Old Bazaar & The Old City of Antalya
Are you ready for color, spice, souvenirs, and all things Turkish? Let me take you on my sightseeing trip to the Old City of Antalya. In this post I will carry on where I left off a few posts ago. I had woken up early on the 4th of August, 2014, to go sightseeing all by myself in Antalya. Then I had stumbled across Haidan’s Gate which I had not even known was here in Antalya – so happy that I had left the resort to go see the sights. Now, I headed for the Old Bazaar.
I think I took my first selfie, by looking through a mirror and taking a picture with me in it. I think that’s still classed as a selfie?
The Old City of Antalya
Now, I did it again with my Note 3
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The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The people in Antalya greet you warmly, and will give you a cup of tea for just coming into their store. This woman gave me a sample of tea.
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
When I went to this shop that sold delicious Turkish Delights, the man who sold them to me was so happy, he even ordered a cup of tea for me. This reminded me of India, where I have only been once when I was 14, but I remember the same thing happening there. When my mum would go in a store to buy material or Punjabi suits, the people in the store would order tea for everyone, even I would get a cup of tea at 14. I was happy about that, as I even liked my tea back then.
Turkish Delight, Antalya
Turkish Delights, Old Bazaar, Antalya
Here I am looking at the spices – these are the same spices that we use in our Indian food
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Old City, Antalya
Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
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Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
The Old Bazaar, Old City of Antalya
Then I left the Old Bazaar, and ventured around the streets of the Old City, before heading towards the bay.
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
Old City of Antalya
I really like these all these umbrellas that are all hanging over the street – so colorful!
Old City, Antalya
I couldn’t stop taking pictures, I find the Old City to be very picturesque.
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Next, I headed to the bay, and I will show you these photos next time. I hope you enjoyed seeing these pictures, and that you got a glimpse of life in the Old City of Antalya. I hope you all have a fantastic May!
Trafalgar Square, a Stone’s Throw From St. Martin-In-The-Fields
I meant to show you more pictures of Covent Garden, but before we got there on Day 5 of our trip to London in July, 2014, we went for an early morning walk from our hotel at The Trafalgar Hilton, situated right there in Trafalgar Square – so convenient! First we went across the road to Trafalgar Square to see the Blue Hen and the fountains – why not wake up to a hen in Central London? There’s nothing like it!
Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery is a very impressive art museum, and it’s located bang in the middle of Trafalgar Square.
The National Gallery At Trafalgar Square
Look at this, you get Nelson’s Column, the lions, Big Ben and London Buses all in view! Oh, how I love London!
Trafalgar Square
Here I am in Trafalgar Square in front of the Blue Hen.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square
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Trafalgar Square
What a fabulous place to take a walk, but then again – it’s nice to be walking anywhere in London.
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near Trafalgar Square
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near Trafalgar Square
Right there at Trafalgar Square is a beautiful church – St. Martin In The Fields. I’m not sure how it got this name as I don’t see any fields around – but I’m sure there’s a reason to the name. However, it is a beautiful church.
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
So, now…..we have made it across the Square to this beautiful church – St. Martin In The Fields.
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
This is not the main part of it, rather the pictures above show you what it looks like – I am including the one below because it is unusual to have such a structure – I do believe it’s the Crypt – and think it houses a cafe. Since it’s surrounded by such gorgeous architecture, I had to throw in this picture too.
The Crypt at St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
I went inside this beautiful church. How I love to go into churches!
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
St. Martin In The Fields near Trafalgar Square
I saw quite a bit of the service, and joined in singing some of the hymns. It reminded me of my childhood when we used to sing hymns at my school – as part of our assemblies – most mornings in northern England.
Anyway, I still have more pictures from Day 5, and guess what? The next day is the last day of London before we headed up north to where my family lives. Still, I have many more pictures to share. Until then.
A Trip to Covent Garden in London
Covent Garden is such a lively place, a vibrant place. There are outdoor markets, street shows, shops, restaurants, pubs, crowds and so much more. It is a great place to go out and sit at a table outside, and people watch.
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
So first, we people watched a little, then we did a little more from our table at this restaurant – The Covent Garden Kitchen (address: The Market, Covent Garden, London, WC2). It was a lovely evening, nice and warm and great to be sitting outside. I wish I had got a family picture taken, but we got pictures separately, first me, then my two oldest and then my little one.
