Sightseeing in Istanbul

Today we had an all-day tour with a professional guide.  The day started at 4:30 a.m.with our being awakened by the Iman doing the Muslim call to prayer from the nearby minaret.  Joanne had arranged before we left home to have a day tour, and we experienced diverse aspects of Istanbul - Topkapi Palace where the Sultans ruled the Ottoman Empire for centuries. We had a lovely lunch with Turkish specialties, a van tour to the very modern section of European Istanbul with 5-star hotels, an observation floor with spectacular views, Taksim Square, Greek Orthodox and  Catholic churches, plus a stop for Turkish Tea. Then, back to the old city where we saw a smaller, beautiful mosque called Rustem Pasha.  Next we were going to stopping briefly in a carpet shop  which ended up being a prolonged stay complete with 3 rounds of wine and tea......and Jim purchasing a lovely Turkish rug!!  Our tour guide was very personable and knowledgeable.  We said good-bye to him (until tomorrow night) and then walked down to the Sea of Marmara and had fresh Sea Bass for dinner.  Walking home we heard Turkish folk music being performed at various outdoor restaurants. The wonderful day was topped off with Baklava and other sweets purchased in one of the many little shops.