Istanbul exceeded my expectations and might be my favourite city break destination (Image: Getty). In recent years, one city has become closely associated with cosmetic procedures and the so-called “Turkey teeth” trend, often portrayed online through images of ultra-white smiles and dramatic transformations. I recently visited that city – Istanbul – and, like many Britons, I had my reservations. I expected to see plenty of evidence of shallow culture, from fellow passengers heading home after treatment to advertisements promoting cosmetic work.
What I didn’t expect was how quickly those assumptions would fade into the background. Beyond the social media trends and the pressure to look perfect, I found a city overflowing with history, culture and character. Simply wandering through the streets during the day revealed a side of Istanbul that rarely makes it into viral videos.
Related: Brits face 6-hour EU airport queues
One of the moments that surprised me most was standing on a bridge overlooking the Bosphorus and realising I could see two continents at once. On one side was Europe; on the other was Asia. I had learned at school that Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, but seeing it with my own eyes was something else entirely. While locals hurried past, barely giving the view a second thought, I found myself standing still, taking it all in. For them, it was an ordinary part of daily life. For me, it was fascinating.
Five days is nowhere near enough time to fully experience Istanbul, but I was determined to visit some of its most historic landmarks. One of the highlights was Hagia Sophia. The world-famous building has stood at the heart of Istanbul for centuries and is impossible to ignore. Originally built in 537 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it served as a Christian cathedral before becoming a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. It later operated as a museum before being reconverted into a mosque in 2020.
Related: Expert Simon Calder warns Dubai holidaymakers of trouble
What struck me most was the way the building reflects the city’s layered history. Inside, Christian mosaics sit alongside Islamic calligraphy, creating a visual reminder of the different civilisations that have shaped Istanbul over the centuries. Its enormous dome, which appears to float above the building, remains one of the most impressive architectural sights I have ever seen.
I also spent time exploring the Grand Bazaar, and it was everything I had imagined. Colourful, busy and wonderfully chaotic, every corner seemed to offer something different. The scent of spices drifted through the narrow walkways, traders called out to passing visitors, and cups of tea appeared almost everywhere I stopped.
Related: Top 3 AI Real-Time Video Editing Tools in 2022
I sampled several different teas before eventually settling on saffron tea to take home to the UK. The shop owner wasn’t surprised by my choice. As a Brit, buying tea abroad almost felt inevitable. What convinced me was learning about its reputed health benefits, from its antioxidant properties to its reputation as a mood booster. I happily spent around £30 on a 250g bag to bring back to London.
If you’ve been given a false impression of Istanbul, think twice before you let it stop you visiting a truly wonderful city.
