My trip to Istanbul with my family was full of amazing sights and delicious food, but there was a crazy surprise we never saw coming! Something completely unexpected happened, turning our adventure into a story we’ll never forget. You won’t believe what we experienced!
My Trip to Istanbul Took an Unexpected Turn
Our family trip started with a dream—a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. The sunrise was magical—four amazing days in Cappadocia.
Everything was perfect until the day before our flight to Istanbul.
Out of nowhere, my daughter started feeling sick. At first, we thought she was just tired, but soon, she had a stomachache and felt nauseous. My husband and I weren’t feeling great either—our stomachs felt heavy and bloated. Maybe it was something we ate? Or just our stomachs adjusting?
Despite not feeling our best, we boarded our flight to Istanbul, hoping to shake it off. Little did we know, our adventure was about to take another unexpected turn…
My Trip to Istanbul with My Family – A Rough Start!
After our first meal in Istanbul, my daughter’s boyfriend suddenly got a stomachache too. It got worse, and he ended up with diarrhea, so we had to take him to the hospital. It was definitely not how we planned to start our time in the city!
The good thing is that my daughter and her boyfriend extended their stay, so they had extra time to explore after he recovered. But since my husband and I had a shorter trip, we decided to go around Istanbul on our own first. It was a bit sad that we couldn’t explore together as planned, but at least they still got to enjoy the city for longer.
Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food! If you’re visiting, here are some of the best things to do:
Top Things to Do in Istanbul
1. Visit Iconic Landmarks
- Hagia Sophia – A stunning mosque and former church with a rich history.
- Blue Mosque – Known for its breathtaking blue tiles and grand domes.
- Topkapi Palace – The former home of Ottoman sultans, filled with treasures.
- Basilica Cistern – An underground water reservoir with a mysterious atmosphere.
- Galata Tower – Offers incredible panoramic views of the city.
2. Explore the Bazaars
- Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest markets, great for souvenirs.
- Spice Bazaar – A must-visit for Turkish spices, sweets, and tea.
3. Enjoy Local Food & Cafés
- Try Turkish kebabs, mezes, baklava, and Turkish delight.
- Sip on traditional Turkish tea and coffee.
- Taste Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich) at a local eatery.
4. Discover Vibrant Neighborhoods
- Taksim & Istiklal Street – A lively area with shops, cafés, and nightlife.
- Ortaköy – Famous for its mosque and scenic waterfront views.
- Kadıköy (Asian Side) – A trendy district with artsy vibes and amazing food.
5. Relax in a Turkish Hammam
- Experience a traditional Turkish bath for deep relaxation and cleansing.
Istanbul has so much to offer—every street and corner has a story to tell!
My Trip to Istanbul with My Family – An Unforgettable Experience!
Despite not being able to explore Istanbul all together due to the stomach problems we experienced, my trip to Istanbul with my family was still an unforgettable adventure. From breathtaking landmarks to delicious food and vibrant bazaars, we made the most of our time in this incredible city —even with a few bumps along the way.
The memories we create will last a lifetime. Istanbul’s charm, history, and culture left a lasting impression, and we can’t wait to visit again—hopefully with better luck next time!
About Jeng Cua
After borrowing her lifestyle living paycheck to paycheck, this work from anywhere mom wouldn’t let anything stop her from chasing her dreams. Now, Jeng has achieved more than she ever imagined, while crafting her life of freedom and purpose by doing what she loves. Her passion for traveling and working at her own pace is contagious, inspiring others to be their boss!