Waiting in pretty chilly cold weather for the boat outside their kiosk.
During our time in Istanbul, I found that a visit to the Princes Islands offers a perfect escape from the city constant buzz. These islands, once places of exile during the Byzantine era, are now peaceful retreats where motorized vehicles are banned. Instead, bicycles and electric transport move through quiet, pine-lined streets, making for a refreshing change.
A very healthy and fresh fruit and vegetable shop .
Walking through the streets of Island.
Colorful tourists bus.
Fresh fish stocking
Buyukada, the largest and most popular island, with a population of 50000 left a lasting impression on us with its stunning wooden mansions and breathtaking sea views. Walking or cycling through its narrow lanes felt like stepping back in time. Whether enjoying the cool breeze by the waterfront or simply soaking in the island’s tranquility, I found it to be a truly unique and relaxing experience one well worth taking a day for.
Waiting our boat, finally took a refuge in an ocean front restaurant for a hot cup of Turkish tea.
Finally the boat arrived after a long wait in the chilly morning.
With the crew of the boat.
Waiting to board the boat.
Spending extra time during waiting to enjoy the surroundings nearby
Streets near and paved in beautiful designs
During our last visit to Istanbul in October 2023, we had missed seeing the Princes Islands, so this time, it was a must and it was absolutely worth it. The islands offered a peaceful retreat from the city energy, with their charming wooden mansions, quiet streets, and refreshing sea breeze.
Stepping on the island
Disimbarking the boat and entering Princess Island.
The fresh Pamanageade juice and hot bread &cheese snack. Harvinder is super thrilled to sip the juice.
Placing the order
Enjoying hot bread and cheese.
The juice was finally here.
The three brothers owning the business were very courteous.
Another highlight of our visit was enjoying a glass of freshly made pomegranate juice, a local specialty that we had loved before. We once again found ourselves at a street-side restaurant, savoring the sweet and tangy flavors along with a hot and fresh snack of bread and cheese simple yet incredibly satisfying
The Indians clustered together
This Spanish group was was too active.
We joined a very friendly honeymooning couple - Arman and Simran from Panipat and discussed a lot many tales of my childhood and my and my sisters raising there.
The young and lovely Arman and Simrat. Arman a law graduate and is involved in his family Cattle-feed wholesale business while Dr Simrat from Karnal is a fresh dentist.
The Boat people hosted fresh hot and steaming meals after we had a round of the island. The food had pasta, boiled rice, fresh Salad and a non veg dish with bottled water. We thoroughly enjoyed the food.
Tempting hot meals.
Immediately after the neals, the music cum entertainment continued when you and old all joined for moving their legs.
A hounding couple from Akola on a honeymoon trip joined the dancing.
The crew gave a thrilling performance, presented them with 200 Turkish Linars representing ‘DhunAnand’ - Shivpreet Non Profit Fondation.
Two diverse become friends for common interest dancing.
Daughter and Mom enjoyed their dance together. They were thrilled when Harvinder air-dropped their dance clip to them. A fellow Indian origin folks.
Blue and golden Macaw entertained all. Many wanted to have pictures with bird and the photographer had a jolly good time.
The Macaw allows the owner to touch on its head.
Our private, air-conditioned boat made the trip even more enjoyable, offering a comfortable and lively experience for everyone on board. The entertainment was fantastic, with a diverse selection of songs in Persian, Arabic, Indian Bollywood, and Spanish favorite tracks played on Karaoke. Every section of the group of about 100 or so joined in singing and dancing along and celebrating the moment, making it a truly unforgettable part of our visit.
We capped it off with a visit to our favorite ocean-side restaurant and were overjoyed to indulge in hot, crispy fries made from delicious local potatoes and Turkish tea -a simple yet perfect way to end a wonderful day.
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