Could you tell us about yourself?

My name is Richard Wally, from Australia. I’m a marketing consultant especially specialized on sales support. Recently I visited Istanbul for the first time, so before I went there, I studied a travel guide for a long time.

Why did you come to Istanbul? What has changed in your life since you arrived?

My ex girl friend was a real true Istanbul lover person. She had always mentioned memories about the city which she had been visited long time ago. I think it effects me deeply. After we broke up with her, first thing I did was visiting here. It’s interesting to think about because the whole experience definitely changed me. I completely embraced the Istanbul lifestyle. I felt the hustle and the energy and I relished in it. I learnt how to handle the hustle. Unlike a lot of other travelers, I didn’t try to recreate my Australian way of life in a new culture and environment.

My time in İstanbul was enriching but it wasn’t the city itself that changed me. It was all the wonderful opportunities and benefits that come with an extended period of solo travel.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when we say Istanbul?

Few cities offer a more fascinating culture to explore. I think Istanbul is the only city that lays both Europe and Asia. That geographical condition besides cultural history, makes me feel like I am an “l’uomo universal”. That term comes from Renaissance which means “universal person”. Yes, that’s what I feel.

Which aspect of Istanbul excites you?

İstanbul is one of my favorite cities. I was dreaming while I wander the streets of downtown Taksim. When I got tired, I would walk into a coffee shop to watch the people who walked around in hustle. My visit is a wonderful memory now. I will never forget.

How do you spend your time, what you can not give up?

I spent more than a month since now. I visited every corner of Sultanahmet area, spent time in museums and art galleries. I went several times to Prince’s Islands which were adorable. The first think that I can not give up is breakfast for sure. Turkish breakfast is amazing.

Could you tell us a memorable moment in Istanbul?

There were so many “wow” moments but I think my first one was entering the Topkapı Palace. I have seen many palaces in Europe but this was my first that was also an administrative and educational center of the state.  It was so beautiful and so much history. It made my jaw drop!

If Istanbul is a feeling, what would it be?

Envy.