Taksim

So this place is by far one of my fave places in Istanbul. And yes, I just said fave. With only a few days left, I might as well start getting back into my native lingo.

Anywho,

Taksim is basically the heart of Istanbul. It's a place my mom likes to call "a young person's place." Namely, it's where a lot of consulates are (or at least used to be) and where a lot of political demonstrations go on. It also is where a lot of tourists stay, and where many a musical instrument is sold. I guess technically where all the music shops are is in Tünel, but that's basically Taksim (you walk along the main avenue to the end.) Sometimes, it's dangerous to visit (i.e. when the IMF and WB meetings were being held) but most of the time, it's a fantastically lively place. It's a large, main avenue, closed to all vehicles except police cars and the little trolley that goes from Taksim square to Tünel. On each side of the cobblestone avenue, there are all sorts of shops: fancy shops, cheap shops, tourist shops, and cafes. All of these places are nestled perfectly next to each other, almost like a puzzle. On the street it self, it's like a sea of heads. There are simit sellers, hot chestnut sellers, beggars, street musicians, cheap toy sellers, and the occasional pick-pocket.

I love wandering through that major street and if I'm feeling adventures, following some of the side streets which all criss cross with each other and lead you to the most amazing cafes, restaurants, and even fake Top Shop stores.

Taksim is constantly alive, perpetually buzzing, and so magical. I'd say it's even better than walking down Main Street in Disneyland.