If I was told to move to a warmer climate and get out of Ireland (it could happen) Alanya in Turkey is one town I would consider living in. With the Taurus mountains (snow capped) in the background and the warm Mediterranean Sea, what a contrast. Lovely old castle overlooking the harbour and restaurants a plenty. Although Turkey is not in the eurozone yet, no problem here with the euros. Along the coast visitng Antalya, Bodrum to the ancient city of Ephesus which although now in Turkey was run by the Greeks. A real hub of a place, one room caught my eye and that was the WC. It seems going to the toilet was a social occasion, after lunch all the gents would head off and sit down, do the business and have a long chat at the same time. Islatnbul is a busy city, population exceeding 15m. and is dominated by the Bosphorus Bridge connecting Europe and Asia, would have loved to walk this bridge but its not allowed. The famous Spice Bazaar in Eminönü was a must see, if only for the mountains of Turkish delight and its busy surrounding streets selling delicious olives, cheeses and dried fruits. The Galata Bridge which links the Golden Horn of Istanbul is a joy to be near, hundreds of fishermen with lines endevour to harvest fish from the river. Commerce is also conducted along the lower level of the bridge. In the distance is the Blue Mosque. This city has a distinctive buzz about the place. click here and leave a comment or greeting on my guestbook.(Its a shame if you do not)

Please note that these photographs were taken on digital camera; images are compressed to aid speedy downloading and do not reflect the quality of final photographic prints.