Istanbul: Final mosque shot

You can't beat the view from the top of the hotel; but I'm not being paid by the hotel so you'll have to check them out on the web for those with a similar view. (Photo by G. A. Volb)

Day 122: Exotic Istanbul

First, for those who were thinking about Istanbul for great prices on jewelry, leather and gold ... well, not so much. Since turning to the Euro, and probably well before that even, the prices here are much more in line with that of any big city USA or Europe. Dinner for two averages $55, adult beverages $3-$5 and leather, gold and any other previously good bargain is now at big city prices.

It is, however, still very much exotic -- with the daily prayers and mix of old Asia with modern day Europe.

If you like Mediterranean food, you'll love Turkish cuisine. If you love exploring ancient cultures, you'll love Turkish sightseeing.

If you're looking for bargain shopping, you may want to look into Korea, Philippines, China or other Middle East locations.

For me, however, it was about getting away for a bit of R&R. And all I needed for that to be successful is a nice hotel, good food and some sights. All of which Turkey has.

It's day 122 as far as Kabul is concerned, and this much needed break from the realities of war there has been good to me. I've enjoyed living again -- waking when I want to, exploring where I want to, just feeling free to come and go as I please. To use a knife and fork. To use a bathroom located in my own room. To walk the streets without fear of who was watching.

I may take another three or four days in Dubai at the end of this. But for now, I'm feeling pretty good about the vacation.