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Awaiting Your Return FROM Shore |
 In 658 B.C., a group of Dorian
colonists under King Byzas founded a colony in a sheltered spot on the
European shores of the Bosphorus. Subsequently Byzantium entered into an
alliance with Rome. Constantine united the two parts of the empire and
declared Byzantium the new capital, known as Constantinople. The city
reached the height of its splendor under the Emperor Justinian, sole head of
church and state. As the capital of a vast empire for nearly 1,600 years,
the city holds a great deal of historical interest.
Istanbul is divided by
the Bosphorus, with a portion in Europe and a part in Asia. Most of the
population lives on the European side.
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Pier Information
The ship is scheduled to dock at either the Karakoy pier or the new
terminal, Sali Pazari. Tour buses, shuttle buses and taxis are reached
by walking through the terminal building. Major attractions lie within
20 to 30 minutes by taxi. There is usually a good supply outside the
terminal building. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting out. |
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Shopping
Turkey is famous for its carpets, which come in all sizes, qualities and
prices. Leather goods, jewelry and brassware are also good buys.
Inside the bazaar (closed on Sundays), some 4,000 shops offer a
mind-boggling array of wares. |
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Cuisine
Istanbul boasts a number of excellent restaurants found mainly around
Taksim Square (home, too, for McDonald's), the Etilera area, and along
the shores of the Bosphorus. Grilled meats, primarily lamb, and
excellent seafood are on many menus. |
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Other
Sights
Suleymaniye Mosque. This is Turkey's finest Imperial
mosque, built by the famous architect Sinan.
Golf
Klassis Golf & Country Club. This 18-hole, 73-par golf course was designed
by one of the world's foremost golfers, Tony Jacklin. The number 2 hole
is the most challenging hole of the course. |
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Awaiting Your Return
FROM Shore |
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Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |
