Topkapi Palace: The Luxurious Lives of the Sultans

3 April 20233 May 2025

Once the center of the Roman Empire, Istanbul is the only country that occupies two continents, Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus River. Originally named after Emperor Constantine, this multicultural city is packed with historical attractions and interesting architecture. Surrounding the Hippodrome are the city’s top places of interest which includes the Topkapi Palace.

After Rome’s fall to the Ottoman Empire, the Sultans converted Christian churches into Islamic mosques and built a palace in the center of the city. Surrounded by the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, once the home of the Sultans, is open for visitors to give insight into the luxurious and private lives of Istanbul’s former rulers.

For over 400 years, the Sultans lived in the Palace until moving into the Dolmabahce Palace in the Besiktas district of Istanbul. By 1909, this palatial estate was completely abandoned and later restored to become a museum in 1924.

As we entered the Topkapi Palace through the Imperial Gate, we approached the Ahmet III fountain. This beautiful water feature is decorated with locally-made tiles, extravagant mosaics and Islamic calligraphy writing.

The Topkapi Palace and gardens are located near the Palace district of Istanbul and the views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn are breathtaking.

The courtyard inside of the Imperial Gate is expansive and was designated an area of green space reserved for public officials and civil servants. Also known as the “Courtyard of the Janissaries” the open grounds were congregating spaces for the royal soldiers. These soldiers, elaborately decorated in scarlet, were known for their unique style of music. Their compositions were said to have influenced European classical musicians such as Beethoven and Mozart.

Passing through the first courtyard, our guide pointed out a terra cotta building on the compound which was identified as the only Christian church on the property, the Hagia Irene. The original church was thought to have been built by Roman Emperor, Constantine. It is only one of few Christian churches that has not been converted into a Muslim mosque.

Visitors entering the palace would be required to pass through the Gate of Salutations. Also known as the Middle Gate, this imposing structure was built when the palace was first established in the 15^th century. Resembling a medieval fortress gate, the towers on each side housed the Head Gatekeeper who guarded the entrance. Above the door is an Arabic inscription from the Koran. Everyone, with the exception of the Sultan, would be required to dismount their horse before entering this gate.

Above the entrance to The Gate of Salutations is the imperial signature (tugra) of Sultan Mahmut II and a passage from the Koran written in Arabic calligraphy. The Turkish flag has been raised in the center above the entranceway, leading to the Second Court where the palace museum is located.

A large tower to the right is the Divan Tower, which was once the most important center of government in Europe. Across from the Divan Tower is the Imperial Harem Entrance, which was the quarters for the sultan’s mother, his wives and concubines as well as his children and servants. Four hundred rooms make up the harem, which requires an additional fee to enter. Approximately twenty of these rooms are available to tour.

The Divan Tower is exquisitely designed with colorful tiles and features accented in gold overlay. There were many meeting rooms, but one of the most important spaces was that of the Grand Vizier, the prime minister. The Sultan was known to eavesdrop on the meetings of the Grand Vizier through a window with a metal grill, known as the “Eye”.

Along the perimeter of the courtyard is the kitchen. Noticeable by its tall chimneys, this building is located in the Second Courtyard on the right, facing the Gate of Felicity. The kitchen offers three different exhibits: the Chinese Porcelain Collection, the Dessert Kitchen as well as the kitchen Dormitory which houses the silverware and the European porcelain. We were offered the opportunity to explore the three sections of the kitchen which included the location where the food was cooked, the halva kitchen and the dormitories which housed the cooking staff.

The Gate of Felicity, also known as the “Gate of the White Eunuchs”, provided entrance into the third courtyard, which was the residential areas of the palace. Entrance through the Felicity Gate required the permission of the Sultan. If he was not residing at the palace, this area was off limits.

The third courtyard is surrounded by the treasury that displays some of the most amazing riches from the Sultan’s collection. The first room showcases the imperial thrones and the divans. The second room contains jade objects and jewels. The third room houses treasures from the 16^th century, and the 19^th century candlesticks which adorned the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed. The fourth room is probably the most interesting with its Emerald Dagger and the 86-carat pearl-shaped diamond.

In the Fourth Court is located the Room of Circumcision.

A nearby café sells Turkish coffee and the popular Apple Tea while providing gorgeous views of the Bosphorus River.

The Baghdad Pavilion was built to commemorate the conquest of Murad IV in 1636. Made of marble, colorful tiles and intricate inlay, the inside of this kiosk is an example of an ideal Ottoman space and classical palace architecture.