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
Here’s some of what we ate in Covent Garden:
I love how in England, they cater for people with spicy tastes – there are so many Indians and other Asians here who love spicy food, that it is quite pleasant to find that the food is more spicier or that they will add to it to make it more appealing to those with certain tastes.
Covent Garden, London
My son likes paninis, and anything with lots of cheese, so his was not too spicy (which is fine with him)!
Covent Garden, London
This was a nice fish and risotto concoction.
Covent Garden, London
After we left the restaurant, we wandered around a little.
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
Our feet were quite tired that it was tempting to take a rickshaw, but we didn’t. We weren’t too far from our hotel in Trafalgar Square.
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden/Leicester Square, London
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
Look at this picture, it must have been the way I took the picture, but the ladies infront of the telephone booth came out blurry, and added to the effect of the “Ghost Stories” picture.
Covent Garden, London
I have been to the Hippodrome Nightclub once or twice when I used to live in London many years ago, now I see there is a Casino – not sure if there is still a nightclub.
Covent Garden/Leicester Square, London
Oh, how I wish I could take away this fish and chip shop and have it in San Diego, so that I could have it’s fish and chips when I pleased!
Covent Garden/Leicester Square, London
Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden, London
I have more pictures of Covent Garden and the surrounding area. I will share them next time. I hope you have a great week!
Diana & Dodi Memorial at Harrods
I still miss Princess Diana so much. She was a special kind of person, born to be a Princess, and fit to be the Queen. Sadly, she was taken away from us. I am so glad that Harrods has a memorial for her and Dodi, the man who was the love of her life, and who also died in that fateful car crash in Paris – on that awful day that I will never forget. Here are some pictures of the memorial.
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Dodi & Diana Memorial, Harrods, London
Just heard there was a story in the papers today on how the British public don’t want Camilla to be the next Queen. I certainly don’t want her to be the Queen either. How could she be? She grabbed away Diana’s chances at happiness, and was the third person in that marriage. If Camilla had not interfered in the marriage – I strongly believe that Diana would have been here today. That is one reason why Camilla will never be part of my Pinterest Board – The Royal Family. My Pinterest board is dedicated to Diana’s memory, and adding any pins of Camilla would not be in Diana’s interest. Diana, we will never forget you. You were, and are always the People’s Princess. May you rest in peace always.
Picture Perfect Point Loma
It’s picture perfect in Point Loma.
So come on down, and take your pics,
But hurry because this place is sure to get popular quick!
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Point Loma, San Diego
I don’t think Point Loma is that well known, but it should be. It’s very close to downtown San Diego, just look at the views of the San Diego skyline in the picture above as seen from Point Loma. It is about 5 minutes drive to the airport and to Sea World. In fact, it is one of the first places I lived in when I moved to San Diego – I wish I still lived there! I used to be able to walk to this beautiful marina area from the apartment where I lived – what could be more ideal than living within a few minutes walk of such tranquil beauty? I should never have moved! Needless to say, Chandi fell in love with Point Loma too!
Point Loma, San Diego
Point Loma, San Diego
Point Loma, San Diego
Point Loma, San Diego
Do you know there is whale watching here?
Point Loma, San Diego
Then all that fresh air will sure to make you hungry. Head over to Point Loma Seafoods for some of their spectacular fish & chips. Just look at their menu.
Point Loma Seafoods
A lot of fishing must go on right here, so it’s the perfect place to get some seafood! I for one don’t like shellfish, I can only eat regular fish. However, Chandi just was fascinated with the displays.
Point Loma Seafoods
Point Loma Seafoods
Their fish and chips were so good!
Fish & Chips at Point Loma Seafoods
It’s actually the closest to British & chips (except the chips really were fries and not chips (what we call chips in Britain are the thick chunks of potato – almost like steak fries). Well, this was still the best fish & chips I’ve had in the San Diego area – it sure was delicious!
Point Loma Seafoods
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Outdoor dining area of Point Loma Seafoods
Point Loma Seafoods, Point Loma
Walking back to my car, I saw this house and just had to take a picture – it said Point Loma on it.
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Point Loma, San Diego
Well, I hope you think Point Loma is beautiful, it really is. I think it’s a great place to stay if you are visiting San Diego as you’ll be only minutes away from the airport and San Diego, and close to the marina.
St. Paul’s Cathedral – Ever So Lovely And A Must-See!
