WHY RICKSHAW?

The Rickshaw Travel Group ("Rickshaw Travels") was founded in May 1988. From our humble beginnings as a small travel agency, we have grown and expanded into several countries and today have 28 years of experience in the travel business, both corporate and leisure... read more .

SPOTLIGHT ON ISTANBUL

The mere mention of the word Istanbul conjures up images of mosques, museums, churches, bazaars – the cradle of civilization.

Although not the capital, is the most developed and largest city of Turkey.  No amount or words or reading can truly describe Istanbul.  You have to see it with your own eyes.  Take in the magnificent architecture of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires in their original setting when you walk along the historic streets.  Istanbul is a metropolis of diverse cultures, nations and religions and together with its unique location, make it one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Its incredible history and heritage is made clear by the city’s three most famous and iconic landmarks;  Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Tokapi Palace.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is home to some of the best preserved architecture in the world. From beautiful minarets to delicate mosaics, balconies and mini-galleries, the interior is quite stunning.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque stands opposite Hagia Sophia which in comparison seems almost dwarflike in size. Adorning so many postcards, you will immediately recognize the six minarets that dominate the skyline.

The patio in front of the main entrance is huge and is often packed with devotees who are unable to get inside at prayer time. Inside, all the walls are tiled blue, which is how the mosque earned its nickname. The mosque’s actual title is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, so called to recognize the sultan at the time of construction.  The building is widely recognized as the last great mosque of the classical period. Built sometime in the early part of the 17th Century, the mosque contains the tomb of its founder and a hospice.

It is a practicing mosque and before entering you must cover up and remove your shoes. Despite the lengthy wait be patient, the décor inside is out of this world and really has to be seen to be believed.

Tokapi Palace

The other ‘must-see’ attraction in Istanbul is the Tokapi Palace, another building of huge historical significance.  Built in the 15th Century, it was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and an enormous complex full of courtyards and spectacular rooms. Wandering around, it is easy to forget that this was once the place where the sultans and concubines of one of the world’s most powerful empires went about their business.