The Topkapi compound is an overwhelming system of open courtyards and hundreds of rooms and chambers. With only limited time to explore the Palace, it would take hours to fully experience the beauty and culture of this amazing museum. It was my first opportunity to explore the architecture of the Ottoman Empire and I am beyond ecstatic to see more examples of Turkish design.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul? What did you find most fascinating? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience at the Topkapi Palace! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Topkapi Palace
Cankurtaran Mh.,
34122, Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 512 04 80

Admission Fee: The museum ticket is 60 Turkish Lira. There is an additional fee in the amount of 35 Turkish Lira to visit the harem and 30 Turkish Lira for the Hagia Irene.
Hours: The museum, harem and Hagia Irene is open from 9AM to 4:45 PM and the last entrance to the museum is 4:00PM between October 30 – April 15. The museum, harem and Hagia Irene is open from 9AM to 6:45PM and the last entrance to the museum is at 6PM between April 15 – October 30. Note that the hours of operation may change during religious holidays.
Amenities: Museum, café, restaurant, audio guide for rent, bookstore
Scenic View: The restaurant has spectacular views of the Bosporus River
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Photographs inside of the exhibition halls are not permitted. Strollers are also not permitted into the museum sections. Appropriate dress is required for the Sacred Relics Department: no shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops or strapless clothing.

Where to Stay:

Fer Hotel
Mollafenari Mahallesi
Turbedar Sk. No. 12
34120 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 50 80

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub & Restaurant
Alemdar Mh., Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 520 09 90

We loved sitting in the alleyway at red and white checked clothed tables. We ordered Efes beer and appetizers which included hummus, tzatziki sauce, pita bread and spring rolls. Ask your server to let you go up the small elevator for an amazing view of the Blue Mosque!

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

A Gate in the Topkapi Palace

A Beautiful Courtyard at the Topkapi Palace

The Beautiful Architecture of The Divan

The Ornate Interior of the Divan

Seeking Holy Wisdom in Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia

27 March 202325 May 2025

My first visit to Istanbul was on a summer girl’s trip. Our plans were to start out in Istanbul, Turkey, explore the beautiful coast and sail to a few of the nearby Greek islands. With only a couple of days in the capitol city, I was disappointed that we had such little time to visit more of Istanbul’s historical sites. I remember how fascinated I was to see the mosques, the Hippodrome and the Bosporus River all the while watching the city celebrate the Ramadan holiday.

A couple of years later, I returned to Istanbul on a Footsteps of Paul cruise and I was thrilled to be back for two full days in the city. Happy to visit the Blue Mosque and the Spice Market, our first stop was the Hagia Sophia.

The Hagia Sophia (eye-ah soh-fee-yah) has been described as one of the greatest sites of worship for both Christians and Muslims. Initially built by Emperor Constantine in 537AD as a Christian church, the site was later converted into a mosque when Islam became the country’s central religion. I imagine all of the thousands of Christians arriving to the Hagia Sophia to worship in such a beautiful place. Considered one of Istanbul’s most impressive attractions, nearly three and a half million guests visit this historical site which is now an educational museum.

Upon entering, all guests are required to remove their shoes and the women must cover their hair. We approached the Hagia Sophia through the vestibule on the western side where we were then led into the open expanse of the former church. The central bronze doors were brought to the site from an ancient temple in Antioch. Known as the Emperor’s entrance on special occasions, the spectacular mosaics decorated the transom dating over 1500 years to the time of Justinian.

Measuring nearly 250 feet long, 230 feet wide and towering 90 feet high, this space is exceptionally large. Its architecture is influenced by both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. An outer narthex leads into the inner narthex (a porch area of the church) and finally reaches the nave in the center, where the congregation would have met.

The half domes display colorful mosaics of Mary holding the infant Jesus which were later concealed when the church became a mosque. Once the facility became a museum, the images were discovered during a restoration project and ongoing renovations continue to uncover extraordinary artwork.

The impressive dome is held up by its walls and arches that strategically distribute the weight of the dome to create a pendentive. Reaching a height of 185 feet and measuring 100 feet across in diameter, there are 40 ribs made from bricks of clay imported from the Greek island of Rhodes.

When the Hagia Sophia was built, it was constructed with the finest materials that were imported from all over the ancient world. The large green column was removed from the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus as a spoil of conquest (spolia). The two alabaster urns are from the Hellenistic Era of Pergamon and the purple columns behind each urn are older than the Hagia Sophia itself.

The panel on the walls and the inlay on the floor are a collection of purple porphery from Egypt, green stone from Thessaly, black stone from the Bosporus, yellow stone from Syria, white stone from Cappadoccia and golden stone from Libya. The green marble circle, called the Omphalion, was the spot where the emperors were crowned.

Within the Hagia Sophia are a few Muslim elements that remain on display. The mirhab, known as the prayer niche, oriented the Muslim’s direction so that he could position himself to pray towards Mecca.