St. Paul’s Cathedral is ever so lovely, and a must-see! It’s an impressive building located on Ludgate Hill in the City of London. It was one of the tallest buildings for many years, and the funerals of many important people have taken place here – such as Sir Winston Churchill, Lord Nelson, and Margaret Thatcher. Weddings have also taken place here, with one of the most famous weddings being that of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer on July 29th, 1981. Guess what – today on the day of my visit to St. Paul’s – it is July 26th, 2014 – it’s almost the anniversary of Diana’s wedding.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
Here are two pictures of the royal couple at St. Paul’s Cathedral as shown on my Pinterest Board: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/452048881322877823/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/452048881321260757/
You will want to get off at St. Paul’s tube station to get to St. Paul’s Cathedral (take the red line – the Central line).
St. Paul’s Tube Station, London
St. Paul’s Tube Station, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
It is really enjoyable walking around the grounds of St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
Walking down the stairs from St. Paul’s Cathedral is the replica of the Queen Anne statue, and one of the side streets near St. Paul’s.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
This is what it looks like inside the Cathedral at the entrance
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London – The Queen Anne statue
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London – The Queen Anne statue
My little Princess was ever so happy to be here
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
Paul at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
John Wesley statue at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
John Wesley statue at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
My other Princess (my oldest daughter) is also happy to be here, and is standing by Queen Anne’s statue.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
I can’t believe I haven’t shared these pictures yet! It’s already been eight months since we were there – how quickly time flies! Well, until next time – by the way, Happy Spring!
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate in the Old City of Antalya, Turkey is not to be missed. Here’s a link to read more information about this beautiful historical and magnificent gate: http://www.turkeytravelplanner.com/go/med/Antalya/sights/hadrian_gate.html It is ever so impressive, and was built in the year 130 AD. Antalya used to be a Roman city. Here are pictures:
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Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
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Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
There is a little glass walkway that you have to walk over – I believe it is because they are preserving the stones.
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Here’s me in Antalya at Hadrian’s Gate
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya, Turkey
Well, monuments are worth seeing, no matter where they are in the world, and this one is just as beautiful, just as significant and historical as any other worthwhile monument. I hope Hadrian’s Gate stays intact for a really long time, if not for ever. I highly recommend that you go visit Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya.
Out And About On The Way And In Old City, Antalya
My kind of holiday is not actually just a beach and swimming pool type of holiday (vacation). I am more of a sight-seer. I love seeing the sights, and being a tourist. I can’t just sit by the pool all day.
I wanted to go and see something other than the grounds of the Delphin Imperial in Lara Beach, l actually wanted to see Antalya; see Turkey – not just swimming pools and the beach within metres of where we were staying. That wasn’t adventurous enough for me.
Sadly, nobody else in my family (and there were at least 13 of us) wanted to see anything else of Turkey during this trip. I asked the front desk at the Delphin Imperial about what there was to see in Antalya, and they told me they recommended that I see the Old City which is about 20 minutes away from the resort. Apparently, there were public buses that went from right outside the hotel and were really cheap – perhaps just about 2 Turkish lira. Another option was getting a taxi. A third option that I went for was taking the hotel’s private bus – used exclusively for it’s guests and this was a free bus. Well, it didn’t take rocket science to figure out which option was the best. After all, a public bus could be questionable, after all – what if I missed my stop? Would anyone be able to help me, or understand me? A taxi could also be problematic. What if I got a questionable driver, who might take advantage of a woman traveling by herself? I am a little worried about these things these days. Once upon a time, when I was a lot younger, and before I had kids, I was ever so daring – I hitch-hiked around Australia – on my own, and then part of the time with a friend. However, a private bus provided by the hotel – that was just for guests – seemed to be safe, and I couldn’t have made a better choice. I had to reserve a seat, but it didn’t cost me anything. My bus was going to leave at 9:20 am the next morning – I believe it was August 4th, 2014 and I should make sure that I got on the bus at least ten minutes early. When I told my family that I was going to travel by myself – they didn’t stop me – they know that I am a little stubborn, and will do what I want to do to some extent.
Next morning, I had my breakfast, and got on the bus. It was adventure time!
Here are some pictures taken along the way. By the way, the Old City is also known as Old Town too.
close by to Lara Beach, Antalya
This picture shows the sister-property of the Delphin Imperial – the Delphin Diva.
close by to Lara Beach, Antalya
Now, 20 minutes later, I have arrived. I love all the vibrant colors, and feel ever so happy and alive! I feel freedom – I don’t know why. This is what I love – wandering around, seeing things and taking pictures.
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Isn’t the scene below of the frogs incredible?
