'acqua. Questi depositi prendono diversi colori e forma oltre alle vasche, formano cascate e stalattiti. Una città ellenistico-romana della Frigia "Pamukkale", che in turco significa "Castello di Cottone" prende il suo nome da quente formazioni.

With its white and clean therapeutic calcium terraces "travertine pools" and natural geological wonder, "Cotton Castle", as we say in turkish Pamukkale is on the plateau at the top of ruins of the ancient Roman Bath Town Hierapolis. Very unique in the world and preserved by UNESCO Heritage. This area that blessed city Denizli in southwestern Turkey inspires many people tourists to artists coming to the warm spring waters that bubble to the surface that was a source of life for Hierapolis, one of the most prominent health centers of antiquity. Have to say, the average age visiting the region was, naturally, 115:) Tourists were coming mostly from the States, and following them France, Germany and Japan.

You can SWIM here, all year around, even in SNOW, and highly recommended not to leave without having a bath in the sacred pools where both Romans and Greeks that enjoyed historically! We stayed in Pam Thermal Hotel, in Karahayit, famous as a health center complex. Late evening I liked very much swimming in the healing powers of its minerals in red water that our Hotel provides (below). Amazing experience, love it!

Please click on my photos for larger size and
learn more about it:

http://www.pamukkale.org.tr

Hallmark Of A Moment

2010-11-06T19:29:00.011+02:00

Saturday. Nov 6, 2010. In mid of autumn, a sudden wave of hot summer weather. In Istanbul. Asian zone. On a tree branch, the girl is seeing two love birds rubbing beaks. Dreams and creative awareness are also on the rise. She is happily dancing in front of her window from 6am to 6pm. Remains alert just around the corner. High in clean skies. Message: renewed passion:)

Deliver Your BI

2010-11-05T12:15:00.017+02:00

-
Should you STOP blogging?

Here's how you start/finish and comment:

To comment on the photos like "Amazing.. Awesome.. Terrific.. Beautiful.."

What are you grateful for today?

Hi! Did you miss me? I missed you all, but vacations are good.

Do you love your white dishes?

Autumn is great time to fall in love.

May God bless your day.

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend.

A huge welcome to the season of warm drinks, soup recipes, burning fall candles and harvesting.

Thanks for stopping by my blog.

I wonder about that really, how this blog has changed so many things for me. Made so many things for better.

Beautiful combination of autumn colors, that is almost unbelievable.

I am a girl connected to the whole world by a blog.

My weekend bits/outtakes here.

It was delicious soup, hmm yummy.

I want to thank you all for visiting my blog, for your kind comments, and for inspiring me to keep going.

Wonderful photos, wonderful colors. Autumn is the best time to see Paris.

Believe it or not, it is time to start to think about holiday gifts.
...
....
......

The point is sometimes change is needed! In wearing style, in words, in your home, in publishing, in ideas. Gradual change is needed to fly out higher. Those sentences come from a few dairies that I read time to time. Frustrating classic and cliché stuff I dislike to read. Of course I do not want you to stop writing to follow my approach but you can try to be smart and different. Go walk away from traditional writing even if you do not have the ability to do. Go to provide value, teach 'new' - leave 'already known', grab my attention, if you are in this game.

So -let's bring productivity. And, it is important, really important is stop saying what you are doing on a regular basis.

Make your best for Blog Intelligence (BI).

Desperate Dark!

2010-11-03T17:26:00.023+02:00

If they say me "Nihal, this is your last chance to look at Istanbul", I wish that look would be in summer, yes absolutely so.

Switched it to winter time. Darkness everywhere I look in. I dislike the background of my photos above, unlovable blue. Days not bright. My starpower, Sun, rarely showing his face. Oh man, it is not favorite season of mine.

Change and Zen: 改善

2010-10-31T13:37:00.030+02:00

I can not think a life without kai and zen. I have worked on various projects including kaizen and found it to be both productive and efficient. Besides improving work life, it helps also for best personal development changing thoughts:

kaizen Noun / 'kaı.zen/ Suru verb / No-adjective

aaa1. betterment; continuous improvement.
aaa2. japanese philosophy stating the necessity for successive and incremental improvement in the personal and professional life of a person.

In today's Turkey, nomadic and rural women continue to wear their traditional dresses. Common in most villages is baggy trouser, a long sleeved blouse, a sweater-vest and a headscarf that is seen in a Cappadocian woman (above). In some regions in Anatolia we can also see felt cap that is embroidered in gold thread on men (below).

Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkish Republic, started his social revolution by ordering Turkish women and men to wear western style dresses on Nov 25, 1925 but dressing is slowly changing! Forces of the global economy have created changes in lifestyles in Turkey particularly since 1970's, however over 60% of the inhabitants of modern Turkey live in urban areas. Older forms of Turkish traditional dress which do not include western style is still worn daily.

As for myself, I have not been interested in our traditional dresses since I was a child. I even did not think to try a hat on my head. During our trip, it was the funniest moments with lots of laughs and jokes when my friends (from Rome) have been fascinated with our costumes. We all are a bit Turkish, here's the new portraits: inside italian - outside turkish:)

"Ordinary people can not. Only different people can create a difference. If you are working perfectly fine in the system, you will not change anything."
Seth Godin, American marketing guru, internet entrepreneur and thought leader. I like him, yeah what he tells/writes. He was one of the most valuable speakers at New Media Order Conference in Istanbul, Oct 26th

My Damask Rose Come to Life

2010-10-29T16:12:00.021+03:00

Routine matters are not my cup of tea today! I was looking for something to titilate me..

