Traffic was something that can only be seen to be believed - bumper to bumper and there is really no rules except for the largest and brashest and most constant horn driver taking priority.

Whilst sitting in the bus in a traffic jam we saw a young run coming sprinting up the street with a crowd of people in pursuit. Just as he crossed in front of us, one of the pursuers grabbed him and pulled out a pistol and pointed it at the young guys head. A tad freaky. The tour guide informed us (after getting off the bus ant joining the crowd) that the young guy was a pickpocket and the person with the gun was an undercover police officer. Whilst the crowd was waiting for the uniformed officers to arrive they pummelled the young guy - they take a very very dim view of crime obviously.

Finally got to the hotel at about 1800hrs - had an argument with the reception - they want to take my passport and hold on to it for a while, told them they had two chances of that ever happening - buckleys and none.

After dropping my bags in the room (my room mate had yet to arrive) I went down to the reception to meet our “Topdeck” Rep - Sarah Hopkins - and several other tour participants. We all went out for drinks on the local party strip at a place called “Just Bar”. There we meet several other Topdeck tour group participants and guides.

Dinner consisted of a few kebabs from the side of the street (possible not a smart start) and looks of “Efes” beer 0 until the early hours of the morning.

My roommate was there when I arrived back - we were impressed that a Muslim country could show porn on TV at night - interesting contrast in value systems!!

written by  Tickles on April 21, 2006 from Istanbul, Turkey
from the travel blog: First European Adventure - A Gallipoli Experience
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As an Australian, Gallipoli is prominent in our cultural memory, and myths. The place commemorates a military disaster, as well as the heroism & dignity of both the Allies (Australia, NZ, Britiish, French, & Irish) troops that were slaughtered here as a result of a poorly planned invasion. The Turks bravely defended their territory Where the Allies landed is interesting, & too my Surprise, I wasn't as "moved" as I expected I would be - perhaps decades of we Australians "celebrating" the landing at Gallipoli caused me www.privatetoursinistanbul.com expect to be moved. What is fascinating is to understand the Turks, as well as the Allies, & why there is the strong historical & cultural connection we keep nearly 100 years later Read a good history of the place beforehand. Go & see the Turkish monuments, and the moving Ataturk quote about the sins & daughters from foreigh lands now lying with Turkey in dignity - this is very moving, & reminds of a time when enemies treated each other with respect & dignity.

written by  istanbul tours on November 10, 2011

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