Top 16-Things to Do on Istanbul Holiday : East Meets West and Ancient meet Modern

Spreading over 2-continents and with a vivid cultural scene, there is nowhere on Earth like Istanbul for a city break……and it now trendier than ever, with lots of captivating sights to explore.

 So, you are planning to go on a holiday in Istanbul, but have no idea what all places to see and things to do there. That is totally understandable, since the city is astronomic and has so much to offer in form of museums, mosques, foreign culinary delights and markets.  Istanbul has become a year-round holiday destination.  And every year, millions of tourists from backpackers to families take flights to Istanbul.

Istanbul in Turkey is extremely modern place; however, it traces its roots back in 660 B.C. It is the former seat of magnificent Ottoman and Byzantine empires and is bifurcated into Asian and European sides by the Bosporus Strait, providing a wealth of history and splendid scenery. 

Istanbul is magical and a treat to the beholder’s eyes. Just wandering around the Grand Bazaar, with its vibrant colors, aromas and bustle, is an astonishing marvel for the tourists. At luxurious Four Season Hotel Istanbul located at the Bosphorus, you will feel like a Prince of the palace. If you are going along with your family including kids, do take out time for a traditional Hammam (or Turkish bath”, at the hotel, a ritual local immensely relish with their families. 

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Here we are presenting the sweet 16 -must do things on your Istanbul Holiday, which will actually make your trip worth it.

Watch out a Whirling Dervish Show

Istanbul is native place of the Mevlevi Order of Sufi whirling dervishes. The Sufi dervishes whirl themselves into a trance- like state, which is believed that this brings them closer to the Lord, and it is an unusual religious ceremony to check out.

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Go to the Spice Market

Spice market is the second largest after the Grand Bazaar. In the spice market, you can buy spices (of course), Turkish coffee, dried fruit, nuts, Turkish delight and loose leaf tea.

Ride and Drive the Beauty “Red Street Car”

Another must do thing on Istanbul Holiday is ride a Red Street Car. One excellent method to explore Istiklal Avenue without having to pass through the crowds is to ride on the street car from one end of the lane to another. The street car provides a vintage feel and it makes for a pleasant journey via Istanbul’s shopping hub. 

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Listen to the Divinely Call to Prayer between the Majestic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

One of the most beautiful ‘Call to prayer’ you will ever listen takes place between the Hagia Sophia (no longer a mosque; however, it still has a prayer room) and Blue Mosque. One muezzin would hum a part of the prayer and then the other muezzin would respond from other turret. 

It is certainly a magical thing to experience; therefore, if you find yourself wandering in the place during the prayer session, we recommend you to take a seat at one of the park benches and simply listen. 

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Enjoy a Boat Tour down the Bosphorus

In case, you have are on a holiday to Istanbul only for a few days and you know you would not be able to see all the main attractions, taking a cruise to Bosphorus is a brilliant way to have a glimpse of Istanbul’s main attractions. You will ride past the Rumeli Ruins, numerous gardens, mosques and museums, the Maiden’s Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace.

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Walk across the Famous Galata Bridge

Yes, you can of course ride the light rail across; however, if you choose to walk, you will be able to catch up the locals fishing out from the bridge, boats carrying passengers down the Bosphorus and vendors selling sesame covered pretzels. 

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Eat a Yummy Kumpir

When on a holiday to Istanbul, do take a bite of the Kumpir, a loaded baked potato. The vendor will mix the baked potato with butter and cheese till it is fluffy and light, and then you can select from an array of toppings including hot dogs, bulgur, olives, peas, corn and more. It is a perfect snack to have in the evening. 

Sip the Tasty Turkish Tea

In Istanbul, you will have to drink tea out of a tulip-shaped cup. Turkish tea is made in a rather inimitable manner utilizing a teapot that has 2-levels: one to boil the water and other one to brew the tea. You pour the tea into the cup and then dilute it with hot water so it is made as per your taste. 

Relish a Glass of Ayran

This is one of those drinks that you will either desperately love or hate. Aryan is cold yoghurt mixed with salt and it is the National drink of Turkey. It is excessively consumed during the summer months.

Go Underground at Basilica Water Cistern

The next on our list must do things on Istanbul Holiday is to explore the humungous Basilica Water Cistern. The Basilica Cistern is the largest of the ancient underground cisterns found across the massive Istanbul.