I thought to be busy on a craft, yes it does take time but a finished project of which I will be proud in the end. Separating threads, following the chart, sometimes horizontal rows, x-cross stitch, sometimes lo-----ngstitches.. it is just fun, I like it! On the plus side, the last thing is to go out because how crazy cold outside in the town and we may receive snow earlier in November if it goes like this.

Let me share a bit about this beautiful rose. Damask Roses resemble the old European garden roses in flower, foliage and fragrance. In the middle ages linen woven in this special way was initially imported from Damascus (of Syria), so the name Damask was born. Damask is a fabric with a pattern that is created by using a weave different from that of the background. Ireland, Italy and France are now the countries where the finest damask is produced. Bought this kit in London a short time ago, however I could not find the right time to start it.

A 3-day long weekend started for us. The 87th anniversary of Republic Day ceremonies and activities are everywhere in the country today, one exception in Istanbul because of bad weather conditions cancellation. As I am in charge, maybe I can finish up my Damask Rose bookmark until Monday..

Packing Your Wish

2010-10-28T09:09:00.022+03:00

"Non chiedetevi cosa può fare il vostro paese per voi, chiedetevi che cosa potete fare voi per il vostro paese."
/J.F.Kennedy (1917 - 1963), 35th President of the States

Today I am happy to announce two winners of the 3rd giveaway at CrossRoads:

One of them is a very faithful reader and also commenter of my corner since the day I started writing in this community.
Other is quite new.

First one has never been to Istanbul before.
Other has been for two times.

First one is from west side, California.
Other is from east side, New York -ohh my endless love, big Apple!

What the common point between them is their interest in this land. Their Istanbul love made them to be lucky winners, Congratulations to YOU!

They simply did let me know what could make them happier, so their wishes will be nicely packed after pouring my love inside, and posted very soon to the States [A Istanbul canvas bag for Darla in CA and a turkish music CD for Graciel in NY]

You are requested to return me back with your delivery addresses please, at welcometocrossroads {at} gmail {dot} com

My question to Graciel, could you let me know which singer or what type of turkish music you like to most? Or shall I pick my fave for you?

In the meantime, highly recommended to learn more about my sweet readers thru their pages:

Bay side to Mountain side by Darla

Evenstar Art by Graciel

"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."
/J.F.Kennedy (1917 - 1963), 35th President of the States

Hey I'm A Balloonist!

2010-10-21T18:15:00.046+03:00

Here is my balloon bulletin. Please be sure to make double click on my photos for a better imaginable understanding:

a minibus took us to the balloon launch site. it was a fairly cool greeting by the balloon staff! we were offered by hot drinks and snacks. the flights always take place at dawn. because best fly is at sunrise. because what we need is gentle and stable wind conditions. at 7am was the coolest time of our day with the lightest winds, splendid colors, shadows and contrasts for photographing as well.

discovered the 3-main parts of our balloon.
(1) the envelope: the colorful fabric bag that holds the hot air. ours was about of three; gray, magic beautiful orange and blue at top. made from lightweight rip-stop nylon fabric.

(2) the burner: positioned above our heads and produces a huge flame that turns the liquid propane into gas, so burns to heat the air inside the envelope.

(3) the basket: where we ride. lightweight and flexible. made from wicker. carries us, our pilot Joao and liquid propane fuel tanks. hot air balloons carry 60 to 110 gallons (=120 to 200 kg) of propane in stainless steel fuel tanks. generally 75% of the fuel is used during a single ride.

the basic principles to operate a balloon are gravity and heat transfer.

when the air inside envelope is heated, the balloon rises. the staff used an inflator fan on the ground to fill it with air, which is then heated. takes in 15 to 20 minutes to inflate it. takes ~ the same time to deflate and pack-up after flight.

the magic happens in the air with our stunning pilot's efforts! Joao used the propane gas burner to heat the air inside the envelope. oh my, we are ready to fly? Yessss... over the clouds!

he has the complete control of the up-and-down movements by controlling the heat so often in the envelope.

gerçekten uçmaya başlıyoruz, bu super bir his...! this is our balloon. and, definitely different feeling from taking a flight with Delta Airlines. amazing feeling surrounds us. i can describe that it's a tranquil and romantic sensation I felt! the actual flight time averages more than an hour. ours took a time of 1 hour and half.

meet Joao, our Pilot. portuegese. 17-yrs experienced in his career life. to descend, Joao kept the ballon up by adding heat, so allowed it cool down when he wished to descend. so the balloon becomes heavier than air. we were weaving along between the fairy chimneys on bumpy backroads, thanks to Joao with his great skill judged the best possible fly route over such a complex pattern of deeply scored landscape in Cappadocia.

one of the most enjoyable aspects of ballooning is that you never know where you will go. because it's technically impossible to direct the balloon. you travel with the wind. so every flight is different. unique. an absolute adventure. how high we were going up, you may wonder. we flied upto 2000 feet. sometimes it's necesarry to go higher to find wind conditions, Joao said.

asked to Joao, what happens if the burner goes out? failing down sharply on the ground? no of course, he said. balloons have at least four independent fuel systems. if there were no burner, the balloon would descend at about the same rate as a parachute:)

meet my basket-mates: (L to R) annalina, monia, gianno and roberto. in fact, they are my sweet friends from rome:) balloons are constructed with greater or lesser volume to carry more or less weight. ours was about upto 16 passengers. the smallest carry just the pilot. the largest ones have a capacity of 24 passengers plus pilot.

the single fare for a balloon ride in Cappadocia starts from 160€. it is what I paid. of course it depends on the hour you wish. it may up to 250€ for a two hrs flight. quite unnecesarry to add write more comment to the 360-degree panaroma unfolding around us! this my second journey to the region including a balloon ride was even more vivid, most memorable and extraordinary experience than my first trip that I took this summer in August on my birthday.

