A Home in Istanbul

Ssh!! Want to know a secret? Now you have a home in Istanbul?
Here are some special places to keep quiet about

Istanbul is a wonderfully diverse city where all things are
possible. The places to visit can appear limitless but it is
exactly because of its attractions that it can be a ‘trifle’
busy at times. Living and working in a city brings many
benefits but also some challenges. Having a home in Istanbul
sometimes you would just like to go to get away from the
crowds, – not only of tourists but other Istanbulites. Where?
Is the question. Well here are two for you to consider:-

Çorlulu Ali Pasha Medresesi

Now this is not as secret per se but is a very popular Turkish
meeting point in the heart of a busy tourist area, the Grand
Bazaar! This place offers the best traditional Turkish coffee,
çay and great nargile, (a hookah pipe or shisha). Try the rose
and mint nargile for a sublime taste combination. You can feel
the 300-year-old history when you visit, it is relaxing and
offers a subliminal message to slow down, relax. Despite the
hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar, time really does slow
down here. Originally a school of religion and used by the
Dervishes, the Medrese has had many identities before settling
into this one. Be sure to visit this oasis next time you
venture to the area.

The bar behind the ‘Fridge

Once this would have been called a ‘speakeasy’ but this hidden
tavern is known as ‘Gizli Kalsın’. Literally behind an
innocuous soda ‘fridge, you will find an atmospheric bar with
live music and other events taking place. There is a strict
door policy to go through but well worth a visit. To find it
you first should discover the Pizza Emirgan. This Bosphorus
waterfront pizzeria is in the Emirgan district (Sakıp Sabancı
Caddesi No.14/B). Its distinctive red frontage with tables
outside but no signs is easy to spot as you walk down the
street from the Emirgan Ferry port. The pizzeria belongs to Le
Bloom restaurant and here the specialities are
straight-from-the-oven pizzas with some of the most delicious
topping you could ever want. If,
no, when you visit, try the calzone
that is stuffed full of chocolate, superb!