Hello From a warm Istanbul. We are now somewhat cooler in the high 20s with some rain forecast for Monday. We have been doing daily trips exploring this city and making it simple for Hussian to play with other kids. The parks are a gathering place for families in the evenings, and most parks ar e close to malls. Istanbul has an excellent Metro...(Subway) system, so it is easy to get around. The city recently completed a line to the Istanbul airport, which is around 40 kilometres from the city centre. This is taking a lot of business from the crooked Taxi drivers. When I arrived here, I did not know about the subway extension. As usual, I took a taxi which was metered. When we got to the hotel, the meter reading was just over 400 Lira, which is normal. The driver said six hundred, and insisted the meter was not correct. Another rider next to us was having the same problem. We found that the city is investigating this scam.
Yesterday, we went to the city terminal for the new line, to check it out and see where it is. so I will be taking it when I depart here, and for any future trips to this city. Within the city, a ride, no matter how far is about 50 cents Canadian.....on that line. One must tap the card again if you make a connection to the next line or a bus.
We are looking to do a one day tour outside the city if we can book such a trip. The trips are available, but busy with the high tourist season winding down.
Tuesday, 15, we are taking the Metro to the famous Pierre Loti restaurant atop a high ridge. This place was named for a French sailor who retired there and became a famous Author. After breakfast, we are taking Hussian to have a tooth pulled. He is not aware of that, but during a visit last week to his dentist, it was determined that the tooth must come out. The dentist Tuesday is not at the same place as the other doctor, so it will be a surprise, and we know he will be very upset.
Take care.
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