Turkish Delight - Iznik and Bursa

From Istanbul we boarded the ferry to Yalova. We took our bus and driver along on the ferry.

Jim enjoyed the outside seating for the trip.

Here we are in Yalova.

Following a picturesque ride on our bus we arrived at the location of the ancient city of Nicea.

The town located in the area is now called Iznik.

A lovely old mosque stands in the town square of Iznik and is still used for prayers.

Remains of the Old Wall

Visiting a pottery studio in Iznik

Iznik is famous for its tiles.

 The tiles are found throughout Istanbul in many of the historical buildings.

Pottery Demonstration

I bought this tile in the shop in the photograph above.

I had it framed and it now hangs in my kitchen.

Lunch in Iznik was just across the street from the old mosque.

It was a perfect day for an outdoor table and the food was wonderful!

Delicious! Yep those are French fries on the sandwich.

Meat from the Turkish Doner Kebab

No Turkish meal is complete without tea.

After lunch we boarded our bus for the trip to Bursa.

Jim and I visited Bursa last year and I was excited to have the opportunity visit again.

Our hotel for the evening was the Hotel Kent.

It was well located just across the street from the Grand Mosque.

The Grand Mosque was built in AD 402.

The mosque has an interesting history. The Sultan Bayezid I made a promise to build twenty mosques if he won the Battle of Nicopolis. Instead he built a single mosque with twenty domes.

(photo taken from breakfast room at the Hotel Kent)

The Grand Mosque is noted for its calligraphy.

The Grand Silk Bazaar is located adjacent to the Grand Mosque.

I bought several silk scarves in this shop last year.

This year I returned for more colors and patterns.

The shopkeepers are very helpful and will give you a good deal.

After shopping, tea in the courtyard was in order.

Outside the Grand Silk Bazaar (AD 402)

After shopping we took the gondola to the ski resort at the top of the mountains.

I was hesitant but glad I made the trip.

What to have for lunch?

I think I'll have the Grilled Sea Bass.

Jim had the house special.

The restaurant is outdoors by a stream.

There is a trout pond on the premises.

We ate here at night last year. The owner was very welcoming.

Following lunch we visited with family and friends of our Turkish hosts/traveling companions.

Yes, we just had lunch.

It is Turkish custom to offer food and tea to visitors.

The layer cake was homemade and awesome!

Time to catch the ferry at Mudanya for our return to Istanbul.

Mudanya

Boarding the bus for the airport in Istanbul.

Yes, there is an Irish Pub on the ground floor of the Ramada - Old City.

♥andPeace,Myra