After landing, we climbed out of the basket, and enjoyed our celebratory glasses of champagne as it's the balloonists' most favorite drink! post-ballooning champagne is the way traditional after every successfully ending flight! Oh my, what a nice surprise that we really never knew what to expect in the end of our ride. Then we received a personalised Flight Certificate signed by our pilot Joao. Should I have to say that there could be no other best final than this! I got one more new title:

I am a proud balloonist.

minibus came to take us to our hotel, Dedeman Cappadocia Hotel and Convention Center, for a well earned breakfast:)

La Foto Del Giorno: 20.10.2010

2010-10-20T20:20:00.019+03:00

Be sure to smile.. to at least 20 people:)

[ Lantana in Istanbul ]

Happy 20.10.2010 Day!

From The Cradle Of Civilization

2010-10-19T10:38:00.045+03:00

The world is changing.. equilibriums are changing.. technology is changing.. habits are changing.. The climate and the environment are changing.. Societies and cultures are changing. So what will be our position in the future of the world, did you ever think?

listening to instinct..

joining the crowd on a Sunday afternoon, Oct 3

heightened awareness

atmospheric change

positive connections

expressions of joy

delicate situations

finding home on Wednesday, Oct 13

Twin towers, expansive skies, economically stable a giant geography and continuous demand for luxury items? Modern day TURKEY has all this and much, much more in the background. It's a land of hidden treasures. It's about water, culture and about-yes, HISTORY. It's about horses, mountain meadows, most gracious and generous hospitality,..

Think original design by nature. Think spectacular cuisine. Think Spas. Think old antique theatre meets the cable cars. Think adventures, think mongolfiera magic in the air, think the Mother goddess Kybele, think Rumi of the hope of future, think "me" experienced this and more!

As I marked on our road map above (you can click it for larger view), we travelled 2,500 km into 7 main historically important spots of Turkey's treasures in mainland Anatolia, with a big group. We talked and laughed in italian as you guess:) This time no flight, only stretch of a long, long road. Start off from Istanbul, directing to Ankara, ohh my Cappa... (for the second time being in Cappadocia!), Konya, Denizli, Aydin, Izmir, Çanakkale, and thru Tekirdağ coastline in Thrace, we safely returned back to Istanbul.

..and above all,
THINK about having the time
to let your spirits soar,
coming to TURKEY.

Dolce Far Niente

2010-10-17T13:08:00.011+03:00

-
Gabriel O Pensador, the thinking man rapper, says..

pictured Giovanni, the funniest guy in our group
when visiting Pergamon ancient site, Izmir

"It's just so frustrating to see people who are stuck in a reality of their own and not to want to see new things."

I am hanging onto the feeling of freedom and enjoying 'electronically free' weekend. Interesting chapters from my travel to be cont' d -if you are ready to see all new and intriguing.

Where I Was Seen...

2010-10-16T15:31:00.021+03:00

Friday: Drinking hot cup of tea, listening my fave Antonello Venditti, organizing my hundreds of beautiful photos taken during long road trip of kilometers..

Thursday: Seeing the impatient-waited pretty Julia's movie "Eat, Pray, Love" with friends, and wanting wish it could continue till early hours of the next morning..

Wednesday: Visiting St Stephen's Church in Istanbul as the final stop of our big tour, proud to remember once again the part of the Ottoman Empire which was in Europe, where my roots come from, beloved Rumelia..

Tuesday: Thinking the experience of crossing this great country of ours, while going to see the ruins of Troia battle in the northwest of Dardanelles..

Monday: Admiring how much sun filled weather in Izmir, surrounded by beautiful Aegean blue, wanting to pick up some and place in my baggage, bring home..

Sunday: Excited taking a thermal bath at Spa resort hotel we stayed, swimming between natural hot minerals and mud at the Cotton Castle, greatest fun I've ever had..

Saturday: In the bus thinking the difference between Turkish and foreigners whom I met during our trip, mostly americans (coming from California and Chicago) and carissimi italians (from Roma and around), knowing that I am a believer that if everyone in the world had a fatter passport we could all be better off=I mean, the more you travel the more you understand other cultures and can accept them for their good/bad:)

A cast iron church on the Golden Horn in Istanbul, St Stephen's, of the Bulgars

nb- my photos to enlarge, please click on each one.

Focus On New Beginnings

2010-10-03T08:57:00.009+03:00

The universe does not want me to set my watch, read newspapers, put up my feet, and take a nap. The planets want me to learn something and to become stronger, giver, kinder one after having weathered in different force winds:)

Taking a two-week of 'un grande tour' into the country from today. Rumi is calling me. My mother and I will also enjoy to viewing fall foliage...

Did You Meet My Healthy Man?

2010-10-02T19:21:00.029+03:00

How do you feel today?

The world seems magnified when I am alone. When I am thinking by myself. I experience the world differently than I did before, and I feel the world experiences me differently as well.

Today, there is a healthier man sat on a chair rattling good sound outside the entrance of my home. There is an absolute change.

A bright eyed man.

I looked in his eyes. Focused deeply.

I am excited.

I took no care to touch his hand..

Why did I avoid handing his hands?

In fact, this certainly is not the most pleasant part of me.

Who's this guy?

He looks almost provocative wearing a panama hat within his tailored jacket. From the back he seems unremarkable, but from the front it's a whole different story! Oh, rugged and refined on the street, think Gene Kelly or Cary Grant..

As I come closer I noticed he smiled me big.

We both chuckled, and I was going on my way, thinking of my grandparents...