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Look at how old this building appears to be.
Old City, Antalya
I just had to take pictures of McDonald’s, and no, I didn’t go in to order anything.
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
I love to see buildings like this – after all this is Turkey, and I enjoy looking at architecture.
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
Old City, Antalya
I had no idea that Hadrian’s Gate was here in the Old City. I know I’ve heard of it before – it’s definitely famous, and here it is in the city only 9 miles away from Delphin Imperial, and I almost didn’t see it – if I hadn’t been adventurous. See what you can miss, if you don’t take the plunge and wander about?
Old City, Antalya
In my next post, I will show you more of Hadrian’s Gate, and more of the Old City of Antalya.
The Delphin Imperial, Antalya, Turkey
The Delphin Imperial is too nice to put off any longer. I can only show you a few pictures of this resort in this post though. Of course, I have many more to share and will probably do quite a few posts on my trip to Antalya, Turkey which is where the Delphin Imperial is located. If you want an all-inclusive resort, and want to try something in this part of Europe, do give this resort a try.
Here’s a few pictures until next time, and all I can say is:
Ooh, the building!
The Delphin Imperial, Antalya
Ooh, the outside, and the pools!
Ooh, the lobby!
Ooh, the Turkish Delight!
Ooh, the rooms!
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Ooh, the desserts in the cafe!
The Delphin Imperial, Antalya
Ooh, the landscape!
The Delphin Imperial, Antalya
Did I tell you that this is a first class resort, that can cost you up to $4,600 for a family of four if you go in July or August, and sometimes even more. Of course, if you go during off-peak times, it might be less expensive. Well, until next time!
A Bit Of London From The South Bank with St. Paul’s Cathedral And More
I hope you all had a fabulous Christmas. I’m so sad that it’s already gone by, I wish it was always Christmas – it certainly is my favorite time of the year. If there was one place that I really wanted to be this Christmas – it was in London. London is spectacular when lit up for the most wonderful time of the year.
Anyway, I need to share more pictures with you. These pictures are still from my third day in London during my recent trip in July of 2014. When we left the London Eye, we were in the South Bank area and just look at this double decker bus. Fancy giving yogurt that name though – I am surprised! That name, not mentioning names has quite a colorful meaning.
Snog Frozen Yogurt Bus, South Bank, London
This is Charing Cross Station in the background
Charing Cross Station from the South Bank, London
This beautiful building reminds me of a castle or palace
Beautiful Palace as seen from the South Bank, London
That’s me in the South Bank area with Big Ben behind me. Oh, how I wish I was back there right now!
South Bank of London
Spectacular London with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from the South Bank, London
Here’s another mini London Eye – actually it’s just a kid’s ride – some kind of swings. It looks nice though, doesn’t it?
Forgot what this building is called, that’s exactly why I should have written my posts as soon as I came back, but who has the time? If you know, pray do tell.
London as seen from the South Bank
Well, this whole area near the South Bank, including the bus in the first picture is ever so colorful!
Wow, doesn’t this look nice? It might be a bit dark though.
London in the glow of sunset
Now, you will get treated to the same picture with the Snog Bus in sight
London in the glow of sunset
Me and my three kids with the River Thames behind us basking in the sunset of a London evening
Me and my kids in London
Oh, how majestic is St. Paul’s Cathedral – this place is so special. It’s where Princess Diana got married to Prince Charles.
St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
St. Paul’s again
St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
Either it turned dark quickly or I have been watching this man a while, or perhaps it was just my camera that is somehow curiously taking pictures with different lighting.
St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
Here’s St. Paul’s again basking in the glow of London as seen from the South Bank
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St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
St. Paul’s yet again. I guess you know that I like St. Paul’s?
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St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
Seems like someone else likes it too as he’s taking a picture of it or is he looking the other way? If so, I know there’s good views that way too.
St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
More of the London skyline
London skyline
London skyline
St. Paul’s Cathedral seen from the South Bank
This is the building I showed you above, but here it is glowing in the London evening
Now it’s glowing less, but basking in the sunset
London evening
London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
I’m not sure what this building is either, but just feel compelled to share with you how lovely London looks in the evening.
London in the evening
This picture is quite blurry, but I’ll throw it in anyhow.
Southbank, by the River Thames
Anyway, I hope you liked my evening pictures of London. I don’t have a great camera that takes brilliant evening pictures, but still – I think they’re okay. Have a fabulous week ahead, and Happy New Year to you all!
luchanik 