6/16/10
European Istanbul
To get here, we took a flight that stopped once in Paris after eleven hours, and continued to Istanbul with another five. Of course, AC lost her luggage somehow, but luckily it came back from Tuluiz tonight. The hotel is much nicer than we thought it would be for a school trip. We were treated to a chicken and rice with French fries (potatoes) dinner. We met the students from the other schools, who are very nice to us. After a confusing morning as far as time zones are concerned, we took a trip to the Blue Mosque, and learned a lot about Islamic beliefs. We were asked to take our shoes off (to keep the carpet clean. NO SYMBOLISM) and cover our legs and shoulders. We can hear the call of worship from the minaret multiple times daily. Later, we visited the Hagia Sofia museum, where we met some interesting characters, and learned how to convert a church to a mosque. The building is 1500 years old. Next we were introduced to an obelisk from Egypt, as well as another that was raided by the crusades for bronze. From here, we traveled to the bazaar and were “graciously complemented” by the local sellers. Ms. Staves and Ms. Rohrbach want me to mention the Turkish delight… whatever that is… For lunch we had delicious, ethnic McDonald’s. Claire was really surprised to find that chicken nuggets are a sandwich here. Our group next ventured on a very grueling walking tour to the spice market. Finally, the moment we all had been waiting for. We could return to the hotel! And rest our feet! After an enlightening day spent in European Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, or even earlier Byzantium, our tour group finds ourselves trekking to Asiatic Istanbul tomorrow, with promises of a glorious hotel with wonderful beach and pool access. To our delight, Turkey has surpassed our expectations, and we find ourselves really learning and remembering the information we have experienced hands-on. The rest of the trip holds bright promise to us excited Americans.
Miss Brittney Cannon & Miss Yvette Nowry
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I can't believe you are there! seems so far away! Be safe and have fun!
ReplyDeleteBliss family said.... thanks to Brittney and Yvette for writing the blog. Your details were a colorful and delightful description that helps us (parents) appreciate why you are there. By the way, current events back in LA.. Lakers are beating Celtics 64-45 in the 3rd quarter of the Game 6. Up to now, Boston leads the series 3-2. Marie can attest to the fact that we miss her because we never watch sports on TV, yet we are watching the playoffs... go figure!
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ReplyDeleteWhat fun! Thank you for the picture with all those lovely smiles. Sending love to Athena and enjoyment to the group. We look forward to the next post.
ReplyDeleteI hope you all washed your hands after using the hole on the floor in the ferry. This is a wonderful learning experience for all of you - enjoy it. Brittney, we miss you! We are going out to eat every day and buying books in your honor.
ReplyDeleteLucky girls! We miss you but I am so happy to hear you are doing well and enjoying your time. Make the most of these moments!
ReplyDeleteP.S. Go Lakers!
-Ms. Perez-