Istanbul: Delightfully Turkish!

Caught between Europe and Asia, Istanbul offers the best of both worlds to anyone who visits her. This year, some of the greatest business minds and leaders of tomorrow converge on this vibrant city as part of the Young President Organisation Global Leadership Summit.

Creating a vision for tomorrow

As host to this global business event, Istanbul will help shape the business leaders of tomorrow. This international event brings together the brightest leaders from business, politics, philanthropy and social enterprise to engage in dialogue and network. The Summit both challenges and inspires its participants to become better leaders, and connects them with others from around the world.

To be held from 28 February to 1 March, the theme for 2013 is “Crossing Over”, where these entrepreneurs will explore how to cross over into a better world. This year, it is estimated that over 2,500 global business leaders from more than 80 countries will attend this unique think-tank over the two days.  Together, they will explore how to continue to thrive together in the current business environment and how to create a promising and brighter future. The event also attracts high profile leaders; the keynote speakers at the Summit last year included Aung San Suu Kyi (Burmese Opposition Leader) and Stephen Wozniak (co-founder of Apple).

Turkish delights

Of course, all work and no play is never any fun, and there will be time for the delegates to venture out and explore this dynamic city.  No visit to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the area of Sultanahmet, home to some of the most amazing Islamic architecture in the world. From the imposing turrets of the Blue Mosque to the epitome of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia; the architectural marvels of Istanbul are sure to leave everyone in awe.

A visit to the Grand Bazaar puts to test even the best negotiation skills with all the carpet and ceramic sellers. A word of caution: it’s very easy to give in to the persistence of all those seasoned stall holders.

Do explore the Spice Market and choose from a wide selection of sweet and sticky Turkish Delights. The Spice Market is just a short walk from where you can board a ferry to cruise Bosporus Straight and sail somewhere between Europe and Asia. It is this divide between the two continents that makes Istanbul a unique city.

High above the city

The best view of Istanbul is across the river on the European side, at the top of one of the several hills that it covers. From here one can enjoy magnificent views of the city in all its grandeur.

It is the perfect fusion of East and West, and a gateway between both cultures. With both the hustle and bustle of an Asian market, and the elegance of a European promenade, it is no wonder that Napoleon Bonaparte once said “If the Earth was a single state, Istanbul would be its capital”.

Want to cross over?  MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights to Istanbul.