Hammams and spas have become an important part of my travels abroad. After a few months on the move, they help revitalize and rejuvenate the body, relieving stiffness and muscle tension. Although I’ve enjoyed several traditional Turkish hamams, this time, I opted for a more modern version.
By chance, I discovered a spa inside AKKA Hotel in Taksim. The hotel is owned by a Russian immigrant, and the spa staff are Balinese. The hotel and spa are impeccably clean, with modern minimalist décor, gorgeous marble floors, and a rooftop café with jaw-dropping views!
The deep tissue massage was physically and mentally healing! Combined with a sauna and foam body scrub, the process eliminates body toxins that cause weakened immunity and fatigue.
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“Life in Istanbul is fast-paced and intense, defined by a constant buzz of activity, immense crowds, and severe traffic congestion. While it offers a vibrant urban experience that blends modern amenities with history, residents often face high stress levels, long commutes, and the challenge of navigating a city that rarely sleeps.”
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While traveling, many elements can affect you – ever changing mattresses and pillows, climate, culture, water, air, and food. You may miss your own comfy bed, fresh pillows, kitchen, and for me, soaking in the tub. There’s a period of time when travelers “get real,” by reconciling their expectations with reality. Regardless of how experienced a traveler you are, this process can be slightly traumatic, in a good way.
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“Travel is a real-world crash course in humility. By stripping you of your usual routines, exposing you to diverse ways of living, and reminding you of how small you are in a massive world.”
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During past trips, it took me about six months to make the transition from my home in the quiet Willamette Valley to a long-term travel lifestyle. After that, I was able to go with the flow – almost😊 – and face most situations thrown my way by an unfamiliar environment. This trip has been challenging, for reasons I won’t detail in a blog post. I don’t like to recall some of the more hair-raising experiences… Istanbul is almost as hectic as Mumbai India. I visited Mumbai many years ago (pre travel blog). Although it was an incredible experience, I don’t plan to return.
Travel is a powerful learning experience. Long trips require open mindedness and teach you humility. They almost always create a greater appreciation of the simple things in life, that people often take for granted. Your entire world of “things” is carried with you in a few pieces of luggage. Some discomfort while adjusting to new environments is part of the experience. As I’ve said before, being judgmental or fighting it, makes the process more difficult.
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“For those who thrive on excitement, culture, and a fast-paced environment, Istanbul is rewarding, but it requires patience and adaptability to handle its high-intensity nature.”
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During this time in Istanbul, I haven’t posted on my travel bog very often. Savoring the moment, I’m enjoying time in the “only city in the world bridging two continents – Europe and Asia – across the bustling Bosphorus Strait”. Some aspects of Istanbul are a bit overwhelming, but it’s truly a magical place, where the hectic pace of life can sometimes be ruthless!