Yesterday we visited the Prince's Islands, a small group of islands about a 1.5 hour ferry ride off the coast of Istanbul. Although the islands themselves did not have much to offer from a sightseeing perspective, it was perfect in that it was a break from the busy city life -- the islands don't even have cars on them. It's also a vacation destination for many locals, so it was cool to see what many Istanbulians (?) do when they have a free day to escape the city. Elli and I spent much of the day hiking through the pine forests on the islands and laying on the white sandy beaches enjoying some sun and people watching the local flare. It was great to do nothing all day after a few hard days of touring. We also enjoyed a popular treat, a "sweet waffle" which was quite delicious. We found a small pastry shop with tea that was ridiculously cheap, which is always nice. Run by an elderly couple it was right on the shore, providing yet another splendid view.
This morning we toured the Topaki Palace and also saw one of the sultan's daggers which included the fifth largest known diamond in the world -- yes, it was big. In the afternoon we headed back to the main bazaar and spice bazaar to finish shopping and pick up some spices...they are so cheap here compared to Austria (says Elli) so I have to assume it is the same for America (yes mother I love to cook but I have not bought Indian Saffron in quite some time).
In the evening to celebrate our last night together we watched the most magnificent sunset over the sea from the rocky shoreline watching all the tankers coming in and going out from port -- truly a sight to see. Being in land-locked West Lafayette I forget how much fun it is to be next to such a large body of water (can I call it an ocean? It sure feels like it haha).
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