Büyülü Fener: A Magic Lantern to Istanbul’s Past
A middle aged man passes under a vivid yet rustic sign that reads BÜYÜLÜ FENER, which fits like a puzzle piece among the colors of...
CoderDojo Kicks Off in Istanbul
We all have been inspired by the video “What Most Schools Don't Teach” where Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Jack Dorsey, and a number of...
Awkward Tales from the ‘Bul #3: On Teaching English
On my first day of teaching English in Istanbul, I was thrust into the classroom without so much as a book or a clue.
I...
Take 5: Cihangir (A Morning on Başkurt Sokak)
Istanbul arguably doesn’t really have one central district, like a downtown or a city center. It is a city of many centers, each with...
The Society for the Prevention of Hipster Acceptance
These days, our Facebook feeds and inboxes are full of worthy causes crying out for our empathy and financial support. But as the world seemingly crumbles, one Istanbullu believes...
Top 10 Craft Beer Destinations in Istanbul & Brew Breakdown
The Turkish craft beer scene has been on the march for the last two or three years, and despite rising alcohol prices, 2016 was an...
Who Loves Public Speaking?
Ever felt like jumping out of a window rather than giving a speech at work? Well, I have... Although some of us might be...
A Glimpse into Müz Botanik Kafe
During my first few days in Istanbul, I happened to pass Müz Botanik Kafe by chance. I was in a hurry, but the little...
Take 5: Kadıköy
Calm, cool, easy-going Kadiköy has always been one my favourite Istanbul districts. I love to start my day with breakfast at the picturesque Thales...
Bosphorus Walk: Rumelihisarı to Bebek
Istanbul on a warm weekend day can be both a blessing and a hazard: the beauty of the city on a fair day is...
Istanbul Naval Museum: A Day at Sea
The history of Ottoman achievements is defined in large measure by the empire's relationship with the sea. For instance, some maritime episodes of note...
What Colour is Spring?
In Istanbul it is pink. Or it is purple? Rather something in between, or – as the locals say – the color of erguvan.
Every...
From Boza to Bourbon: Vefa Bozacısı
A few weeks ago I was talking with friends after dinner in the warmth of my apartment. We were buying our time before we...
Three Ideas to Improve Istanbul
Most citizens of Istanbul, including myself, have a tendency to get caught up in a cycle of complaining about the things that are wrong...
From Boza to Bourbon: Dem Karaköy
It seems everywhere you look in Istanbul there is a coffee shop (or soon to be one). The hip Karaköy district is no exception;...