far flung adventures

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Turkey has character of culture, history, landscape, outdoor activity and most importantly its people demonstrate an open curiosity of others, devoid of hostility or skepticism. The schoolchildren were friendly and wanted to see their photo on the viewfinder. This curiosity of others and affection for friends carried over across generations, which is heart warming for those more accustomed to reservation of the unknown. The landscape, geologic structures and terrain are unique and diverse from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the ancient underground cities, and the cave structures of Goreme, the central Turkish area has a life of its own. The Turquoise coast, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, has a clear light blue water color and holds the awe and power of the open sea with a rugged coastline. Istanbul is a bustling city of 12 million with one foot preserving ancient historical significance of Constantinople and the other foot in a modern world of commerce and trade. The sights of shipping commerce from any angle between the Marmara Sea, across the Golden Horn, through the Bosphorous to the Black Sea is evident every moment of every day. The Spice market and the Grand Bazaar have been trading centers since the 1400's and show only physical signs of wear. The most memorable part of Turkey is the kindness of its people and the respect that they extend to others. They are examples of great world diplomacy.