Everytime we went out for a stroll where I'd find a cloverleaf on the ground. I was real young when my grandpa had passed away.

Now I am looking to my (re)find, and can't stop thinking that he is an absolute luck to me. A new star.

He likes making me happy.

Once upon a time, he was a sick man but now he is the only healthy man of Europe. Learn about my man here, and here

Maybe I am just lucky girl?...

In the meantime, former U.S. President Clinton arrived in Istanbul last day. This morning he met our President (above photo) at Pavillon Auguste Huber (turkish: Huber Köşkü), and said while looking at the stunning beauty of Bosphorus: "Turkey is a source of inspiration for the countries in its geography and appreciated Turkey's efforts for democracy and freedoms."

Continued saying: "Middle East needed Turkey yesterday. It was needing Turkey today, and would need Turkey in the future. Solution of the Middle East problem would relieve the entire world, and underlined the important role Turkey assumed in the Middle East."

As honorary chairman of Laureate International Universities, he is touring the world and attending conferences. So he is in Istanbul to give a conference at Bilgi University.

Opening a parenthesis.. {Huber Mansion is located at Tarabya district on the European shores of the Bosphorus. Built by the Italian architect D' Aronco in the 19th century for a German weapon dealer, Mr Auguste Huber. When Huber Family left the maison during the invasion of Istanbul after World War l, the maison changed several hands. Finally in 1985, the Gov't converted it into a Presidential summer residence, see above photo. The maison has two chalets, green house, servants house and a garage.}

I already loved, and still loving Clinton! He's really a leader and most importantly a true world leader. A perfect minded man. A perfect hearted man. Because ideas and thoughts are so important to me. This is his second time visiting us. Going back ten years ago from today, I firstly saw him during a White House tour I was taking in Wa DC. Come again Clinton, do not be too late. With any reason, or not.

I am just lucky girl:)

Istanbul Loves You

2010-10-01T19:43:00.038+03:00

As you know, Istanbul, the very symbol of country, is enjoying her title, being selected as the European Capital of Culture this year. However, Istanbul has been acting with European culture for hundreds of years!

Many people coming from different countries all over the world to Istanbul is giving a boost to our city's economic relations as well as contributing/visiting to the cultural relations. Of course, this makes a very positive contribution to the promotion and branding of beautiful Istanbul:)

The CrossRoads blog turns 3 years old! I would like to express my huge thanks to everyone from Kenya to Japan, Ireland to Portsmouth in the US, Ankara to Australia, India to Dubai.... who spent some time at my sweet little corner:)

I think we are just at the beginning, and our fun journey will be long one:)

And, time of traditional giving away at CR arrived.

Instead of giving anything to you that I liked and did in the past years, this year I want you to direct me! Yes, you can:) Your wish will be my wish. Simply, say me what would make you happy to have from Istanbul? Along with the simple reason in a few words telling your why is all I need from you.

To give away as a gift representing or relate to Istanbul, I am sure, will bring a wide smiley to your face and your home, too. Now think and dream about the happiest item for your use and just leave your comment below. Rest is my homework that I'll try my best to send off the gift you selected on your way as soon as possible.

Even though I'm pretty ready to hear yours, here's a few possible "concept" items produced specially about Istanbul for example:

Haghia Sophia Seraphim Angel t-shirt, istanbul coaster, Sultan's soap set, istanbul pencilcase, music CD in turkish language, istanbul canvas bag, istanbul magnet, a fortuneteller turkish coffee cup, istanbul stencil set, evil eye bead, istanbul bookmark, quality made-in-turkey knitting wool (for talented ladies/gentlemen or knit-lovers), a tiny box of our famous turkish delight (lokum as we call), maybe istanbul postcard hand-written and stamped by an Istanbulian (me)...

Well, options are so many than you can think. Open for everyone! No matter if you have been to Istanbul (or Turkey) or not. I don't mind it, what I ask is could you please be sure the piece of Istanbul (culture) you want should be (easily) reachable, carriable (via air mail postage). Legally and logically, of course:)

Feel free yourself to share this giveaway with your friends mentioning in your blog post/ facebook/ twitter. Or, do not tell everyone not to risk your chance, up to you:)

You may enter this giveaway up until October 22, 2010 Friday.
Two winners will be selected.

Celebrating and raising my glass for the Queen Istanbul of hearts.

My Content Images vs Where I Find My Soul

2010-09-30T20:03:00.039+03:00

Bir ömür boyu üzerinde konuşulmaya değersin sen, Bodrum...

I can talk about you for a life long, my Bodrum...

No other holiday resort in Turkey has the diverse image of Bodrum! For sure, it is not just about sea, sand and colourful night life. It's also about art and culture. It's also about antiques. Whether you are poor or rich, you will be amazed by the kind of spirit this so - special - city - has. Because the spirit is very dynamic and reach everyone in one way. If you let yourself go, you will be able to live Bodrum Life to the full and not say you have already been there and done that.

So this makes Bodrum to be one of the most talked holiday destinations in the country + being one of most talked (still talking) topics in my blog CR, you see:)

This venue, the Dibekli Han Village of Art and Culture [turkish: Dibekli Han Sanat Köyü], is a new favorite among not Bodrum residents, but everyone, tourists to vacationers for its museum, exhibition salon, cozy art ateliers, interesting shops selling Turkish handicrafts. I hardly left this village after spending long hours on stunning pieces and works of innovative artists trying to understand how to achieve great art expression. The village located near Yalikavak. My summer was all about from swimming, suntanning to art, culture, history, communication, music, new people, discoveries that happened in only one place: Bodrum

BTW,

be virtually active and visit the village now: www.dibeklihan.com

best is of course to fly in Bodrum and reach Dibekli Han: (address) Yaka köyü, Çilek Caddesi, Ortakent - Bodrum.
Why not coming to Bodrum in summer 2011? Think seriously about it:)

My Jobs-Style!

