Food In Arctic Climates Sometimes Brings Trouble.

[Candy]

We had lunch and a good look round, then it was time to collect our luggage from the hotel where we'd left them for the day, have a quick freshen up, then make our way to the station for the night train to Istanbul. At this point we were particularly glad to have our guide with us, as you would hardly know that the station was actually a station!That's us on the platform, and here is our trainOnce on board we made our way to our sleeping compartments, two sharing. They didn't look very promising, but actually turned out to be quite comfortable, and we were so tired that we all slept reasonably wellUntil finally we arrived in the magic that is Istanbul!

 

[Candy]

There we were joined by a local guide for a tour of the wonderful Topkapi Palace, then had time for a wander round before our final meal together and some slightly sad Goodbyes.
Early the next morning I shared a taxi to the airport with the oldest person on our trip, a lovely 78 year old retired teacher of Latin and Greek. He is trying to fit as many adventures into his life as possible before he's 80, feeling that then it might be wise to slow down a bit. This was his 3rd trip of the year, and he sets off on another in three weeks' time.
He's not a 'hugger', so when we said goodbye I shook his hand, told him it had been lovely travelling with him, and said 'And what an amazing....I was going to say 'holiday ' but I think 'adventure ' is a better word.' He replied 'I have enjoyed meeting you too, and you're right, 'holiday ' is not an accurate description, 'Adventure ' is much closer!'
Then we went our separate ways for our flights.
I won't go into the grim details of Manchester Airport to Sowerby Bridge by train on a Sunday afternoon, I'll just say that it turned out to be more complicated than travelling from London to Istanbul by train!
So here I am, having had the most wonderful time, yet very happy to be back at home, because now I have the best view of all!

 

[Cath]

Welcome home @Candy

 

[Lab_adore]

I have loved every minute of your adventure @Candy but the picture of you being back with your precious girl above was the absolute cream on top of a wonderful journey

 

[Stacia]

What a lovely view to come home to. It is good that you can get away and know GGJ is well and happy with your friends.

 

[Granca]

At this point we were particularly glad to have our guide with us, as you would hardly know that the station was actually a station!

That looks like a scene from a thriller! Probably just as well it was at the end of your adventure?!

 

[Selina27]

Wonderful @Candy - I've so enjoyed your trip. I am inspired to follow suit on that adventure , much like your travelling companion.

 

[Selina27]

That looks like a scene from a thriller!

Been watching "Nightsleeper" have we ?

 

[kateincornwall]

What a wonderful journey , I also have enjoyed all your photos but there really is no place like home is there ? xxx