The Mimbar (meem-behr) is the raised pulpit in a mosque where the imam would stand halfway up the stairs to deliver his sermon.

The upper galleries with their arched open spaces are accessible by a ramp near the Narthax. This second level was designated for women who came to the mosque to worship and we learned from our guide that there are beautiful mosaics on display.

When the church became a mosque, many of the mosaics and frescoes depicting people were covered as required by the Islam religion. While the building was undergoing restoration, seraphims in the upper corners were recently unveiled. It was estimated that they had been painted in the 14^th century AD.

There are a total of eight medallions suspended from the arches overheard. The Arabic writing documents the names of leading Muslim figures, as images of people were forbidden to be displayed in a mosque.

As I exited the Hagia Sophia, I noticed the reflection of the Donation Mosaic in the mirror above. The mosaic is on the opposite side of the wall where Mary is holding Jesus in her lap. Jesus makes the sign of the trinity with his three fingers of his right hand and holds the Gospels of the Bible in his right hand. Two men stand beside the Virgin Mary and Jesus, with arms outstretched offering them gifts. On the right is Constantine presenting them a model of the city of Constantinople and on the left is Justinian gifting them the Hagia Sophia, Our guide pointed out that the Hagia Sophia was painted as it would have looked when it was a church without the minorets and a cross at the top of its dome. This 11^th century mosaic dates back to the reign of Basil II, an emperor of the Byzantine Empire.

What amazed me about the Hagia Sophia was seeing the combination of Christianity and Islam in one location. I was also intrigued by the recent findings and the uncovering of Christian artwork that had been hidden for so many years. Researchers are optimistic that they may find more of these extraordinary treasures and It will be interesting to learn what they will discover.

What was your experience like at the Hagia Sophia? What were some of the aspects of the museum that interested you? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Hagia Sophia
Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi
Ayasofya Meydani
34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 17 50

Admission Fee: 60 Turkish Lira
Hours: The museum is open April 15 – October 31 from 9AM to 7PM, with the last entry at 6PM; November 1 – April 15 from 9AM to 5PM, with the last entry at 4PM. They are closed on Mondays. Last tickets are sold an hour before closing.
Amenities: Audio guide (30 TL) can be accessed at the museum’s entrance provided in the following languages: Turkish, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Arabic, Japanese, Persian, Greek, Russian and Korean
Scenic View: Splendid views of the museum from the upstairs gallery
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet District across from the Blue Mosque. Arrive early in the day as crowds to purchase tickets can be long. Dress appropriately as you may be turned away for not covering your knees and shoulders. In addition, there are several ways to purchase tickets ahead of time, which will allow you to skip the ticket queue. According to tradition, if you “turn your thumb” in the historical pillar, all of your wishes will be granted. Gil is the name of the resident cat who lives within the museum. Private tours can also be purchased at the door. Don’t forget to visit the upstairs gallery for additional displays.

Where to Stay:

Fer Hotel
Mollafenari Mahallesi
Turbedar Sk. No. 12
34120 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 50 80

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub & Restaurant
Alemdar Mh., Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 520 09 90

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Tarihi Osmanli Macunu (Traditional Ottoman Candy): Made of five different flavors of thick taffy spiraled deftly around a stick and then sprinkled with fresh lemon juice, creating a delicious and savory lollipop.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

A Seraphim that was uncovered in 2010

The Dome, the Seraphim, the Medallions and the Scaffolding

Ramadan in Istanbul, Our First Day in Photos

20 March 20233 May 2025

Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey, Ramadan 2013

A beautiful fountain as we exited the Istanbul airport

Our first look at the Bosporus River

Roman Ruins throughout Istanbul

Another Glimpse of the Bosporus River

Downtown Istanbul

The Egyptian Obelisk at the Hippodrome

Ramadan Celebration

The Blue Mosque

The View of the Blue Mosque from Cozy’s Restaurant

Views of the Bosporus from Cozy’s Restaurant

More River Views from Cozy’s

Ramadan Celebration

Efes Beer

Turkish Flag

Children Playing in the Fountain

Interesting Trees in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Mosque of Eyup Sultan

Sultanahmet, Hippodrome, Inner Courtyard, Istanbul

Amazing Istanbul

Turkish Taffy

Ramadan Chestnuts

Hagia Sophia

The Streets of Istanbul

My Fascination with Hanging Laundry

Roadside Bakery

An Entertainment Center for Dining, Dancing and Shopping

More of Downtown Istanbul

Turkish Guys Posing for Photos

Homes Along the Bosporus

More Roman Ruins

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in Istanbul

Lighthouse along the Bosporus

The Bridge at Night

At Timur’s in Istanbul

Out on the Town in Istanbul

Our Gracious Host, Timur

Departing Newark to Istanbul

What to See and What to Do:

Contact a Local Tour Guide to take you around the city!

