Turkey

We were able to spend 5 nights in Istanbul. We stayed in a tourist-heavy part of the city (not far from the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia) which is known for tourists having encounters with solicitors trying to sell anything from carpets to excursions and who-knows-what. We were already aware so we very quickly became accustomed to telling everyone "no, thank you"- and we were able to enjoy the city and its rich culture that felt so new to us.

I have to admit, I've lived my entire life in areas where there are few Muslims so I knew nothing before visiting these stunning mosques in Istanbul. To give you an idea about how little I knew, I didn't know what a hijab hair covering was for until I had to wear one before entering the mosques.

There are educational signs about Islam outside of the Blue Mosque and the information I found really opened my eyes. Yes, I am ashamed that I didn't know anything but also yes, I am glad it isn't such a mystery to me now and I would like to learn more:

• the hijab represents the Islamic principle of modesty for both men and women (in dress, behavior, and attitude)

• the hijab can be viewed by some as a command from Allah, a form of spiritual devotion - a decision (a conscious act), or a symbol of identity & faith

• the hijab is a symbol of dignity and self-respect - rejecting objectification; it signifies a right to express oneself

I learned that in Islam, women and men are considered equal in their creation. Women were granted rights to education, running businesses, owning property, marriage rights (including rejecting forced marriages). As a woman, I truly was pleased to learn these things and do want to learn more.

The city of Istanbul is actually on two continents. Our hotel was on the Europe side so we did take a quick 20-minute ferry to visit the Asia side. It is very inexpensive to do this (probably comes to a little over $2 U.S. round-trip per person). It is a little less busy on the Asia side so it would not be a bad idea to stay there when visiting (next time!). Or... if we are able to make it back to Turkey someday, perhaps the Turkish Riviera???