Istanbul

Istanbul embraces two continents, one arm reaching out to Asia the other to Europe. In the city's heart, the Bosphorus strait, course the waters of the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. The former capital of three successive empires- Roman Byzantine and Ottoman-today istanbul honors and preserves the legacy of its past while loking forward to its modern future.
Indeed it is Istanbul's variety that fascinates its visitors. The museus, 5 churches, places, great mosques, bazaars and sights of natural beautiy seem inexhoustible. As you recline on the shores of the Bosphorus at sunset contemplating the red evening light reflected in the windows on the opposite shore you understand, suddenly and profoundly, why so many centuries ago settlers chose to bulid on this remarkable site. At times such as these you feel that istanbul is truly one of the most glorious cities in the world.
The highlight of Istanbul's cultural life is the annual International Arts and Culture Festival, in June and July. World-class artists - musicians,dancers,singers-perform in the city's various venues. The quality and wealth of the Festival is truly astonishing.
During the rest of the year the city offers a full program of opera, theater, ballet, films, concerts and exhibitions. The Cemal Resit Rey Hall and the Ataturk Cultural Center host a majority of these events.
Lighter entertainment thrives in this cosmopolitan city. Nightclubs with programs ranging from a selection of Turkish songs to the famous belly dancing will enthrall you. Modern discos, cabaret and jazz clubs in the Taksim-Harbiye district attract both the young and the old. In Sultanahmet a number of restaurants in restored Byzantine and Ottoman buildings serve traditional meals in their unique and evocative atmosphere.

Kumkapi, with its many taverns, bars, sidewalk restaurants and strolling minstrels, always offers a good meal and a superb show. In the same vein, the Cicek Pasaji in the Beyoglu district attracts a regular crowd of revellers.
Some Excursion Highlights; Istanbul fascinates visitors with countless museums, churches, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and sights of natural beauty. ;* Topkapi Palace  * Hagia Sophia * Tiled Pavilion * Mosaic Museum  * Historical Bazaars * The Basilica Cistern   *  Sultan Ahmet Square  * Museum of the Ancient Orient  *  Archeological Musuem * Churches & Mosques