People worldwide know Turkey for its fierce and ruthless empire that spread its dominant demeanor over the Balkans and beyond.

I knew Turkey as only a dish we prepared for our Thanksgiving dinner until I was twelve.
I KNOW – Embarrassing!

Here in Prudhoe Bay – Alaska, however, people rarely talk about Turkey or Balkans or any place that’s far away from the scope of what you teach a child until they are old enough to go to school.

When I became interested and delved into Geography and History (aside from being obligatory subjects in school), I was convinced that Turkey is a nice place for an adventurist soul like me. Years went by, I switched jobs, finished school got my Master’s degree and I figured it is time for me to take a breather and travel a bit.

This is how I decided to visit Turkey! I am no hippie, but my backpack and my traveling spirit – really matched one.

I hopped on a cheap flight, switched two planes, and arrived in Istanbul. DARN IT – SO MANY PEOPLE! The streets are flooded with artisanal shops, street food, and other traditional shops with unique amenities.

The hotel I was staying at was really close to the city center (or so I thought since everything in Istanbul seemed a city center to me LOL!). I enjoyed delicious Turkish breakfast at a local café regularly, sipped many cups of Turkish coffee, indulged into walking the streets of both the humble and the opulent and let my eyes wander the details of the ancient architecture around the city.

Probably the only time in my life I will see, as many Mosques in one place at a time will be Istanbul. Astonishing architecture and marvelous interiors.

Will probably get back again, once I fill my pocket with more money to travel around the other part of the Balkans as well.

Görüşürüz Turkey – you left a beautiful mark in me!

Photography credits: Dhurata Halimi
Author: Diar Ramadani