Layover in Istanbul in my way to Manila. Had a blast. Stayed at grand yavuz in sultanahmet. I enjoyed the neighborhood. Found a lot of good suggestions from the sub, thanks to you guys.

Got me an Istanbul card and took the metro to taksim and enjoyed walking back. I didn’t have the internet on my phone by choice and just felt where the crowds were going and I saw all that I wanted and hoped to see. Very nice people. Got me an oud cologne and very good price. Ate a fish sandwich from one of the boats. Had a few people ask me where from and I was able respectfully walk away.

My free hotel did not come with transfers and that cost me $50 one way and booked the ride back to the airport but somehow I started thinking, I wonder if I just gotten scammed? I didn’t, but the hought crossed my mind.

I had a challenging time finding my hotel at the end of the long walk. My fault. I didn’t orient myself to my lodging, was too excited.

The picture I posted is personally touching for me, as I was putting my shoes back on, an older local man tapped on his chest as he entered, locked eyes with me, felt that he was giving me his blessings, humbled.

Thank you again to everyone who guided me.