Oct 11

We landed in Istanbul. We got our luggage and found the exit. There was a driver there to take us to the Hotel Arden City. Taxi Ride Movie

Off we went on Mr. Toad's wild ride. It seemed much of the freeway was under major construction. We ignored all speed and warning signs. Suddenly we needed gasoline or diesel, I'm not sure which. The driver took a U-turn left on the freeway and drove the wrong way up an exit into a truck plaza and got gas. We left going the wrong way down a one lane, one way street! Finally he took a turn and found a legal freeway entrance. I think he got away with this because it was late and the traffic was light.

Driving through the old-town section of Istanbul was like driving on medieval streets everywhere - twisty, narrow and mostly one way. We finally stopped and risked our necks crossing to our hotel.

We were greeted warmly. They offered tea or coffee. Everyone ordered tea. When I hesitated he offered me a beer. Suddenly everybody wanted a beer. The desk guy sort of interviewed us to see what we were planning to do so he could be helpful. We told him our plans.

We went up to see the rooms. Norm and Diana were in the corner room with a fantastic view. They offered to swap with us. Our room had a lesser but still nice view. We swapped. How nice. Thank you Norm and Diana.

After gawking at the city we went to bed. Movie.