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Imperial Times in Istanbul

by Dawn Richard
Jun 25, 2012 from istanbul, Turkey

This jewel of a city offers a unique blend of old and new and numerous experiences for the culturally inclined traveler. A must visit for anyone.

The capital city of Turkey carries its Byzantine and Ottoman history with pride and joy. Evidence of its rich and varied heritage is to be seen in its bazaars, monuments, food and music. You could get great deals with last minute flights but be sure you do not miss out on some great experiences.  When you think of the destination, what hits you first is the iconic Blue Mosque. Extravagant, gleaming and gorgeous, this building will remind you of the long lineage of art in the country. In fact, there are many contemporary art museums where you can admire paintings and works.  Entire districts, like Beyoglu have now become artist hubs with museums, residences, exhibition spaces and auction houses present in large numbers. If you need a taste of history and art then get down to Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia and admire the architecture and the art. Or go to the Istanbul Archaeology Museum and trace back the roots of this great place and look at the beautiful exhibits.

If music is your scene, then use the cheapest airline to get here and take part in the Istanbul International Music Festival - a celebration of music and dance. While there are plenty of concert halls and theaters across the city, if you are lucky you can catch an event at the many historical sites here like the Rumeli Fortress or the Hagia Irene. Korean Air has three flights per week from Seoul to several destinations for your convenience.

Once here, immerse yourself in the hamams or Turkish Baths that still hold special place in these modern times. If communal bathing is not your thing then there are many beaches to choose along the Bosphorus River and the Sea of Marmara. Flights to Istanbul are never a problem and you can chase away the jetlag at Emirgan Park, with its many plants and the annual Tulip festival.

When you buy cheap tickets to Istanbul, you can spend hours at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world and one of the oldest too. Here you will see local life and color like never before and you can immerse yourself in the fragrance of spices, the rich shades and the spirit of this unusual market place.

Cheap flights to Istanbul means not having to scrimp on savoring all that delicious food the city is famous for. Whether it is fish or sweets, you can indulge to your heart’s content at the many pubs, restaurants and wine houses here. Turkish bread, stuffed grape leaves, kebabs, amazing sweets, raki- aniseed brandy - and tea are only some of the many delicious treats you can tuck into. Most of the food traces its origins to centuries ago and you can literally taste history in every bite.

Korean Air tickets disappear especially during peak season so do not delay in booking them so you can walk along the water front, admire and learn about the history or sip a beverage at a café and watch the city go by.

Dawn Richard is an associate editor with Farebuzz.com. The website offers exclusive information related to Cheap Flights and Cheap Flights to Istanbul .

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