Istanbul's topics - tribe.net

News from Soundfabrika Studios

Nick — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:32:24 GMT

Hey all,

Just a quick note for anyone planning on visiting Istanbul this coming year. There have been some great things going on at Soundfabrika Studios lately including renovations to the studio sound system and additions to the already diverse and highly talented staff of music teachers. I recently had the opportunity to study ney with accomplished neyzen Cağın Devrim there this August. Cağın Hoca now offers lessons through the studio in addition to those taught by performers on the darbuka, davul, rik, bağlama, kaval, kamança, oud, clarinet, kanun and various other instruments.

And as some of you may know, Istanbul is the 2010 European Capital of Culture, and its been undergoing some major public works renovations including expansion of the metro system. Now there is a metro stop just a two-minute walk from the studio in the heart of Beyoğlu!

Check out what's new at Soundfabrika Studios.

Soundfabrika Studios
Istanbul, Turkey
+90-212-252-7314
info@soundfabrika.com

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

cheap rooms in istanbul?

rostro — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:11:36 GMT

whats the cheap price range, so far ive seen 40.00usd is that cheap? im hoping for like 6-12usd per night myself, is this unheard of or a practical reality? i always found that little motel/hotels in non tourist areas in busy parts of town were extremely cheap in comparison to pensions and most hostels, but i like the idea of sleeping on the roof , ive also heard of travelers with tents camping in the pension yards, does anyone know if its real, im just trying to plan on some cheap traveling and 40.00usd per night is very expensive for me. peace

posted in Istanbul - 7 replies

2010

jmparker — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:30:13 GMT

Hey, Istanbul is the European Culture city for 2010... or something like that.
What does it mean?
Is there going to be some culture here next year?
Where? What? When?

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

Old clothes

jmparker — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 23:02:02 GMT

I have some wonderful clothes I have to throw out this spring.
In most other cities I've lived in, there are boxes outside supermarkets for leaving clothes.
What do you do with good quality used clothes you don't need in Istanbul?

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

Istanbul Photo Contest 2008 Winners

Istanbuldream — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 12:04:19 GMT

Winners are here
www.istanbulphotocontest.com/winners.php
Nrd

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

New Middle East Culture & Politics Tribe

Steven — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 22:24:26 GMT

New Middle East Culture & Politics Tribe

This group is open to all who want to discuss Near East and Middle East culture & politics and imperialist intervention in a meaningful way.

Those who want to argue using personal attacks, lies, slander, red baiting, and ridicule instead of addressing the issues will be banned from the group. People with a history of doing so in other groups will not be allowed entry into this group.

In addition, it is fine to question the legitimacy of any and all religions, but racism and attacks on entire oppressed groups such as Palestinians and Kurds is not allowed.

Join Near and Middle East Culture & Politics:
http://tribes.tribe.net/neareast

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Best response ever to "Hello my friend where are you from?"

jmparker — Fri, 18 Aug 2006 03:30:45 GMT

I haven't found it yet.
Any ideas?

posted in Istanbul - 39 replies

Please help to save Sulukule

Astrid_Seftali — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:30:55 GMT

please spread the word that another Romani quarter in Istanbul is about to be destroyed by the government. Here is the info about the campaign trying to prevent it.
http://supportingsulukule.blogspot.com/

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

First time to Istanbul..

frankdrums — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 03:19:15 GMT

Coming with my wife July 5-15 and interested in places to see bellydance, great musicians, drumming, drum shops...cool clubs. any info or contact would be appreciated.
: ) Frank

posted in Istanbul - 8 replies

Kate Moss is in Hammam,Istanbul

Istanbuldream — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:53:58 GMT

Hi,
Here are great pics from Istanbul Hamam by Kate Moss.(Turkish Bath)
http://www.wmagazine.com/fashion/2008/09/kate_moss_hammam
Also some other nice photos from Istanbul
http://www.wmagazine.com/fashion/2008/09/istanbul

Bravo http://www.wmagazine.com

Istanbul welcomes YOU.
Nurdogan

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

To Anyone Interested in Studying Music in Turkey... We've finally got a Guest House designed for musicians!

Nick — Mon, 05 May 2008 17:29:29 GMT

...Hey guys, I'm very excited to finally be spreading the word about this. For those of you who know me or have followed my blog postings in the past, you probably already know that I've been involved in a long term project in Istanbul. I'm proud to say that Sound Fabrika Studios has finally finished preparations and we're open for business!

What we're doing here is trying to help foreigners who come to Turkey connect with some of the great musicians in the city here for lessons and music research. Right now we're running this place as a sort of guest house, but a guest house with a sound-insulated practice space, and some of the best of the youngest generation of musicians teaching and helping people like us network and get involved in the diverse and wonderful music scene here.

For a price comparable to most pensions in the area we are offering a warm bed, bathroom w/ shower, turkish breakfast and free reign to use the practice rooms here from 8am-midnight whenever classes or private lessons aren't going on. (and finding somewhere to play a davul at 11pm at night is no easy task here!). We've also spent a lot of time working out agreements with some really phenomenal musicians, and we can arrange lessons with all forms of percussion (darbuka, bendir, kudum, asmi davul, udu drums etc.) as well as oud, baglama saz, kanun, clarinet, roman violin and many more....

I'd be happy to send you more information about specific teachers and more details about our lesson programs if any of you guys are interested in what we're doing here. I'm also happy to provide some references from some of the americans that I have met coming through who have studied with some of these teachers as well, so feel free to ask. We also have connections with some prominent oriental dance teachers in the city and are happy to help dance students connect with them as well.

I got involved in this project originally because of my own experiences living in the city here my first year and trying really hard to find good teachers.... it's no easy task. I've recently been making an effort to get more video online of what some of these guys can do. You can check out Hakan, our resident percussion teacher on some of the clips I've uploaded the other day:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh93KRxAp7w

I love being able to find these great musicians work as much as I love being able to help students find really good teachers, and I think the sentiment is shared by everyone working on this with me. I hope some of you guys get a chance to take advantage of this stuff!

Feel free to drop me an email at raghebn@gmail.com with any questions, or you can try me on tribe (though I check my account here less often lately)

Kolay gelsin!

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

Police

jmparker — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:57:09 GMT

There certainly are a lot of police in Istanbul.
But supposing I wanted to get one to actually come to my house and do something useful in case of an emergency.
How would I go about arranging a scenario like that?

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Movement of Time in Istanbul

CarlMillerPhotos — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:38:42 GMT

Series of 9000 high-resolution digital images strung together...
http://www.ersineser.us/

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

iyi bayramlar

habi — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 03:10:00 GMT

Kurban Bayrami kutlar, saglik ve mutluluk dolu gunler dilerim! :) iyi bayramlar

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

where to stay?

MariyahElizabeth — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 18:15:07 GMT

Can anyone offer some recommendations for a nice, inexpensive place to stay in Istanbul in May?
Either hostel or hotel is fine. We don't mind if it is very basic, just decent and in a good location.

thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 7 replies

NEW YOGA SCHOOL

ron — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:59:26 GMT

Agama Yoga newest center! Classes based in the First Month Intensive Course are ongoing now several times weekly in Istanbul with Mihaiela, in association with the Owo-Kun Center there; additionally she is teaching Shakti studies. Swami Vivekananda will teach Tantra 1 here 9-11 November. Contact info@agamayoga.com for more details.

more details
http://www.agamayoga.com

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Aloha Istanbul

holly — Fri, 25 May 2007 13:53:22 GMT

I'm looking for a sublet near Cihangar for all of september. There will be 2 of us. Also, for august I have an apt. in Ortakoy so if anyone knows of any fabulous, reasonable eateries in the area, or anything that I need to see & do in that neighborhood, I would love to know. . .
Is there any health food stores nearby? Neighborhood hamams? Yoga studios? How's the music scene?

