Feb 16 - Istanbul to Gaziantep to Sanliurfa

Not wanting to waste any free moments in Istanbul, the group decided to squeeze in a few more of the city's unique cultural sights and experiences before we had to depart mid-morning. One group went to the Hagia Sophia. The stunning church is among the world's greatest architectural achievements. It was fascinating to see the layers of history exposed on the walls as the Hagia Sophia was converted from a Christian church to a mosque in the 15th century. The fact it was built over 1,400 years ago is a testament to the sophistication of the Byzantine culture of its time.

The second group opted to venture over to the Spice Market. Here we saw locals and travelers shopping amongst the small, old shops nestled within a rustic, indoor mall. Items for sale ranged from seeds and everyday spices to Iranian saffron and caviar. A few of the class members picked up some unique spices to bring home. I would not pass up an invitation to any of their houses for dinner upon our return!

Everyone reconvened at the hotel at 10am for our bus ride to the airport. We traveled across the Bosphorus Bridge, which spans the Bosphorus Straight that separates the Europe and Asia portions of Turkey. As we neared the airport we all received a first-hand glimpse of the incredible growth Turkey is currently experiencing. Areas that only 10 years ago were undeveloped are now full of hundreds of 20-30 story buildings, with no end in sight. We have been hearing over the past days about the current strength and health of Turkey's economy and our bus trip painted a realistic picture of the country today.

Our flight was smooth to Gaziantep (in southeast Turkey). It was very apparent from the air as we approached the city that we were no longer in Istanbul. Agricultural fields and trees were a welcome sight for us "California Aggies" after days of skyscrapers and bustling streets. The two hour ride from Gaziantep was filled with images of olive trees, oleanders, antep nuts (pistachios to us), and rich shades of black and red soil. The freeway itself was a sight, three lanes of perfectly paved road in either direction. We crossed over the Euphrates river and saw the first hydroelectric dam of our trip. A topic we will delve into much deeper tomorrow on our visit to the Ataturk Dam and visiting with the GAP project leadership.

Upon our arrival in Urfa we all noticed a distinctly different vibe than in Istanbul. Urfa has a population of approximately one half million. The population is divided up between the Arabic, Turkish, and Kurdish cultures. Although all are Muslim, each holds differing political beliefs and attitudes. In Urfa, however, they intermingle in business and society with little faction or hostilities.

We had the privilege of sharing our dinner with Mr. Joseph Babb and Mr. Hamza Uluçay who came from the U.S. Consulate, Adana. They shared their unique perspectives and insights into the region of southeastern Turkey. Mr.Babb is not only a native Californian, but a graduate of UC Davis. We were were treated to not only great conversation, but a delicious meal of the local Turkish cuisine.

Doug Phillips, Kyle Goehring, Karm Bains