For the first time in a year, I took the plane, with all the inconveniences of the case, masks, flights changed at the last moment, disinfection, tests, and various administration, but nothing becomes an obstacle if the desire to change air is imminent.
Istanbul is one of the most eclectic cities I have visited and where I return at least once a year, I start where I left it the year before. (continues below)
Given its size and vastness, my insatiable desire of discovery is never disappointed. Many cities in the world, once visited, gives the feeling of saying: “ok, beautiful, but I don’t feel the need of a second time”.
Like Prague, Istanbul ties an elastic at your ankle and either you want or don’t, you always return back. (continues below)
One of my favorite places is the Bosphorus, a place that with its waters marries two shores, the European one with the Asian one. Thinking about how much history has passed from here, I feel goosebumps.
This time Istanbul had a particular light, perhaps due to the cold and incessant rains or perhaps because after a year of lockdown, I experience the sensations in a deeper way by paying attention to details that were previously addicted. (continues below)
As usual, my travels are not complete, if they do not also pass through the stomach since culture also passes through the table. (continues below)
So, there was no shortage of grilled tomatoes, puff pastries, white yoghurt with local honey and the famous sugary dates. All helpfully (and abundantly) accompanied by the local çay (tea) served on copper trays. (continues below)
So, with Istanbul, my life as a traveler starts again. A vacation that in some way changed the way to take care better of myself. Although it was not a spiritual journey, helped to be aware of many aspects, both physical, professional and emotional. In fact, once I returned home, I managed without difficulty to do a 6-day fast (master cleanse) and resumed doing sports on a daily basis.
Sometimes you just need a change of scenery to change your mind.
Yours, Moni
