Impact of gentrification on Istanbul

Istanbul is an everchanging city, and its architecture is no exception. The shift from traditional to modern buildings is slowly progressing. This gentrification is making a big difference in the architectural landscapes. Besides, these renovations also include many different consequences for the tourists and locals. Zuhal Ulusoy, dean of the faculty of Architecture at Bilgi University Istanbul, has a lot of experience in the field … Continue reading Impact of gentrification on Istanbul

Facing globalisation, craftmanship is surviving

By Axel Benaben In the heart of the biggest city of Turkey, in between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia, lies a peaceful heaven, the İstanbul Sanatları Çarşısı (Istanbul Arts Bazaar). Settled in a somewhat typical 18th century Ottoman building, this place is home to people keeping the Istanbul’s crafts tradition alive. The Arts Bazaar presents 11 art branches and a café in its 12 … Continue reading Facing globalisation, craftmanship is surviving

“More important than a relationship”

Lena Jager (28) is from Amsterdam and she has found the perfect connection with her dancing partner. Having great chemistry with her dancing partner is extremely important to Lena, as she is competing on a high level in the Netherlands and internationally.  Dancing is a big part of Lena’s life, however she also works as a pediatric nurse at an ICU. She started dancing at … Continue reading “More important than a relationship”

The other ‘sight’ of ‘seeings’ in Paris

We all know Paris for its historic sites and when you visit this city, it’s a must to visit as many of them as possible. The Notre Dame, Sacré-Cœur, Arc de Triomphe and of courseThe Eiffel Tower. It has all the ingredients you need for the typical, stereotypical Paris experience. But this city has much more to offer than just these beautiful sights. Street art … Continue reading The other ‘sight’ of ‘seeings’ in Paris

„Music is always political”

Text and photo by Janina Hofmann – Big buildings, clean floors, and a lot of monitoring staff. The Beyoglu Culture Road Festival in Istanbul just started – two weeks of music, poetry, and theatre. From a tourist’s point of view, the festival seemed to be a great place for cultural exchange and the arts. After talking to Istanbulites, it sounds like the festival is meant … Continue reading „Music is always political”