Journal

Notes from a local guide — itineraries, food, history and the Istanbul you won't find in brochures.

Turkish Cuisine

We bring together our cuisine's most beloved recipes, secrets, and stories—from dough dishes baked over wood fire to the delicacy of olive oil dishes. Let your table come alive!

Istanbul Food Tours

Navigating Istanbul's vibrant culinary scene can be challenging. We've mapped out the city's indispensable flavors for you. From authentic street food to local hidden gems, our guides will take you to the best tastes on both sides of the Bosphorus. Follow our maps and discover the real taste of Istanbul!

Historic Beauties of Istanbul

Discover the most magnificent historical structures and architectural masterpieces that have hosted empires, located in the heart of Istanbul.

Christian Heritage

Discover Turkey's rich Christian heritage and historic faith routes, from the world's earliest cave churches to ancient monasteries, from the Seven Churches route mentioned in the Bible to the sacred sites that shaped the birth of Christianity.

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August 15, 2026 · 2 min read

Hatay Antakya’s Unforgettable Taste Experience: Kule Restaurant and Meze Culture

When Turkish cuisine comes to mind, one of the first cities that springs to mind is undoubtedly Hatay. Alongside its historical and cultural richness, Hatay is truly a food paradise, a veritable heaven for gastronomy enthusiasts. Recently, I wanted to share with you my dinner experience at the famous Kule Restaurant in Hatay Antakya and Hatay’s unique meze culture.

Christian Heritage

August 15, 2026 · 1 min read

The Birthplace of Christianity: St. Pierre (St. Peter) Church

Visiting this sacred site, which is the world's first cave church and one of the turning points of Christian faith, was a mesmerizing experience for me. Located on the slope of Stauris Mountain (Haç Dağı) in the Antakya district of Hatay, the St. Pierre Church, carved into the rock, is considered one of the most important centers of faith tourism in the world.

August 12, 2026 · 2 min read

A Historic Journey in the Heart of Istanbul: Orientbank Hotel and Sultanhamamı

Istanbul is a vast open-air museum, with a different story hidden on every street. Today, I’m taking you to a special street where history and aesthetics meet, right next to one of the city’s most vibrant spots — the Egyptian Bazaar and Sirkeci: Sultanhamamı. This street, which you absolutely must add to your Eminönü and Egyptian Bazaar route, awaits you with magnificent architecture and an atmosphere full of surprises.

Historic Beauties of Istanbul

August 10, 2026 · 3 min read

The Empire's Heavy Price: The Ottoman Fratricide Law and Historic Prince Mausoleums

In the heart of Istanbul, right next to the Spice Bazaar and historic bank buildings in Eminönü, you encounter a grand and deeply moving place: the Yeni Mosque Complex and the Hatice Turhan Valide Sultan Tomb. In the tranquil atmosphere behind the bustling avenues and historic streets, one of the Ottoman Empire's most tragic and debated topics lies: the Fratricide Law.

August 9, 2026 · 2 min read

Changing Continents in One Day: A Unique Experience You Can Only Have in Istanbul

In how many cities around the world can you have breakfast in Europe and dinner in Asia? The answer is crystal clear: Only Istanbul! In our recently released short video, we focused entirely on this unique experience: "Crossing from one continent to another... The only city where you can make this a part of your daily life is Istanbul!" Driving across the bridges over the Bosphorus Strait, with the deep blue sea stretching to your right and left, accompanied by historic mosques and mansions, you can switch continents in minutes — an experience unlike any other in the world.

Hidden Treasure of Turkish Cuisine: Ekmek Kadayıfı and Its Story

Istanbul Food Tours

August 7, 2026 · 3 min read

Hidden Treasure of Turkish Cuisine: Ekmek Kadayıfı and Its Story

When Turkish cuisine comes to mind, baklava or lokum may be the first things that come to mind, but Anatolia’s and Istanbul’s gastronomic heritage holds far deeper and more humble stories! In our recently released short video, we focused on just such a delightful flavor: Ekmek Kadayıfı! With its slowly baked, syrup-soaked texture, drizzled with rich tahini sauce, studded with hazelnut or walnut pieces, and paired with clotted cream, this dessert creates a true explosion of flavor on the palate. Of course, this ritual cannot be considered complete without a steaming cup of Turkish tea beside it!

