Yeaaaaah!

What a contrast to yesterday. Our plane left SFO and landed in Frankfurt on time with no problems. It was a smooth 10+ hour flight. We napped a little, ate a little, watched a few movies and did some reading. We sat in opposing aisle seat and we each had an empty seat next to us so we could stretch out a little. This is the first time in many years that this has happened.

When we got to Frankfurt, we had to get our boarding passes changed because we were booked on a different flight. We got confused on how to get to our gate and had to hustle to make the flight on time. It was also a pleasant flight with some food, naps and reading. This flight also was not sold out so we were able to stretch out over three seats. Passport control, baggage claim and customs were a breeze. We were concerned that our luggage might not show up because of our flight change, but our bags were waiting for us when we got to the carousel.

After getting some Turkish Lira from the ATM, we caught a taxi to take us to the hotel. Once we got to the city, traffic had built up and our driver had trouble finding our hotel. It took a long time in hot, humid weather. We finally made it, though, at around 2:30. Here's what the hotel looks like.

We cleaned up and went exploring. Our hotel is really close to the Blue Mosque. If we stand on our roof-top terrace we can see it, the Bosphorus and many other landmarks. We discovered that our district has dozens of shops, restaurants and rug merchants. They all have someone outside trying to get you to come in. They are friendly, though, and will take "no" for an answer.

We had an early dinner in a budget restaurant that was recommended in Rick Steves' tour book. Our meal had kabobs, flat bread and lots of things with yogurt. Afterwards, we walked a little ways along the Bosphorus on a sidewalk next to a very bust highway. Going back to the hotel, we had to wind our way on narrow streets through residential and commercial areas of the old town.

It's now 8:00 and we are ready to go to bed with a couple of Tylenol and try to combat jet lag.