The Heppells are an intrepid bunch — lovers of colour, culture, food, and adventure in all its forms. When they travel, they don’t just sightsee — they dive headfirst into the rhythm of a place. Their recent trip to Turkey was no exception. From the domes and minarets of Istanbul to the white terraces of Pamukkale, this was a journey bursting with history, heart, and flavour.
Istanbul - Why there?
Because it’s pure magic. Hayley and I had been together as 20 year olds so it was time to return. And Mal’s family had chosen it as the destination for a big family trip. So there was 13 of us, including 7 kids ranging from 6 months - 13 years old. Istanbul hits all the senses — sound, scent, texture, taste, and spirit. You can walk from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque in minutes, and feel centuries of life humming in between. It’s a city where two religions have lived side by side for generations — different but deeply respectful — and that harmony gives the whole place a soul that’s impossible not to feel.
Alright, hit us with it — the five can’t-miss experiences.
The Blue Mosque— A breathtaking masterpiece inside and out, filled with thousands of glowing blue tiles. It’s calm, spiritual, and symbolic of Istanbul’s beautiful coexistence of faiths.
Hagia Sophia— Once a church, then a mosque, now a museum — history layered on history. You can feel time shift as you walk through it.
The Grand Bazaar— A chaotic wonderland of colour and craftsmanship. Lanterns, carpets, spices — it’s joyful, loud, and so alive. I can’t say I bought much here, but definitely an experience.
Basilica Cistern— Cool, dark, and otherworldly. Massive columns rise from still water beneath the city streets — it’s cinematic. And unbelievable, to say the least.
Ebru (Turkish marbling) class at Galatart Atölye— A creative must-do. Watching colours swirl on water and turn into art is meditative, mesmerising, and so uniquely Turkish. You can find lots of classes but these ladies were fabulous and if you like vintage shops (clothes / sunnies / homewares) they are in the absolute heart of it. Istanbul’s treasure hunting game is top tier.
Where did you stay?
We split our time between Taksim Square and Sultanahmet (the Blue Mosque side) — both great, but Hotel Empress Zoe completely stole my heart. It’s draped in wisteria, maze-like, full of quirks and Turkish flair. Affordable, authentic, and perfectly placed. My tip? Go for a higher-floor room — they’re the most eccentric and charming (just how I like it).
What about food — any unmissable bites?
Dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants - we loved Roof Mezze 360. The food was sensational — traditional Turkish done beautifully — and the view, all domes and sunsets, is one of those pinch-yourself moments.
Did you leave the city?
We did! We flew to Denizli to visit two of our Turkish suppliers (the kids love a factory visit — I know, wild). Our longtime collegue there took us to Pamukkale— those incredible white travertine terraces we’ve all seen on insta. It’s surreal — glowing white pools spilling down the hillside with the ancient ruins of Hierapolis above. The history, the natural beauty — it’s one of those places that leaves you completely speechless.
Turkey in three words? History. Heart. Magic.
Turkey, you’ve got our hearts — and our stomachs. Until next time, with love, The Heppells x
