Magical Istanbul Actors Rajesh Khattar and Vandana Sajnani were so impressed by Istanbul’s sights and sounds that they plan to return there with their families

Magical Istanbul

Actors Rajesh Khattar and Vandana Sajnani were so impressed by Istanbul’s sights and sounds that they plan to return there with their families

Actor Rajesh Khattar recently took a break from the hectic shooting schedule of Race 2 to explore the Turkish city of Istanbul. Accompanied by his wife actor-producer Vandana Sajnani, Rajesh said he was greatly impressed with the city and its inherent culture and beauty. “In fact, we are planning another trip soon with our extended families,” he added. The couple feels that Istanbul straddles the modern with the traditional, beautifully. “The Bosphorus bridge which connects Europe and Asia is a major tourist attraction and is the most breath-taking sight in the city, especially in the evenings,” says Vandana. The husband-wife duo also loved the Pierre Loti which is said to be the highest point in Istanbul from where one can see the whole city. “There is a cable car which takes you to another point of the city and the famous Pierre Loti Cafe where one can enjoy some of the best sights in Istanbul over a cup of hot coffee,” says Rajesh. Another place that the couple highly recommends for fellow travellers is the Taksim Square which is the shopping hub of the city, buzzing right from early morning till late in the night. There are several eateries all over the place and it is also home to the famous Turkish ice cream parlours. “Istanbul has trams running on the road which are a very popular mode of transport till date,” says the couple who also visited the Topkapi Palace. “It is the biggest palace in the entire region. Vandana and I shot pictures in every room there, including the one where they used to have ceremonies for children born in the royal family,” Rajesh added. The duo also went to the famous Sultan Ahmed mosque (popularly known as Blue Mosque). “It is believed that anything wished here with a sincere heart is fulfilled,” they say.