Where to Stay:

Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel Istanbul
Alemdar, Ticarethane Sk. No. 10
Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 32 00

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub and Restaurant
Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: +90 212 520 09 90

Tip: Take the elevator up to the rooftop for spectacular views of the Blue Mosque and surrounding area.

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.
Turkish Taffy: similar to our saltwater taffy, this Turkish favorite is softer, stickier and vibrant in color, provided in a variety of flavors

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

A Girl’s Trip to Turkey and Greece: Arriving in Istanbul

13 March 20233 May 2025

It was June and my best friend, Melissa was trying to put together a girl’s trip to Turkey and Greece. She had spent last summer there and wanted to bring a group of us to experience these amazing countries with the friends she had made there.

At the last minute, I learned that I would have to leave early because of an FDA audit, but I was so excited to meet up with our friends, old and new, for an opportunity of a lifetime.

From left to right: Shawna, Amye, Melissa, Trish, Me and Maria

Since each of us lived in different states, we met together in Newark enjoying drinks and snacks at the United Club’s lounge. Most of us had arrived early, so it was a long day of waiting but so much fun catching up and getting to know each other.

We decided to have dinner at the airport before our flight and agreed upon Vino Volo.

Our flight was scheduled for an evening departure the flight but was continuously delayed until we learned that the pilot bringing in the flight had too many hours and therefore, the Istanbul flight was cancelled.

We found a local hotel for the evening and would be back the next day in hopes of catching the next flight out.

We woke early the next morning only to learn that there had been a shooting at the hotel so we were sequestered in the lobby until they could finish their investigation. About an hour later, we called a taxi and began our quest for reaching Istanbul the next day.

We were able to board a flight to Frankfurt instead of the direct flight we had attempted the night before. At least we would be closer to our destination and have more opportunities in the event there were more flight cancellations.

Our flight from Frankfurt to Istanbul was a couple of hours away, so we found a corner to drop our bags and wait while Melissa took care of all of the details. We had fun listening to music from Bruno Mars, Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams, which became our trip’s theme songs.

As the time approached to check in, It was down to the wire. We were worried that we would be split up so that some of us could make the trip and the rest would follow. Luckily, they had just enough seats for all of us and we were becoming more excited about our arrival into Turkey.

I had the perfect seat to watch us land into Istanbul. The sun was shining and we could see the beautiful city and the Bosporus.

As soon as we had arrived, Melissa’s friend Timur had met us at the airport. He had arranged a couple of cars to pick us up, provide a driving tour of the city. We had a few minutes to stretch out while we were in the heart of Istanbul and I couldn’t get enough of this amazing city.

After strolling around for a couple of hours, we continued our carpool tour escaping near accidents with wild drivers and narrow tunnels. The sound of car horns is prohibited adding to the charm of the Old Town and its cobblestone streets.

The traffic was in full force as we had arrived during the Muslim holiday of Ramadan. Locals filled the streets and vendors were selling their Turkish Taffy (Ottoman candy) and trinkets. Restaurants were open as usual but hardly filled due to the fasting that is required of the Muslims during this time. We found a cute little cafe for lunch, ordered pita bread with hummus and drank the local beer.

Timur was hosting a welcoming party so we decided to go back to his extravagant house along the Bosporus. Timur is an art dealer and has done exceptionally well in the city. He was so happy to host us, enjoy some time at his home and then go out on the town for the evening. We were excited to have the opportunity to spend time with him and learn more about the customs of Istanbul and make plans for our afternoon in Istanbul the next day.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Istanbul? Were you on a guided trip or had the pleasure of meeting one of the locals to take you around? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my first-ever visit to Istanbul and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Contact a Local Tour Guide to take you around the city!

Where to Stay:

Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel Istanbul
Alemdar, Ticarethane Sk. No. 10
Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 32 00

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub and Restaurant
Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: +90 212 520 09 90

Tip: Take the elevator up to the rooftop for spectacular views of the Blue Mosque and surrounding area.

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

A Walking Tour of the Victoria and Albert Harbor

4 August 202222 September 2024

Filled with adrenaline from having swam with the Great Whites at Gansbaai, I was excited to explore the scenic coast of Cape Town before hopping a plane for Johannesburg. With a couple of days ahead of me, I planned to explore the coast, sample the local wines and study the fascinating life of Nelson Mandela.

Grabbing my backpack, I exited the Protea Hotel in Sea Point and began my forty-five minute trek towards the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Known as the oldest working harbor in the Southern Hemisphere, this lively neighborhood is where I will be catching the jetty over to Robben Island in the afternoon.