2010-09-29T15:10:00.014+03:00

{Keywords of today} best ~ little effort ~ quality ~ simplicity ~ details ~ talent ~ giving ~ excellence

Here's a golden lesson from my most favorite Apple Man to help you succeed in life:

"Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected.

There is not shortcut to excellence. You will have to make the commitment to make excellence your priority. Use your talents, abilities, and skills in the best way possible and get ahead of others by giving that little extra. Live by a higher standard and pay attention to the details that really make the difference. Excellence is not difficult -simply decide right now to give it your best shot -and you will be amazed with what life gives you back."

[translation in turkish]

"Kalite amacınız olmalı. Bazı insanlar mükemmelliğin beklediği ortamlara alışık değillerdir.

Mükemmelliğe giden kısa yol yoktur. Mükemmelliği önceliğiniz yapmanız konusunda taahhüdünüz gerekir. Tüm beceri, yetenek ve zekanızı bu mükemmelliği yakalamak için kullanmalısınız. Fark yaratacak küçük farklılıkları ancak böyle yakalarsınız. Siz mükemmelliği benimseyip üzerine gittiğinizde hayat da sizi ödüllendirecektir."

Definitely!!! I can't raise any question. Because my life philosophy is about the way Steve Jobs pictures in his saying! I took the picture of Technology in Ten Years from his tweets. I follow Jobs on twitter (ceoSteveJobs)

This guy is amazing! My #1 inspirational techman. My question to you is who's your motivational/inspirational speaker/wise man? And, the question I can't response by myself: why I'm here instead of being a part of his team at Apple:(

Nihal to SteveJobs: iLoveYou.

Are You Ready To Fall?

2010-09-26T20:13:00.043+03:00

I am just feeling inside me to shout like helpless sigh of Goethe:

"Stop, oh moment. How wonderful you are!"

This weekend. Watching the water. Superb Istanbul blue. Flip-flops. Sun. Mini skirts. Bikes. Babies with their parents on the beach. Prince Islands in front of our eyes. Very clear view. Wind surfing. Joggers both young and older. Watching the birds. Happy swirling. Sitting and watching the horizon. A full weekend under warm. Drinks. Cold. Pic-nic sets on grass. Ice-creams. Lovers hand-to-hand. Ayy ay..

Wearing my Gisele Bündchen sandals. So lovely corner views. Take this, oh this, and this one too. Collecting many photos by the waterside. I'm so grateful for the big sea at my door. So soothing. The perfect elixir at my fingertips. We are not ready. And too, I am not ready to let go off just yet: summer in Istanbul. No signs of autumn:)

*i was sitting next to these turkish girls.. how bad they are smoking:(

God! Hear me, read my note but please do not help me to make my dream real: Wish there's only one season, and it would be summer!

My photos taken on the Caddebostan Beach and around, Asian part, I live by. Do click on each photo, come closer and immerse yourself into the magnificent City's...

An Evening Without Plans

2010-09-25T17:26:00.015+03:00

I liked this movie mainly:

for Drew's performance,
for light but tasty romantic comedy which you actually believe what you're seeing,
and, for the introduction of real world factors that are meant to reflect stagnant economy.

Going the Distance is the love story between Erin (Drew Barrymore) and Garrett (Justin Long). The relationship is going really well in NY, but leaving both lovers miserable after her heading back to SF to complete grad school. Isn't it every time "distance" a serious problem that can sometimes go for the big dirty joke? Yeees!

However it works (and will work) rather well when it follows the heart. So Erin and Garrett could solve their long-distance problem:)

As always I say that the life is really so beautiful. What makes it really complicated and boring is because of the people. It could be bearable and happily lived place as long as we understand and help each other.

The long-distance relationship is a fact of life for many couples, especially at a time of high unemployment and economic anxiety but.. it's very nice Saturday evening now in Istanbul... free from wind, calm, perfectly balanced sky, and want to go out, the near distant:)

Forgive me, and read more about this movie right here: nothing keeps them apart except a continent

Meet Fairies In Anatolia

2010-09-21T18:06:00.033+03:00

This summer I was celebrating turning another year younger here:) I did not want to take a break from my fairies meet up. I did not want to leave my cave. I did not want to say goodbye to beautiful horses. I did not want to come back to Istanbul. I did not want to stop watching balloons. I loved so much being there! When I was on my way back to home at the airport in Ankara, I promised myself one thing: Yes, I will. I could not get satisfied exploring you. I will come again, wait me, pretty soon, maybe sooner than yesterday.

Several millions years of erosion of the earth formed the strangest, magical region of so called Fairy Chimneys..

Exceptional with its surrealistic landscapes saw the penetration of Christianity on the footsteps of St Paul in the middle of mainland Anatolia..

The first Christians came to settle in the natural grottoes..

And, they created the rock-carved churches and amazing underground cities in this UNESCO heritage land called Cappadocia, Kapadokya as we call in turkish. They painted the churches with brilliant and simple colours relating the important episodes of the Bible. Resources say that the apogee of Byzantine and Christian Cappadocia took place between the beginning of the 10th century and second half of 11th century.

I would advise you those five-F, please check out:

.Fine Read: All About Land of Beautiful Horses your expert
.Fabulous Play: Did You Ever Try Crossgolf? so inspiring
.Fantastic Cavehome: Come, Stay Here like me get the Spa
.Feel Salutes of God: Caravansarai oh meet whirling dervishes
.Fun Fly High: More than a ride on clouds suuuuper hot balloons

Show Me Your Eyes

2010-09-19T10:47:00.011+03:00

I look into your eyes & see the whole universe
not yet born.

