I used to love to go to Istanbul. It is not the same anymore but it has wonderful memories. If I could go back to a happier time, before Syria had all its tragedies, I would escape to explore the underground cities of Cappadocia, the ruins of Ephesus and the backstreet stalls that lead to the Egyptian spice market. I would sit on the rooftop of a local rug shop, at midnight, and share a bbq with tourists, Kurds and Turks.I'd watch the gulls lit up by lights as they circle the Blue Mosque. I'd talk about faith, family and flying carpets. In the evening I would sit at an outdoor cafe and I'd listen to the music and talk with local artists. I'd watch the life on the street, see the dancing, the flirting and the humour. I'd write the stories I that unfold in front of me and make instant friends with other female travellers.
Now I have the memories and I can always visit there them whenever I wish.