Navigating through one of the most affluent suburbs of Cape Town, I quickly reached the coast. I had arrived in August, the start of South Africa’s winter, greeted with mild temperatures and overcast skies. The colorful high rises were a welcome site against the gray backdrop and foggy start of my day.

Mounds of seaweed covered the manicured beaches as small whitecaps made their way towards the water’s edge. The sun was rising and casting a glow on the concrete landscape where locals slowly filled the promenade. The briny smell of the sea continued to grow stronger as warmer temperatures began to rise. My walk continued northeast away from Sea Point towards indigenous gardens, passing the Green Point Lighthouse with a glimpse of the Cape Town Stadium.

Gazing toward the barren mountains in the distance, the palm tree-lined avenue brought me closer to the V&A Waterfront. Posted signs served as a reminder of Cape Town’s water shortage which was at its peak during my visit.

Within minutes, the landscape grew more beautiful with gardens of purple salvia and elegantly laid brick stretching for miles. Tall, clusters of palm trees rose from the rocky cliffs sloping down towards the bay. The V&A Waterfront, a part of Cape Town’s Big 6, includes the Table Mountain Cableway, Kirstensbosch Gardens, Robben Island, Cape Point and Constantia Vineyards.

In the midst of the spectacular countryside was built a beautiful tribute to Queen Victoria and her son Prince Alfred, known by locals as the V&A Waterfront. The venue has become one of South Africa’s most visited historical and cultural destinations.

From the second story of the waterfront’s shopping plaza I noticed the boats moored in South Africa’s oldest working harbor, over 450 shops and restaurants lining the streets and a Ferris wheel offering spectacular views of Signal Hill. I had purchased a ticket to visit Robben Island and would return to the dock after lunch to board the Robben Island jetty.

Too early for lunch, I strolled the harbor where boats were tied up alongside the dock bringing in the catch of the day and taking out passengers for tours of the coast. Many of the stores and restaurants would soon open, so I strolled the quiet site and found The Harbor House where I decided to dine for lunch.

Starting out with a local Chenin Blanc from Beaumont Wines, I scanned over the menu in hopes of finding a local seafood dish or a platter of sushi for lunch. The wine was crisp with the flavors of tart apples and melon, chilled perfectly. Sitting on the second level of the restaurant, the sun was struggling to push its way past the cloudy sky, but its warmth was pressing in.

With each sip, I weighed my options and finally decided on the Tuna Rainbow Roll and Ultimate Rainbow Roll. Decadent and full of flavor, I slowly enjoyed each bite as I finished my glass of wine. The weight staff were exceptional and the restaurant views, spectacular.

As I strolled the waterfront with its colorful monuments and museums, I heard the bark of a Cape Fur Seal. Following the sound, I came upon this beautiful mammal tucked in a concrete corner finding a place to rest near the first stop on my self-guided tour, Cape Town’s Clock Tower.

Built in 1882, the Victorian-Gothic Clock Tower was once the office of the Port Captain, who managed the schedule of ships coming in and out of the docks. The clock tower, originally painted yellow, is the oldest building along the waterfront. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the red-and-gray tower was refurbished in 1997 and is the home to several Cape Fur Seals.

Located at the base of the Swing Bridge, the African Trading Port is a shop focused on selling local African Art to include sculptures, ceramics, pottery and artifacts. Drawing works from all over the country, this workshop first opened in Zimbabwe in 1978 with additional shops such as the one in Cape Town, opening in 2001.

Looking out across the port, the location where I am standing is Alfred Basin, where the original docks were built at the port of Cape Town. In the distance are the picturesque Signal Hill and Table Mountain.

One of my favorite experiences was finding the beautifully painted rhinos placed along the waterfront, part of a program to bring awareness to these endangered species. Poachers have been hunting the rhinoceros for their tusks, bringing about their near extinction since the 1950s. TRAC, which stands for “The Rhinos are Coming” is raising money to stop this practice throughout Africa. From February 1^st to March 31^st of 2017, one hundred decorated rhinos were strategically placed throughout Cape Town as an outdoor art exhibit, which remained on display.

The V&A Market is now home to the former Pumphouse. A vibrant marketplace with over forty vendors offering fresh food and produce as well as gourmet meals and local beer and wine. I couldn’t resist stopping by The Knysna Oyster Company for a half a dozen oysters on the half shell.

A few steps from the market is Nobel Square, another impressive artistic installation, which opened in December of 2005. The four statues represent Albert Lutuli, Desmond Tutu, F. W. de Klerk and Nelson Mandela, four of the country’s Nobel Peace Prize winners.

