July 21st
Loads of emotions.
In the morning I walked down Bağdat Caddesi looking at the shoppes, but mostly petting cats.
I stopped and had a steak salad and çay.
I made my way down the avenue and happened upon this gem.
My last full day in İstanbul, I was drained at this point. I wrestled with the fact that the trip was pretty much over. I had met some really nice people, made some unforgettable memories, and learned a lot about myself in the process.
I comforted myself with a cherry tart.
After a snack I met up with a friend and we went to a park and chilled out. This is something that I love about İstanbul, people are always hanging out in parks. Napping, drinking, eating, making music, and outside enjoying the day or night.
The departure at the ferry was hard, saying goodbye always is.
I watched the sunset on the ride back to Beşiktaş and cried.
I had to have my last bowl of Mantı and finish packing for the next part of the journey.
I relished in the terrace view when I got back, these two buildings served as a monument to remember how to get back to the apartment.
Everything that has happened is gone. I'm not saying that for dramatics, everything that arises will also pass. It's a good thing and serves as a reminder to really be present and enjoy the moment that you are in. Even as I am missing İstanbul now, I feel happy to know that while I was there, I was present and felt the immensity of the experience.
My last(for now) goodnight from İstanbul ♥️.