Lale Magazine March - April 2019 by MARLET CORPORATE PUBLICATIONS

A MAGAZINE FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN

Issue 04 March - April 2019

SPRING CLEANING

CONTENTS 02 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LALE FEATURES 10 CELEBRATE NOWRUZ AND CARNIVAL

16 BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS ISTANBUL TULIP FESTIVAL 31 RENEWAL KICKING BAD HABITS

32 SPIRITUAL CLEANSING Ancient Turkish Rituals

LALE LIFE 03 FROM THE KITCHEN Easter Bread Recipe 05 IN YOUR WORDS Self Improvement

06 CALENDAR March and April events and activities 08 EMPOWERMENT International Women’s Day 09 TRADITIONS Springtime Holidays

15 RECOMMENDED READING Suggestions for bookworms 24 ZERO WASTE Making Your Own “Hatchimals” 26 WELLNESS Ask Julia

27 POETRY CORNER A Gorgeous Season

36 IWI MEMBER PROFILE Amanda Erdogan 38 MUMS N KIDS Making Paper Flowers 42 TRAVEL Dubai and Marmaris

50 LOVING LITERATURE Books celebrated around the World

LALE AROUND TOWN 04 ETILER BRUNCH Mums N Kids meet and greet 18 ISTANBUL TOURS A Walk on the Asian Side

19 COFFEE MEET-UPS Asian and European side bonding 20 DUBB RESTAURANT Indian Cooking Class 22 GOURMET Valentine’s Day Cooking Class 28 STREET STYLE Interviews from Kadiköy

30 COOKING CLASS Vegetarian Turkish Cuisine

40 NEWER BUILDINGS Changing Istanbul Neighborhoods 51 CHARITY ART EXHIBIT French Group Coffee Morning

LALE DIRECTORY 60 CLUBS, GROUPS AND ASSOCIATIONS 62 CLASSIFIEDS 64 POLICIES

letter from the editor

Spring is on its way, which means that it’s a good time to consider some spring cleaning! Not just of our homes, but of the multiple aspects that make up our lives. Whether you’re cleansing yourself physically, mentally, or spiritually, or even socially or professionally, it’s a good time for redirection and rejuvenation. As nature renews itself with fresh blossoms and new growth, we should think of ways to generate our own personal growth, whether it be something as small as recycling more or something as challenging as starting a new exercise regimen or finding a new job. We can also choose to make more out of our lives by setting aside extra time for ourselves and our families and friends, or by taking on a new hobby or initiative that makes us more active. Whichever way we choose to change our lives, it’s a good time to consider some self-improvement, and a great way to start is by letting the beauty of the new season around us inspire some beauty within. Sara Hassan LALE Editor lale@iwi-tr.org

BOARD of LALE IWI Office Hours: First Wednesday of the month, 10:30am to 1:00pm. Answering service available every working day Adres/ Address: Esentepe Mahallesi, Büyükdere Caddesi, Ecza Sokak. Pol Center No: 4/1, Levent, Istanbul – TURKEY Telephone: 0212 705 6215 www.iwi-tr.org Dergi Adı / Magazine Name: Lale Yayını Yapan / Publisher: IWI International Women of İstanbul, Dernek Kod: 34-64/027 İrtibat Adresi / Address: Esentepe Mahallesi, Büyükdere Caddesi, Ecza Sokak. Pol Center No: 4/1, Levent, Istanbul – TURKEY İmtiyaz Sahibi / Licensee:

Yasemin Kunze Adres/ Address: Piyalepaşa Bulvarı, Kastel İş Merkezi B-Blok Kat 5 Kasımpaşa-Istanbul Sorumlu Yazı İşleri Müdürü / Responsible Editor: Yasemin Kunze Adresi / Address: Piyalepaşa Bulvarı, Kastel İş Merkezi B-Blok Kat 5 Kasımpaşa-Istanbul Yayın Türü / Issue Type: Yerel Süreli Tasarım / Design: Marlet Corporate Publications www.marlet.com.tr +90 216 386 32 16

24.12.2018 Sayı: 97 Official Facebook page: facebook.com/lale LALE MAGAZINE TEAM Advertising Coordinator B. Schramm advertising@iwi-tr.org Features Editor Sara Hassan lale@iwi-tr.org Cover photo by Sara Hassan

Matbaa / Printer: Marlet Print Solutions Fener Kalamış Caddesi: No:30 Kalamış / İstanbul www.marlet.com.tr +90 216 386 32 16 Basım Tarihi:

LALE MAGAZINE is a bi-monthly publication for international women. Our aim is to connect women, to share information, and to help the city feel like home. We cover a range of topics from the arts, business networking, culture, food, health, travel, social responsibility, style, and more! To learn more, contact lale@iwi-tr.org

Gourmet

Recipe and Photos by Ayşe Slevogt

EASTER BREAD RECIPE

Get ready to indulge in a tasty variation of a classic Easter favorite. Ayşe Slevogt shares her recipe of German Sweet Bread, which is called Osterzopf around Easter time. It’s easy to make, but takes some time, so roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake. Her advice is to enjoy it with some butter while it’s still warm!

Ingredients • 250 ml milk, better to use 1:1 whipping cream:milk • 500 gr or 4 cups All Purpose Flour • 100 gr or 1/4 cup sugar • 2 tsp Rapid Rise Yeast • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • 6 Tbsp butter at room temp. • 2 eggs

For finishing • 1 egg yolk • 1 tsp milk

In a small cup, put the yeast in lukewarm milk and let it sit for 5 min In the meantime... In a large bowl, mix the flour and sugar Add two eggs and one egg white to the flour mixture Add the yeast mix to the flour mixture Then work the butter through the dough Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough has formed a smooth skin or until a nice, slightly sticky dough has formed Knead on a floured surface and shape into a ball Put the dough back into the bowl, covered with stretch film at warm room temperature and let it rise for about 45 minutes until it doubles in size. You can also put it in the fridge to rise overnight. Remove the dough onto a floured surface, and knead it slightly. Divide the dough into three portions, roll them into long strings of the same size, and then braid your bread. Place it onto a baking tray lined with baking parchment, cover and set aside to proof for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200C Mix the egg yolk with the Tbsp milk and lightly brush egg wash onto the loaf Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, checking for color after 20 minuntes.

Mums N Kids

Photos courtesy of Rana Baroncelli

NEW YEAR’S BRUNCH The Mums N Kids group of the International Women of Istanbul held a New Year’s brunch to celebrate and meet with families about the coming year.

The brunch was held at Happy Nest in Etiler, where the new Coordinator Team (Rana, Candice, Carina) had the opportunity to meet many moms, dads, and their kids. The team got to know the new members and chat about upcoming event ideas. The kids also had a good time as they played indoors with many toys, books, and snacks, which were carefully prepared for them. They even had a chance to explore the garden and the charming Wendy house. It was a heartwarming event that brought some cheer to the rainy Istanbul morning. While the team meets in smaller groups (mostly according to age) they plan to organize different types of activities that will be exciting for all age groups and the whole family. “We believe that a year full of joy is coming!”

Looking Ahead

Photo by Pixabay

IN YOUR WORDS...

What is one positive change you would like to make in your life?

I want to love and enjoy everything I do and be a source of joy for everyone around me. Nurin

I want to stop being bitter, and to stick to my plan of going to the gym. -Azaera

I want to be more aware of what’s happening in the world and not just live in a bubble. -Canan

I want to call my mom more often. -Haleema

I would like to lose the weight I gained during my pregnancy. -Reyhan I wish to not make other people’s drama my own drama. -Srishti

I want to be able to travel more. -Ioanna I want to be kinder and more loving to myself—I only have one me! -Ayşe

I would like to enjoy life more and be closer to people who care about me. -Safa

Calendar

Monday

March 2019

Tuesday

All About Asian Jewelry

Asian Side Coffee

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Vegetarian Turkish Cooking Class

European Side Coffee

International Women’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day

Nowruz 25

Calendar

Monday

Tuesday 1

April Fool’s Day Istanbul Tulip Festival

Wednesday

Asian Side Coffee

World Book Day

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

International Children’s Book Day

Earth Day

April 2019

European Side Coffee

Easter

Celebrate

Written by Sara Hassan. Photos by Pixabay.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY LALE Magazine wishes everyone a very happy International Women’s Day. March 8 marks International Women’s Day. The holiday celebrates women’s achievements and pushes for women’s rights. Women around the world have much to offer. We are daughters, mothers, aunts, sisters, colleagues, and friends. We are also teachers, mentors, nurturers, professionals, and leaders. This year’s theme is “Balance for Better.” Women's Day is a time when we should celebrate who we are. We should embrace our femininity and commemorate our achievements. This year, choose a woman in the world or from history who you really admire, and spend some time learning more about her. Then share your research with your family and friends to honor her legacy. You can also contribute to a cause that promotes women's rights, whether it be equal pay and opportunities in the workplace, more rights for working mothers, better maternity care, voting or education rights around the world, a campaign against sexual abuse or domestic violence, or anything that helps improve the lives of other women around the globe.

