My dad goofing off in the Spice Market.
This morning Taylor and I had the sad duty of putting our visitors in a taxi and sending them back to the West Coast. I know that there are family members, jobs and phone bills to which they must attend. Selfishly, I wished I could have kept them right here with me. Though, the rate at which we devoured Turkish desserts during their stay would have made an extension disastrous for my health, I’m afraid.
I am at a loss for how to describe my family’s visit. In Turkish, I think simply guzel would suffice. But, in English, we have so many words to choose from. It was too short, but as full as our glasses of fruit wine. We had too much food, but couldn’t get enough of each other. We saw and did a lot, but managed a few moments of peace and quiet as well. It was tiring, but invigorating. In all, taking my father and aunt around Istanbul was the most fun I’ve had in this city. It was the showcase of everything Taylor and I have learned, experienced and accomplished since arriving here eight months ago.
One of the best parts of their visit was experiencing Istanbul through a fresh set of eyes. There is so much to see and do here that sometimes after eight months the little things can be lost on us. But we were reminded of both the good and the bad Istanbul offers through our guests commentary. It even made me realize some of the things that were once infuriating about this city have become down-right endearing – the traffic, the constant bartering, the zig-zag back-and-forth can’t-stay-in-a-straight-line walking pattern. Okay, maybe not the zig-zag walking pattern.
Our family also constantly directed our attention to the little things we may sometimes take for granted that make this city and country worth living in; such as, the hospitality of strangers and friends alike, the history hidden in details of buildings, and most importantly the wealth of dessert options available.
I am sure I will have more to say about their visit soon. But, now, I am still sad that I had to see them go this morning. I will forever be grateful that they came to visit, and equally as grateful to those at home who helped make their trip possible. For now, I hope they can tell everyone back home what a great time we had together and encourage others to come visit too. Oh, and if they want to dispel a few stereotypes or misconceptions along the way, that would be great also: Istanbul is not in a desert, we don’t live in tents, people don’t ride camels and women are free to wear whatever they want. In addition, the food is good, the desert is great, the people are enchanting and the history is unparalleled. Thanks for visiting, family, and we miss you already!
My father and aunt walking down Istiklal Cadessi in Taksim.
