Leap Of Faith

Sometimes one finds oneself in a situation where one has to decide whether to take a leap of faith. In instances where facts and figures are part of the equation, it is an easier decision to make. The level of uncertainty rises when one has to only rely on gut feel and instinct. And the reality is that when the resultant outcome will be of a big impact, for better or worse that is, then whether to jump or not takes on such bigger proportions.

It's true when people say 'you only live once'. And if you subscribe to that motto, then perhaps a leap ain't such a big deal. That is if one is willing and ready to accept the ramifications.

Yes, I am rambling, in the hope that by rambling, I may find some light at the end of the tunnel. Perhaps I should just bite the bullet and hope that the outcome is a pleasant one.

Photo shot at Yoros Kalesi in Anadolu Kavagi, Turkey, with a view of the Bosphorus meeting the Black Sea.

The Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is so scenic that one has to see it to believe it. I had the pleasure of taking a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait a few days ago and it certainly left a lasting impression.

From the historical palaces, monuments, mosques along its European and Asian shores to the towering bridges that span its width as well as the quaint villages that line it, each reminds one how lucky one is to have the opportunity to encounter such an experience.

The furthest stop of the cruise was Anadolu Kavagi. Trek up the hill in this little village and one is greeted by a view of the Bosphorus meeting the Black Sea. All I can say is that it is simply exhilarating.

Photo shot along the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey.

Istanbul

I have been in Istanbul for 2 days. This is a solo trip, my first since the last one 2 decades ago, a birthday treat for myself, and somewhat of a rite of passage as well.

Istanbul is infinitely beautiful. The historical, architectural and cultural attractions. The scenic beauty of the Bosphorus. The exotic food. Their tea drinking tradition. Turkish delights. The like-minded awe that fellow tourists delight in.

Of course, tourism comes with its downsides as well. The crowds. Aggressive carpet shop owners and pushy restaurant touts, a minority, but still a nuisance. The upsides definitely outweigh the downs though. I head off to other parts of the country for a couple of days. But am looking forward to returning to Istanbul for a day and a bit before flying home. There is still much to see and do here.

Photo of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey.