Unlike last summer when we kicked our holiday off by hiking in the Caucasus, this year we’re heading back to the Czech Republic for summer. Packing our suitcases isn’t always the most fun, but the moment the airplane takes off, the adrenaline kicks in and you realize it’s summer holidays again. Flying through Istanbul is amazing aswell — it’s such a massive airport with a new shop or café around every corner. It’s easy to get lost, especially for me.
Once, we got stuck at this airport for eight hours because we missed our flight. We wandered around for hours but barely covered half of the airport before we gave up and just sat down in one of the many cafés. But with all that time, you start to observe the people….
Some are rushing breathlessly to catch their connecting flights, running down the never-ending corridors, dodging the buggies zooming by. Others are relaxed, sipping coffee and enjoying baklava as they head off on holiday or to meet someone they love. You’ll see people who are not excited having missed their flight or lost their luggage and others who are lucky enough to travel to their dream destinations in business class. This airport is one of the few places where you meet people from all around the world, whether they’re in shorts, business suits, hijabs, or sneakers. It’s a vibrant place that never sleeps. And shopping here is easy for everyone aswell…
What I love most about Istanbul’s huge airport however is the attitude of the local people. They always smile. Most of the staff, whether in coffee bars, shops, or at the information desk, are ready to help with a smile and wish you a great journey. It’s one of those things that doesn’t cost anything but adds great value when you’re exhausted after a long day or staying up all night. This is one of the reasons I love Turkey so much, apart from the baklava, of course.
The same goes for Turkish Airlines. Sure, there’s screens to keep kids awake, but everyone pays attention to their safety video because they know how to make people listen. The attendants are always smiling from ear to ear, even more so when everyone is leaving the plane. “Ladies and gentlemen, dear children…”
After all, kids are the ones who will have to solve climate change, overpopulation, and deal with AI. That’s why I hope all the kids around the world have the best summer of their lives. Let’s face it, we only have 18 summers of being a child which is definitely not enough. They are times to make memories though, the ones that last you a lifetime. These are the memories you’ll share with your kids, not the high scores you got in Brawl Stars hiding in your room all summer.
It’s awesome to be part of the millions who travel via Istanbul. This hub serves, smiles, and “connects you to the world” as they say when landing in Istanbul. For anyone flying out on holiday or looking for destinations, I’ve got plenty on my blog. Let me tell you, there’s nothing better you can do over the summer than travel the world. Enjoy the summer, travel and stay tuned!