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

Never, Never, Never use American Express Travelers Checks in Turkey!!!!

djlerman — Fri, 15 Sep 2006 18:13:41 GMT

I went to 10 banks, few hotels, a cupla change offices and even the American Express office.

At the American Express office they said that people have nothing but problems with them.

I had to go to the TAX Office and get a TAX Number in order to cash my Travelers Checks and I won't even know if that works until tomorrow.

Luckly I found out in enough time to get all the way accross town and wade through turkish bureaucracy before the weekend and before having to catch a flight next week.

I feel really bad for the people that are only in town for a few days or over a weekend. They are just screwed and will be with out money.

~D

posted in Istanbul - 22 replies

Any suggested Yoga places in Istanbul?

djlerman — Fri, 11 Aug 2006 20:48:14 GMT

Might be in Istanbul for a trip and wanted to see if there were any local Yoga studios.

~Thanks,
~D

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

Families to stay with in Istanbul?

Caitlin — Fri, 25 May 2007 13:18:45 GMT

Does anyone know of any families who do turkish rom dance who have room and board available for a weekly fee and maybe offer some dance classes??

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

For Sale: massage table & books

Mon, 07 May 2007 23:04:03 GMT

Lightweight, solid purple, Oakworks "Boss" massage table with bolster, QuickLock face rest, and a black carry case.
http://www.oakworks.com/portable-massage-table/boss.asp
$400 for the set.

Also -- English language books and magazines, many like new.

If interested, please Tribe message me. We're on the European side, near Beşiktas.

Teşekkür ederim!

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Cihangir sublet

jmparker — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 20:20:51 GMT

Furnished (sparsely) 2 bedroom with appliances in the center of Cihangir, available from mid-June to early September 2007.

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

One year later

johnuxb5 — Mon, 15 Jan 2007 23:51:58 GMT

In a few weeks, it will be a full year since I went to Istanbul... I can't communicate how much I miss that amazing city, how much it lives on in my memory, how comfortable I felt in that place. What is nice is that I've met a few Turks online and that's helped to keep my sense of distance a bit less short ;-)

I hope to return this year if I can afford to do so -
Blessings to all you Istanbulus and I hope to see you again soon -
J

posted in Istanbul - 8 replies

fois gras

jmparker — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 19:21:14 GMT

I don't guess there's a place to get any around here... or anyone on tribe to tell me where that might be before New Year's...?

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Traveling to Istanbul

Elmar — Tue, 17 Oct 2006 22:19:36 GMT

Hi
I will be traveling to Istanbul for the first time in the mid November for two weeks. I would like to ask the tribe for some tips regarding to where to stay. I would like to rent a place for two weeks someone told me there are a lot of websites I can find a place , but I dont know what neighborhood to choose from. My main concern is with my diet , I am a vegan and need a either a health foods store close by or a veg restaurant (pref. a store). I appreciate any help I can get. Thanks

posted in Istanbul - 29 replies

one more thing: 'German-Turks' and cinema. Thomas Arslan for example.

markus — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 14:17:49 GMT

As difficult as the term German-Turks might be (that's the social scientist speaking..) and as unapropriate this might be to approach a very talented young filmmaker, I can't help but introduce him here under that label, too, considering the fact that the few people who actually do talk about him put him in the same drawer as Fatih Akin because of their 'same' background...
Well, I like Fatih Akin, too, very much, I have to admit, but besides their common descent (Akin's parents are from the black sea as you can learn in his documentary We forgot to go back, where Aslan's parents are from exactly I can't tell and don't care) they have nothing in common, neither in style nor in temperament nor from socialisation: Akin is from Hamburg, Arslan from Berlin. Whereas Akin's movies are usually like steamtrains or a fist pointed at your stomach, fairytales from a St Pauli Street Kid full of irony and sarcasm - Arslan's movies are quiet, reduced, minimalist and always rather as if the world was seen through a blurry window, from a distance, even when you come closer to the protagonists as in any of akin's movies there will always be the feeling of never being really able to 'grasp' them. There are other directors like him in Berlin, like Angela Schanelec for example - but they all have something rather 'french' to them: usually you don't laugh out loud and although people themselves move fast, everything seems to happen in slow-mo...

Be it in Der schoene Tag/ The beautiful Day, Kardeşler/Geschwister (Siblings) or Dealer which all of them take place in Berlin Kreuzberg, a Kreuzberg that's speaking of a district shaped by long time migration on the one hand, but far from the endlessly created clichees around it.

www.german-cinema.de/app/fil...view.php

Now this year Arslan seems to have made his 'Istanbul/Turkey' documentary just as Fatih Akın had made his one (the much praised crossing the bridge, on istanbul music scene - i won't say that i don't admire this one myself, too, one of the featured singers being a close friend of my flatmate :): Aus der Ferne/From a distance. And in a way that's striking: Akın again crossing something, cultures, the bosphorus, the east and the west and having a huge laugh on it all - and arslan: still. curious. open but keeping the distance. With Istanbul as a multiple parting point to explore a Turkey Arslan himself is rather a stranger, too, although having studied two years at Ankara.

Having not had the opportunity to see this one yet at this year's berlin film festival, because İ just wasn't there, I am still looking forward to it and recommend it to you as it was recommended to me.

www.signandsight.com/features/606.html

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

Fiction Writers' Group (in English)

jmparker — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 07:16:32 GMT

I had one where I lived before, and want to start another one... but I wonder where to announce it.
Bookstores here don't seem very big on personal notes and signs being pasted up.

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

A bad investment?

jmparker — Wed, 01 Nov 2006 08:17:53 GMT

have to pay off a US credit card debt in monthly chunks I'm saving. Thing is, the credit card interest rate is low, and it's expensive to transfer money, so I'm just putting the money in a Turkish account and planning to transfer all of it at once at the end of the year.

But I met this nice carpet salesman who says he'll sell me carpets and buy them back at the same price whenever I want. And having carpets on the floor instead of money sitting in a bank account is kind of an interesting idea. I mean, I can do some research and make sure the prices are normal and everything.

What do you think?

posted in Istanbul - 8 replies

Kuafor

Maggie — Sat, 04 Nov 2006 21:38:40 GMT

hi Istanbulites, i live in bursa but have abandoned hope of finding a dreadlock kuafor here. does anyone know of a kuafor in the bul (or anywhere else in Turkiye) that works on dreads? thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

1.502....

jmparker — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 16:27:56 GMT

Any bets on what's next for the YTL? Up? Down?

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

must be seen by every human being

technicable — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 09:13:37 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJpuUEN62Rg

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Safe to swim?

jmparker — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 18:27:44 GMT

You know all those kids swimming in the Bosphorus and the Marmara all along Kadikoy and in the park in Sultanhamet.
Is that actually safe?
I used to live in Chicago and, although the lake sometimes looked clean, we had what are called indocrine disrupters.... not to mention all the tankers out there leaking god knows what...
All the same, the water looks so tempting...

posted in Istanbul - 11 replies

The Indian

MJ — Sat, 02 Sep 2006 05:47:22 GMT

When I was riding on the tram in Istanbul I spotted a guy out on the street dressed in full Native-American regalia. I thought that was pretty unusual so I grabbed a photo of him as we passed- which I will post in the photo album. Later, when I was in Eskisehir, I showed that photo to a guy at the University and he said "Oh, I know that guy! He always dresses like an Indian, and he travels around and lives in a tipi!"

