THE MAIA CITY GUIDE TO
ISTANBUL, TURKEY
THE MAIA CITY GUIDE TO
ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Istanbul is a city that sets your senses on fire. Streets lined with colorful houses and umbrella-covered walkways, aromas of street food fill the air, while the call to prayer lingers in the distance. For a city that is home to 20 million people (and hundreds of thousands of cats), it feels cozier than one would expect.
It’s fitting that most of the neighborhoods are referred to as Köy, which means village in Turkish. Shop owners greet their neighbors with a warm smile and kiss on each cheek. Early morning locals head to the markets to see what’s fresh— fish caught from the Bosporus just hours before is an especially hot ticket.
Istanbul is a city that sets your senses on fire. Streets lined with colorful houses and umbrella-covered walkways, aromas of street food fill the air, while the call to prayer lingers in the distance. For a city that is home to 20 million people (and hundreds of thousands of cats), it feels cozier than one would expect.
It’s fitting that most of the neighborhoods are referred to as Köy, which means village in Turkish. Shop owners greet their neighbors with a warm smile and kiss on each cheek. Early morning locals head to the markets to see what’s fresh— fish caught from the Bosporus just hours before is an especially hot ticket.
DO & SEE
The centuries-old tradition of the Turkish Bath
The Turkish Bath is a must-do while you’re visiting Turkey. Also known as a hammam the Turkish bath is a tradition dating back to the
Don’t miss The Best Hammam in Istanbul
Looking for the best Hammam in Istanbul? With their traditional marbled interiors that nod to the bygone era of the Ottomans and domed roofs with
6 Tips for your first time in Istanbul, Turkey
Oh what I would give to be able to see Istanbul for the first time again. It’s the kind of city that seems to keep
The iconic skyline dotted with silhouettes of Mosques often leads to the common misconception that the city is rooted in Arabic culture. However, you’ll quickly realize that this city that was once the Ottoman empire’s capital, is now truly the melting pot of east and west. It’s European and Middle Eastern, yet neither at the same time. It’s something entirely of its own.
Contrasts live in unison in Istanbul. Where you can find burkas and sheesha bars next to crop tops and rooftop techno parties. Istanbul is a place where traditions are held close to the heart, but everyday life is met with modernity.
The iconic skyline dotted with silhouettes of Mosques often leads to the common misconception that the city is rooted in Arabic culture. However, you’ll quickly realize that this city that was once the Ottoman empire’s capital, is now truly the melting pot of east and west. It’s European and Middle Eastern, yet neither at the same time. It’s something entirely of its own.
Contrasts live in unison in Istanbul. Where you can find burkas and sheesha bars next to crop tops and rooftop techno parties. Istanbul is a place where traditions are held close to the heart, but everyday life is met with modernity.
EAT & DRINK
The 9 Best Vegan Restaurants in Istanbul
For a city that is a meat-lovers dream, Istanbul doesn’t skimp on what’s available for vegans. The vegan restaurants in Istanbul give you everything from
A Local Barista’s Guide To The Best Coffee Shops in Istanbul
If you’ve been in Istanbul for more than a couple of hours it’s probably not news to you that this city has a serious coffee
Where to Eat in Istanbul’s Karaköy Neighborhood
The Karaköy neighborhood in Istanbul has become a tourist hotspot that’s equally loved by the locals. Its cozy streets are lined with cafes and restaurants
It’s a city that needs to be experienced to fully understand its magic. Where else in the world can you catch a ferry from Asia to Europe? This conscious travel guide will help you discover the many sides of Istanbul. From a local Barista’s guide to the best coffee in the city to the top places to get plant-based meals. This guide has everything you need to be prepared for the best experience in the wild metropolis of Istanbul.
It’s a city that needs to be experienced to fully understand its magic. Where else in the world can you catch a ferry from Asia to Europe? This conscious travel guide will help you discover the many sides of Istanbul. From a local Barista’s guide to the best coffee in the city to the top places to get plant-based meals. This guide has everything you need to be prepared for the best experience in the wild metropolis of Istanbul.
SHOP
SHOP
Vintage Stores in Istanbul: Galata
The Vintage Stores in Istanbul are abundant, and you don’t have to wander far to find them, especially in Galata. If you find yourself wandering
Where to Shop in Istanbul’s Karaköy Neighborhood
If you’re wondering where to shop in Istanbul, you’ll find that amongst the cafes on the umbrella-lined streets of Istanbul’s vibrant Karaköy neighborhood are some
Exploring the Bazaars of Istanbul
The bazaars of Istanbul leave no pebble left unturned. The city has no shortage of markets to choose from. They have a bazaar for everything,
STAY
The Best Luxury Hotels in Istanbul for Conscious Travelers
Who said conscious travel can’t be luxurious? Istanbul begs to differ. The luxury hotels in