Safely Arrived.

After figuring out which direction I needed to be heading on the train, and becoming fluent in Turkish so as to be able to read the all Turkish train ticket menu, I was on my way (I think). This is truly my favorite part of traveling and I instantly felt at home. Turkey reminds me of...Turkey? I expected it to look more like Egypt I think, but in reality it is much cleaner and more westernized -- definitely not as conservative which after talking to friends I had expected. When I reached my desired train stop I realized I truly had no idea where I was, and it was going to be an interesting time finding the hostel. But just then, two angels in blue wearing "free information" t-shirts walked up and pronounced I looked lost and asked if I needed help. Yes. Yes I did. Graciously, they offered to take me to my hostel. Success!

My hostel is incredible. For about 30 dollars a night we are right on the Sea of Marmara (which connects to the Aegean Sea which connects to the Mediterranean Sea) with a gorgeous rooftop terrace (with spectacular views of the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya), with free wi-fi and breakfast. My friend Elli (from Vienna who I met in India last summer) arrives in a little bit and I´m very excited to see her.

The architecture here is mesmerizing, and I can't wait to get out and explore the city. I'll write more about my first impressions when I get a chance.

CM