So, I'm wondering: does anyone else recognize this guy? Have you seen him around? Can you tell me anything else about him?

And while you're at it, can anyone comment on whether or not Turkey has some kind of particular affinity for Native American culture- I know there was a major show of Edward Curtis's photos in Ankara last May, but I also noticed that nearly every roadside souvineer or gift shop that I looked at had an assortment of Native American kitsch items. I'm very curious about this...

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

Sulukule

mishaal — Mon, 21 Aug 2006 16:03:19 GMT

I am reposting this from another tribe. I was shocked and saddened to read whats happening! The descrimenation they are facing is obscene. Ive been to Sulukule and have very good memories. I worry what will happen to the people I met and their community.

-----------

URGENT news from Sulukule, Turkey - Demolition of Historic Romani Neighborhoods in Istanbul

Sulukule Roma Culture Development and Solidarity Association.

Letters of support for the association and opposition to the demolition of the Sulukule mahalas in Istanbul may be addressed here:
sulukuleliler (AT) gmail (DOT) com

Initialy posted at the International Debate Education Association ( idw.idebate.org/roma/countryarticles.php )

Roma in Istanbul: Sulukule Press Release
Roma_in_Turkey@yahoogroups.com, 27.06.2006

We, the 3,500 Romani people of these mahalles of Neslisah and Hatice Sultan in the municipality of Fatih, Istanbul wish to tell you about the circumstances affecting our historic community as a result of the municipality's project to "renew the city". This project will result in the demolition of this historic neighborhood, and destroy the Romani community that lives here.

In October 20005 the local authority considered measures to redevelop the area, but from a range of choices they adopted the decision to demolish the existing housing, where large numbers of Romani people have lived for centuries since their first arrival in this area in the eleventh century. This decision was adopted without consultation with the community, nor any of the community representatives nor indeed the cooperation of the all parties represented on the local municipality. The decision is one that neither reflects the result of any feasibility study carried out by the municipal authorities and made public, nor seems based upon careful research about the possible options and implications of any measures to redevelop the area. Since this decision was taken, there have been a number of meetings between members of the community and the municipality, but without any resolution to the concerns raised by the Romani people for their future. The planned programme of demolition remains in place and work is expected to begin in September, when bulldozers will move in to the area.

The community of the Sulukule mahalles (Neslisah and Hatice Sultan), are the descendants of Romani people that arrived a thousand years ago in the then Byzantine capital, Constantinople. Their presence is recorded in sources that tell us that they lived in black tents, practicing fortune-telling, bear leading and music and dance for the residents of the city. Whilst the bear-leading and fortune-telling are a thing of the past these days, the music and dance remain part of the Romani culture that is still a vibrant and essential expression of Romani identity here. When the city fell to the Ottoman conquerors in 1453, it was the Sulukule Gate that first was breached, and many of the canons and other artillery were forged by the contingents of Romani metal-workers and smiths of the Ottoman army. This area, and its association with Romani communities through history is the reason why the community is asking for the decision to demolish the area to be rescinded, and a programme of regeneration and urban renewal be considered instead. This area represents the oldest Romani community in the world, with the most consistent occupation by Romani people in a tradition that stretches back through time to the earliest days of Romani history.

It is also the history of Romani people that is in this particular instance, concrete and palpable. So often the history of the Romani people has remained unrecorded or unrecognized except for the odd reference in non-Romani sources to their presence in cities and towns, to their occupations and trades in the streets and countryside, and to their persecution in punitive laws and ordinances that in some places and times meant appalling punishment or even death was meted out for the crime of merely being a "Gypsy". The Romani history of Sulukule remains to be further researched and written, but it is there in the actual buildings, streets and stones of the area, and in the faces of the people who live there. Their stories, and the stories of their families that go back generations are the history of the area in their physical forms, in the human presence of the "Egyptians" of the past, and the Romanies of the present.

The community have been offered the opportunity to receive small compensation for their loss of home and shelter, but the cost of buying new property, even for those that own their current abode is prohibitive in the the new apartment blocks that the developers will erect. The question of title deeds and legal claims to these properties also raises problems, as many of the families that live in the area have none, and is very similar to these problems that have arisen in Serbia, Bosnia and elsewhere in south eastern and central Europe when Romani communities have been threatened with removal. The community have organized a new foundation to represent them and speak with a certain voice, and it is their desire to see this lack of title and deeds addressed, and to see the renewal of their community, not its destruction.

With careful consultation and planning the possibilities exist to see the improvement of the area and its growth as a heritage centre for both Romani and non-Romani audiences alike, offering traditional Romani music and dance, and new opportunities for employment and training. The establishment of an equestrian centre, for example, that could provide stabling for the animals currently in the area, work for stable hands and trainers, transport for the tourists in the city that could experience riding in a phaeton through the old historic centers of Istanbul, and pony trekking into the Belgrade forest could all go towards regenerating an area in need of such opportunities, and the training of young Romani people in such would allow them to develop skills and experiences that have been part of the Romani way of life for centuries. The future development of horse-drawn transport, not merely for the tourist trade but also as an environmentally friendly approach to the movement of people in the city (in horse-drawn trams for example), could bring opportunities for developing self-sufficiency and economic viability in ways that were sustainable. Such ideas could be the beginnings of a discussion about the community and its future that would provide a more harmonious resolution to the current situation.

Support for such regeneration and urban renewal must come from the municipality and their efforts to secure funds for such initiatives from the EU. Such initiatives could also develop model working practices and approaches that placed Istanbul at the forefront of community partnership programmes, providing an example that could be followed throughout Turkey and Europe. Establishing a continuing dialogue with the people of Sulukule, developing consultative practices that demonstrate consensual processes in the management of planning, renewal and regeneration could demonstrate to all the benefits of such a programme and such an approach.

The social and health problems that are part of the daily struggle for Romani families in this community are in need of urgent measures to alleviate them - poverty is a reality for the majority of the residents and since the closure of the music and entertainment establishments in the area in the last ten years, the impact upon the community has immeasurably increased these problems. Less than one in ten of the adult population has any kind of work on a regular basis, and none have secure employment that would provide security for their families. Employment is a problem because of the wide-spread stigmatization of the community and its inhabitants. The lack of sufficient documentation means that most of the residents are not able to secure the so-called "green card" that would entitle them to basic state support and health-care. Schooling is also an issue that needs addressing; the levels of basic education are minimal and further education almost entirely absent. Those very few Romani people that can gain an education and find themselves in employment often choose to remove themselves from the community and not to disclose their heritage as Romani people at all. They become divorced from their past and are lost to the community as positive role models and examples. Addressing this educational disadvantage in the Sulukule community could begin to tackle some of these problems and provide the opportunity for individuals develop as productive and engaged citizens of the city and the country.

