Sunset in Istanbul

Project Runway on Star tv

The show Proje Moda (Project Runway) started last night on Star TV at 22.00. p.m. It’s a contest for young designers (the youngest one is 21 yrs old and the oldest is 35 yrs old, the average age is 23). There were 10 designers which were requested to design in one day a sexy evening dress with “fabric” bought in a grocery store. The challenge was big, the designers had the opportunity to show their real creativity. At the end of show, the “worse” designer left the show. In my opinion, all creations were amazing. But, what surprised me mostly was one designer, Yűsra Kamil, a 35 years old (the oldest one) covered head lady from Syria. Her creation was surprisingly sexy for a covered head lady.

The jury was quite tough with critiques, two designers burst into tears. The jury blamed the lack of creativity from the young designers who designed with “let’s be different” slogan in their mind.

This week the winner is Burhan Karakoca:

It was a tough evening for this young designer. He burst into tears couple of times.

Back from Constanta

I left my home town, Constanta. I am back to Istanbul. Well, you guys in Constanta: relatives, close friends, neighbors, I just want to say I am Ok. I miss you guys. But I am happy because during my last trip to Constanta I had lots of chances and opportunities to see so many old friends, relatives, dear places, etc.

My dear two cousins, Ignis and Narcis, it was great to see you again. Thanks for letting me use your computers when my PC was missing me in Istanbul.. By the way, I like your office a lot, I like the atmosphere there. You guys are really doing a great job there. Hope we can see each other soon!

child care center in Haciosman - ages 2, 3, 4 and 5

For those living in Tarabya, Sariyer, Ferahevler, Yenikoy, Derbent and/or Haciosman, I suggest Tarabya Milenyum Cocukevi. It is very clean, the personnel is very friedly. It is indeed the best choice in this area of Istanbul.

Bob Ross in Istanbul

Last Saturday I went to Metro City shopping center. I like this shopping centre because it is very easy to reach it. You can go there by subway or by minibus. Inside there are approximately 140 shops caring international famous brands and some local brands. Not to mention Gloria Jeans and Starbucks cafes which are favorite destinations. I can't imagine any single day without coffee. I am a coffee addicted.

I had to visit Joker Maxi Toys because my son was so demanding... That place is his Paradise, lots of toys, games, machines ... everything a kid could wish for. You can't leave Joker Maxi Toys with empty hands. It's impossible. It's impossible to avoid the place as well because it is like a magnet for kids.

Usually in weekends there are activities in the main lobby. That day Bob Ross' painting technique was introduced to who ever was walking by and a lady teacher demonstrated us how 20 minutes were enough to paint a nice winter landscape. Then 3 ladies tried this technique for the very first time in their lives. Well, it was quite amazing. The results were fast and good. There is no limit for age to learn painting. And Bob Ross’ technique is so impressing. It is impressing because you don't need to be a gifted person; just a strong wish is enough.

I am wondering what the next weekend will bring new in Metro City! What other activity? It is a reason good enough to go over again, not to mention the food. The food court has a impressive selection of international cuisines. You can try delicious Italian or Turkish pizzas and/or pastas, Mexican food, Danish pastries. I am not quite sure if the Chinese restaurant is still there, maybe it has moved to Cevahir, this is another BIG shopping center, the second biggest mall in the world.

A city not for the faint-hearted

Istanbul is the only city in the world that connects two continents: Europe and Asia. Here the Occident meets the Orient; the Christianity meets the Islam; the cultures and mentalities blend harmoniously. Here you can find everything, everything is intricate, hectic. Living here is a real adventure.