For those of you who are non-Turkish, the first thing that pops into mind when you hear about Turkey is "Istanbul". So much so that many will think that the capital of Turkey is Istanbul --- It sure deserves to be, but it isn't.
Anyways... I was in Bursa for a couple of days on the weekend. We drove up from Istanbul, so it was a 4-5 hour drive on each way.
If I had to describe Bursa, I would say it resembles Istanbul in many ways minus the Bosphorus and the many hills that exist here. This time round, I realised that I really like Bursa and that if I were ever to move back toTurkey, I could consider to settle down in Bursa. It is a very green city which is why it is also referred to as "Yesil Bursa" (pronounced "ye-shill boorsa") meaning green Bursa.
There are many places to see and visit. When you are shopping at the city centre, you can see mountains filled with green trees ahead of you whichever side you turn to. It's absolutely breathtaking!
The city is full of history, touristic attractions, etc. It is also a very popular location for skiiers (feel free to Google "Uludag, Bursa").
Also, I love the fact that when I am at the city centre, I can get to almost all the main places I need to go within 5-20 minutes. In other words, the city centre of Bursa is literally at the centre! :))
In terms of fashion, I really enjoyed observing the women of Bursa. I can say that the population of hijabis and non-hijabis is balanced and the ladies who are locals (rather than those who have migrated to Bursa) have an air about them. They each have their own style and flair unlike most young women in Istanbul who are almost identical to one another in terms of style. Oh, and I must add that the women of Bursa are the most independent out of all the other cities I have travelled in Turkey (trust me, I've been to many!).
I'm so sorry that I was unable to photograph any of these women. It's hard carrying around a huge camera everywhere you go. So you have to make do with my personal photos. ;)
The above photos were taken from the top of Bursa. As you can see, there are 2 layers to Bursa. The first is composed of the hills/mountains, then the second is the plane. It's dead flat; you can see from one corner of the city to the other.
Me admiring the beauty... Seriously! It seems as though it's all buildings and nothing else, but there is something to being up there. I could stay there forever, but the sweet breeze would have to be the same all year round. LOL I have first hand experience of how cold it gets in winter... and with the snow! Believe me, you wouldn't want to try and walk down those slopes when the snow freezes up :))
LOL How woggish am I with this pose? :)) We were trying to fix the camera's night setting. This photo is from the infamous Bursa Tophane (Arsenal). It has the best view, and looks amazing at night! There is a path where you can walk along and view the city down below, and you can even walk down to the city from the stairs. It's a very long walk down (can't even imagine walking up), would have loved to have a go if it wasn't so dark. There are also tea gardens (cafes) where you can sit and have a coffee and mingle at the top of Bursa. See the little water fountain behind me? :)) It's a pity it was dry...
Creative photography skills by me :)))) I wish the flash popped up a little better -- oh and that's the hubster posing :)
...and a little something from me to you :) these mulberries were freshly picked from my uncle-in-law's garden, and I don't need to tell you they were delicious... however, too much will keep you seeking the ladies room everywhere you go for 1-2 days LOL
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