The idea of Women’s Day can be traced back to 1908. In 1909, the first Women’s Day was celebrated in February in the US, when 15,000 women march through New York City calling for voting rights, higher pay, and better working hours. The following year, the leader for the Women's Office of Germany's Social Democratic Party introduced the idea of celebrating women on a unified day of the year across the world. March 8 was then chosen as the official date for the holiday in 1913 and International Women's Day has been celebrated on that day since. Here in Istanbul, you can also join the International Women of Istanbul (IWI) group as it marks the occasion with a walkathon on Friday, March 8. It will start at 10am in various neighborhoods across the city. Participants can choose from 1km, 5km, or 10km options. The entry fee is a minimum donation of 10TL. Check their website for more details. www.iwi-tr.org

Celebrate

CREDITS: Written by Sara Hassan. Photos by Pixabay.

SPECIAL HOLIDAYS Springtime is full of special celebrations. Here’s a brief look at some of the common ones that people in diﬀerent parts of the world commemorate.

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day falls on March 17 and originated in Ireland. Still a national holiday there, many more countries have also adopted the celebration. It commemorates Saint Patrick who was a patron saint and the national apostle credited with spreading Christianity across Ireland. The popular clover leaf, called a shamrock in Ireland, that has come to symbolize this holiday was used by St. Patrick when he took the three leaves to explain the Trinity. Some special dishes served on this day include corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, and of course the popular tradition of drinking beer.

April Fools’ Day

This is a fun-filled holiday when people around the world like to play jokes and pranks on each other on the first day of April. It is sometimes referred to as All Fools' Day. Its exact origins can't be traced, but there are many ideas behind where the tradition came from. Some people say that when the Gregorian calendar was adopted and changed New Year’s Day to January 1, the people who continued celebrating in April were termed fools. Other say it was the time of year when people would be fooled by the changes in weather. But eventually it was adopted into a day of silliness and practical jokes. Whichever way you look at it, just make sure not to get pranked!

Easter

Christians celebrate Easter to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus around 30 AD, which is mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible. It is part of a series of events that begins with Ash Wednesday that starts the 40-day period of fasting known as Lent, and ends with Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday and Good Friday. The dates for Easter-related events can vary across different Christian denominations. Although the holiday is based on and known for its religious significance, some of the current practices that surround it stem from pagan traditions, including the Easter bunny and Easter eggs, which represent fertility in pagan traditions. Some believe the egg became a symbol of Jesus’ rebirth. But the customs were integrated and adopted over the centuries. Today many children celebrate with Easter egg hunts, and by dyeing and decorating eggs in different colors.

Earth Day

Earth Day is commemorated on April 22, and this year’s campaign is called “Protect Our Species.” It’s an effort to raise awareness about rapid extinction rates and endangered species that can still be saved. This holiday marks the birth of the environmental movement in 1970. An American Senator used the 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California to raise public consciousness about air and water pollution. The holiday is now celebrated all over the world in an effort to raise awareness and efforts to protect the planet, focusing on the biggest problems facing the environment each year.

Celebrate

Feature and photos by Nazanin Rahmani

NOWRUZ The start of spring means the celebration of the Persian festival Nowruz. Nazanin Rahmani tells us all about the customs and traditions involved.

Nowruz is the traditional Iranian festival of spring which starts at the exact moment of the vernal equinox, marking the beginning of spring. It is considered the start of the New Year for Iranians. The name of Nowruz comes from the Avestan meaning “New Day” or “Daylight.” Nowruz is celebrated on March 20/21 each year, at the time the sun enters Aries and spring begins. Nowruz has been celebrated for at least 3,000 years and is deeply rooted in the rituals and traditions of the Zoroastrian religion. Today the festival of Nowruz is celebrated in Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

The word Nowruz does not appear until the second century AD in Persian records. But we have reasons to believe that the celebration is much older and was surely observed by the people and royalty during the Achaemenid times (555-330 BC). It has often been suggested that the famous Persepolis Complex, or at least the palace of Apadana and the Hundred Columns Hall, were built for the specific purpose of celebrating Nowruz. Our oldest records for Nowruz go back to the Arsacid/Parthian times (247 BC-224 AD). And there are specific references to the celebration of Nowruz during the reign of the Arsacid Emperor. The first part of celebrating Nowruz is called Chaharshanbeh Suri. It is an Iranian festival celebrated on the evening of the last Tuesday before Nowruz and it lasts until the morning of the last Wednesday of the year. It is an ancient Persian festival of fire. Chahar-Shanbeh means Wednesday and suri means both “red” and “celebration.” In this “red celebration,”

Celebrate

Photos by Sara Hassan

people go out and make a bush fire which they keep burning until the next morning. This is symbolic of burning all that was bad, painful, unhappy, and full of sickness and worry, in an effort to look forward to a new beginning in the new year. People jump over the burning cinders and shout, “Oh, Chaharshanbeh Suri; give me your red color (a face with red color is the symbol of health) and take back sickly pallor,” which is a purification ritual. Some believe their ancestors’ spirits visit during the last few days of the year. Typically, on the first day of Nowruz, family members gather around the table with the Haft Seen (Sabze: grass, seeb: apple, seer: garlic, senjed: anode, sekeh: coin, serkeh: vinegar, samanoo: a kind of sweet), and await the exact moment of the arrival of spring. At that time, gifts are exchanged. Later in the day, on the very first day of spring, the first house visits are paid to the most senior family members. During the Nowruz holiday people are expected to visit one another (mostly limited to families, friends and neighbors) in the form of short house visits during the holidays before the 13th day of spring. The traditional herald of the Nowruz season is called Haji Pirooz, or Haji Firuz. He symbolizes the rebirth of the Sumerian God of sacrifice, Domuzi, who was killed at the end of each year and reborn at the beginning of the new year. Wearing black make-up and a red costume, Haji Pirooz sings and dances through the streets with tambourines and trumpets, spreading good cheer and the news of the coming new year.

People go out into nature in groups and spend all day outdoors, having family picnics. It is a day of festivity, where children play, and music and dancing are abundant. On this day, people throw their sabzeh, or grass, away into nature as a symbolic act of making nature greener, and to dispose of the sprouts said to have been collecting in the household. As an Iranian I am proud that in the calendar of my country, New Year begins at the same time of the beginning spring, the time when flowers begin to sprout and life starts once more on planet Earth. Iranians believe that before starting the Nowruz ceremony, they should clean their homes of dust and pollution, as they do the same of their hearts from hatred and hostility. The preservation of this custom for thousands of years shows the historical importance of making peace.

The 13th day of the New Year festival is called Sizdah Bedar (meaning “13th outdoors”). It often falls on or near April Fool’s Day, as celebrated by some countries.

Celebrate

Written by Verena Ringe. Photos by Verena Ringe and Pixabay

CARNIVAL This festivity is also called Fasching in some areas and takes place at the end of winter or early spring, and for many people its purpose and history is unclear, even if the music, costumes and dances in the street are not.

Let’s start at the beginning. Exactly how old this tradition is is still unknown, but in the year 1234, a text in England mentions pre-Lent revelries. It is a very Christian tradition and takes place every year six weeks before Easter. The pre-Easter time of Lent is reserved for fasting and religious contemplation, where any luxury is forbidden and food should be only the basic necessities for life. No alcohol, no smoking, no meat, sweets etc., and definitely no music, parties or dancing. When the Christian church split into Protestants and Catholics, Catholics retained the church orders of Lent. Therefore, Carnival is found in countries with a Catholic history, including Italy, Spain, France, parts of Germany, and countries which were colonised by European powers, such as those in Latin America and the Caribbean, and does not exist in Protestant-dominated countries. Generally the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro comes first to mind with its famous dancing parades under the sun. Many Carnival dancing schools train their groups during the year

to become the best performers against much competition. The Rose-Monday procession with huge funny figures on floats and musical bands, all in costumes, gives a lot of joy to everybody. The beautiful dancers are able to wear skimpy, revue-girl types of costumes with a lot of sparkle and are certainly very glamorous. Our end of winter is, of course, still summer in the southern hemisphere and everybody can have fun with light clothing, which makes dancing a lot easier and attractive. The suppressed and forcefully converted local populations took carnival as a means to express their own old cultures with joy and dance within their new religion, where laughter was often considered sinful. Some of their culture prevails in the costumes that imitate animals, and feathered costumes emulating the birds of the jungle are predominant. The word “carne-vale” originates from Italy, where it meant the “finishing of the meat”, describing the use-up of the winter storage of meat before fasting.

Easter being the main religious celebration in Christianity, the weeks leading up to it were allocated for religious contemplation and penitent living by the early church fathers. This coincided with a natural time of low food supplies in Europe. The winter storage had all but been eaten up and new harvests were not ready. It was also a time before the animals reproduced. So 40 days before Easter, the fasting time would start, and to eat your fill and have a good time just made sense. The church found the idea of further festivities attractive, so that it could promote more penitent behaviour in the holy pre-Easter time. Cartoons, jokes, and dance erupted and were still a large part of Carnival. This year Carnival starts on Thursday the 28th of February and lasts until the morning of Wednesday, the 6th of March. As I was brought up in the Catholic Rhineland of Germany, most of this text will be based on my own memories and firsthand experiences. In Cologne, Mainz, Bonn, and DĂźsseldorf, Carnival is considered the fifth and shortest season of the year, and is greatly anticipated and prepared for. There are many Carnival clubs, and the time of 11:11 am on 11/11 (November 11th) is believed to be the silliest number to get together for the first Carnival meeting of the year. A Carnival prince has to be elected to preside over the festivities, which include many costume balls, television shows, interviews and funny cabarets. The Carnival princess, or maiden, has been traditionally a man dressed as a girl. And so the fun begins. The number of floats for the Rose-Monday procession is to be determined and the contents and figures affirmed. These consist mostly of political figures, monarchy, famous actors, or important news items from the previous year. These floats are interspersed with soldiers and musical bands in old-

fashioned uniforms. The processionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite character, the Dance-Marie is dressed in a white wig, tricorn hat, pleated short skirt, boots and a uniform. They are highly trained dancers who parade along the cheering crowds, with longlegged high-kicks and smiles, and very pretty to watch. These uniforms are based on the style of the Napoleonic wars, green for France, red for England and blue for Prussia. Nowadays plenty of colour combinations are to be found. These costumes are expensive and are often given or rented by the Carnival clubs to their members. Weiberfastnacht (womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carnival) is the start of the crazy time when costumes appear in the streets and the day when the women take over the town hall. This started with the washerwomen of Beuel/Bonn who left their work (a small industry on the shallow banks of the Rhine) and stormed the city hall, imprisoning the town officials and making silly laws for the next few days. Even now all women of the area roam the streets with big scissors to cut off all the ties on the men foolish enough to wear them on that day, the tie being a symbol of male power. It is an unofficial holiday and schools are often closed. Costume parties abound and are enthusiastically held in schools, offices and factories during work hours on Friday, and in many homes during the carnival season. This ranges from VIP festivities to street parties. The music rarely stops, nor do the laughter and jokes. Costumes are planned and made long in advance to be ready for the day. Right after Christmas, shops selling cloth stock fancy materials for any fantasy. But traditionally these costumes were made of old unused clothes with some embellishments, which often dictated the way you dressed up. And they are still mostly homemade, as nobody wants to wear the same outfit as their neighbour.

Children mostly choose to be a fairy princess or a figure from a comic strip or film. Old favourites are animals, cowboys, tramps, mermaids, angels, and devils. The old black and white photo from the early 1950s shown here is of me and my siblings, where, at the age of 19 months, I partied as â&#x20AC;&#x153;little red riding hoodâ&#x20AC;? complete with basket for the sweets, which as family legend tells, I gathered unafraid even from under the hoofs of the carnival horses, and was often taken up for a ride on the floats or horses. If there was no time to create a costume, a mask is often worn. In this disguise everyone feels safe to dance in the streets, play jokes on their bosses, and generally behave irresponsibly. And fools they all become during the Carnival days, eating, dancing, and cuddling with strangers are the order of the time. Bar closing hours are lifted and the parties go from evening to morning and often also the next day. Traditional cakes, like a small firm doughnut, are sold in the streets and many other food stalls have good business. The highlight of the season is the procession on RoseMonday. The music, the floats, the dancers and costumeparades attract a large crowd of onlookers and a lot of cheering and lewd Carnival songs are heard from long distances. Some real police officers accompany the procession on horseback to nip any trouble in the bud, and ambulances standby for the unlucky. From the procession, sweets are strewn into the crowds and children dash about to collect them. Tiny bunches of flowers are also thrown by the Dance-Maries and are considered especially precious. To finish off, mainly Spain and Italy have long and famous traditions of their own at Carnival time. Many towns in southern Spain have flamenco dancers in the streets and wonderfully dressed up horses and riders on display. In Italy the most famous place for Carnival is Venice.

There the tradition goes to elaborate dress and hats, worn in the style of 1700. Not to forget the masks, which are sold also for the tourists at any other time in special shops and are really wonderful displays. Carnival ends on Shrove-Tuesday evening and by AshWednesday the fun is gone. No decorations, litter or costumes anywhere, and the jokes are few. The costumes are boxed up for the next year and the fasting begins. During Lent, even the church bells are not allowed to ring in respect for the ordeal of Christ and the sound of them on Eastermorning gladdens the heart, even of the unreligious, with their joyfulness.

Bookshelf

RECOMMENDED READING Spring is a good time to scout out your neighborhood for parks and outdoor cafes. Don’t forget to bring along a good book while you enjoy the nice weather. Celia Zeilberger, a member of the International Women of Istanbul (IWI) group and an avid reader, shares her recommendations with LALE.

CELIA’S RECOMMENDED READS

EDITOR’S PICK

The Idiot

Pachinko

The Secret Garden

This coming-of-age novel follows a Turkish-American Harvard freshman in the 1990s. A finalist for the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for fiction, the book made me laugh and think.

This sweeping epic about successive generations of Koreans living in Japan is beautiful and impossible to put down.

There’s no better time of year to dive into a story about fresh blossoms and new beginnings. This classic favorite is for young and old alike. An orphan girl discovers a secret garden at her uncle’s estate, in which she helps to transform her cousin’s physical condition along with her own character.

By Elif Batuman

By Min Jin Lee

By Frances Hodgson Burnett

Around Town

Feature and photos by Sara Hassan

ISTANBUL TULIP FESTIVAL It's a good time to take a breather and enjoy some colorful blooms at Istanbul's annual Tulip Festival. Located in Emirgan, it runs through the month of April.

Istanbul celebrates its Tulip Festival every year in April, known locally as the Istanbul Lale Festivali. It’s located at Emirgan Park in Sarıyer near the Bosphorus, and is full of color and beauty. Whether you're looking for an escape for some quiet reflection, a romantic walk, strolls with friends, or a family-friendly outing, the experience offers something for everyone. The festival hosts a number of activities throughout the month, including live music and painting, along with photo exhibits and glass blowing and marbling performances. There are tables scattered throughout the grounds where you can enjoy picnics, or lie in the sun on the soft grass. There’s also a children’s play area, and if you walk further into the park, it opens up into a clearing with water pouring down a rock wall. Emirgan Park is one of the largest public parks in Istanbul with several tulip gardens. For the best experience, it’s better to visit towards the beginning of the month, since the flowers begin to die out as the month progresses.

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the Tulip Museum, where you can learn about the history of the celebrated flower and its significance in Turkish culture. You can also purchase colorful glass trinkets in the shape of tulips and other objects, blown by local artisans. The word “lale” for tulip comes from the Persian “lâhle,” with some plant species coming to Turkey from Iran and Central Asia. Their commercial cultivation began in Turkey during the Ottoman Empire. Holland’s popular claim to tulips didn’t materialize until they were brought to the Netherlands from Turkey in the 16th century. Whether you live in Istanbul or are visiting as a tourist around this time, you will actually be able to see tulips throughout April across the city. The first annual tulip festival was held in 2006. By 2016, the total number of tulips planted across Istanbul totaled 30 million, and came from more than 100 tulip species! The large spread of tulips in front of the iconic Sultanahmet Blue Mosque has been called the largest tulip carpet in the world, measuring 1,734 square meters. Even if you’ve seen it already, you are still in for a treat, because the carpet is planted in a different design every year.

Around Town

Feature and photos by Monica Fritz

A WALK ON THE ASIAN SIDE

There’s much to see in Istanbul, a city spread across two continents. Monica Fritz takes us on a tour of the neighborhoods located on the Asian side.

This walk started in the colorful and lively fish market of Kadikoy and into the silence of a sweet Armenian chapel, with another surprise entry into the Greek Orthodox Church Aya Efimia. With a simple crossover to the other side of the Bosphorus we dove into another world, a neglected area in the process of being gentrified. Among the tattered art deco buildings, facing the majestic Haydarpasa train station, there is a series of gigantic surreal murals commissioned by the Kadikoy municipality for an art festival in 2013. These spectacular murals add wonderful color to the area, but they are hidden around corners, which makes them fun to discover. A short dolmuş ride away, we entered the more conservative district of Üsküdar, and below a picturesque hilltop we strolled down to the lovely Bosphorus village of Kuzguncuk known for many things, including its long history of religious tolerance, its large number of artists and intellectuals, Black Sea villagers, a soft Bosphorus breeze, and its beautiful traditional wooden houses overlooking a rare city garden. After lunch at a local eatery, we visited a lovely aromatherapy shop and went on to take the ferries back to the European side. www.alternativecitytours.com

Around Town

Photo courtesy of Ayşe Slevogt

ASIAN SIDE MEET-UP Members of the International Women of Istanbul (IWI) living on the Asian side of the city met up for coffee on January 8 to welcome the New Year together. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month from 11:00-13:30 at Zamane Kahvesi (Bağdat Cad. No 403, Suadiye -- behind Derishow and opposite Turkcell). The next meet-ups will be held on March 12 and April 9. Everybody is welcome to join!

Photo courtesy of Ayşe Yücel

EUROPEAN SIDE MEET-UP

Members of the International Women of Istanbul (IWI) living on the European side of Istanbul also had their own coffee meet up. Meetings on the European side are held on the third Thursday of every month. The next meet-ups will be held on March 21 and April 18.

Gourmet

Written by Yazi Metin. Photos: Dubb Restaurants, AyĹ&#x;e Yucel, Becky Altinman, Rachel Bahadir.

DUBB RESTAURANTS INDIAN COOKING CLASS

Dubb Restaurants held a special cooking class on February 8 for members of the International Women of Istanbul (IWI). Yazi Metin gives us some background on this popular restaurant chain

Dubb Restaurants was founded in March 1998 by Mehmet Aras in an attempt to add value to the food and beverage sector, create a corporate structure within the sector, and bring a new vision to it. Dubb Restaurants’ starting point was called “The Spice Route.” So naturally it began with a focus on Indian cuisine. We have experienced chefs from India’s best hotels and restaurants. Vinod Kumar Chauhan has been our Executive

Chef from the very first day we opened our restaurant. We introduced various spices to herbalists and spice shops, which led to the Garam Masala spice becoming widespred in shops at the Spice Bazaar. Some places even called this spice “Vinod’s/Dubb’s Garam Masala.” We have developed our restaurant according to the demands of domestic and foreign guests in our country, bringing us to where we are today. Dubb’s second branch (Dubb Ethnic Restaurant) is not limited to Indian cuisine. We’ve also added Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Thai cuisines, presenting them with a different perspective. While Dubb Indian is colorful and intense, Dubb Ethnic’s style is basic and elegant. The food and beverage offerings from various cultures are done in a very harmanious way at the second branch, which was opened at a historic white wooden mansion.

We established Dubb Kebab Restaurant to properly present various types of kebabs from the Turkish cuisine to foreign guests, after addressing the demand for Asian cuisine. We have proven that the concept of kebab is not only limited to meat, but it can also be a vegetarian dish. Dubb Kebab is popular with foreigners and locals alike, as are the other branches. The Dubb Indian Bosphorus Restaurant, opened on the top floor of the Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel is the fourth branch of Dubb. As with the first branch, Dubb Indian Bosphorus has colorful decorations, along with modern architecture. Dubb Indian Bosphorus provides services in the area that has beautiful views of the Bosphorus in winter months. And in summer, Dubb Indian serves its delicious food in the garden area. Dubb Indian Bosphorus is among the best ethnic and fine-dining restaurants in the country.

Gourmet

Photos courtesy of Becky Altinman and Şeymah Osoy Özsalgır

VALENTINE’S THYME COOKING CLASS The International Women of Istanbul group (IWI) partnered with the Marriott to host a Valentine’s Day cooking class on February 14. The attendees were coached by Executive Chef Metin Işçi who selected a three-course menu for them. Take a peek at the special dishes that they learned to make.

Lale Community

Mums N Kids

Feature and photos by Jodie Harburt

MAKING YOUR OWN HATCHIMALS

Join Jodie Harburt as she walks us through the process of making environment-friendly â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hatchimalsâ&#x20AC;? with her daughter. She shows us how to cut down on waste while extending and enjoying the whole process. Why do we need to create fake nature and fake nurturing opportunities for kids to feel connected and loving? We've been doing it for some time. There have been all kinds of weird things designed to entertain kids, but are there really no opportunities for them to really nurture something in this world? Couldn't they try a seedling or a tomato plant? Aside from the hugely important matter of the abyss in our ability to create wise and nature-connected stimuli for our children, there is the other deeply troubling aspect: the complete and utter wastefulness of these toys! Apparently Hatchimals are created by a company called the Spin Masters (no doubt they have spun up all kinds of traps for us, consumers, to fall into). We had visited a toy shop, and Mia (five years old) saw them there, a large plastic packet with three small plastic eggs inside and the promise of untold satisfaction and glee. Anyways, Mia knows the routine; we either take photos of, or research, any toy she likes, and then we go home and try our best to make something similar rather than buy horrible plastic stuff. Why do we do that? Because such things are poisoning our planet all along, from extraction of the ingredients from the earth, to the production, which most often involves pollution, energy consumption, the worldwide transportation, and sometimes exploitation of workers. Then there is the problem of the disposal of the packaging and often the silly toy also ends up in the trash too.

So this is what we did:

1. We bought clay, made some animal figures and shapes, and then waited 3-4 days for them to dry. 2. We painted them. 3. We saved egg shells, washed and dried them. 4. While Mia was at school, I assembled the eggs with the figures inside (I just used some small strips of masking tape so the eggs could be cracked open easily). 5. I painted the eggs pink. 6. Mia and I colored purple hearts on the eggs according to her instructions. 7. Over the course of nearly a week Mia opened a couple of eggs a day, and to my surprise she was delighted with the whole thing, from cracking the egg to seeing the mini figure inside, even though she had helped make them herself and they weren't really a surprise.

She didn't even mind that the soft clay breaks easily, but we have it in mind to source something stronger for our next projects. I can't say for sure that Mia's urge to have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;realâ&#x20AC;? Hatchimal is abated, but I suspect it is. In the meantime, we had loads of fun. If we had bought the toy that day I guess it would have been opened and done with within the day, and only the trash would remain for hundreds of years. Our homemade adventure took us 20 days of planning, inception, implementation and conclusion. Mia will continue to play with the figures, which will move in to her homemade veterinary clinic (made out of shoe boxes) and we will continue playing with the left over clay. Though there is still a bit of waste involved, the biggest part of the residue is our happy experience of making projects together!

Wellness

Written by Julia Ozdemir. Photo by Pixabay.

ASK JULIA

Welcome to our ASK JULIA column. (Send in questions you would like to be answered by a Clinical Psychologist. Please email your questions to Julia at istpsychology@gmail.com) B.U. asks: My 14-year-old son has been acting out recently. He has been moody lately and noticeably argumentative. I have been called into the school due to his behavioral issues. Apparently when his teacher challenged him on why he did not complete his last few homework assignments, he lashed out and was rude. This behavior was noticed more than once, hence me being asked to the school. This behavior is unusual for him as he typically was a diligent student. What can I do? Julia: I have a 14-year-old son at home as well so I know exactly what it’s like to live with a moody teen! Adolescence is a very challenging time for everyone involved. Your son is not only going through physical changes but also hormonal, mental, and emotional changes as well. He is trying to adjust to the world around him as he approaches early adulthood. It is important to remember this while interacting with your teen. Continuing to treat him or interact with him as a child is really not going to work anymore. So, sending him to his room is really not going to cut it. Using reflective listening skills will help ensure you understand what he is going through emotionally. Try to use empathy and help him de-escalate rather than try to assert authority and get him to conform as this will only make him want to rebel. Try not to raise your voice. I recommend you sit and discuss expected behaviors with your child at regular intervals. Listen and try to understand your son’s expectations and together chart a path forward including appropriate goals and milestones. However, this does not mean letting go of the reigns and letting him do whatever he wants either. Consistency in parenting is key no matter what the age of the child. Using positive reinforcements (appropriate rewards) helps change behaviors. However, at times consequences are also needed. The important thing is to work together to find a balance. Julia Ozdemir MPsych(Clinical), BSc(Hons-Psych), BA(Psych) is a specialist Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience in both hospital and private practice mental health facilities. A native English speaker, Julia obtained her Master’s degree from Western Sydney University, her Honor’s degree from the University of Sydney, and her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado. She recently moved to Istanbul from Sydney, Australia where she ran her own large clinical practice. You may reach Julia at istpsychology@gmail.com or 553 167 6444.

Poetry Corner

Poem by Labiba Hassan. Photos by Sara Hassan and Pixabay

Embrace the new season with some literary beauty. As springtime paints the world with its graceful charm, Labiba Hassan gives us a colorful glimpse of the world blossoming around us.