Most of the columns in the water cistern look to have been recycled from the ruins and remains of other buildings, and among them you will see 2-carvings of Medusa’s head utilized as column bases and column with tear-shaped engravings deemed to have the power to make all wishes come true.

Haggling at the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is an ultimate place for shoppers. With over 3,000 shops and spanning across 61 streets, the market is dizzying yet so definitely worth a visit. You will see that some streets specialize in certain products like leather, carpets, spices, silverware and ceramics.

There will be loads of shimmery items to appeal your eye, so come prepared to spend money.

Relish an Excellent View from Galata Tower

Situated in Beyoglu, the tower appears like it would be best suited as Rapunzel’s home in the “Tangled” fairy tale. There is something mysterious about the piked cylindrical roof and the views from the outer terrace are breathtaking.

Enjoy a Belly-Dance Show

This one is one of our favorite among all the must do things on your Istanbul Holiday. In case, you want to see a performance with high amounts of entertainment factor, then you are in loads of luck, as Hodjapasha Dance Theater shows belly-dancing and folkloric performances. Be prepared to be whisked back into the popular 1001 Arabian Nights.

Pay a Visit to Chora Church

The Church of Chora might not be the largest of the Byzantine churches; however, it is widely known for being one of the most charming. The highlight of the church is the several mosaic panels that recreate biblical scenes and still shine centuries later.

Explore Istanbul Archaeological Museums

This is the must do things on your Istanbul Holiday when your kids are along with you. The museum consists of three different museums that are located near the Topkapi Palace. The 3 museums are the Museum of the Ancient Orient, the Museum of Islamic Art and the Archaeological Museum. If you relish getting up close with the ancient history, you will certainly enjoy a visit here.

Explore the Valens Aqueducts

When the Romans passed via Istanbul, they commenced construction of the water system that will supply to the growing needs for the fresh water of the city. The water that moves down these aqueducts was stored in underground cisterns and open reservoirs across the city. Presently, the surviving portion of the Valens Aqueduct is 921- meters long.

Amazing contrasts are all a vital part of Istanbul’s magnetic appeal. Enchanting Byzantine frescoes and impressive architecture blends with shinning skyscrapers and state-of-art museums. Relish Turkish delicacies and wander around bustling historic markets at Istanbul.

At Hoodaki.com you can take advantage of booking flights to Istanbul, with an agency that is known within the industry for enterprise quality service to holiday seekers. To book your flights contact Hoodaki.com.

  

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Top 10 Most Romantic Places in the world for Passionate Kiss

Cancel your dinner reservation at a five-star hotel, fold up your picnic blanket and ditch the corner seats of the neighborhood movie multiplex…..get a little creative and show your deep real feelings to the one you love!

A kiss is always more than a mere plain kiss when it happens in an alluring storybook setting. Steal a kiss and sweep your lover off her feet at one of the most romantic, swoon-worthy and picturesque places filled with love, passion, superstition and history.

There is no need to wait for your anniversary or holiday or some special day before visiting one of the most romantic places to kiss in the world your sweetheart. 

Vienna, Austria

 One of our most favorites is city of Vienna in Austria. Vienna is a paradisiacal place with shimmering landscape, splendid architecture and beautiful people. Perhaps, you will be motivated while exploring this huge museum, beneath the arches of a cathedral or while exploring a historical landmark. Vienna is an ideal pace to create your own history with a passionate kiss. 

Create History with a Passionate Kiss at Vienna, Austria

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Ellis Island, New York

The second on our list of Long time ago most romantic places to kiss in the world is Ellis Island, NY. A number of happy family reunions happened at a gate called the “KISSING POST.” Share a kiss in front of plaque that stands strong in this place presently, on the 1^st-floor in the west wing of the building.

Share a Memorable Kiss at Ellis Island, New York

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The Sweetheart Garden, New Jersey Shore

The sweetheart garden located in Leaming’s Run Gardens is a charming and seductive place to share a kiss with your partner. Kiss in the middle of a mammoth heart-shaped garden made purely of purple and pink flowers.

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Moreover, Leaming’s Run offers other inimitable gardens that are regularly changing throughout the year.  Take a stroll along the scenic paths and past calm ponds. No two visits to this garden are the same. 

