What I’ve learned in 24 hours in Istanbul...

It’s big, very big.

It’s hilly, very hilly.

It has a harbour, a pretty harbour.

It's a cruise ship port as well.

They don’t celebrate Christmas, but they do celebrate New Year with Christmas trees, Santas and reindeer, and even the occasional angel. Weird!

There are lots of men, and hardly any women, at least not on the streets.

I’ve learned you should check out what the local money is worth before going to the ATM.

I’ve learned you should walk fast and look like you’re in a hurry, even if you’re not.

I’ve learned to shower after midnight if you like a shower of constant pressure and temperature.

I’ve learned that everyone expects a tip.

I’ve learned that anything can be done for a price, even dirty laundry.

I’ve learned that you have to wake up early if you want breakfast. It’s not good enough getting to the restaurant, and hoping they’ll leave stuff for you to eat.

I’ve learnt just because you love a particular food at home or in Europe for that matter, does not necessarily mean you will like it here. eg calamari was tasteless and tough as old boots and pizza was mostly capsicum, no tomato paste, and no olives.

The Efes Pilsener is quite quaffable though.