Istanbul, the City of Life

“Istanbul, the City of Life” is a name that truly suits this vibrant place. The city is not only defined by its historical landmarks and beautiful architecture but also by the energy of its people. Locals, tourists, and workers from diverse backgrounds all come together, adding their own stories to Istanbul’s rich and lively atmosphere. This was my first visit to Istanbul, and it left me with memories that I will always cherish.

Through the Engaging with Contemporary Issues in Turkey (ECIT) program organised by Dr. Farhang Morady from the University of Westminster, I had the opportunity to experience this incredible city. I am very thankful to my professors, Dr. Pailin Kittisereechai and Dr. Akekalak Chaipumee, and to Kasetsart University for making this trip possible and supporting us.

Istanbul’s cultural harmony amased me. One moment that stood out was visiting Kadıköy, a neighborhood on the Asian side of the city, where I saw a mix of cultures and religions coexisting peacefully. The streets were alive with markets, shops, and cafes, and I loved seeing how old traditions blended seamlessly with modern life. Traveling across the city was easy thanks to its excellent public transport system, where a single card worked for subways, ferries, and trams. Riding the ferry between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul gave me a beautiful view of the city and its skyline.

The history of Istanbul was equally fascinating. At the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, I saw exhibits like the reconstructed city of Troy, where layers of soil showed its different periods. Walking through the historic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace made me feel like I was stepping into another time. Each place told stories of the past that were unforgettable.

One of the most exciting parts of the trip was meeting the students from Westminster University. They were incredibly friendly, and even though my English is not perfect, they made me feel comfortable. We quickly became friends and shared many fun moments exploring the city together.

The academic sessions during the program were very interesting. We learned about Turkish politics, the history of women’s roles in Turkish society, the relations between Thailand and the Middle East, and comparisons between Turkey and Thailand, such as the role of coup d’états in shaping political systems. These sessions were so inspiring that my friend and I are now planning to write an academic article based on what we learned.

Food was another unforgettable part of the experience. I tried Lahmacun (a kind of Turkish pizza) for the first time and loved it. I also enjoyed Baklava and other traditional desserts. Each meal was not just delicious but also a chance to bond with my friends and professors.

One quiet moment that stood out to me was spending time by the sea at BB Sarayburnu Parkı. The sound of waves and the cool breeze gave me a peaceful moment to reflect on everything I had experienced during the trip.

Traveling to Istanbul was a dream come true, and I was lucky to fulfill it before turning 20. While I couldn’t try Turkish ice cream this time because of the cold weather, it gives me a reason to return. Istanbul truly is a “City of Life,” full of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. I hope I can visit again someday.

Nawapon Sakulpan