No other Romani community in the world has the cultural inheritance that stems from the long, continuous past that is part of Sulukule, this area is the very heart of the emergence of Romani people in the "Egyptians" that arrived from the east in the eleventh-century. It is an important heritage for all Romani people throughout the world, and as such we are asking for your support in helping us maintain and improve that heritage, in renewing and regenerating the area. The "long march west" for the Romani people begins with their arrival here and the coming together of different elements that formed the very first "Egyptians". To achieve the recognition of this importance and to secure the future of the Sulukule community and help preserve its past, we ask you to send us messages of support as individuals and organizations of Romani people, and people concerned with improving their condition and circumstances. We ask that all of those who work with Romani communities, helping and supporting them in the continuing process of achieving equality and reaching our potential, recognize our need for support and encouragement in presenting our case against the removal and destruction of our homes and lives, and help us improve both.

We invite you to attend a press conference about the situation where we can speak in person and bring you into our community to see for yourselves the problems and the potential that exists. The event is scheduled for 12.00 on the 28.06.06, in the vicinity of the Edirne Kap on the land walls of Istanbul. If you are unable to be there, please send your messages of support to us so that we may share these with others.

Thank you.

Hacer Foggo
hacerfoggo@gmail.com

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

where should I hop in the water.

aarti — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 20:37:51 GMT

I'm going down south monday the 14th.

Yep finally having my long lost dream vacation, i'll fly to Dalaman, fly back from Antalya, the rest is fill in the blanks for 15 days. Any suggestions.

You know ....nice beach, clean hotel, good food, reasonable prices.

posted in Istanbul - 6 replies

BabaZula

mishaal — Wed, 30 Aug 2006 02:03:01 GMT

Hey there, check out BabaZula concert on Sept.6 @ Balance! My beautiful friend Nourah, from Tokyo will be dancing with them. She is realy cool, and has her own style, she is not a mere immitation of anything. And BabaZula are just the best, excellent musicians crossing traditional, psychedelic and beyond, realy beautiful funky free spirits, you are sure to enjoy. They are all on tour in Denmark, right now, fun, fun.

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

What's happening in Istanbul between Sept 5th and the 18th, 2006???

djlerman — Sun, 03 Sep 2006 23:02:24 GMT

Will be traveling with some folks through Istanbul
and
wanted to see if there are any suggested happenings in the area.

Thanks,
~Donavon
www.iqaat.com

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Two Questions

MJ — Sat, 03 Jun 2006 04:26:27 GMT

This Tuesday I will be visiting Istanbul for the first time. I will only be in town for four days, and most of my time is already lined out for me. In case I do get a little bit of free time to myself- I have two questions for anyone who cares to answer:

1. What is the one great thing in Istanbul that I should not miss if at all possible?

2. What is the single worst thing that I should avoid at all costs?

Thanks for your answers!

posted in Istanbul - 10 replies

From Africa to Turkey?

meliflora — Fri, 25 Aug 2006 03:53:53 GMT

Does anyone have any advice or suggestions on the best way to get from Africa, specifically Mali, to Istanbul? I'll be traveling from Mali to Istanbul at the end of January.

Thank you!

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

Good places to buy belly dance gear in Istanbul?

geoff_bennett-speer — Thu, 27 Apr 2006 13:58:14 GMT

Merhaba, all. Now that John has tipped me off about the best places to buy musical instruments in Beyoglu (thanks again, John!), my wife wants to know where the best deals on belly dance stuff are in Istanbul. This is our first time in Turkey and we'll be in Istanbul for three days in the beginning of the trip and three days at the end. Thanks for your help.

posted in Istanbul - 11 replies

best pick up lines heard

Candace — Sat, 26 Aug 2006 23:49:54 GMT

I thought this topic deserved a thread of its own nstead veering off from JM's original post.

Someone said they had collected a book of lines.

Please find it and shre a few of the best ones

I once had a masseus in a Hammam try to pick me up using sign language.

Very odd.

And funny.

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

owning a small place in Istanbul, or outside of the city

johnuxb5 — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 11:35:52 GMT

Greetings all - I was wondering if anyone can point me in a direction or offer some advice about buying a small place in the outskirts of the city (obviously I would never dream of having an apartment in taxim square :-), way beyond anything I could afford...) Here's my situation - I do not have much money to speak of at ALL, but I am thinking of the future (some beginning thoughts?) and wanted to at least dip my toe into the idea of an apartment or very small house around Istanbul in the future - can anyone recommend someone(site?) that I could contact to find out how I'd even begin to look at how affordable this would be? I appreciate any asistance, many thanks. - J

posted in Istanbul - 8 replies

New authors needed for Metroblogging Istanbul!

erkan — Sun, 16 Jul 2006 22:07:22 GMT

metroblogging istanbul will be accepting applications for authorship for about until 3 August:
http://istanbul.metblogs.com/archives/2006/07/come_join_us.phtml

One should have a personal blog as far as I know and one can write in English or in Turkish... But please check for details in the given links...

posted in Istanbul - 7 replies

free plants

jmparker — Sat, 22 Jul 2006 12:50:29 GMT

They're on my roof and I'm moving next week and don't want them to die - two 6-foot white flowering.... er... you know. Those plants bad Muslims are supposed to eat in hell. Anyway. If you can get them down two flights of stairs and out the door, they're yours. In Sultanhamet.

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Brunch

TR — Tue, 30 May 2006 14:32:27 GMT

anyone recomend any place for sunday brunch asian side, not so expensive , clean , no parking problem???

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

Istanbul in novels

erkan — Sun, 21 May 2006 13:22:52 GMT

I have just posted an entry in Istanbul Metroblogging. Should we continue here and expand the list?
http://istanbul.metblogs.com/archives/2006/05/istanbul_in_nov.phtml

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

anyone knows Arabic?

TR — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 11:21:57 GMT

I have been looking for a Arabic speaker for a very easy translate ...any chance to find here???

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

Coming to Istanbul!

jka — Tue, 27 Jun 2006 04:14:14 GMT

Hey Kids!

I am coming to Istanbul! I will be there from July 5th through the 17th.

Can anyone recommend some great things to see and do? Maybe even even places to eat?

My friend is doing a fellowship at ARIT and a couple of us are coming to experience Istanbul & Turkey while he is there.

I have about a week to do whatever I want, and then the rest of his family comes over and I fear we'll be stuck into a pretty generic tourist schedule. But who knows.

Anyways, can you people recommend some cool things to see? I'm kind of an adventurer, so the more crazy and obscure the better.

I'd like to see at least 1 good turkish nightclub. I don't suppose there is any psytrance in Istanbul?

And any other stuff you can point me at, no matter how weird, I will be greatful for the advice.
Any generic info too would be useful. Cultural/faux pas kind of stuff might be good since I know very little about Turkish culture.

Thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Book of Beauties by Fazil Bey

fidobarks — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 21:12:26 GMT

I'm looking for a reprint of "The Illustrated Book of Beauties" or "Khubanname" written by the 18th century writer Enderunlu Fazil Bey. or does anybody have an English translation of just the text? This is a very hard to find item. It was mentioned in the book "Constantinople: City of the World's Desires, 1453-1924" by Phillip Mansel.
I know this is a long shot, but maybe there are some scholastic types in the Istanbul tribe who can help me locate "Book of Beauties". Thanks.

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Istanbul dance and music fest

kelly — Tue, 20 Jun 2006 18:50:03 GMT

greetings to all our dance and music friends!