A GORGEOUS SEASON By Labiba Hassan

Under the cerulean blue sky Stretches a vast emerald field. Full of languor, where I lie Feeling the soft green grass, which yields The daffodils with a touch of gold. I can smell the jasmine, roses, and gardenia That grow in my yard, Thrusting their fragrance into the air. Unlike the spray of harsh perfume, It is gentle like the breeze, spreading its aroma Into the clear atmosphere. Vivid colors dart across my eyes. Varieties of red, yellow, orange, purple, blue, Pink, and white dance together holding hands. Am I looking at the paintings of Van Gogh or Claude Monet? The graceful wind blows, ringing in my ears Monet’s gentle words— “I must have flowers, always and always.” I see a vision in the distance, of people raking their lands, Awaiting harvests of delicious fruits and vegetables. A sudden speck of black moves, My eyes catching a quick glimpse. Looks like the homecoming of birds, Preparing to build nests for a new generation. Worker bees busy buzzing around the flowers, Collecting nectar for their Queen. Oh how delicious is the sweet taste of honey! A whole new freshness surrounds the earth, Holding a sparkling ring of gold saying— Welcome my love, with your exquisite beauty, You bring with you the splendor of Spring!

Around Town

Feature and Photos by Kendra Case

STREET STYLE In this edition of Street Style, Kendra Case brings us a collection of voices from a trendy part of Kadıköy. Strolling through the streets we made our way down to the seaside. Following this path leads one directly into the hipster haven that is Moda Park. Everything goes here and you can find all sorts of people. When you come, bring your picnic and enjoy people watching. In this place everyone is welcome and no one judges. Here are a couple of the fashionistas we found spending their Saturday in the park.

Çılga, 24

Where are you from? I am from Ankara. What do you do? I am a banker. Wow, that was not my guess. How would you describe your style? Grunge. What you’re wearing today, where is it from? Mostly H&M. How about the necklace? From the Carşı (small store) in Beşiktas. What do you think is the most important thing in a girl’s wardrobe? Definitely her shoes. Where is your favorite place to shop? H&M. Where do you like to hang out in İstanbul? I don’t live here, but I love Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Bebek. What kind of music are you listening to at the moment? Rock.

Gamze, 37

Where are you from? Istanbul. I live in Bakirköy. What do you do? Normally I have a job, but now I am a mom. I see your son here with you. How old is he? 1 ½ years old. How would you describe your style? Always changing. What you’re wearing today, where is it from? Some from Ebay, others from Bakirköy. Also I love your hair. Is it usually pink? Actually I had dreadlocks before and recently cut them off. What is your favorite thing in your wardrobe? Accessories and sunglasses. Where do you like to shop? I am always looking for punk and alternative stores. I see you have a lot of tattoos. Which is your favorite? Probably this phoenix I have on my arm. Where is your favorite place to hang out in Istanbul? Moda Park.

FRESHEN UP YOUR WARDROBE THIS SPRING WITH SOME OUTFITS THAT HELP YOU BE CREATIVE AND EXPRESS YOURSELF!

Ahmet, 23

Where are you from? Edirne. What do you do? I am a system engineer. Wow. Pretty young to be an engineer. How would you describe your style? Street style. What you’re wearing, where is it from? Pull and Bear. How about your necklaces? Ali Express. Can you tell me about your tattoos? I have five. This one is my favorite. It’s a razor. Where do you like to shop? Around Kadıköy, I like a store called Sezar. What kind of music are you listening to at the moment? Minimal deep house.

Ismail, 30

Where are you from? Niğde What do you? Are you a musician? No I am a photographer. I work at weddings usually. How do you describe your style? Vintage. I like eighties style. Where do you like to shop? I like second-hand stores. Bomonti always has good things. I like your hat, where is it from? Mango actually. I bought it and put a feather in it. I always like to add to or change the things I buy. So, how long have you played the accordian? One year Where is the best place to hang out in Istanbul? Kadıköy What kind of music are you listening to at the moment? Right now I like Yann Tiersen.

Dining

Feature and photos by Ayşe Yücel

VEGETARIAN TURKISH COOKING CLASS Join Ayşe Yücel as she shows us how to make Turkish-style vegetarian cuisine.

Cooking is an international language of love, satisfaction, fulfillment, enjoyment and friendship. Learning the cuisine of the country you are living in is actually learning more about the people, their culture, and their traditions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Turkish cuisine. Ayşe cooks with love and passion and this shows through the tastes of her Turkish heritage and hospitality. Turkish Vegetarian olive oil cooking demo Menu Chestnut-stuffed cabbage leaves in olive oil Pinto beans in olive oil Stuffed zucchini flowers or artichoke hearts (whichever is available in the market) Fava (dried broad beans) purée Dessert Easy baklava (made with filo dough sheets) Turkish tea and coffee with a savory börek will be served upon arrival.

Date: March 14, 2019 Time: 10:45am-2:00/2:30pm Location: Bağlar Mevki, Yeniköy Number of Participants: 9-13 Price: 135 TL

Lifestyle

Written by Kristina Dontcheva. Photo by Pixabay

KICKING BAD HABITS

Spring is a good time to reassess our lives and make improvements. Kristina Dontcheva walks us through ways to kick our bad habits this year so we can live happier and healthier lives. Winter is coming to an end. The feeling of cold weather, snow days and the magic of the New Year’s spirit is going away. This is the time when nature wakes up, covering the ground and the trees with beautiful colors. Spring symbolizes a new beginning. It would be nice if we could follow the same rhythm of nature. It’s a good time to bring changes to our lives the same way nature renews itself, where we turn a new page, where we write a new and better story about ourselves. It is a well-known fact that we live in a dynamic and fast changing world. Our lives are filled with stress, a lot of work, and many responsibilities. We also carry with us many bad habits. By this I mean anything we do that does not have a positive impact and which stands in the way of us being useful. I have an explanation for why we develop these bad habits. It is mostly because life is often difficult, and these habits allow us to escape reality, even if just for a moment. Did the thought of spring cleaning ever cross your mind? Did you ever tell yourself that you have to stop eating too much, stop smoking, or start doing more sports? Or other similar goals? These thoughts have occurred to me. And I have always promised myself that I will work towards my goals. But when? When is the right time to leave behind our bad habits and start living the life we desire? Let us start here and now with this coming spring and clean our daily lives of all the bad habits that we have. To achieve this, we certainly need to plan little steps for every goal we have in mind. Let us make a plan to replace undesirable behaviors with positive activities in a systematic manner. How about setting goals as a challenge with a friend? We would be more effective in reaching our goals when we are in it together, with friends. Spring is a magical period with lovely weather – not too cold or too hot – when the leaves turn green and every place seems so beautiful. Waking up

(as spring wakes up nature) 30 minutes earlier in the morning, and running before beginning our daily routines, will make us feel energetic and stay positive for the rest of the day. This is the way to overcome our usual excuses that we do not have the time to take on new challenges and goals. This is the time to set a new beginning, in sync with nature and with the new beginning that this season brings. Spring is a perfect time for cleaning our bodies, focusing on a healthy life, and eating healthy food. We can find a variety of fruits and vegetables in the market at this time of the year. It would help us not only to lose weight, but to feel good physically and mentally. Wouldn't it be wonderful to spend your day sitting near the water, having coffee outdoors, feeling the warm sunlight on our faces? Closing my eyes, I can picture this scene in my mind, even smell a faint scent of coffee in the air, and it brings a smile to my face. It is so beautiful to be surrounded by friends and people who wish us well. At this time of the year, there are beautiful places and many events around Istanbul. I am planning to go to the Lale (Tulip) Festival in Istanbul. I am looking forward to spending a day just to see these beautiful flowers which will brighten up my day. I am also wondering if I should spend time outdoors, taking a boat and having lunch outside, or just go for a walk in some of the wonderful parks here? I believe Spring is the best time for us to bring about changes within ourselves and to reach the goals that we set for ourselves, using the special spirit of the town to help reach our goals. There is no single way for us to replace our bad habits, and different methods work for different people. For some people, changes can happen when they find new love, new friends, a new job, or growth in their professional lives. For others, it

can be improving the way they look and feel. In my opinion, we need to transform the energy spent on our bad habits into a source of positive energy. While there is no magic recipe to making this transformation, it is very important to be highly motivated, determined, and to believe in ourselves and our goals. No doubt, we will all expect to see gains for our sacrifices, such as finding true love, a new career, more money, real friends, good health, etc. But it doesn’t matter what the specific changes are that we are trying to make in our lives, or which positive things we plan to replace them with. What is important is that these changes happen this spring and that we try our best to meet our goals. If we start with our spring cleaning efforts, we will soon see the results. I am hopeful that many people will try to change unwanted behavior with something useful this spring, and that nature will be with us. Let us change our lives and wake up for a better future this spring. With each small goal that we set and attain, we would have improved our lives with a sense of pride, and would have been able to reinforce the fact that the small things matter, and that we can definitely make gradual changes to our lives. This spring, let us clean our minds and bodies from all of the bad habits that hold us back, and it will convince us that tomorrow will be better.