Checking my watch, I realized the ferry would soon be leaving for Robben Island. Eager to explore the history of this island prison, I was also curious to learn more about Nelson Mandela’s experience here as a political prisoner.

Have you visited the Victoria and Albert’s Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa? What was your favorite part of your visit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Cape Town and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Where to Stay;

Where to Eat:

What to Eat:

What to Read:

Photo Guide to Capetown:

From Laid-Back to Energetic, Exploring the Cities of Lovina and Kuta in Bali

1 April 202222 September 2024

It was my last morning in Lovina and I was traveling south to explore the popular tourist city of Kuta. I said goodbye to the beach, joined the Sunarsas as we caravanned our way for a two and a half hour journey.

Passing through the town of Batur, we could see the Ulun Danu Temple with its numerous statues. Dedicated to the goddess of rivers and lakes, Dewi Danu, it is the second most important temple in Bali. Pura Gunung Menak is set in the beautiful region of Kintamani at the base of Mount Batur and is one of Bali’s nine directional temples. The devastating eruption of Mount Batur left the local villagers to rebuild their town yet miraculously its most important shrine survived.

The nine temples on the complex are categorized by each god and its purpose. For example, Pura Taman Sari represents all matters relating to agriculture while Pura Sampian Wangi is dedicated to the making of various crafts. The Balinese Hindus leave offerings at the designated temples and pray for blessings depending on their specific needs. Throughout the temples, there are statues of monkeys, representing Hanuman, a heroic god of Hindu legend. His likeness represents bravery, strength and perseverance, a symbol of loyalty and selflessness.

The spectacular scenic view from the temple overlooks Lake Batur and the mountain. The weather was a bit overcast, but the vantage point from here on a sunny day is nothing less than spectacular.

I was a little disappointed that I could not see the top of Mount Batur because of the clouds. A trek to the top to view the sunrise is a popular excursion for many tourists. We gathered back into the car for the remainder of our drive, deciding to make a stop in the artistic town of Ubud to take in the view of its famous rice terraces in the heart of the city.

The drive seemed to fly by as we entered the town of Ubud. We found a parking spot close to the rice fields and hurriedly walked towards the restaurant where Wayan had made plans to meet some friends for lunch. This little artist community is abundant with Balinese restaurants and we planned to browse the assorted clothing and art shops after our meal.

Having finished my order of delicious bakso soup and a side of rice, the Sunarsas and I walked around the corner to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace. This location was made popular by the film Eat, Pray, Love. I am fascinated by the vivid green layers of rice plants that create a set of stairs on the side of the hill. The local owner of the terraces offered us coconut milk from his trees and encouraged us to buy some of the artwork and souvenirs from the nearby shops.

The view from the street was surreal as we descended a set of stairs taking us closer into the fields. Wayan’s children decided to take the walkway down so that I could take their photos. Having a few minutes for visiting the shops, it was finally time for our departure.

The character and charm of Ubud can be seen in its amazing architecture. Walking back to the car, we strolled through the stone pagodas and sacred buildings. The subdued colors seem to blend in with the earthy surroundings as tourists made their way into boutiques and coffee shops for a moment to relax. I love the laid back atmosphere of Ubud, but I am looking forward to checking out the upbeat crowds of the south before flying back to the United States.

What type of vacation do you prefer? A relaxed, laid back journey or a fast-paced energetic adventure? I would love to hear about your perfect idea of a vacation if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my fabulous trip to Bali! Wishing you many Happy Travels of your own!

What to See and What to Do:

Ulun Danu Baratan Temple
Jalan Bedugul, Singaraja, Candikuning
Baturiti, Kabupaten, Tabanan, Bali, 82191 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 368 2033050

Updated Information since my last visit in January 2015!

Admission Fee: Adult: 50,000 IDR (Indonesian Rupiahs); Children: 25,000 IDR. There is an additional charge for parking: Motorbike (2,000 IDR), Private car (5,000 IDR), Bus (10,000 IDR). There may be additional fees for activities associated with the temple and gardens. At the time of this update, the exchange rate was 15,000 IDR to the US dollar.
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 6PM
Amenities: Access to the temple grounds, lake activities to include fishing, speed boating, traditional Jukung boating and pedal boats. There are additional opportunities to have your photo taken with a local wild animal, shop for gifts and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the temple and Lake Bratan
Length of Time to Spend Here: Approximately 2 -3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Lake Bratan is about an hour and 30 minutes from the popular tourist areas of south Bali. Bring a change of clothes for participating in the water activities. Dress appropriately for the temple ensuring that your shoulders and knees are covered. Note that some of the areas may be closed to accommodate local prayers or religious ceremonies.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours
Amenities: Nearby restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafes.
Scenic View: Spectacular views the terraced rice farms
Length of Time to Spend Here: Less than 1 hour to see the rice fields and additional time set aside for shopping and dining
Tips for Your Visit: The rice terraces are located about 15 minutes outside of Ubud. For a tour guide, contact Ubud Adventures at www.ubudadventures.com or by email at admin@ubudadventures.com for more information.