~Rumi

Antique Art Potteries

2010-09-17T18:23:00.045+03:00

Beautiful floor mosaic with amphoras and,

wonderful large Amphora Park

can be found in one of the most important

Underwater Archaeology Museums in the world,
in Bodrum

Italian Amphora ~ 1st AD

Roman Amphoras ~ 3th AD

4th Cent AD

Manufacturing Amphoras

The clay for the manfacture of amphoras was made more resistant by adding mica, sand and lime. The mixture was then trampled to get rid of the air bubbles and left to rest it for a while. Amphoras (turkish: testi) were made on a patter's wheel. The amphora was then left to dry in a shady place before being fired at a temperature of 800 - 1000 degrees.

The ridges observed on the inside curves of the large amphoras show where the neck joins the shoulder and the base joins the body. The illustrates that an amphora is made in several parts.

The kilns were either rectangular, round or pear-shaped and 3-5 mm high. Most kilns had the capability of firing 80 to 100 amphoras at one time.

5th - 6th Cent AD

7th Cent BC

14th Cent BC

20th Cent Amphoras

With the added mystique of the Knights of St John who built the St Peter's Castle is housing the Museum. To me, it is the Bodrum's finest attraction. The Museum is housing the ancient Mediterranean life with the world's biggest Eastern Mediterranean Amphora Collection. The interesting murals can be seen here.

Men trying to find new forms for storing and transporting their oil, wine, olives, wheat barley created these amphorae. According to the type of cargo, this amphorae had isolation with resin, wax or gum. They were produced especially at great trade or wine producing centres. So these were easily identifiable because of their shapes and forms.

Their forms with pointed ends enabled people to store hundreds of them together as well as carry those easily. People put straw, bushes to protect the ship hull and also prevent the breakage of those amphorae. Their mouths were shut with terra cotta or with quarks. The stamps on the hands of amphorae revealed us the names of manufacturers and the guaranty of the city. Knidians used bullhead, Coans used crab, Rhodians used rose as their symbols.

Besides the storage functioning, amphoras has been greatest help for archaeologoists to locate the site of ancient shipwrecks. Since the hull, wooden part if the ship disappeared, amphorae were only objects survived and became pointers for ancient ships. This feature also attracted attention of divers and sponge divers all these years. Many of these amphoras plundered or decorated the fish restaurants of the region.

Would love to hear your thoughts about amphoras if you have any.. :)

ps- my photos to enlarge please click on.

Has My Place Been Filled?

2010-09-15T19:57:00.042+03:00

He kept us waiting for three years but made a great return. This summer he released his newest ohh-so-wonderful album. The songs as romantic, inspiring, emotional, easy to lo♥e. When I was in Bodrum, he gave a concert at Bianca Beach. Here's Tarkan, one of the most popular singers at home, and his song "Adımı Kalbine Yaz" [eng: Write My Name On Your Heart]; being the most lo♥ed of 2010 summer, most listening, most selling, still #1 on Turkish music charts:

(Lyrics translated in english)

Once a month... once a year... even just once, absolutely call..
Give a moment from your time every now and then ask to:
are you still alive or not?
Write my name on your heart... don't forget me..
The friends that smile at your face today...
Will they be on your side tomorrow as well?
In your good days they are nice.. but when they run away
from you in your bad days...
Won't you get hurt?
In that case.. be strong, don't stray from your way
And appreciate those who love you from the heart..
Always remember.

And, I am literally addicted this song since August!!! What about you? Which song you enjoy listening to? Like Tarkan says, let's give a call to our lo♥ed ones without waiting. Check often the lo♥e roses you sown in her/his way have not been forgotten, have not been died. Show your lo♥e. Don't wait, don't:)

Waka Waka This Time For TURKEY!

2010-09-12T13:34:00.036+03:00

There is anyone not heard the success of our "12 Giant Men"?

In news l selected from Turkish press:

hurriyet { Historic victory. Facing to USA }

fanatik { Cry or get crazy! We are in the final: 82-83 }

milliyet { Now Your Turn USA... }

vatan { We are just flying }

sabah { Not A Dream }

In news l selected from the US press:

www.cnn.com

www.washingtonpost.com

www.nytimes.com

www.heraldtribune.com

Now look at the results and see our continued tremendous run at the FIBA 2010 World Basketball Championship:

28 Aug TR vs Coste d'Ivoire: 86-47
29 Aug TR vs Russia: 65-56
31 Aug TR vs Greece: 76-65
1 Sep TR vs Puerto Rico: 79-77
2 Sep TR vs China: 87-40
5 Sep TR vs France: 95-77
8 Sep TR vs Slovenia: 95-68
11 Sep TR vs Serbia: 83-82
12 Sep TR vs USA: ..64..-..81..

On Saturday's semi-final against Serbia, the luck found our team. But it was not realized so easy. From the beginning to end, it was a head to head game! Died, died, and revived. In the last 0.5 seconds to go, again... a miracle happened! I think the half of our success lies in our faith. Noone can change this fact about our mind-boggling success! Miracle seeking shot formed to give our team one more new giant step. A giant step going to find a way to overcome the US today, oh my...

We are so proud. We are so happy. This is our very first historic success in the basketball arena. In world stage! Less than 12 hours at Istanbul's Sinan Erdem Dome. Bring us the deserved Gold medal, 12 Devadam! YOU WIN, OR WIN.

***

Update@Sep 14

What a game, what a final of giants both black and white! Left us breathless! Because of their very natural athletic advantage, no any team in the world can beat them since 1984! We being Turkish Team are of course too less for USA.

