SI MONTHLY NEWS September 2008 News - Youth in Istanbul - 2
From SI Exco News
Day trips
Thanks to the support of Servas Belgium and Luxembourg, in the person of Rita Dessauvage, I had the opportunity to join the two day trips held during the conference.
On our first day trip we set for the discovery of the old town of Istanbul. First, we went on a spectacular sail through the Bosphorus Sea. Second, we went on a magical journey through Istanbul's historical sites: the Saint Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica's Cistern. Finally, we ventured into the Egyptian Bazaar, where we were embraced by the sight, flavour and aroma of Turkish spices, seeds, tapestry, jewellery and colourful traditional clothing. On our second day trip we went on an adventurous hike on the mountains of Izmit, by the Aegean Sea. We daringly explored nature and even went for a refreshingly cold splash in the waterfall.
After hiking we went to Nicaea, a remarkable town for its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history, including having hosted the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE, the first Ecumenical council of the Christian church. To finish the trip we went to a renowned restaurant for a delicious traditional Turkish meal.
Finally, thanks to the support of Servas Britain and the personal contribution of Dianne Peterson (Singapore/USA) I had the pleasure of joining a Servas group that, at the end of the conference, travelled in Cappadocia and Antioch. In Cappadocia we discovered the most striking rock formations and visited the caves inhabited by the early Christians.
In Antioch we explored the ancient city and its wild surroundings, including the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea! We were warmly hosted by Mehmet Ates and his family. Their friendliness and hospitality, as well as the experience of sleeping in a traditional mud-house and eating 100% organic food, made our stay truly delightful. You can have a look at the Ates mud-house at http://www.toprakev.com
Lastly, I would like to give my heartfelt congratulations to Servas Turkey for hosting such a marvellous event, and to express my sincere gratefulness to those who made it possible for me to join the Istanbul Youth Conference and its related trips…
These people and national groups are: Ann Greenhough and Jean Seymour - Servas Britain Youth Committee - Servas Turkey Rita Dessauvage - Servas Belgium and Luxembourg Diane Peterson from Servas Singapore/USA
My heart goes out to them in gratitude and friendship. Magiarí Díaz, Youth Contact Servas Venezuela
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