Where to Stay:

Puri Sebali Resort (affordable)
Jalan Raya Sebali
Banjar Sebali, Desa Keliki
80571, Ubud Indonesia
Telephone: + 62 81 808 889 028

Where to Eat:

Bridges Bali
Campuhan Bridge
Jalan Campuhan
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 970095

Traditional Balinese style food overlooking the Campuhan River.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Artwork in Bali

A Jungle Atmosphere on the Streets

The Bali Zoo, A Journey Through Photos

25 March 202222 September 2024

Trying to decide what I wanted to do while in Kuta, I learned that I could interact with some of the animals at the Bali Zoo. Hiring an amazing driver for the day, he suggested that we start here and then I could decide if I wanted to attend the Safari Park as well.

The Bali Zoo attracts visitors from all over the world. I was looking forward to seeing some of the unique animals that I may not have a chance to see back home. Here is a photographic account of some of the animals I enjoyed meeting at The Bali Zoo.

Entering the zoo, I was welcomed by white parrots and an opportunity to have my photo taken with them. I quickly made my way towards the lions when I noticed the zookeepers were preparing to feed them.

With raw chickens tethering from a hoisted line, these lions were going to have to work for their lunch.

Once the lions had eaten, the lioness took a relaxing break from the action by resting on the rock.

This tiger had a large area to roam and was pacing back and forth in preparation of eating his afternoon meal.

The Australian wallabies were preparing for their nap while basking in the afternoon sun.

Can you believe the tongue on that sun bear? They use it to extract honey from bee nests.

The orangutan gave us quite a show. He paced back and forth, posing for the cameras.

After taking a ride on this beautiful beast, I fed Budi sugarcane sticks in preparation for his next customer.

While grabbing a bite to eat at the Elephant View Restaurant, I was entertained by the bathing elephants.

I had the opportunity to wrap a bearcat around my neck.

I was a little less excited to hold the crocodile as I watched him become a bit fidgety with the person holding him before me. Was happy to give him back before I lost any body parts!

Look at the paws on this tiger cub! We could have our photo taken with him but was instructed not to touch him. So beautiful!

Indonesia’s native kumodo dragon. This beast could eat a human!

Additional Zoo Photos

The beautiful zoo grounds

Elephant Souvenirs

Majestic Tiger

Frisky Crocodile

The Tiger and White Tiger

The Bali Zoo is in the south of Bali in Gianyar about an hour’s drive from Kuta. They are open from 9AM to 6PM and offer several different packages, elephant rides, animal handling and feeding. There is a night time admission as one of the packages that Bali Zoo offers. Admission price is $28 US for adults and $18 US for children. There are additional fees for the elephant rides and animal feedings. For more information about the zoo, visit their website at http://www.bali-zoo.com/en.

Zoos are wonderful attractions to visit in other countries as well as the United States! Do you have a favorite zoo experience? I would love to hear about it, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bali Zoo
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Admission Fee: $28 US for adults and $18 US for children
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Animal Interactions, Breakfast with the Orangutan, Elephant Expedition, Dinner with the Great Elephant, Jungle Dinner, Event Rental, Villas and Spa, Photography, Gift Shop, VIP Experience, Restaurants (Wantilan, Wana Lounge and Bar, Gayo Restaurant, Snack Shack)
Scenic View: Spectacular views of local, exotic animals
Length of Time to Visit: Over 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The traffic in Kuta can be brutal in the morning, so leave early. When the park is busy, expect long lines for the buffet.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Bali Zoo Gayo Restaurant
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Lunch Buffet from 12PM to 2PM.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Bali, Indonesia: Hotel Nirwana and Lovina Beach’s Charm

18 March 202222 September 2024

Although I enjoyed my stay at the Aditya Beach Resort, I wanted to be closer to the town’s center, to interact with the locals and try a restaurant or two. I found a room at the Nirwana Water Garden Hotel, located on the main strip, which was the perfect location for exploring this charming little village.

As soon as I walked onto the resort, I could see a restaurant on the right, the registration desk in front of me and the pool and bungalows to my left. The property is beautifully decorated and I was thrilled to spend a couple of nights here.

I checked into my room where I was greeted by the neighborhood rabbit that lives on the grounds. I stored my belongings and was ready to find a restaurant for dinner and a couple of beers. I passed the pool and was tempted to take a swim, but I was more excited to explore Lovina and walk the beach.

