It is really hard to escape the cacophony of sounds in Hanoi and there is just literally so much stuff pilling everywhere - from mopeds, people, storefronts full of different objects, food - that even your eyes need a break, just something to look at that is simple, uncomplicated. I crave going to place where … Continue reading The mysterious Hoan Kam Lake in Hanoi
It was 6:30am when I landed at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Vietnam. I had a headache. I had only slept a few hours the night before my flight (travel jitters are a thing), and the flight had been a nightmare, a choir of children crying and shouting, making it impossible for me to … Continue reading Hanoi, Vietnam – Navigating a Chaotic Stream of Sensations
I did very little shopping, or none actually in these areas. Yet these are likely to be on your itinerary if you are visiting Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar because the whole thing is an attraction in itself. The Istiklal avenue because it is a main street hard to miss on the other side of the … Continue reading Shopping in two different Eras in Istanbul – The Grand Bazaar & Istiklal Avenue
When you think of Istanbul the first image that comes to mind is probably that of Hagia Sophia. The Mosque that once was a Church, the Church that became a Mosque, and the Mosque that became a Museum to be turned back into Mosque. Yet I doubt anyone really goes to Hagia Sophia for prayer. … Continue reading Visiting the mosques of Istanbul
Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your myth Rumi Likely, you have heard of the famous 13th-century poet Rumi. The first time I came across his words was in Sarajevo, Bosnia, realising my ignorance for not knowing such an influential scholar - likely because he was Islamic and I had … Continue reading The Sufi Whirling Dancers – a 700-year experience in the heart of Istanbul
The Winged Bone 