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One of the most sought after vacation getaways in Istanbul are the
Princes Islands. The Islands are composed of nine islets found in
the Sea of Marmarra, in the Asian coast of Istanbul. The islets
could be reached via a ferry from Sirkeci. The travel to the Princes
Islands would just take about an hour.
One of the Princes Islands is the Burgaz Island. It is the third
largest of the nine islands. The highest elevation of the island
rises to about 165 meters above sea level. The island is relatively
small in area. It is just about two kilometers wide. Literally, you
could walk the circumference of the island in about two to three
hours. Burgaz offers no cars but they have horse carriages. Burgaz
Island may indeed be very small but it bursts with life.
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Burgaz Island is populated
by Jews, Muslims and Greeks who are living harmoniously side by
side. These people are very hospitable and welcoming. They would not
let you feel like a stranger. In fact, the local tradesmen of the
island would warmly welcome you like an old friend after seeing you
in their shop for just one or two times.
The Burgaz Island has become famous because a Turkish story writer
from the 20th century used to live there, by the name of Sait Faik
Abasiyanik. His house had been converted into a museum and became
one of the tourist spots of the island.
Another attraction is the cafeteria in Kalpazan Kaya. The place was
often visited by the Turkish story writer. For nature lovers, this
would be a great place for you. The cafeteria offers a great view of
the sunset. This is a very ideal place to relax.
The Kalzapan Kaya is a great place for picnics. Tourists could also
go for a swim here. During the summer, young people would gather
here to chat and sing.
The highest spot on the island is known as the Hristos Tepesi or the
Hill of Christ. The view from the hill is indeed breathtaking. At
the top of the hill is a church, the Church of Metamorphosis. The
hill is covered with pine trees and below is a carpet of emerald
green grass with a sprinkle of blue vervain, yellow buttercups,
white daisies and purple irises.
The Haghia Giorgios Monastery should not be left unvisited. The
monastery is known for the sweet water from its well. More so, the
view from the monastery is very pleasing to the eyes. It is
surrounded by wild roses, honeysuckle, oleanders, flowers and wild
pines. After a rain, the air is filled by the fragrance of the
flowers.
Activities in the island would include picnics, nice sailing and
some water sports. More so, you could simply admire its breathtaking
views and make memories by taking pictures.
When you wanted to please your taste buds already, you could dine at
some unpretentious restaurants found in the island. While dining,
you could watch fishermen on their boats or fishes jumping out of
their buckets. You could also find a bakery behind the shopping
street where you could buy the most delicious salty and sweet
biscuits you could ever taste.
Unfortunately, the island does not have much to offer for overnight
stays. It would then be ideal to spend one whole day on the island.
Catch the first ferry trip early in the morning and come back to the
city late in the afternoon. At least you have found some time to
take a break from the hustle bustle of the city life.
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CITIES
