Exploring the Crossroads: An Immersive Journey into Istanbul’s Living History
As a country at the crossroads of East and West, the upcoming field trip to Istanbul, Turkey, offers a unique opportunity to connect classroom theories with real-world experiences. With Istanbul as a living classroom, the trip will not only be an immersive experience that is academically enriching but will also provide a platform for engaging directly with the themes that form the backbone of this module. With an itinerary set-in place, I anticipate that this trip will be pivotal in broadening my analytical and critical perspectives on Turkey and this module.
Istanbul’s unique position as a bridge between East and West has long fascinated me, but walking through its streets and exploring its neighbourhoods will bring these concepts to life. Sites like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque are more than just
historical landmarks–they embody Turkey’s layered identity, with influences from Byzantine,
Ottoman and modern Turkish eras. Seeing these places up close will give me a fresh perspective on how a nation’s past and present coexist and shape each other, something that’s central to our studies in Middle Eastern state-building.
Beyond the historical sites, I’m also excited about experiencing Istanbul’s vibrant city life, which reflects Turkey’s blend of tradition and modernity. Growing up in different parts of Asia and visiting family in Singapore, I absolutely love and miss the bustling markets and rich culinary scenes, so I can’t wait to explore Istanbul’s famous bazaars, sample traditional dishes, and immerse myself in local life.
The workshops organised by Turkish academics are equally valuable. These sessions will give me direct insights from those who know it best about Turkey’s political and social dynamics. Topics such as neoliberal reforms and the influence of Islam on governance from local experts and discussions on contemporary social policies and gender issues will deepen my understanding of how Turkey navigates the pressures of modernisation and traditionalism. Moreover, listening to first-hand perspectives on these topics is a chance to move beyond stereotypes or simplified portrayals and gain a richer, more nuanced view of the country.
In short, this trip isn’t just about seeing famous landmarks or trying new foods (okay, maybe a little). It’s about questioning my assumptions, comparing what I know with what I see, and gaining a broader perspective on a region that continues to shape and be shaped by the forces of history and globalisation. And if I happen to bring back some Turkish delights and an overweight suitcase? Well, that’s just part of the experience.
Erika Hatsuda