Parks

Parks in Istanbul are for lovers. Everywhere you turn there is a couple walking hand in hand, laying in each others arms, or sharing a picnic. More often than not they are kissing, oblivious to the other oblivious couples wandering around them. They do not make a sound, as they go about their business. So they will pop up in the least expected places. As you go around any corner be aware it might be concealing a lover or two. It doesn't matter what time of day you are in a park, they will be there to. Perhaps stealing away a lunch hour, or making that break between classes worthwhile. These are not parks made for families. They are steep sloped, covered in cobble stone walking paths, flower arrangements and fragile statues of girls holding baskets. Benches line every path, in part to provide a resting point for those sojourning uphill, but also to make the lovers' stay more comfortable. Sure, there are some play structures, but those are just for show. The lovers are the true patrons, finding a rare spot of solace in a city unsettled.