Lifestyle

Feature by Violeta Patinioti. Photos by Sara Hassan and Pixabay

TURKISH RITUALS Spiritual cleaning can help us get rid of bad energy, to live a more positive life. Violeta Patinioti takes us through some ancient Turkish customs, while giving us some advice on cleansing ourselves and our homes naturally. Anthropologists put magic as an evolutionary stage of understanding and shamanism as one of the keys to understanding the impact and purpose of a human in its environment. In the 1970s, new age spiritualism was in fashion and people in Europe and the US discovered feng shui, aromatherapy, yoga, and meditation. During the same time, Wicca practices and new age witchcraft thrived, with authors such as Scott Cunningham taking part in our everyday lives, and places without spiritual backgrounds started experiencing inner power. In Turkey, things were different though. Izmir is an area well known for its powerful women who use büyü (considered Turkish witchcraft) to achieve anything they want. Edirne is a place standing between the Balkans, the Aegean, the Black Sea, and Anatolia, and the honorable capital of the Gypsies. What the West calls alternative and New Age, in Turkey is tradition and part of everyday life. While Western people were traveling through Asian countries to find ways for mind and aura detox, Turkey was already involved in shamanic rituals. In almost every culture, we find the phenomenon of “negative energy.” There are different names and rituals involved, but the effect is the same. Even the rotation of the planets have a great impact in our energy and aura.

Nazar

Growing up in a society where the word nazar, or evil eye, is in your daily vocabulary, you just accept the tradition and react accordingly. I took the opportunity to do some research to understand what the blue-eye bead found in every Balkan, Turk, and Arab house is. Why that “weirdo aunt” used to literally spit on my face, and why everyone is calling the gypsy flower seller from the corner to do strange things on the head of the people with melted lead. But let’s start at the beginning.

How this country tries to prevent Nazar

Nazar is an Arabic word meaning “see,” but in Turkish is equivalent to the “evil eye”—that bad energy that makes its way into flora and fauna, and destroys the work you have done with them, or within yourself. It has roots back to the years of Horos, at the time of the Egyptian pharaohs. The rituals vary among the different indigenous cultures, and traveled with the nomads around the Middle East and the Balkans, mixing with rituals from the Far East. The universal “Maşallah” is a word that is believed to stop bad energy before it starts. Every Muslim or Musliminfluenced culture has been exposed to it, which comes from the Arabic phrase “Masha Allah” meaning “God has willed it.” This phrase comes from the Islamic tradition, where it is used to express joy, praise, or gratitude for a person or event, by calling for God’s protection for them from the evil eye and potential harm.

In Turkish culture, it is repeated 41 times and the work is done! In cities such as Bergama, Antakya, and İzmir, parents attach a blue eye-shaped bead to the shoulder of their children’s clothing; and in their crops, they hang animal bones. All these are done to prevent the bad energy that may harm their beloved. The modern textile industry has invented a new model of baby and toddler clothing with the blue bead already attached to the dress. The eye-shaped beads are also sold in various shapes and sizes all over Turkey. You will also notice on the doorsteps of many apartments, a small round blue eye stone that has been placed there by the owners the day before entering their new homes. In Adana, and possibly in every city where horses are part of everyday life, you will find a horseshoe behind the door of every house and shop and a batch of pearl onions hanging in the house. You will also see salt spread in the fire and parents marking their kids with smudge from the cauldron. A smudge on the body is a general nazar protection applied on many adults too. It is said that actors also mark themselves with a smudge before appearing on stage. In Mersin, you will find decorations made with Syrian rue seeds, an herb called Üzerlik or Nazar tohumu in Turkish. They also make talismans wrapped in a white cloth, splinters from a door, this nazar seed, some garlic peels, and a wolf’s nail! In Antakya and Tekirdağ, they believe in the healing properties of nigella and garlic, and they also read a protection spell on the blue stone before they attach it to someone’s clothes. Also, in Antakya every Thursday night, they burn Mahlep seeds to protect the aura of the house.

Interesting Turkish rituals

In Tekirdağ, they melt lead and pour it inside a cup with water—the way the lead reacts inside (or outside) the cup indicates the dimension of the nazar. They also burn different herbs and let the smoke take away the evil eye. Lead is also melted in Mersin, Tarsus, and Malatya. In Mersin, together with the herbs they burn, a part of the person-inneed’s dress, and an alum stone (what we call deodorant crystal), are placed in fire until it changes its shape and shows who the person is who gave the nazar in the first place. In Malatya, they also read certain prayers and they cover a piece of dough under hot cinders. At a certain point, the dough (that contains yeast) blows and explodes and together with it the nazar is blown away. In Bergama, they have a ritual that involves washing the head of the person affected by nazar with salt water, and cutting a piece of bread with a knife, that is thrown away afterwards. In Antakya and many Christian-oriented cities, they read a prayer. If the reader yawns, the nazar is going away. These are traditions that may sound super exotic to many of us, but are part of an interesting culture that we should try to experience. In Istanbul, the melted lead ritual is common and is practiced by many gypsies. There are also spiritual teachers (including hocas) who can read prayers. It is believed that the evil eye has to be taken seriously and that it is so powerful that it may could cause health problems, or even death. Whatever form the traditions take, there are various types of universal protecting rituals. These include things such as aromatherapy and meditation. Cleaning the house with vinegar has a positive impact for the energy of the home. It is also believed that a cup of vinegar under the bed (that is changed every day) can absorb all negative thoughts. Garlic is said to have a similar impact. Hanging garlic in a common space is said to neutralize negative energy. A cup of natural salt (sea or stone) behind the door in every room is said to be good for physical and mental health. For those who want positive energy in their homes and are into a more sustainable lifestyle, update your herb list and try to use them at least once a month in various rituals or chores. Adaçayı (sage): Dry or fresh, is believed to take away any type of bad or negative energy and nazar. Using the infusion of sage in the water we clean the floor and countertops washing away all the negativity. Tarçın kabuğu (cinnamon sticks): Believed to bring wealth and luck. Try using a cinnamon stick for any occasion, add some on your tomato sauce, or even your mug of tea. Çörek otu (nigella): Said to keep away nazar, the essential oil of nigella also heals headaches.

Üzerlik Otu (Syrian Rue): Believed to protect from negative energy. Go to your local Aktar or have a walk in Eminönü and ask for Üzerlik otu, which can be used as decoration, or even as a dream catcher. Defne Yaprağı (bay leaves): Said to burn and banish by healing bad energy and even magic. On a dry leaf write the things that bother you, including emotions and thoughts, and then let them burn inside a metal plate or bowl. Üzüm (grape): This represent creation, and brings about all types of healing. Before WWII, naturopathic healing was thriving and there were many grape therapy clinics around the world where people would spend weeks on a grape-only diet. According to modern-age naturopaths, a grape’s DNA is the best match for our nutritional needs, since it contains all the essential minerals and vitamins, grouping amino acids effectively. Vanilya kabuğu (vanilla bean): This is an aphrodisiac and a natural energy booster. Unfortunately, vanilla bean is not an easy find in İstanbul, so try using its essential oils instead. Tuz (salt): This has to be as natural as possible. It’s said to kick away bad energy and helps you get rid of unexpected and unwanted visitors. What about the Tütsü? You may have seen it in the herb shops. Small packets of colorful mixes of herbs and stones promise to take away negativity. This reminds me of my Greek grandmother who used to burn chalk with frankincense every morning.

t e g s ’ Let

Together

Your Neighbourhood Community Meetup (NCM) administrator organizes meet-ups and activities in your area. This is a great opportunity to connect with other women and discover what IWI has to offer. Unsure what area you are in and who to contact? Ask us at community@iwi-tr.org

MACENTA (Beşıktaş, Levent) macenta@iwi-tr.org

PEMBE (Bebek) pembe@iwi-tr.org

SARI (Sarıyer) sari@iwi-tr.org

BEYAZ (Ortaköy)

Vacancy, beyaz@iwi-tr.org

MOR (Nişantaşı, Beyoğlu) Vacancy, mor@iwi-tr.org

TURKUAZ (İstinye)

MAVİ (Göktürk) mavi@iwi-tr.org

YEŞİL (Yesilköy, Bakirköy) yesil@iwi-tr.org

TURUNCU (Çengelköy)

turuncu@iwi-tr.org

LACIVERT (Beykoz) lacivert@iwi-tr.org

KIRMIZI (Kadıköy, Üsküdar) kirmizi@iwi-tr.org

turkuaz@iwi-tr.org

New To Istanbul? Every month we hold Newcomer Coffee Mornings where you can learn more about IWI and Istanbul. Contact us to find out more. EUROPEAN SIDE newcomerseurope@iwi-tr.org

ASIAN SIDE newcomersasia@iwi-tr.org 35

IWI Member Profile

Feature by Ayşe Yücel. Photos courtesy of Amanda Erdoğan.

