Free day in Istanbul

I woke to a bright and blue-skied day. The hostel I am staying at is beyond my expectations. Each room had three sets of bunks so with six it would be cosy. Fortunately I was alone last night and presumably tonight as well. The shared baths are sparkling clean with great hot water in the showers.

I went up to the terrace for breakfast and met Ivan (French) and Dave (Aussie) our tour manager and driver-very pleasant young fellows. They are enjoying a few days off before starting the our tour. I was pleased to learn we will be together to Beijing.

I went out for a walk through the city gardens. The tulips were in full bloom. From there I visited the three archeological museums near Topkapi Palace. The tomb of Alexander the Great was outstanding!

Afterward I strolled back to the hotel for a short rest before dinner on the terrace overlooking the Bosphorus.