The Kissing Bench, Syracuse, NY

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Legends say if a couple kisses while sitting on the kissing bench (a stone bench) at the Syracuse University, they will tie the knot eventually. This bench brings good luck for those who want to take their relationship to the next level and believe in love forever.

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

It is not called as the Honeymoon Capital of Canada for nothing. The gorgeous scenery of one of the most loved waterfalls in the world has been attracting honeymooners and lovebirds for over 200 years now. 

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You can take a stroll along the same place at Table Rock, where the sensational Marilyn Monroe filmed parts of Niagara in the year 1953 and relish a memorable kiss with your sweetie at the brink of the falls.

The Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA

The next on our list of most romantic places to kiss in the world is The Santa Monica Pier, CA. Imagine the thrill to kiss your beloved on a Ferris wheel. Take a milkshake on the pier to share at the apex, where you will see mind-sweeping vistas of Los Angeles and the ocean.

The Rodin Museum, Paris, France

Re-create the magic of passion demonstrated in the 19^th-century sculpture, “The Kiss”, prior to taking a romantic walk in the rambling rose garden of the museum. 

Lovers Point, Pacific Grove, CA

A beautiful beach 

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Come here with your beloved at the crack of dawn and share a sweet morning kiss; as the place faces the east and it is the only place in the entire west coast where you watch the holy sun rise above the water.

Juliet’s Balcony, Verona, Italy

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Nestled in Verona, a small district in Italy, Juliet’s Balcony allures million tourists every year. This is “the place” where Romeo proposed to Juliet in Shakespeare’s play. You and your beloved can kiss under the balcony and feel the sweet sorrow of Juliet and Romeo.

Hotel De Ville, Paris, France

Star in your own edition of “The Kiss on the Sidewalk” iconic photograph of Robert Doisneau, by visiting the stunning city hall “Hotel de Ville” located n Paris. To have an epic kiss, stand across from the “C’ at the café. 

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 A perfect kiss can happen anywhere, anytime provided both the persons have love for each other in their hearts. However, the above-mentioned spots are the world’s 10 most romantic places to kiss for a reason; they are particularly good at seducing people into perfect lip-locks.

 

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Romantic Getaways: Top 5 Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia

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Romantic Getaways: Top 5 Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia

Once the big-day has come and gone, you will need a cozy, romantic and a beautiful place to go on a honeymoon with your better half to spend some quality lovey-dovey time together……head to South East Asia.

With unspoiled white sandy beaches, amazing food, great cultures, vistas of incomparable beauty, turquoise waters and friendliest people, Southeast Asia has some impeccable honeymoon destinations for newly-weds looking to have an ultimate time together. Southeast Asia is a place of mystique and timeless beauty, and is ideal to spend your honeymoon.

 Spend your Honeymoon in Southeast Asia to Experience a Super Romantic Time

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What more?

Honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia offers some of the most stunning vistas, adrenaline rush activities and luxurious experiences for far less money than Morocco or Hawaii.

Here we are providing our readers with the top 5 honeymoon destinations across Southeast Asia. 

All the five honeymoon destinations mentioned below:

·         Close to the Airports

·         Enough interesting and fun activities to indulge in for present generation adventure seeking couples

·         Have premium accommodation

·         Pocket-friendly

Read on…….

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 

Bali has been the most popular place among the honeymooners since a very long time, so it is no surprise that it finds a top place on our list. When in Bali, most honeymooners go to the beach resorts that are relatively pricey and crowded.

We on the contrary recommend Ubud to the honeymooners, located in central Bali and boasts of ample Balinese culture and far away from the heavy traffic of South Bali. The bulls-eye way to enjoy your honeymoon is to stay in a private Balinese homestay situated amidst the paddy fields.

Balinese Hinduism culture, incredible temples, tranquility and lots of shopping opportunities are on offer in and around Ubud. Moreover, if you feel like hitting the beach with your partner, you can head to the coast that is just an hour away.

Ideal for:  Couples looking to spent time in the laps of Mother Nature and wanting a native experience.

Thing to do/ Places to Visit: Pura Tirtha Empul Temple, Goa Gajah Cave, Nusa Dua to experience the South beach culture, Pura Ulan Danu Batur Temple and Volcano, Sukowati Market, many lakes and Kintamani for cooler climes

Nearest Airport: Denpasar, Bali

Best Time to Visit: June to October and in case, you love rain, then all year round

Couples looking to spent time in the laps of Mother Nature, Come to Ubud, Bali

Koh Lanta, Thailand

The beautiful islands and shimmering beaches of Thailand have to find a place in our list of best honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia. Right on the top of all islands nestles Koh Lanta, a charming and long tropical island that is located in the upper Andaman waters of Thailand.