AMANDA ERDOĞAN Amanda Erdoğan finds and spreads joy with her famous pastries. Traditionally creating masterpieces in the US and Europe, she now brings her talents to Istanbul.

Amanda is a trained pastry chef and recent expat to Istanbul. She was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, in a fun, food-loving, Mexican-American family of six children. Her journey to the kitchen began with a career change, following her heart away from a successful run in fashion towards the world of pastry. Though one could argue, it really goes back to when she was a little girl and enjoyed watching her mother bake loads of fresh bread, pies, and cookies, and her aunts gathering to make dozens of tamales together every year. Amanda moved to New York City to pursue a career in Fashion with studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked successfully with companies such as Diesel, Gucci, and Generra. But her heart remained in food, and after a semester abroad in Rome, she fell in love with Italian cuisine, especially its desserts. After taking a leap of faith, and a holiday job with an Italian specialty foods company, her fate was sealed and she went on to receive her degree from the French Culinary Institute, graduating at the top of her class. It wasn’t long before she became the Executive Pastry Chef for various NYC restaurants and bakeries, where she managed and oversaw their pastry departments and had the opportunity to create desserts for the likes of Bill Clinton, Barbara Walters, Chris Martin, Bette Middler, and Shakira, to name just a few.

Pastry Class: Spring Desserts Date: April 17, 2019 Time: 10:30-2pm Location: Yeşilköy Price: 125 TL Number of participants: 4-6 Springtime is full of beautiful colors and aromas, but not just the flowers. Spring desserts, showcasing gorgeous seasonal fruits, are a real delight for the senses too. Get into the spirit of the season and all the bounty this time of year has to offer by learning to create decadent and delicious delights. The menu would be a welcome addition to any springtime gathering, whether it be Easter brunch or your next dinner party. If you have never done any baking before or just want to brush up on some classic techniques, then this is the class for you. Spend a fun morning in the kitchen learning and sampling delectable treats, such as an American classic, Hummingbird Cake. This one is a real crowd pleaser. It's loaded with banana, pineapple, coconut, pecans, lightly spiced with cinnamon, and layered between a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting. In addition to the morning's sweet treats, a glass of wine, tea and coffee, as well as a few savory bites will be offered. Be sure to bring a container to take home some of the day's creations.

Hummingbird cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Mixed Berry Scones served with fresh clotted cream & lemon curd Vanilla Yogurt Panna Cotta with Strawberry Basil Compote and Pistachio Dust Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cups

Though Amanda is not currently creating lavishly-plated desserts in the professional kitchen, she’s enjoying experimenting with some of the new and unique ingredients found here in Istanbul, and finding substitutes to make some of the classics she’s used to from the States, as well as from her Mexican heritage. And with two little ones at home now, that includes not only some of their favorite decadent desserts, but healthy treats too, and everything in between. Her kitchen is her happy place, where she spends most of her time testing recipes and watching them turn into smiles on the faces of those around her. She believes in combining classic techniques, seasonal ingredients, and global flavors to give her creations their distinctive personality. You can join Amanda for a pastry class where she’ll demonstrate how to make beautiful and delectable seasonal desserts. The details are below:

Mums N Kids

Feature and Photos by Sara Hassan

MAKE YOUR OWN

PAPER FLOWERS

With spring around the corner and flowers blooming everywhere, take some time with your kids to make some blossoms of your own. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a step-bystep guide to making your own colorful paper flowers. Materials:

Various colors of tissue paper Green pipe cleaners Glue or glue stick

Step 1: Take three sheets of 20X18 cm tissue paper, either all the same color, or with one sheet of yellow on top.

Step 2: Align the sheets together vertically

Step 3: Fold one edge back and forth from the bottom as if you’re making a paper fan, working your way upwards.

Step 4: Take a pipe cleaner and fold one edge around the middle of the folded sheets until it’s snug.

Step 5: Open up the “fan” edges and separate the sheets from each other.

Step 6: Glue the free edges together.

Step 7: Fluff the sheets until they create a puffy flower.

Step 8: You can also spray the flowers with a body spray to give them a floral scent!

Around Town

Feature and Photos by Verena Ringe

NEWER BUILDINGS As nature renews itself for springtime, architects are also giving parts of Istanbul a facelift. Verena Ringe tells us how some homeowners are opting for taller buildings to accommodate more people and a more modern lifestyle.

Different aspects of life come under this heading if we understand that the word “spring” represents “new,” “beginning,” or “renovate.” This term is usable for many types of renewal. Its meaning represents a big tidy-up of one’s life after a cold, wet, and unproductive season. This could be an internal change of mood or restart after an illness, a plan to change the direction of one’s life or even an outward change in a city, country, or government. Spring is the time of eternal hope. I see the architectural changes of Istanbul in this light. Not the new mosques, motorways, or sky-rises, but the almost undetected underlying basis of living areas. Slowly, over the years, the apartment buildings of 3-5 floors are disappearing, the concrete buildings that were raised 50-70 years ago. Poor wiring, insulation, or drainage pipes, if brought up to modern living, are either too costly or downright impossible. Usually there are no construction plans of layouts and the whereabouts of pipes and drainages within the structures. Building companies erected these houses with no architects involved from conception to execution. Separate units of concrete, appliances, bricklayers, painters, electricians, and plumbers worked independently, not as a unit. Since the earthquake of 1999, building specifications have changed drastically, and old buildings don’t comply anymore, some of them being outright dangerous to live in. The city council cannot force people to move. There are simply not enough alternative accommodations for the millions of people who came to work in Istanbul from the rural areas of Turkey since the 1960s. The policy is to make the renewal of old houses a desirability, one way of being a cheap loan to upgrade an existing structure or to rebuild. The possibility of rebuilding higher houses with more living units is an added bonus. Many areas with restrictions on height of 4-6 floors and are now able to have 8-10 floors. Say you rebuild an old house and every homeowner gets two modern, instead of one old, apartment? The attraction is great. You can have an extra income or a place for your children to live nearby without having to move to more affordable suburbs. The grey, concrete, uniform, low-rise inner city of this town is changing

at a rapid pace. All around, small buildings are disappearing; they simply vanish, except for the historically or architecturally notable habitats. This is how it happens. The tenants and owners move out. This could take about one to two years. Suddenly the house opposite or next door has empty windows and removal vans at the door. Then come the scavengers! Anything of value is broken down and carried away by recycling companies, such as windows, doors, pipes, electrical fittings, balcony rails, and even roof tiles. The second wave of salvaging comes through Istanbul’s gypsies, who take door handles, door frames for firewood, and pieces of marble. The building carcass is then fenced in, and for a few weeks is home to cats, dogs, and the occasional vagrant. Then one morning, the machines of destruction appear. The walls and roofs are ripped out and whole floors collapse in one big cloud of dust, rubble, and noise. Other people’s ways of life are laid bare. The colours of the bathroom tiles, the flooring, the paint on the walls and wallpapers on tattered strips, white patches where pictures hung, all gone in moments. Electrical wires hang like fringes of hair along the walls. Bit by bit everything goes. In the process, bushes and small trees which clung to stunted life in the city are pulled out and left to rot on the pavement.

The rubble is then broken down to reach the metal rods, which strengthened the concrete, and this is sold profitably. In the early evening, when the machines are quiet, the gypsies come back to gather small quantities of leftover metal pieces. The rubble is then carted away, and the piece of land is clear for a new beginning. Slowly the city gets cleaned

up. Whole neighbourhoods, therefore, attract more modern and often young people, who expect parking spaces, want smooth pavements and streets, and hope for a nice café at the corner. The modernization is underway. The construction of such a new house causes a lot of unpleasantness for neighbours—dust, noise, structural vibrations, fewer parking spaces, blocked-off pavements, and often narrowed-down roads. In the end, your own old house looks like a poor relative beside the pleasing, gleaming, clean, modern structure. And so it continues! Envy starts the ball rolling and other buildings follow suit, so the inner city stays alive and people are not forced to move into suburbia. It seems like not a bad city clean-up concept, an added bonus being that a major earthquake, as expected in Istanbul any time soon, is unlikely to destroy too many buildings due to new safety rules and tighter material controls. It is likely that many lives could be saved through building renewals. The empty plot next door will soon be dug deep into the ground and all concerned hope that there are no ancient ruins to be unearthed, as archaeological inspectors and teams can halt all proceedings until an emergency evacuation has been conducted. The Yenikapı station for the Marmaray tunnel under the Bosphorus had been delayed for many years just to carefully extract the remains of an old harbor complete with boats. When the rain lessens and no more snow is expected, then work will begin, and by next winter, a new building will be in place. It will be prettier, but might unfortunately cut off some sunlight through its added height. So keep your eyes open and spot these sudden gaps and subsequent new houses in your own neighbourhood.