Isn't it a Happy End?! We have succeeded the hardest. We are the Best 2nd of the world and the 1st of the Europe in basketball. CONGRATS to TURKEY for the silver medal in the world basketball championship.
(Congrats to US for gold medal as well)

***

[12 Devadam, in turkish = 12 Giantmen]
[all clippings above to enlarge if you click on]

May I Suggest: PRAY

2010-09-08T20:50:00.025+03:00

There are many interesting places to visit here which tell the story of Istanbul's past...

~please click on my photos to enlarge~

Unlike any other one in the city! Series of coloumns supporting low-ceilinged space. Vaulted maze supported by squat pillars. Little compartments for private prayers. Housed underground in a crypt of the former Castle of Galata. Tradition has it that the chains that prevented unwanted ships from entering to Golden Horn were anchored right here. So during the Byzantine times, the Golden Horn was controlled from here.

Inside the chapel, there are two important tombs of two Arab soldiers (above), and one inside a seperate glass case.

In the Ottoman conquest, the Castle destroyed, and the ruin remained was converted into mosque in 1757. Widely known Underground Mosque (Turkish: Yeralti Camii), in turkish known as Kurşunlu Mahzen Camii (English: Gunpowder Warehouse Mosque) is situated in the old historical part of the City, Karaköy.

The girl was happy to take the day off. The girl was happier to having spent her day visiting significant mosques in the last day of her fasting month. Communing with believers and praying in pretty nice sacred houses, she is now feeling ready herself to "move" next year. Began on Aug 11, the holiest month of the year, Ramadan, ends today. The girl is sad, but...

.. believe that the month of brotherhood and renewal of relationships will certainly feed us in more ways than one.

Where is the Underground Mosque?
Kemankeş Cad. Karantina Sok. No: 20 Karaköy; on the side of the Karaköy ferry port.

Desire, Desire, Burning

2010-09-06T18:32:00.022+03:00

"We should have come to this country bridging the east and west before, we do not have a valid reason as to why we haven't come so far." ~Bono

Bono gave an interview before his arrival on Saturday. Stated that Bono made a wish. About passing thru the continents. By walking. A feeling of having that inspiring unique atmosphere on his feet. It was a wish as easy as that.

I guessed correctly, his request was accepted by our officials immediately. Like many other his fans, I am also pleased to see that Bono's dream came true! Yesterday. One section of the Bosphorus Bridge was closed to traffic for them. World famous Bono and U2 members walked over the bridge that connects not only the both sides of the city, but also two continents, Europe and Asia.

After about a 45 minute walk, our State Minister gave a present to Bono. A replica of the letter of gratitude sent by the Irish government to the Ottoman Empire, who helped some 150 years ago, when people in Ireland were suffering in starvation.

Now a request from this Istanbulian girl. To our officials.

PLEASE make it possible walking over the Bridge for EVERYONE. It's so very exciting and ONE matchless feeling that should be between two continents. Should be different from my daily crossing with car. Poets, writers, kids, artists, photographers, singers, tourists, locals, famed, not famed,... and me, my family, my friends.

There are millions of millions, that I am sure whose wishes are the same like Bono. Please, please, please...

Ancient Mediterranean Life

2010-09-02T18:30:00.028+03:00

Byzantine. Canaanite. Roman. Geyre..

from the island of Chios. from Palestine. from Knidos. from Egypt..

from 14th c. BC, 1-6th c. AD, 20th century..

for storing and transporting their wine, olive oil, olives, dry foodstuff..

men created them in different shapes and different forms..

* click on murals to enlarge *

I am talking about the biggest wonderful collection of historical artifacts on display in the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. It is about amphoras! Formed from two Greek words: anfi, meaning two-sided and phora, meaning transportable.

Did you know the world's biggest Eastern Mediterranean Amphora Collection is found in this Museum located in St Peter's Castle in Bodrum. I enjoyed very much seeing them all and also two-handled portable jugs with a pointed bottom. More pictures and details from the Museum soon, check back!

Do Be Do Be Do

2010-08-30T10:17:00.008+03:00

Do you compare the on-line friendships with people "you know of" in real time?

Some days I ask myself "do I know you?"

No. In reality I don't. But in today's modern day living, it easily comes possible to feel like you know someone! You can be reached by one of these ways; commenting on your site, talking to you in your twitter stream or facebook page. Maybe it could be even a small e-mail with sharing encouraging words.

The most surprising part of it is that you can feel like you know someone even when you really don't! You should believe it that sometimes it is pretty enough to exchange a lovely favor, to shopping good wishes or engage in a micro-interaction. Although breadth can never replace in-depth, you would be blessed how makes a lot of sense.

Steal this idea and apply: you can get great results by thinking and acting small:) Because we are socially connected, and fluffy boundaries with these days. So doing will help you connect ideas and build momentum with people from that connection.

"To be is to do" -- Voltaire
"To do is to be" -- Descartes
"Do be do be do" -- Frank Sinatra

Teslim Oldum!

2010-08-25T22:50:00.025+03:00

Bitez Koyu (Bodrum)

Hep aynı şeyi duyarız, öyle değil mi...

Eğer Bodrum' a gidiyorsan, tekneyle git. Tadını daha çok çıkarırsın derler. Ama hayır! Öyle olmadığını bu yaz tecrübe edindim. Gittiğim enfes güzellikteki yarım ay kucak şeklindeki Bitez koyunda tatil yapmanız için teknenizin olmasına gerek yok. Bir tarafımda yelkenlilerin eksik olmadığı turkuaz mavisi kristal berraklığındaki deniz manzarası, arkamda yeşilin en ferah tonlarıyla kaplı dağlarıyla bu şahane yerde beklentilerimin ötesinde tatil geçirdim.

