Istanbul 3. Notes from a bar at Sultanahmet.

The old dog wandered wondering. What was he hoping for as he dodged across the road, avoiding cars, crazy motorcyclists and trams? Perhaps a tasty snack from the waiters at the Barron Ottoman? They stroked him. The kebab man cut, folded, served; ignored the old dog. He came my way though fish was not onContinue reading “Istanbul 3. Notes from a bar at Sultanahmet.”

I love Kazakhstan

Well I have been living here in Almaty since January and it is a beautiful place. It has the second best prettiest women in the world – Liverpool Judy’s always win. But I have to laugh at some of the names I have come across recently. There are ladies called Karlygash, Nazgul and Nurgul. PlusContinue reading “I love Kazakhstan”

Istanbul 2. Reflections and an Introduction to Rumi.

I think a hangover makes jet-lag so much easier to bear. Eventually I arose Monday morning and decided to do the tourist bit, so headed to the City centre in one of the many millions of taxis that constantly patrol the streets. Don’t get into a taxi and ask for ‘Haggia Sofia’ even though theContinue reading “Istanbul 2. Reflections and an Introduction to Rumi.”

Istanbul 1 : Getting Lost and finding Old Friends.

Atatürk Airport 9.30 pm on a Saturday night. Check papers, work your way through customs, throw off the term spent in Kazakhstan. Greeted by an old friend and guided to his Gaff. Meet the charming new partner; fantastic dinner with lovely wine. But then out in the City by midnight looking for a bar thatContinue reading “Istanbul 1 : Getting Lost and finding Old Friends.”