August 5, 2026 · 3 min read

The Mysterious Place Where Agatha Christie Wrote Murder on the Orient Express: Pera Palace Hotel

As you stroll through the historic and cultural heart of Beyoğlu in Istanbul, there's a special building that takes you on a journey back in time with its impressive architecture: the Pera Palace Hotel. In our recently published short video, we drew attention to this very place: "Did you know that the world-famous mystery writer Agatha Christie stayed at this historic hotel in Istanbul and penned her famous novel here?" Pera Palace is not just a luxurious hotel; it's also a living history museum that has witnessed the era from the Ottoman Empire to the modern world.

August 4, 2026 · 2 min read

What Is That Iconic Tower on Istanbul’s Skyline? (Çamlıca Tower and the Transformation of the Bosphorus)

While crossing the 15 July Martyrs Bridge or looking toward Istanbul’s Asian side, you must have noticed that extraordinary, futuristic structure rising above the hills. In our latest short video, we asked exactly that: “Do you know what this tower is used for, and what do you think of its design?” Yet this tower and the bridge right beside it are more than just architectural marvels—they also reflect Turkey’s recent deep political turbulence and historic transformations.

August 3, 2026 · 2 min read

Capturing Timeless Memories at the Crossroads of Two Continents: Galata Bridge Outdoor Photography Guide

Istanbul, with its historic texture and unique Bosphorus views, is the first choice not only for travelers but also for couples who want to immortalize their most special moments. Especially, Istanbul outdoor photography taken at the point where the Golden Horn and Bosphorus meet, turns the city into a lively and romantic backdrop.

August 2, 2026 · 2 min read

☕ Breathtaking View, No Surprise Bill: Istanbul's Best Coffee Spot!

Being a tourist in Istanbul is great... There are thousands of places where you can have coffee, socialize. But let's be honest; especially in Istanbul's historic districts, finding a beautiful view without being "ripped off" or encountering a surprise addition can sometimes be a real survival struggle! 😂 What if I recommend a great place where you can both protect your budget and watch all of Istanbul's iconic landmarks from a single angle?

July 30, 2026 · 2 min read

Egyptian Bazaar Istanbul Guide (2026): History, Spices, and Visit Tips

The Egyptian Bazaar, located in the Eminönü district of Istanbul, right next to the New Mosque, is one of the most visited spots by both local and foreign tourists, with a history of over 350 years. It is one of the most vibrant bazaars in Istanbul, with its colorful spices, Turkish delights, herbal teas, and traditional products.

July 30, 2026 · 1 min read

A Taste of the Mediterranean in the Heart of Istanbul: Racon in Andalusia, Meze in Lebanese Cuisine!

Doesn't the name sound cool and mysterious? Andalusia... It's a name that immediately transports you to another world, making you wonder what adventures await you. But it's not just about the cool name; this place is one of the most prominent representatives of Middle Eastern and Lebanese cuisine, especially among the younger generation in Istanbul.

July 27, 2026 · 2 min read

Life in the Streets of Bakırköy: From Armenian Heritage to Kola-Çekirdek Shore Culture

I think marketing and advertising should not be taught in schools in Turkey; because our tradesmen apply "attention-grabbing" tactics on the street in five minutes that Harvard cannot teach in 10 years. If you want to see the most vivid proof of this, drop by Bakırköy Square, the heart of Istanbul.

Istanbul's Modern Playground: Caddebostan and Bağdat Street

Istanbul Food Tours

July 26, 2026 · 2 min read

Istanbul's Modern Playground: Caddebostan and Bağdat Street

If you're after modern shopping, glittering storefronts, and a lively lifestyle on the Asian side of Istanbul, Caddebostan and the legendary Bağdat Street are tailor-made for you!

The Crispy and Cheesy Legend of Turkish Delight: Knafeh

Turkish Cuisine

July 25, 2026 · 2 min read

The Crispy and Cheesy Legend of Turkish Delight: Knafeh

Foreign travelers are often stunned to hear that one of Turkey’s most famous desserts contains cheese. Cheese in a dessert? At first, it may seem unusual—but when warm, stretchy cheese meets crisp kataifi and sweet syrup, it creates an unforgettable culinary masterpiece.