Bunca yıldır deniz tatili yaparım, ancak hiçbir dönüşümde şu anki kadar zorlandığımı hatırlamıyorum. Sadece Bitez değil, diğer tüm çevre koylarıyla her karesi rüya gibi, her dakikası beni o denli baştan çıkardı ki şimdi Istanbul' a geldiğimden beri ne çalışacak hevesim ne heyecanım kaldı... Modern şehircilik anlamında hızlı gelişmesine paralel olarak Bodrum genelinde hakim olan sıcaklık, samimiyet ve doğallık etkisi yarımadaya adım atar atmaz sizi etkisi altına almaya başlıyor, ve kendi salonunuzmuş gibi "Ben buraya yerleşmek istiyorum." demeye başlıyorsunuz. Tıpkı benim gibi:)

Bu hissin tam adı aslında "kendini evinde gibi hissetmek" ile özdeş. Ama inanın bana klişelerden çok uzak, çok... Akdeniz misafirperverliğini fazlasıyla yansıtan bu cennet köşede yerlilerin yanısıra yabancı pekçoklarının da mülk sahibi olarak yerleşmeye başlamasına hiç şaşırmadım. Ağırlıklı Ingiliz ve Irlandalıların üssüne dönüşmüş durumda yarımada. Dolayısıyla uzun yaz günlerinin aslında ne kadar kısa olduğunu görecek ve benim gibi hüzünle ayrılacaksınız..

Ege ve Akdeniz' in meltemini, güneşin en tatlı sarısını, kumsalın huzurunu ve bembeyaz evleriyle danseden masmavi göğün sonsuzluğunu taşıyan Bodrum' a doğru bu yaz dümenimi kırdığım için pekçoklarına göre kendimi ayrıcalıklı hissediyorum. Galiba ya şair yada yazar olurdum eğer Bodrum' da yaşıyor olsaydım:)

Inanın bana hiç abartmıyorum. Kaleme aldığım bu satırlarımda ne kadar zorlanıyorsam siz de burda tatil yaptıktan sonra aynı sıkıntıyı yaşayacaksınız. Eminim.

Karmakarışık duygularımı ılık Bodrum rüzgarına teslim ettim. Kıyıya vuranlar benden geriye kalanlar. Ben onlara iyi bakacağıma dair kendime söz verdim.

Bu yaz sizin kıyıya neler vurdu?

Not. Fotoğraflarımı tıklarsanız daha geniş çerçevede açılacaktır. Beni ve duygularımı şimdi daha iyi anlayacağınızı biliyorum:)

Back From Cappadocian Kingdom

2010-08-22T18:22:00.023+03:00

Back to the 12th of August, Thursday morning...

When I return back to my cave hotel after a special day celebration never to be forgotten, I had the story of the dream that was realised. I am wondering whose dream was interesting while sipping your coffee or tea on the next morning?

Once I see this amazing part of the world, I got the feeling that I never want to leave. And quickly sat down on the ground, cried, said "My God, how and when you created this region? Just fantastic! The most wonderful part of the world should be right here."

It was like a splendid dream to gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with my surroundings. The deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of the region provided me and my friends with an ideal playground for a unique and memorable days, gentle winds carried us over the places that could never be reached nowhere else can be found!

Following up my holidaying in Bodrum, I reorganized and flied to Kayseri in the middle of Anatolia. For a new travel to a tremendous treasure of historical and archeological sites. I am back from the spectacular four-thousand year of legend! It also gave me an opportunity to celebrate my birthday in the Cappadocian Kingdom. My friends all from Milano and I, we had a great time together and made above photo for you:)

Thanks to my sweet friends Emma and Marco, Cristina and Luca that each one of them contributed their best efforts to make my day particularly unrivalled. Now both couple are in Antalya, continueing their vacation on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern of Turkey, enjoying the sun and sea to the full during Ferragosto until the end of current month.

Twin fairy chimneys -east Uchisar

-Photos can be enlarged.

Ah Bodrum!

2010-08-09T21:40:00.030+03:00

"don't ever think that you will go as you come, those before you were exactly the same. they all left their minds in bodrum and went...!"

Turkish writer (1890-1973) Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus (Turkish: Halikarnas Balıkçısı), describes Bodrum as above. He is rightly saying that. Because people do not leave Bodrum the same person as they came therefore they constantly come back. Like the locals of Bodrum, we being visitors are also aware of how precious Bodrum is... because:

all of these are the values that make Bodrum:

it's white washed stone houses covered with gypsy-pink bougainvilleas,
it's roasted figs,
it's dried bergamot bark,
it's tangerines,
it's the city of tradition,
it's the olives,
it's the olive oil,
it's the dynamic spirit,
it's the stone paved narrow streets,
it's the history dating back three thousand years,
it's crystal clear turquoise deep blue waters,
it's the unspoiled serene bays,
it's the unmatched fun capital of the Aegean,
it's the colorful nights that last until sunrise,
it's the unique meeting point of the Aegean and the Mediterranean,
it's the doors where chairs used instead of locks!

Yes, I am one of those as the writer said. I delivered my feelings to the wind of Bodrum. Things what come ashore are above, so I left my mind in Bodrum, my Bodrum, wanting so much going back there again..

You can click my photos to see the wide angle views, worth it.

Break For Swimming

2010-07-23T21:17:00.010+03:00

The best thing to do in summer is to take a break, a looong break if possible, and to swim. So I'm going to enjoy all about the water. Swimming for hours is what I want in my holidays. This water-birdie is asking you, why do you blog;)