A Pinch and a Punch for the First of the Month.....

But I'm still wanting to write about Istanbul. In fact looking at the title of my present book, the one I am reading, 'The Last Train to Istanbul' by Ayse Kulin...many thoughts attract me about train journeys. In her book the story moves back and forth between Istanbul and Marseilles, Ankara and Cairo and Paris to Berlin and back to Istanbul. It was WW2 so not the best years for a Jewish couple to be exploring train journeys. So why does the Orient Express no longer go to Istanbul? A great many photos show that the train station is in good condition and supporting a famous restaurant. And within the restaurant are many pictures on the wall bringing the past years to life.
This bell was just as large as it is shown...whether it is still being rung at times I never did find out.
Click on the photos for enlargement.

These images I couldn't resist. A typical tourist with all prerequisites in his possession ie: wide-brimmed hat, camera (even if it is a NIKON), sun glasses and waiting patiently for his order.



And here two locals catching up in an environment they both enjoyed and knew well.



Inside the restaurant the MIGHTY BOSPHOROUS as it was used in the years gone by for transport, trade and private enjoyment.

 I didn't mention WAR...a common waterway for just such settlement of differences. Turkey being recognised as a country situated between EAST and WEST... one side of the river understood to be representative of the EASTERN culture and the other side...the WEST.