Slowly wandering the streets to take it all in, I admired the colorful artistry of the statues, wood carvings and offering pedestals. It is not uncommon to see monkey-like figures as well as images of elephants which represent the gods of the Hindu. Most of the artwork is connected to Bali’s strong religious beliefs, which has a large influence on its culture.

The craftsmanship of the Balinese woodwork is exquisite and detailed. The three-dimensional carpentry usually tells a story of human enlightenment or the conflict between good and evil. The displayed artwork invoked a sense of spirituality, regardless of one’s beliefs.

As dusk began to fall over the town, the music grew louder from the local bars. I met up with a couple of vendors, purchased a few necklaces and started looking for a place to enjoy dinner. I stopped halfway from my hotel when I noticed the Kakatua Bar & Restaurant, an open air eatery with patio seating.

I took a seat closest to the street and ordered a nice, cold Bintang beer. After looking through the menu, I selected the red snapper as my main course and watched tourists fill the empty seats surrounding me. At first glance, I thought that the name of the restaurant was named after the Indonesian city of Krakatoa, but my server explained that the Kakatua are the resident cockatoos.

It took awhile for my food to arrive, but it gave me some time to people watch, catch up on my journal and eavesdrop on the table beside me. The red snapper was worth the wait and I enjoyed listening to an Australian guitarist sing James Taylor tunes. It was finally sinking in that I was actually in Bali. The past few days have been so busy that I hadn’t appreciated the fact that I had finally arrived in paradise.

I savored every last bite of my meal and after a second beer, I began making the walk back to the hotel. I looked forward to a peaceful night’s sleep, drifting off with a smile on my face, thankful for the opportunity to explore such an amazing place.

Do you have a fun story about traveling to a place that seems so unbelievable you can hardly believe it? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my spectacular trip to Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Dolphin Watching at Lovina Beach

Tickets vary from $15 to $18 and the boats seat up to five or six. If you are staying in Lovina Beach, there is a kiosk on the main street, heading towards the beach on the right hand side. If you are staying in South Bali (Kuta, Jimbaran, etc.), contact the concierge for tickets.

Where to Stay:

Nirwana Water Garden
Lovina Beach Street
Lovina Beach Bali

Nirwana Water Garden is located in the heart of Lovina Beach. It is a 45-minute drive to the dive site of Menjangan Island. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away. The hotel can provide hotel transfers for a fee.

Nirwana Restaurant serves Indonesian specialties, with the option of in-room dining. Guests can enjoy a guided tour to visit the dolphins at Lovina Beach, which can be arranged by the Nirwana’s staff.

Where to Eat:

Kakatua Bar and Restaurant
Jalan Binarea
Lovina Beach Bali

Open 7 days a week and moderately priced; no website; Free WIFI service…just ask for the password.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Beautiful Pool at Nirwana Water Garden

Cute Little Images at Nirwana Water Garden

Zigiz, A Club in Lovina Beach

Bintang Indonesian Beer

Kuta Puri Bungalows, Bali

11 March 202222 September 2024

The Kuta Puri Bungalows is a jewel of a resort in Kuta, Bali that is quietly tucked away in the fast-paced streets of the city. I had been booked in the nearby Hard Rock Hotel, but they had overbooked and my friend, Wayan found this amazing place.

The front desk is an open air structure where the attendants are super friendly and helpful in arranging tours and drivers for the day.

The paved pathways are perfect for exploring the grounds and taking a leisurely stroll.

Towards the front of the resort are the smaller rooms that are perfect for an economical stay.

I opted for the bungalow which included a sunken in living room, raised bedroom and an upscale outdoor bathroom set up in a garden style environment.

The outdoor bench was the perfect location for watching the thunderstorms. The bungalow was set towards the back of the resort where it was very private and quiet.

A small back porch of flowers and fauna was located off of the living quarters of the bungalow.

Two swimming pools are one of the few wonderful amenities provided by the hotel.

An attendant provides guests with pool towels each day.

Kuta Puri offers daily massages in a simple secluded area of the hotel’s property.

A Hindu temple is located towards the back of the hotel.

The resident cat stands guard at the Hindu temple.

A complimentary breakfast is served each morning at the resort’s restaurant. Lunch and dinner can be purchased here throughout the day.

The grounds are impeccable which makes for a nice morning, afternoon or evening walk.

Thank you for exploring the grounds of the Kuta Puri Bungalows with me. It is a resort that I highly recommend during your stay in the Kuta area of Bali. The hotel is reasonably priced with great accommodations and is close to the beach.

Have you been pleasantly surprised by a hotel or accommodation that you booked? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903