We are back from our best US Camp ever and are excited to announce some good news about our upcoming 3rd Annual Alaturka! Dance and Music Intensive in Istanbul Sept 2nd - 10th, 2006 - http://folktours.com/camptur.html

We are pleased to announce the addition of Sahra Saeeda to our Alaturka master teaching staff - our other dance teachers include Artemis Mourat,Birgul Berai, Reyhan Tuzsuz, Semra Su, Sehnaz, Bulent Kurtisoglu and Tayyar Akdeniz. More Turkish teachers than ever before and more class hours than any other Turkish tour!
Music teachers are Necati Celik, Halil Karaduman, Adil Celebi, Husnu Tuzsuz and his Roman Orkestra, additional Romany band TBA and Tayyar Akdeniz.

In appreciation of all our artist friends on a budget we are offerering an "early bird special" our COMPLETE Alaturka Istanbul dance and music package for only $1390. That includes all classes with master teachers, 3 star hotel accommodations in the heart of old Istanbul, shows, concerts, boat cruise with Romany musicians, party at the historic Turkish Baths with live music, dancing and optional massage, sightseeing, lectures and more! Early bird deadline is July 10th - please see website http://www.folktours.com for more details.

As an added incentive, if you have 2 or more students, friends and/or family members who join our Festival and/or optional tours, you are entitled to a special discount on your festival package! You will recieve a 5% discount for every person you have referred. That is USD $69.50 for each person (excluding yourself) if you are all paying our early bird special price, $84.75 if you are all paying full price! This offer applies to full time festival attendees and does not include children or significant others. Please contact us for more details at danceinfo@folktours.com

Happy dancing and Hope to see you in Istanbul!
Artemis, Tayyar & the Folk Tours Family

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Book

Tue, 20 Jun 2006 16:15:07 GMT

I did not find ''The Naked Public Square: Religion and Democracy in America/ Richard John Neuhaus''
How can I find it?

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Why Eminönü?

jmparker — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 12:33:53 GMT

I can understand the logic of last summer's bridge bombing aimed at tourist restaurants.... but what's with today's bus terminal explosion?
Who are they trying to target?

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Coffee

jmparker — Thu, 01 Jun 2006 11:00:18 GMT

Hey. Where can I find bags of Lavazza to take home?

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

Gyms in Istanbul

AdemOzgur — Thu, 11 May 2006 13:03:32 GMT

Does anybody have any recommendations for a gym in Fatih or not far from the Fatih district?
Thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Bartering and bargaining in the bazaar ...

geoff_bennett-speer — Sun, 30 Apr 2006 17:17:01 GMT

Hey, with regard to bazaar bartering ...

I lived in former Yugoslavia as a kid, during the Communist / Tito years, and I don't remember a whole lot of bartering in the bazaars and markets in Beograd ... I always figured that there was some kind of government control or price-fixing even on the street level ... so this idea of haggling is new to me.

What's a good rule of thumb? Or does it depend on what is being bargained over? I'll be looking for musical instruments and my wife is definitely in the market for belly dance costumes and accessories.

If a merchant or shopkeeper is asking 100 Euros, for example, is it rude or unreasonable to start by offering 50, with hopes of meeting somewhere in the middle? Is there any indication that a shop has prices fixed in stone and that bargaining would be considered inappropriate? Obviously, one wouldn't walk into a restaurant and try to negotiate the price of a meal, right?

Thanks for any and all advice. Ah, 12 more weeks, 12 more weeks, 12 more weeks ... :-))

posted in Istanbul - 6 replies

clubs/concerts and girl alone

Margot — Mon, 01 May 2006 09:57:50 GMT

I am going to Istanbul this weekend and wanted to check out some music while there. Thing is that I am going alone, and I am not sure how culturally acceptable it is for women to go to clubs by themselves.

Who knows, I may meet up with other people in my hostel who want to go out, but I am not willing to let that make or break my decision to go.

However, if doing so would be some sort of grave cultural faux-pas, or if it would just be a bad idea, then maybe I would think twice.

I am thinking of going to Babylon, but would love to hear other suggestions for good places to go. Thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 9 replies

with kids in Istanbul

mishaal — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 09:28:05 GMT

I spent alot of time in Istanbul before I had my son, he is 2.5now, and we are going there for his first time, he is quite a traveler already and Im so looking forward to being with him in my favorite city. I realize though alot of what I knew about Istanbul was the night life, and things will have to be a little differnt this trip. I know my son is going to Love the trains, the boats, the bridges....
But can anyone recommend ideas for somewhere special to take a little guy? especialy after spending time shopping with his mom, and hanging out in her fav spots? it doesnt have to be somewhere specificaly for kids, just looking for some ideas here..... i dont think it will be hard, to entertain him, i think he is going to love it.

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

Hotel opposite Taksim Burger King?

LadyLuna — Thu, 30 Mar 2006 03:19:52 GMT

Can anyone remember whats the name of those hotels opposite Burger King at Taksim square? If you happen to have the website, that will be great as well!

Appreciate it!
Luna

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

Istanbul vibes

Natalia — Sun, 23 Apr 2006 12:45:23 GMT

Me and some ladies are in Istanbul right now from SAn Francisco. We are looking to study belly dance and live in Istanbul 1 month. We are looking for dance teachers, musicains, hipsters, good folks to groove with. As well as a cheap apartment to cook in and make our temple.
We're lookin to connect with locals and get into the turkey vibes. WE do fire shows and performance and are looking to get work. Any contacts would be great.

besos Natalia

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

salon article on Turkish buses

jmparker — Fri, 21 Apr 2006 13:22:21 GMT

Thought you guys might enjoy this.
The rest of it on salon.com
- JM

Ask the pilot
What's more enjoyable than flying? A ride on a Turkish bus, of course.

By Patrick Smith

April 21, 2006 | VELIKO TARNOVO, Bulgaria -- Every one of the contoured, softly upholstered chairs is immaculately groomed. Each has a leather headrest, tray table, cup holder, three-way adjustable footrest and coat hook. At the window seats, heavy fabric curtains help block the sun. The glass sparkles and the floor is vacuumed clean. Everything looks crisp, new and in perfect working order. We depart on time, and within an hour the attendant has come around twice, handing out snacks, coffee and tea. Later, after sunrise, there will be complimentary champagne.

One of those fancy foreign airlines I'm always going on about? Well, it could be that too. Except this time, I'm not on an airplane at all. I'm on a Turkish bus, speeding up the highway from Istanbul to Bulgaria.

Now, most of the world I have never seen, but I've been to enough places to confidently submit that there is nowhere else with a long-distance bus system quite like Turkey's. The nation has only a skeletal web of railroads, but a massive network of more than 120,000 modern, comfortable motor coaches, many of them designed and manufactured in-country, go everywhere and anywhere -- comfortably, reliably and inexpensively. If you've ever seen the mammoth otogars (stations) in Istanbul or Ankara, you have a sense of just how truly vast the system is. Inside these airport-size depots, miles of counter space are divided elbow-to-elbow among literally hundreds of independent operators, each with its own ticket stall. Garishly painted signs advertise each company's routes and departure times, while touts scour the crowds rounding up customers. "Izmir! Adana! Goreme!" There are enough billboards and hawkers to make you think each of Turkey's 70 million inhabitants has his own private bus line. For the tourist it's explosively colorful and a bit overwhelming, yet sensibly organized and easy to navigate.

