Monday, July 19, 2010

ISTANBUL: Taksim Square

Taksim Square (Turkish: Taksim Meydanı) situated in the European part of Istanbul, Turkey, is a major shopping, tourist and leisure district famed for its restaurants, shops and hotels. It is considered the heart of modern Istanbul, and is the location of the Cumhuriyet Anıtı (Republic Monument), which was built in 1928 and commemorates the formation of the Turkish Republic. - Wikipedia


When you come to Istanbul you were never a tourist if you never walked the lively pedestrian street of Istiklal Caddesi.  The street is a few kilometers stretch and busy with people coming from everywhere.  At anytime of the day, the street is full of locals and tourists.  My favorite spot to stay and people watch when the time is relax, a few meter away from my hotel.  Everytime I visit Istanbul I see to it that my hotel is situated around the area.  Visiting Istiklal Caddesi experience is as necessary as Turkish Bath experience.



Tired of walking the street of Istiklal?  Then take this Tram, it will take you down to the tunnel to take a subway train that will take you around the city.




Some angles of the lively street.  Try here at night for a wonderful colorful walk experience.



At the square with some friends.
The Independence Monument (Istiklal Anıtı) in the circle at the southern end of the square commemorates the Turkish Republic's founder, Kemal Atatürk, in both his roles, as military commander-in-chief and as statesman.



... and, oh! My favorite sandwich place in the area!  Doner is closely known as Shawarma. 
Afiyet Olsun! (Turkish), Bon Apetit! (French), Sahaten Wa' Afia! (Arabic), Have a nice meal! (English, hehe!)


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