Where did you go?
Tapu Javeri:We went to Turkey and spent a week touring the country. We saw amazing places like Cappadocia and the legendary city of Ephesus with its Celsus Library and the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world).
What made you go here?
TJ: I had “ballooning in Cappadocia” on my bucket list and had to avail the Eid holidays. Turkey is a fascinating country; it is the perfect blend of East and West, with very tolerant and beautiful people.
What did you pack?
TJ: I’m an avid traveler who packs very light. So the heaviest thing I carried was my camera equipment.
What was favourite meal/restaurant?
TJ: Istanbul has some amazing restaurants, but unlike Pakistanis they eat early. So in order to get a good table you need to head out early. All restaurants in Istanbul are good, but I’m partial to Nusr-Et, #saltbae’s restaurant. The meat sushi is to die for!
What was the biggest highlight of your trip/most memorable moment?
TJ: When the hot air Balloon in Cappadocia takes off, and you look down at the alien landscape of Göreme and realise that you’re in a cane basket suspended from a string.
It’s thrilling looking around you at the dozens of balloons flying in the crisp early morning sunrise.
Favourite shopping destination?
TJ: For touristy knick-knacks or fabulous pomegranate tea, head to the Grand or Spice Bazaar. But for serious shoppers there is Istinye Park Mall and Zorlu Center or a even stroll down Istiklal Street could be worthwhile.
Some sights worth seeing?
TJ: Istanbul has dozens of tourist spots so divide your days, doing Sultanahmet area one day and Galata Tower the next.
Key spots to see:
The Blue Mosque, followed by Hagia Sophia, then Topkapi and its Islamic treasures. Make sure you see Alexander’s coffin in the Archeology Museum next door. Then cool off in a relaxing hammam experience at Hurrem Sultan’s personal bath near Hagia Sophia.
The next day, head to the Galata Tower and walk towards Taksim Square, making sure you get lost in the little side streets discovering the quaint side of Istanbul.
What are some spots for a night out?
TJ: Istanbul has hundreds of clubs and bars, most of which are wonderful – find one that suits you. Or head to the Ortakoy area where you can check out The House Cafe and mingle with hundreds of night revelers along the Bosporus.
Travel essentials?
TJ: A camera, money and an open mind – open yourself up to new experiences and you will have the time of your life.
Any travel tips you would like to share?
TJ: Have fun!
INTERVIEW: MEHR KASSIM;
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY: TAPU JAVERI