And safe. It's no secret that Turkey is a world leader in traffic accidents, with about 400,000 wrecks annually. And, unfortunately, many people's perception of Turkish buses is drawn from the highway crash fantasies of Orhan Pamuk's "The New Life." But after four visits to Turkey, all featuring bus trips of one kind or another, I have witnessed no roadside carnage and can happily attest to the professionalism and courtesy of the nation's bus drivers. (Taxi drivers, on the other hand, are a totally different story.) Unless I've just been lucky, since according to a 2002 report from the U.S. State Department, Turkey's buses were involved in over 36,000 accidents that year alone.

There is no smoking on Turkish buses. Or, more accurately, only one person is allowed to smoke on a Turkish bus -- the driver. Which makes sense, maybe, since the last thing you want on such notoriously hazardous roads is a jittery driver in the throes of a nic fit. (That nobody else is permitted to smoke is nothing trivial in Turkey, where approximately 100 percent of the population over age 12 is addicted to tobacco.)

As elsewhere around the globe, air travel within Turkey is expanding rapidly. Turkish Airlines, the government-controlled national carrier, founded in 1933, is a highly respected operator with an ultramodern fleet and reasonable fares, but a growing number of upstarts are putting the pressure on. More than a dozen carriers -- Atlasjet, Onur Air, Pegasus, SunExpress -- have sprung up over the past 15 years, catering both to the local population and to the approximately 18 million vacationers, most of them European, who flock to the country's beaches and historical sites. What this means for the bus lines isn't really known, though effects are likely to be minimal. But strange as it might sound, it's the buses whose example the airlines ought to be striving to emulate, and not vice versa. The bus companies are clean, cheap, cordial and punctual. How many airlines nowadays can lay claim to all four of those adjectives? At Istanbul's Büyük otogar, settling into my Bulgaria-bound coach, noting its spotless decor and the many useful accouterments of my seat, the question that rushed to mind was: Why can't more airplanes be like this?

Granted I'm romanticizing to some extent. A bus is still a bus, even in Turkey. The seats are too small, the border crossings interminable, and that hostess dispensing drinks and snacks looked more depressed than a Comair stewardess just handed her furlough notice. But my emphasizing the unexpected pleasures of a journey by bus is to underscore the ever-worsening distresses of a journey by plane.

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

new member

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 13:38:06 GMT

ho$geldim :p

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

reflections from the my first trip

johnuxb5 — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 23:17:29 GMT

Thanks to all in this group for the advice about travel. I found that money was far easier to handle in Turkey than I'd thought - the Euro is higher than USD, but both seemed to be accepted well - hotels seem to like doing business in Euros, shopkeepers selling items of a higher nature seemed more comfortable with USD. All the back machines worked for me at any part of the city. In any case, it is such an affordable city to stay in that I felt money was not a difficult issue (exact opposite of a stay in Oslo I had last year, in which ever Kroner was so expensively painful to part with...)

I can't even begin to say what an amazing experience this was... I was only there for nine days, and I'm sure I just scratched the surface of the city. I hadn't realised how geographically HUGE Istanbul really is. My difficulties only seemed to be dealing with the hawkers in Sultanahment (as I told another tribe friend, I'll definitely stay in another section of the city next time.) Once outside of the Bazaars and the big tourist magnets, I really felt so at home, people amazingly cool and SO easy to communicate with a dictionary, hand jestures, and a combination of Turkish and English. I felt that Turkish (not an easy language) seemed to make alot more sense when I was there and could hear it all around me. I had the great experience of buying some plants for my father with a shopkeeper in Kardikoy completely in Turkish - for some reason he hadn't pegged me as a tourist, this made me very happy.

I became good friends with a music and textile dealer in the city, and we had some great converations about politics and globalisation, also learned alot about etymology of Turkish words, and a few good jokes (I doubt I can repeat them and they'd still be funny.) I also befriended just about every dog and cat that wanders the city, which I'm sure was hysterical to the locals - I find it funny that no where did I see mentioned that Istanbul is the home of thousands of city-dwelling cats and dogs... I'm sure it's more of a problem than a pleasure for the residents, but it was fascinating.

I don't feel as though I got to know much of daily life until after a few days there, which means I want all the more to return. It was beautifully snowy for a few of my days, but I'd also like to see the balmy weather in early Autumn.

My only real difficulty in travel was customs - and that's not just in and out of Turkey, but Everywhere - I seemed to be stopped everywhere, and mainly because of the Santour I'd purchased. Coming back, it had been removed from the plane and held aside - I can't believe this, but they actually thought it was a gun and opened it very cautiously in front of me. Before I knew it, I was giving a small concert for immigration officials. Having made a stopoever for a few hours in Amsterdam didn't help, obviously.

I did notice in the city a heavy police presense, which actually made me feel somewhat safer. It's strange how news gets around - my friends had e mailed about a bombing and a riot, and I'd only heard marginally about the riot while I was there, and noticed one day that was particularly police-filled in the streets.

I have likely gained about a few pounds just in a little over a week - I've never eaten better in my life... fortunately I asked loads of questions and know a bit more about preparation. I also avoided the spice Bazaar and went to the smaller shops circling the bazaar, found much cooler people to talk to and learn from.

I would say the most beautiful mosque I saw was the kind-of-hidden Rustem Pasha Camii, the most beautiful tiles I'd ever gazed upon, and I felt very comfortable there (there were a few mosques in which I definitely felt as though I was intruding, and quietly left - it did strike me that for some, it must be a real pain in the ass to see tourists coming in and out all the time...) I am flabbergasted by the rudeness of some tourists - using flash cameras when they oughtn't, talking loudly in religious places, obviously not reading signs, etc. I think the lesson learned here was to view the mosques as solemn places that also just happen to be very beautiful - they're not 'museums' as such.

I think I could write pages about the experience, but I am preaching to the converted! This is the greatest city I've visited so far, and can't wait to return.

posted in Istanbul - 6 replies

HELP - my landlord is making me crazy

jmparker — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 13:09:32 GMT

Is it my fault if my hot water heater breaks, or is it my landlord's responsibility to fix it? Hot water is specified in the lease contract.
It's going on 2 weeks now... the local hamam is starting to get pretty old...

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

New Tribe

gorkem — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 03:05:22 GMT

Hey group,
I've started a new tribe for Turkish Musicians:

tribes.tribe.net/turkishmusicians

Check it out!
Gorkem

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Is spring here yet?

jmparker — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 20:33:09 GMT

Anyone placing bets?

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

looking for sublet in istanbul - april & may

Jason — Tue, 07 Mar 2006 19:14:01 GMT

i'm a photographer working on a job in istanbul for a couple months and am looking for a room in a shared apartment or a small furnished apartment for one person to sublet. the months would be april and may, though if possilbe starting a little earlier in the last week of march.

i've lived in cinhangir before and know istanbul on both sides of the bosphorus relatively well from many visits over the past few years. i love the city and would prefer to stay longer, but i'll be working at an excavation through the summer inside turkey.

a little about me. i'm male, 34, non-smoker, cat-lover, originally from california, studied anthropology at berkeley, and am currently living in berlin. i'm a good roommate, easy to get along with, and pick up after myself. also speak german and want to work on my turkish while in istanbul, which is pretty minimal at the moment.

so if you think you have a space to share, drop me a line. the rate is negotiable, depending on how nice the place is.

thanks and hope to hear from you soon!