It embraces all the elements required for an ideal beach vacation minus the crowds. 

The water here is great for snorkeling and scuba diving, it has finger-licking good seafood, rocking nightlife with lots of lounges and clubs, its long stretch of seas and green forests that can be easily explored on a motorbike or jeep and finally it has lots of caves and national parks that offer incredible bird watching and trekking opportunities.

Perfect for: Couples looking for a stunning beach destination with some splendid land adventures in addition to underwater sports

Things to do/ Places to Visit: Relax on the beach and watch the sky full of stars while sipping cocktails and eating tasty sea food, Snorkeling, Scuba diving, Beach parties. Visit Phangnga Bay to see the amazing limestone karsts bulging out of the ocean, Phi-Phi for scuba diving and Krabi for rock climbing

Best Season: All year round, excluding two months - March and April when it get a little hot, but such climate brings in high underwater visibility and offers a the right excuse to spend time in water with your partner.

Nearest Airport: Phuket

Celebrate Your Honeymoon in the Beautiful Islands of Thailand

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Luang Prabang, Laos

This French colonial town’s serene, calm and laidback riverside ambience is the perfect way for a newly-wed couple to explore together. There are marvelous river facing hotels designed in French architecture, amazing waterfalls, beautiful countryside, world-class river cruises, golden Buddhist temple and more. Also, there are several street markets and high-fashion stores.

Ideal for:  Honeymooners keen on spending a relaxed time with good culture experience, gourmet good local food and captivating natural sights

Things to Do/Places to Visit: The city is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ting Cave, Wat Xieng Thong and Mount Funsi Kuang Xi Waterfall. Visit Muang Koi and Nong Khiaw for a calm riverside retreat

Best Time to Visit: September to March

Nearest Airport: Luang Prabang

Go on a Honeymoon to the City that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang, Laos

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An takes the fourth place in our list of top 5 honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia. Tropical islands close to white corals, a river that runs through it, enchanting paddy fields, countryside, two UNESCO World Heritage sites and extremely close to South China sea and beaches – this how I can describe Hoi An in simple words.

Perched in central Vietnam, this destination has it all and therefore, regardless of your interests and choices, you will find this place amazingly special. You can go enjoy the pristine beaches, go on cycling through the alluring countryside; you can do lots of shopping, relish the beautiful culture and eat the tasty local food.

Ideal For:  Honeymooners desiring a complete holiday experience that has a bit of everything

Things to do/Places to Visit: Dine by the Hoi An riverside, Hoi An Heritage area, the ruins of My Son, Cham Islands, Marble Mountains, Hue and Tam Coc river close to Ninh Binh

Best Time to Visit – All the year round

Nearest Airport: Danang

 For an Amazingly Special Honeymoon, Visit Hoi An, Vietnam 

Chiang Mai, Thailand

 Thailand is not just about sizzling beaches - and the place that rightly justifies this statement is Chiang Mai.  The place is located at the foothills and is known for its beautiful temples, the Tiger temple, pompous festivals, tribal statements, sensational local food, national parks and the vibrant night markets. 

Moreover, when you want to indulge in a little adventure, you can rent a motorbike and explore the spectacular mountains of North Thailand.

Ideal for:  Honeymooners wanting to go to a place that is cosmopolitan yet offers plenty of opportunities to understand the culture.

Things to do/Places to Visit: The Tiger Temple, Wat Chedi Luang, Doi Suthep Temple, Doi Inthanon National Park, Sunday night markets

Best Time to Visit: All year round – the place rocks during New Years Eve and Loi Krathong Festival

Nearest Airport: Chiang Mai

To have a Sensational Honeymoon, along with a Touch of Adventure, Visit Chiang Mai

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Choosing one best destination to celebrate your honeymoon in Southeast Asia is not an easy task; however, we hope that our list of top-5 honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia narrow down the options and helps you to decide your romantic getaway with your soulmate.

Did we miss out a honeymoon destination?  Tell us to which place did you go on for your honeymoon in Southeast Asia and Share your experience with us.

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