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What can we say? Istanbul is one of the most exciting 
cities on the globe. Straddling Europe and Asia, this city is decidedly 
different from most European cites. There is unique rhythm here, and an 
unparalleled excitement in seeing the vistas accented with the minarets of 
mosques, hearing the sounds of the city, and in succumbing to the attraction of 
Oriental carpets, jasmine tea, Meerschaum pipes, copper plates and pots, and 
unimaginable antiques and objets d'art to bargain to own, especially in 
the Grand Bazaar. 
St. Sophia, built in 537 A.D., and one of the world's 
greatest churches, is now a museum, but its beautiful neighbor, the Blue Mosque, 
is still an active place of worship. Visit both, if you can, as well as nearby 
Topkopi Palace. | 
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