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

working...

johnuxb5 — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 22:18:59 GMT

Perhaps I'm still in my daze of enjoyment of being in the city, but I'm curious what info anyone has about working in Turkey, if one is non-turk non-EU. (<-USA.) I have taught ESL previously, and I sent a CV (resume) to one school, and I was contacted immediately with an application - In a general way, is it difficult to work in the country (visa-wise)? I had a true nightmare with working in the UK (such a sad, sad story with a bad ending, but my fault, I guess, in the end...) I am a painter and musician, but my 'professional' experience has been in teaching (language and art) and training (corporate/software.) If anyone has a link or two that might answer some questions that would be great!

posted in Istanbul - 6 replies

Class with Suat Borazan (New Turkish split hand technique) / 2-23-06 / L.A.,CA

djlerman — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 17:43:20 GMT

Heres a video clip of him playing.
iqaat.com/v-web/gallery/album05/suat_6

Suat is one of the founders (along with Misirli Ahmed) of the new
turkish split hand style of drumming.

He will be in Los Angeles for a concert and is willing to give a class
while he is here.

Class will be on Thursday 2/23 at 6:30pm at my studio. It will be $50

Iqaat Studio
3515 Eagelrock Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90065
323-478-9016

~Donavon
www.iqaat.com

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Hacivat&karagöz Niçin Öldürüldü

TR — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 10:48:26 GMT

I think we are learning how to make a movie..."Hacivat Karagöz Neden Öldürüldü" is the best movie that i have seen recently (except Babam ve Oğlum) ...Haluk Bilginer awesome, Sebnem Donmez was gerat at Ayse Hatun, "Beyaz" is just like his TV show. My best part was Ayşe Hatun&Karagözüm singing together. and includes a very great computer work..dont miss the "cin"... dont miss it...

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

anyone seen picasso

TR — Mon, 20 Feb 2006 13:49:23 GMT

We went to Sakıp Sabancı museum last sunday and the scene was amazing. I wish I could explain how long the queue was. We were there about 2.00pm and we could not get into until 6.00pm. (The plan is for next week, being there at 9.00am otherwise not be able to see it... )
Who says Turks doesnt like "art" stuff:) I was told the exhibit was visited officaly 140.000 visitors since November...

posted in Istanbul - 7 replies

Where is your best part in Istanbul?

TR — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 08:02:42 GMT

Finally the sun is back:) My favorite place is Bosporus in the city...There would be nothing better then having a cup of coffee in Emirgan ...What about you guys?? Where is you feel you are in istanbul?

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

prevent Turkish coastline conversion to military usetopic

TR — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 15:12:11 GMT

I have found that on tribe.net at beckpackers tribe...Please checke it out and what you think??

Urgent action: prevent Turkish coastline conversion to military usetopic posted Thu, February 9, 2006 - 2:19 PM by sooozhyq

Advertisement
I would really appreciate your help with an urgent email campaign...

My dear friend Veli and his family live and earn their living in tourism on the Anatolian coast of Turkey and are being displaced by the military who wants to build a submarine base. After a costly court battle they now have 20 DAYS TO VACATE and are being offered NO COMPENSATION for their trouble. They both live and operate an establishment on the property - their home and livelihood are being taken away.

If you like travelling in this region of Turkey, or are interested in visiting this area (near Kas, Demre, Olympos, Antalya) - please help!!!

please check out this listing - it has all the info and instructions on how you can help:

sanfrancisco.tribe.net/tribe/...ting.vm

thank you - you are appreciated!

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Tophane Roman Orkestra

kelly — Sat, 18 Feb 2006 06:20:26 GMT

Does anyone have contact info for Tophane Roman Orkestra - I lost their card!!!!
They are in Istanbul.
tessekurler!

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

the potato man

jmparker — Thu, 09 Feb 2006 13:59:28 GMT

Every morning at 10 am a guy with a huge truckload of potatos and onions drives under my window screaming his head off into a megaphone like he just found out the world is ending tomorrow.

Anyone else have this in their neighborhood?
What on earth is he saying?

posted in Istanbul - 26 replies

Cheikh Lo

Maggie — Mon, 13 Feb 2006 23:21:44 GMT

Anyone going to the Cheikh Lo concert on march 11?
http://www.shaman.com.tr/production/

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

geç kalmışlar kulübü açıyorum

ERHAN — Thu, 26 Jan 2006 22:03:53 GMT

arkadaşlar....Tribe turkey sakinleri

Hepimizin hayatta sürüp,giden zamana karşı yarıştığımız olmuştur..
Ancak yine de yetişemez bir türlü isteklerimizi gerçekleştiremeyiz...İstekler çeşitlidir:
Kimi iyi bir iş ister kimi tahsil/kariyer...Kimi mutlu bir yuva
Ama yine de zamanın hızına yetişemez hep geç kalırız..
işte ben de bu kulübün ismini GEÇ KALMIŞLAR KULÜBÜ koydum...
Aynı şeyi hissedenler yazışalım...paylaşalım...
Ben şahsen Geç Kalanlardanım...

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

Canim Turkiyem:) Minübüste Fuhuş

TR — Sat, 11 Feb 2006 09:54:51 GMT

Haberi şimdi milliyet'ten okudum ..ne entersan şeyler oluyor bu ülkede aslında ben bu araca binen yolcu/müşterileri merak ediyorum, bence onlarla ilgili belgesel falan yapılmalı..

http://www.milliyet.com.tr/2006/02/11/son/sontur03.asp

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Princess Dürrühsehvar of Berar

TR — Sat, 11 Feb 2006 12:47:44 GMT

The telegraph'ın bugünkü sayısında son halife'nin kzına ait bir yazı vardı.. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Performing in Istanbul

Winnie — Sat, 04 Feb 2006 19:34:21 GMT

Hello. I am an American circus/cabaret performer who is currently residing in Beijing. I will be here until September, when I wish to move to Istanbul. What I am looking for is contact information for local talent agents or booking agents for nightclubs. My U.S. agent has so far not been able to find me any work in Istanbul--but I know it's there because every time I go I see plenty of excellent entertainment.
Any ideas on how to go about finding these people or the most effective way to perform in Istanbul? I guess learning to speak Turkish would make this all easier--but I'm struggling with Mandarin as it is! Thank you.

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

24 hours / a few last minute questions?!?

johnuxb5 — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 20:49:26 GMT

yes, in 24 hours I shall be on the ramp waiting to catch my flight from Boston - I've looked ahead and it appears I shall have a few days of rain over the weekend in Istanbul, but I do not mind!

One question I had for the group: I've already learnt (via Lonely Planet) that traveler's checks are not very good to bring - but have also learnt that one can often make purchases in $USD. I would assume that this isn't appropriate in smaller shops / restaurants? My thought was to keep about half New Turkish Lira and Half $USDm in my wallet, is this a good strategy?

Ah yes, a few language questions -
as you know, language guides don't really tell it all...
what's the most common way of saying 'thank you'?
teshekurler, chok tesheker ederim, (sorry I do not have turkish fonts)?
and for hello - salam or merhaba, which of these is more common?

