In December 2021, we decided to brave it out and traveled to see my family in Indonesia. It has been two years since we last saw each other, so I think the long flight is worth it. The corona cases in Indonesia seem to be under control with very small number of cases for a country of 250 million people.
So off we go on Turkish Airlines, which for us gave the shortest connection (2 long-haul flights of 12 and 13 hours each, which is the best one can get given the distance of almost 20,000 km) and the
most economical compared to the second and third option. V insisted we get out in Istanbul and enjoy an afternoon and evening out, which turned out to be a perfect break after the two long-haul flights. Exiting the airport was smooth and easy, then we checked ourselves in in the hotel that was provided by the airline (complimentary for 9+ hours of transit). Then we dashed out (on Uber) to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Three of us; myself and two very experienced little travelers. The night was crisp and clear; it was a beautiful winter night. The lit-up Sultan Ahmed Mosque on one side and the Hagia Sophia Mosque on the other are just so gracious that night. I am sure they are every night :-) but if felt extra special for us as we strolled the square looking to buy headscarves so we can enter the Hagia Sophia. The last I was there was, I think it was in 2016, sans kids. Now that the kids are old enough to appreciate such elegant and grandiose landmarks, it makes the visit extra special.
In front of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque,
which unfortunately closed early every day, due to construction.
Inside the Hagia Sofia Mosque
After a cultural stroll, we closed off the evening with a dinner up on a rooftop restaurant not too far from the square.
It was a fun night transit we had in Istanbul. Can't wait to visit Turkey when the opportunity is right. The marketing video during the flight really worked, since V re-iterated she would love a proper visit to Turkey, including the one where we get on the hot air balloon with dramatic yet spectacular view. Me too, kiddo! Soon soon.
Back to the hotel we went, logged in a small nap(?) or night sleep(?) for about 3 hours before heading back to the airport. And that's a wrap for our 11 hours in Istanbul. The next flight is 12 hours that will take us directly to Jakarta, Indonesia.
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