Fay #1: On our way back home, we decided to make a stop into Istanbul, Turkey. We were up in the early hours to catch a 6am 6 hour flight from Bishkek … that is how far East we had traveled. We arranged to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet which a lovely property near all of the sights. We scheduled a tour and went to the Basilica Cistern, the Blue Mosque, and the Chora Church which is now also known as the Kariye Mosque. We ended out day with dinner on the rooftop over looking the sacred town while the last prayer was called. Istanbul is a magical city indeed!

Day #2: We loved exploring the hotel and the breakfast was beyond delicious! Today out guide took us to The Topkapı Palace, or the Seraglio, which is a large museum and library in the east of the Fatih district. It is full of beautiful relics, tile work, and architecture. Then we went shopping to a Turkish rug shop and then to the Grand Bazaar.