Thanks for all advice!
J

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

Lonely Planet Istanbul update

erkan — Sun, 05 Feb 2006 23:03:23 GMT

I heard that the Lonely Planet has some updates in its Istanbul site...Enjoy:

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/europe/turkey/istanbul/

In the mean time,
"Wallpaper Magazine, considered by many to be an école in the design world, has selected the Istanbul Collection designed by Ross Lovegrove for VitrA for its “Best Bathroom” design award. In announcing its decision, Wallpaper said that the collection was “the most ambitious bathroom range of the year”. Here is the Istanbul Collection:

http://www.dexigner.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=4599

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Announcement of Cyberculture Tribe

erkan — Sat, 04 Feb 2006 23:34:25 GMT

A beginners' tribe to review, to connect, to discuss anything related to cyber cultural emergences... http://tribes.tribe.net/cyberculture ....

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

WHO says no travel restrictions to Turkey

erkan — Wed, 11 Jan 2006 12:33:45 GMT

Istanbul lovers, although disease spread nationwide, you can still visit Istanbul. Authorities say no worries and, from the 'field' I agree:
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/b69b40d2-8246-11da-aea0-0000779e2340.html

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

uzakdoğuya seyat

ahmed — Fri, 27 Jan 2006 19:49:16 GMT

yazın en az bir ay sürecek bir uzak doğu seyahatine arkadaş arıyorum
ilgilenenler lütfen yazsın

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Cheap & Decent hotel

LadyLuna — Wed, 11 Jan 2006 01:42:26 GMT

Can anyone here recommend me any cheap & decent hotel in taksim/sultan ahmet or anyway near that area?

many thanks!
Luna

posted in Istanbul - 4 replies

Bellini in Istanbul-book review and some links for Istanbul pictures

erkan — Tue, 10 Jan 2006 21:18:01 GMT

tork.blogspot.com/2006/01/p...anbul.html

Foto-Io Istanbul taking ship photos at Bosphorus strait since 1997: www.fotoio.com/

Habibe has a cool blog of photos on Istanbul's daily life...:
habibe.turklog.com/

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

yeni moderatörler

Mystery — Sat, 07 Jan 2006 19:28:32 GMT

degerli istanbul tribe üyeleri.. yogun islerimden dolayi pek burasiyla ilgilenemiyorum. ortalikta olabilecek, olani biteni kontrol edebilecek ve hakkiyla ilgilenebilecek olan kimselere moderatörlük yetkisi vermeyi düsünüyorum.. ilgilenenler lütfen benimle irtibata geçsinler..

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

best language book?

johnuxb5 — Wed, 28 Dec 2005 23:04:07 GMT

greetings,
can anyone recommend a good Turkish Phrase book that I could purchase in the US? I'm traveling to Istanbul in February and want to be able to speak at least SOME Turkish before I fly.
thank you - J

posted in Istanbul - 2 replies

Help me identify this kitchenware!

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 18:13:12 GMT

Hi! In our cabinet are: a shallow dark reddish earthenware bowl about two-feet in diameter, several deep, round earthenware bowls, and the heavy lids with the top handle and holes in it. I know the ceramic lid is used to keep vegetable rolls together, but I don't know about the bowls. Anyone an expert Turkish chef?

Any good sites with recipes using these?

Thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 3 replies

Istanbul island

LadyLuna — Thu, 01 Dec 2005 09:18:07 GMT

Merhaba,

Does anyone know any island around istanbul good for a short vacation and chill out for a couple of days?

Luna

posted in Istanbul - 6 replies

is it correct?

Burak — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 15:48:21 GMT

Hi folks, I heard from someone that the ships and ferries of Bosphorous will be decommisioned? And, they are gonna replace with the new boats from NORWAY.
I hope this is just a rumor.. Coz, old boats are unique symbol of Istanbul..

Cheers,.

posted in Istanbul - 5 replies

OMARA PORTUONDO

daniel — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 13:15:45 GMT

OMARA PORTUONDO is coming to Babylon Istanbul at 17th & 18th November, 2005. Infact, tickets are pretty expensive - app. 70 Euros.

"Beginning last December with two shows that featured the illustrious Jane Birkin, the star-studded events at Babylon continue, this time presenting a true legend, Buena Vista Social Club’s Omara Portuondo.
Rising to fame in 1959, Omara soon became a symbol in her country, both for her voice and for her dedication the Castro’s Cuba. As a Cuban vocalist Omara went largely unnoticed during the Cold War; by the 1990s the political landscape had evolved enough for Omara to be fully appreciated as one of the stars of Wim Wenders’ critically acclaimed documentary. Perceived as the Cuban Edith Piaf, Portuondo masterfully combines traditional Cuban sounds with jazz standards on her latest album, Flor de Amor, and on the plethora of stages she graces globally such as The Olympia, Vienna Opera House, The Royal Festival Hall, The Frankfurt Alter Opera, and very soon, Babylon."

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

taXimnights bayram/pre-holiday party

okan — Mon, 24 Oct 2005 16:57:33 GMT

taXim returns to the Canvas Gallery with special bayram/pre-holiday celebration.

05.november.saturday
@ the canvas gallery san francisco

dj hofwegen[associated stress]chill out, rare funk
dj robinson[associated stress]world beats
dj hakan[taXim] world beats, mediterranean charts, turkish pop
carvalho brothers live drums
visuals g.o.r.a.
complimentary champagne b4 10pm - full bar with raki & efes
doors @ 9:30pm 21+ w/proper id
$10 b4 10pm / $15 after
"www.taXimnights.com"
The Canvas Gallery - 1200 9th Avenue (at Lincoln), San Francisco

Stop by at Park Gyros for dinner before party or for a snack in after hours. Park Gyros is located right acorss the Canvas Gallery will be open late during taXim.

taXimnights is a proud supporter of Friends of Anatolia "www.friendsofanatolia.org" , a non-profit organization, with a mission to support the education system in Turkey; to strengthen Turkish nonprofit organizations; and to promote cultural exchange.
visit the website and find out how you can volunteer or stop by at Friends of Anatolia room during taXim.

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

Istanbul'a yeni de geldik...

oudplayer — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 13:37:22 GMT

Merhaba! Dun aksam Ladi ve ben San Francisco'dan geldik. Ilginc konser gelecek mi? Tribe arkadaslarla gorusmek istiyorum!

we just arrived in from san francisco last night... anyone here know of any interesting concerts or other things happening? We'd love to get together with some of our tribe friends...

-eliot ve ladi

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Istanbul!!!

sunnybunny86 — Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:46:53 GMT

I feel like there's a lack of conversations going on so wanted to jump in.. what do people have to say about this city? Isnt it so cool that it just takes you in?? What do you most like about it? Also, favorite night outs in the city? Let's get it rolling...

posted in Istanbul - 11 replies

anybody know of any current good deals on flights to istanbul??

catperson — Wed, 13 Jul 2005 06:39:29 GMT

or a good travel agent? want to go in September...
thanks!

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

Currently in Istanbul until 04/25/05

djlerman — Thu, 14 Apr 2005 13:06:00 GMT

If anybody's here at the moment send me a message. I'll be here until April 25th.

~Donavon

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies

travel

CocoLoco — Fri, 04 Feb 2005 15:06:21 GMT

i am going to istanbul next weekend..any suggestions on what i should not miss?

posted in Istanbul - 1 reply

I want to travell there, need advice...

reza — Fri, 28 Jan 2005 23:37:28 GMT

Hello fellas,
I'm planning to travell there with my wife and some other friends are joining us too. We want to hang around for around one month and see as much of the country as we could see. I need advices on the best places to stay and things to do. Please bear in mind that our stay is gonna be a pretty long one and I can't afford fancy hotels.
Thanks

posted in Istanbul - 0 replies