Last Dinner

One of the great experiences of travel is trying all the different kinds of food. I just finished my last dinner of this great adventure. The sun is beginning to set and I'm off to get some last pictures of Istanbul. 

First Day in Istanbul

Well, I've finally reached my last stop before heading home.  I'm eager to get home but I still have two more days here in Istanbul. I was still a bit fatigued from the overnight train/bus ride from Provdiv but I went to the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market today.  Istanbul has a population of about 20 million people so the streets and markets are very crowded. 

Roman Ruins in Provdiv

Provdiv, like Sofia is built upon Roman Ruins. I visited this mosque while in Provdiv but, I will soon be in Istanbul; where I will visit the famous Blue Mosque. 

Sofia

Sofia is a very interesting city. Modern buildings stand beside buildings dating back to the Roman Empire. This afternoon I took a walk down to the "Ladies" market where you can find all kinds of goods and produce. 

Magura Cave

We took a hike through the Magura cave today. The cool air was a nice break from the summer heat. 

In the Bulgarian Countryside

We arrived at the Xah Magona (Hotel Madona) yesterday. It's a little Bed and Breakfast-like Hotel about five miles from Belogradchik.  The innkeeper and a small girl greeted us at the door with a plate of bread which we dipped in a very salty seasoning and politely ate.  The little girl was cute; the salty bread was ?

A Hike Up the Mountainside

Marco and I took the long hike up the mountainside to get this view of Veliko Tarnovo.