Istanbul

We docked at Istanbul on my birthday. Overhearing my family's birthday wishes at breakfast, our waiters made me some beautiful paper flowers to help me celebrate. Disembarking was quick, and we left our week of luxury sailing behind, as we scrambled into a cab to our hotel.
The Blue House was a very pleasant surprise. It was literally across the street from The Blue Mosque. We were greeted by a pleasant young lady at the antique wooden reception desk, and despite the early hour, our rooms were ready. We noticed the gleaming marble staircase, the comfortable waiting area, & impressive breakfast spread, as we were escorted to the old-fashioned, 2 person elevators. Here too, they got wind of my birthday and presented me with a fruit basket as we admired our quaint rooms with a view of the Mosque.Read more