Istanbul's Greatest Treasure: Unveiling the Secrets of Hagia Sophia

Historic Beauties of Istanbul

July 22, 2026 · 2 min read

Istanbul's Greatest Treasure: Unveiling the Secrets of Hagia Sophia

When visiting Istanbul, there is one absolute must-see destination that rises above all else in terms of history, architecture, and cultural significance: Hagia Sophia.

July 14, 2026 · 3 min read

Love, History, and a Dash of Bad Luck: A Guide's Eye View of Galata Tower 🗼✨

When you think of Istanbul's skyline, the first structure that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Galata Tower. For centuries, this massive tower has watched over the city from above, and it's not just a stone structure; it holds historical intrigues, football legends, daredevils who defy the sky, and most importantly, a famous love prophecy that has been passed down through the ages. As a local guide, let's take a closer look at this fascinating tower, both through historical facts and the famous legend that I've experienced and verified myself!

Father of the Döner: On the Trail of Cağ Kebabı

Turkish Cuisine

July 11, 2026 · 1 min read

Father of the Döner: On the Trail of Cağ Kebabı

Did you know that the classic vertical doner, enjoyed all around the world, actually has a much more rooted and rustic ancestor? Today, we're taking a short journey with you to explore the story of Cağ Kebabı, the "horizontal" flavor masterpiece of Turkish cuisine.

Turkish Cuisine

July 8, 2026 · 1 min read

Anatolia's Ancient Remedy: Tahini

When you visit Turkey, tahini is undoubtedly one of the most special and local delicacies you must try. So, what is the story behind this indispensable flavor of our tables?

The Refreshing Secret of the Mediterranean: Get to Know Bici Bici

Turkish Cuisine

July 8, 2026 · 1 min read

The Refreshing Secret of the Mediterranean: Get to Know Bici Bici

The southern part of Turkey, with its historical and natural beauties, also hosts a unique lifestyle during the summer months. If your route falls into this hot geography, temperatures reaching 45 degrees and high humidity may require you to reshape your daily plans.

In Search of the Authentic Turkish Doner: Tomcan and a Flavor Legend

Istanbul Food Tours

July 3, 2026 · 2 min read

In Search of the Authentic Turkish Doner: Tomcan and a Flavor Legend

Coming to Turkey and leaving without eating doner is like departing Istanbul with its soul missing. But the doner we’re talking about here is far more than the quick snack you might know. As the inventors of doner, Turks hold a special place in its history. Here’s an interesting fact: the first doner was actually not vertical, but cooked more like today’s horizontal kebab; the shift to vertical roasting evolved over time into an art form.

July 2, 2026 · 2 min read

Princes' Islands: In the Footsteps of Grandeur and Exile

As you escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and drift away to the soothing sound of the ferry, the Princes' Islands welcome you. Today, one of the most refined living areas of Istanbul, carrying the legacy of non-Muslim communities and mesmerizing with its historical texture, these islands are not just a holiday route, but a deep stage of history.

July 2, 2026 · 1 min read

Turkish Coffee: More Than Just a Cup

You have visited the mosques, palaces, and historic streets of Istanbul; you have felt the ancient soul of the city to your bones. However, there is one more very special ritual you must experience to consider your trip to Turkey complete: the Turkish coffee experience.

Istanbul Food Tours

July 1, 2026 · 2 min read

Flawless Pizza in Kadıköy :)

When one thinks of Istanbul, historical texture, the scent of spices, and the silhouette of minarets against the Bosphorus usually come to mind. However, as an experienced traveler knows, the soul of a city lies not only in its historical monuments, but in its modern and unexpected corners; for instance, in those moments when you find a slice of Napoli in the heart of Kadıköy.

June 29, 2026 · 1 min read

Nişantaşı: A Chic Escape in the Heart of Istanbul

Beyond the depths of the Historic Peninsula, there's a place that defines Istanbul's modern elegance: Nişantaşı. Known as the city's most luxurious district, Nişantaşı offers a sophisticated blend of upscale boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and refined dining spots.

June 22, 2026 · 1 min read

Essential Tips for a Seamless Trip in Istanbul

Istanbul is as captivating as its layered history, stretching from Rome to the Ottoman Empire, but it’s also a metropolis with its own unique rhythm and rules—especially for first-time visitors. Here’s what you need to know to make your journey more comfortable.