1.11 The Asian Side

Traveling to Kadikoy in the Asian side of Istanbul felt like going back to his hometown, around Kota to be exact. The hustle and bustle of the city, the crowd, attitude of the people resembled what was home to him. Not like he was missing it so much, it just reminded him of home.

This more secular part of the city felt more present. In general, the cost of living was cheaper yet here was where modern shopping malls with international brands could be found. He stopped by at juice shop, ordering a freshly pressed pomegranate juice to rehydrate himself after wandering around the local markets through the lanes. 

Have a look at Turkey's biggest export, the soap opera, which are very popular in the Middle Eastern region. He watched a couple when he was living with his Turkish housemate back in Germany. A big progression in Turkey and countries around it were the sudden urge of westernization and high-life. Very tangible as he saw the gap between the rich whom he saw on magazines and the real-life people from the street.

This time, facing Europe, a view of the city across the water seemed vague, hidden by the fog and snow. How lucky he was to be able to travel to places. A quote from Bourdain struck his head,

"If you are 22, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel." 

Definitely this was the time to be embraced and to live to the max. No way he was staying back at the room if not for resting to start his next day all over again.