Istanbul - Last View of the City Streets

One more opportunity to see the sites of Istanbul as we make our way back to the Crown Princess.

This is a nice sunny spot to enjoy lunch.

As I looked down the street, I spotted a young boy in a costume, walking with his parents.

You can see him behind this tree.  This is his "Circumcision Day".  Most Turkish boys are circumcised between the ages of three and nine.  It is an occasion for dancing, celebration, and photo taking. The boys dress in colorful Pasha style costumes.  What is "Pasha"?  This was a high rank in the Ottoman Empire political system.  Learn more about "Pasha"...click here.

This was the corner of a large walled section.

This building is decorated not only with the flag, but with baskets of flowers hanging from the balcony.  Very pretty.

What we all need.  A little bit of Birlik Bufe.

The owners are putting up their celebratory flag.

The busy street in the modern part of town.

This is part of the modern transportation system.  This particular tram system was ordered in 2007 with 37 new Alstom Citadis X-04 trams.  The first Citadis entered service in 2011 (wikipedia)  See also "Public Transportation in Istanbul."

This is a bus center and may also be an entrance to the underground Metro system.

Apartment buildings on a hill.

Local shops.

Our day in Istanbul is over. We will return to the Crown Princess and enjoy the sail out.