Zekeriya S. Sen

Istanbul

Spotter since 2010

About me

About me
I am devoted to culture; to experience the "other" ways of living, eating, observing and travel. I believe that mutual language is to understand the culture of others. I am a devotee for travel, music and photography. I love to experience world music as well, the music out there that opens up the minds and crushes down boundaries.

Why Istanbul?
Because Istanbul is unique...
Athens, Alexandria, Antioch, Rome, or those that have come after, such as Baghdad and Damascus... These are cities with mono-culture, cities that do not host a historical continuity or multi-cultural component.

In the 17th century no city could compare to Istanbul. Istanbul is "The City” (sehr-i yegane), peerless and unprecedented. That is why Napoleon said, "If the world was only one country, Istanbul would be its capital".

Pierre Gilles, who came to Istanbul in the 16th century to research the topography of ancient objects and structures, and whose work is still a primary reference, has this to say at the beginning of his book: "All the other cities are mortal, but I think Istanbul will live as long as mankind exists.". A Chinese writer refers to Istanbul as 'the city of cities'.

Anna Comnena, daughter of the Byzantine Emperor, who meticulously described the Istanbul of her day in her renowned chronicle of her father's rule, called this city 'the queen of cities.'

We call it 'the legendary city'.

Where else can you find me online?
www.tikabasamuzik.com
Flickr

My spots (58)

Chandeliers in Hagia Sophia Mosque

Enlightenment

The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!

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Art & culture

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Sep 3, 2025

Grand Bazaar

Fat round evil eyes

"Grand Bazaar" is my place to buy the best Istanbul souvenir: round, fat evil eyes! Just don't forget to bargain...

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Shopping

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

Norm Coffee

Such a cozy spot

"Norm Coffee" Istanbul makes me feel as if I'm in a spaceship travelling to a coffee planet every time! It's just one of my favorite spots in the city.

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

Turkish Tea

Enjoy a glass of tea

Turkish Tea is had after each meal, and it's a reflection of hospitality. When in Istanbul, have it at small local tea houses in Sultanahmet.

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Coffee & tea
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Relaxing
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Snacks

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

Groove

A cosy music store

"Groove" is my suggestion for music lovers who're in Istanbul looking for record shops! Sami, "the music doctor", will guide you through this journey...

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Art & culture
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Music

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

The Letter Opener

A gorgeous gift

"The Letter Opener" is one of the best souvenirs to get for friends back home when you're in Istanbul and I recommend you get them from Grand Bazaar.

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Shopping

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

Kariye Museum

Church of St. Saviour

"Kariye Museum" is, for me, the most interesting Byzantine church in Istanbul after the Hagia Sophia. If you have some time, I definitely recommend a visit.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

Ethem Tezçakar

Best Turkish coffee in town

"Ethem Tezçakar" Coffee makes much better coffee than other places in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, so it's important to visit this one small shop!

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Coffee & tea
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

Aug 30, 2025

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