On Istanbul Time
For the sheer magnificence of its geography, and the layers on layers on layers, there’s nowhere like it on earth.
Perched at the cultural crossroads of north, south, east and west, Istanbul is so utterly mesmerizing that, were you to try describe it to someone in a land far away, they simply wouldn’t believe such a place really existed at all.
I first visited the city twenty years ago, and soon found myself obsessed. I’ve travelled back and forth many times since then – seeking out secret corners and alluring characters for my collection.
The most important thing about Istanbul is to take it slow.
I like to sit all day in cafés.
Take unhurried ferries.
Amble around Sinan’s mosques.
Eat baklava.
Eat more baklava.
And while away the hours, the days and the weeks in cafés – pondering grand questions.
Most of which never really had a certain answer.
One thing is for certain though: Read more