Name: Istanbul Photo Adventure
Item: Istanbul Photo Adventure
Author: Photo Workshop Adventures

East meets west and old meets new in vibrant Istanbul, Turkey. Historically known as Constantinople after the Roman Emperor Constantine I, Istanbul was for years the centre of the Roman Byzantium and Ottoman Empires. Home to many of the most recognizable images of the country of Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, Istanbul is not to be missed.

Istanbul is Turkey’s most populous city as well as its cultural and financial center. The mosques, bazaars and Turkish baths of Istanbul could keep you happily occupied for your entire trip. On a trip to this gleaming modern city you can immerse yourself in nearly 3000 years of history from Roman ruins to Byzantine marvels, Ottoman treasures and modern amusements.

Day 1 | Spice Bazaar – Dolmabahce Palace – Beylerbeyi Palace
After checking into our hotel, we begin by discussing PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles of Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique. Followed by lunch and informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. After lunch we begin our photo walk of this magnificent and magical city, home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. We’ll explore the Spice Bazaar where the scent of hundreds of spices permeates the air and embark on a cruise of the Bosphorus. Along the way we will view the Dolmabahce Palace and the Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th century palace on the Asian side of Istanbul. In the evening we celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Istanbul restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Blue Mosque – Topkapi Palace – Grand Bazaar
We begin our day before sunrise with a walk through Sultanahmet. After breakfast we view the amazing Blue Mosque whose interior walls are covered with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and magnificent Topkapi Palace, once home to the great Sultans and filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. After we enjoy a wonderful lunch at the Konyali Restaurant, located within the gardens of Topkapi Palace with its amazing views of the Marmara Sea and the Asian Side of Istanbul. We continue to explore the Hippodrome and domed Basilica of St. Sophia, which has inspired architects and religious leaders for over 1,500 years. And finally the Grand Bazaar, built in 1457. (B)

Day 3 | Beyoğlu – Karaköy (Galata) – Taksim Square
We start with a brief review of some of your favorite photos to date. Then we explore the romance of late Ottoman Istanbul on a walking photo tour of Beyoğlu, and a visit to the sultan’s most lavish palace. We start with Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn which links Old Istanbul and Beyoğlu. Take in the view, then walk north through Karaköy (Galata) and uphill to Galata Tower. İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) is the heart of Beyoğlu, the more modern district of Istanbul built during the 19th century. We’ll visit Taksim Square which is the heart of modern Istanbul. After lunch we go downhill to Dolmabahçe Palace. With a façade almost 400 meters (1/4 mile) long, this is the mother of all Ottoman palaces, and a must-see if you’re into magnificence. The evening is yours. We suggest possibly trying the Turkish Baths. It’s a great way to end a long day. (B)

Day 4 | Black Sea – Şile – Ağva – Maiden’s Tower
We depart Istanbul early in the morning for a day trip to the Black Sea villages of Şile & Ağva. Heading northeast of Istanbul on the Anatolian side, we will arrive in Sile, a small Black Sea fishing town situated on rocks. Known for its sandy beaches and famous Sile bezi, an open-weave cotton fabric, it is the perfect first stop. Once a port of call for ships sailing east from the Bosphorus, enjoy a stroll along the fishing harbor or relax with a tea at the hilltop cafe overlooking the Sile lighthouse. On the way to Agva we come across picturesque traditional Turkish villages like Kabakoz and Suaybli where time seems to have stood still. So near to Istanbul distance-wise, yet so far in their way of life. Experience the friendless and curiosity of these villagers. Continuing along the coastal route we arrive in Agva, deep in nature and situated between the Yesilcay and Goksu rivers that flow into the Black Sea. Upon arrival you will find peace in a leisurely boat ride down the Goksu river. Set in a landscape so green and rich, bask in the sights of Agva. After taking in a magnificent view overlooking the sea and bluffs, we will break for lunch where you may dine on the local fish. Next you will have a choice to truly unwind in the beauty of the Black Sea region by either relaxing along the Goksu river, or on one of Agvas sandy beaches. Surrounded by forest and cliffs, the fresh, blue green waters of the sea are calling you. Get lost in nature. In the late afternoon we return to Istanbul and photograph to famous Maiden Tower at sunset on the Asian side of Istanbul. (B)

Day 5 | Sultanahmet – Basilica Cistern
We begin our morning with a photography discussion and a review of work to date. Afterwards we depart for several neighborhoods in old Istanbul with a focus on photojournalism and street photography. We will isit the Basilica Cistern – This is the largest underground reservoir in the city, constructed in the 6th century to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, Topkapi Palace and others. In the evening we prepare for our “Farewell Dinner” at another one of our favorite restaurants of Istanbul. (B) (D)

Day 6 | Istanbul
While enjoying breakfast we conduct our final group discussion, review our past weeks photos, trade contact information and bid you farewell before our transfer arrives to take us to the airport. You may however, book extra nights with us and extend your stay in Europe or Asia and apply all the wonderful photographic techniques you learned on this photo adventure. (B)

May all who come as guests… leave as friends®

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