Travel

DUBAI UAE

Travel

Written by Sara Hassan. Photos by Pixabay.

If you’re looking for an enjoyable getaway with plenty of options for entertainment, plan your next vacation to the popular tourist destination of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. But make sure to go during the springtime before the weather gets too hot!

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is home to the tallest building and free-standing structure in the world. Inaugurated in 2010, the Burj Khalifa’s height soars to 829.8 meters with more than 160 stories. At its peak of construction, it had 12,000 builders working on it every day. The building is a multi-use structure with restaurants, a hotel, apartments, offices, and observation decks. The entrance to the Armani Hotel was designed by Giorgio Armani himself to give guests the feeling that they’re stepping into his home. Be sure to book your tickets to the observation deck and get your own bird’s-eye view of the entire city from the building’s 124th floor. Fun fact: did you know that the design of the structure for the Burj Khalifa was inspired by the shape of the Spider Lily?

Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is located near the Burj Khalifa and is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. It’s also the tallest performing fountain in the world. You can catch a show of breathtaking waterworks synced with captivating music every 30 minutes on most days. And if you want to go all out, you can book tickets for a ride on a traditional abra, or boat, and watch the water show while floating across the manmade Burj Khalifa Lake with a front-row view.

Burj Al Arab

No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the Burj Al Arab, the famous sailboat-shaped hotel. A five-star luxury hotel, this iconic building offers its own marvelous experiences. If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, reserve a table at one of its fancy restaurants. Al Muntaha restaurant gives you a view of the city, while the oyster-shaped Al Mahara restaurant built underwater has a floor to ceiling aquarium for watching colorful fish and plants, while dining on delicious seafood. There’s also Bab Al Yam, which offers poolside dining, and where you can also enjoy dinner under the stars.

Jumeirah Beach

Not far from the Burj Al Arab is Jumeirah Beach. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, relaxation, and pampering, stop by this white sand beach that stretches along the Persian Gulf. If you’re willing to splurge, you can book a room at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. But if you’re on a tight budget, you can still visit the public areas of the beach. It also has a children’s playground and places to barbecue and picnic. And there are cafés where you can cool down and grab a bite to eat. Just make sure you arrive early enough to beat the crowds.

Shopping Malls

If you’re ready to shop ‘til you drop, Dubai has no shortage of shopping malls. In fact, Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world, with 14,000 available parking spaces. It offers more than 1,300 retail outlets, including department stores, and more than 200 food and beverage outlets. It also has a world-class aquarium. If you’re a world traveler, you won’t want to miss the Ibn Battuta shopping mall, named after the famous 14th century Muslim explorer. The mall is divided into various courts that feature the regions covered by Ibn Battuta’s travels – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India, and China. In addition to the retail stores, there are 21 cinema screens, including an IMAX theater. And if you’re looking for a unique experience, try skiing at the Mall of the Emirates. You may be visiting a desert country, but Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski slope to open in the Middle East. It boasts 6,000 tons of snow, complete with ski instructors, ramps, and even a chair lift. It even offers free screenings of the documentary March of the Penguins.

Desert Experience

While you’re in Dubai, don’t miss out on a trip to the desert. There are plenty of tours and safaris to pick from and you can choose from a wide variety of experiences, from taking a camel ride to dune bashing in a Land Rover. You can also watch as the sun sets and camp under the stars, or watch

the sunrise from a hot air balloon. There’s even an option to watch falconers display their mastery, or to see other wildlife at the Desert Conservation Reserve. Top off your experience with delicious Arab dishes and take a few puffs on the traditional shisha, or water pipe, in various flavors.

Mosques

Dubai takes as much pride in its mosques as it does in its skyscrapers. Try to visit some of its famous mosques while you are in the city. The Grand Mosque is one of the largest and is located opposite to the Dubai Museum. It was built in 1900 and was first used a school for children to learn the Quran, but the structure had to be rebuilt twice. Today it can hold up to 1,200 worshippers at a time. Then there’s Jumeirah Mosque, which is not only ornate in person, but can also be found on the 500 dirham bank note. And if you have time, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see. Although it is located in the capital Abu Dhabi, and not in Dubai itself, the experience is quite worth the short trip. The structure is spread across 30 acres and brought together the artistry and design of people from around the world. It reflects Mughal, Persian, and Moorish designs, and is constructed with marble stones. Even on a hot day, the courtyard feels cool under your feet. It is also the mosque with the largest carpet in the world and is able to hold 40,000 worshippers.

Dubai Opera

If you’re into the arts, the Dubai Opera is a 2,000-seat, multi-format, performing arts center. It hosts a variety of performances, including, opera, ballet, musicals, theater, comedy, family shows, rock, pop, and jazz. It’s even set to debut the musical The Phantom of the Opera on October 16, 2019. It can also host social and corporate events, and has plenty of dining options for visitors.

Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is the oldest existing building in the city. It opened in 1971 with the idea of presenting the city’s traditions and heritage. It also gives visitors historical information on the different civilizations that interacted with Dubai over the centuries, and it puts into perspective how the sleepy town developed very quickly into the booming metropolis that it is today. You can get a glimpse of different artifacts, including pottery and weapons, and a taste of the various urban and rural environments of the city. There are also tours that take you into the worlds of astronomy, shipbuilding, and pearl diving. Whatever your interests may be, Dubai has unique experiences and adventurous discoveries for everyone.

Travel

MARMARIS, TURKEY

Feature and Photos by Catie Funk

Looking for a relaxing getaway to recharge from your busy life? Catie Funk gives us a taste of luxury hotels in the Turkish city of Marmaris.

Until the 1980s, Marmaris, Turkey, was just a thriving fishing and citrus village. Today, it’s one of Europe’s most prominent summer vacation spots and tourist destinations. The town’s population of 40,000 increases to 300,000 during the holiday season. Marmaris is the perfect place to unwind from the tedium and stress of work and life. People are lured by its rich history, abundance of adventure activities, and its exceptional culinary scene. From paragliding down the mountain to relaxing next to calm azure waters, visitors can enjoy flavorful Turkish culture at these resorts. A legend shared by the locals tells how the town’s name comes from an old French word of Le Mar Maris, meaning sea pearl. The name was given to the area when French tourists accidentally wandered into its picturesque bay while vacationing on the island of Rhodes. A pearl is an apt description of this gorgeous coastline. And to fully appreciate it, a well-chosen resort gives you the best of privacy, relaxing beaches and Marmaris’ 4 km promenade with countless rows of restaurants, bars, and shops. The heart of the city holds an exciting covered bazaar, where you’ll find local leather, jewelry, pottery, carpets and other goods.

Although built in the 1970s, the Grand Yazici has undergone continual renovations and upkeep. This environmentally friendly hotel is strategically built around existing trees, to the point where the balconies and roofs have holes and corners to allow for them. The 459-room resort provides several types of accommodations; 224 of which are villas. Whichever style room you would like, they most likely have it. Hospitality is not lacking here. Upon our arrival, the hotel delivered a beautifully-arranged tray of fresh fruits, nuts, and dried fruit and cookies, accompanied with wine and whiskey to your room.

Marmaris boasts of many luxury and five-star hotels but not all five-star hotels are the same. Here are four high-end luxury resorts in the Marmaris area that have retained their five-star value. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Grand Yazici Club Turban (All-Inclusive) Sentido Orka Lotus Resort (Ultra All-Inclusive) Marti Resort Secluded D Maris Bay

Grand Yazici Club Turban From the west edge of Marmaris City you’ll see a chain of beachfront all-inclusive resorts and hotels. And this very first resort you come to is the Grand Yazici Club Turban. If you want to experience Marmaris’ nightlife with the privacy and luxury of a resort during the day, this is your perfect location.

Six swimming pools are located throughout the grounds. Otherwise, the private 330-meter beach is set up with sun loungers and umbrellas for guests. Food is available at all hours, either through the main restaurant or several minibars. In the evenings, guests can enjoy a mix of entertainment from 9 pm entertainment shows including magic or acrobatics, live music every night at 9:30 pm, and on the weekends, alternating disco and "white dress" parties.

Rates start around $225 per night for full-board. Marti Hotel Just a 10-minute drive south from Marmaris along the Mediterranean coast, the five-star Marti Resort de Luxe sits in the pine tree-covered bay of IĂ§meler. The cove is a quiet, relaxed town, perfect for those wanting to leave the city behind. Even though this city is known for its more peaceful atmosphere, the area is not lacking when it comes to diverse restaurants, souvenir shops, and local markets. Visitors can choose from steakhouses, Italian pasta and pizzerias, Chinese food, and several Indian restaurants. The prestigious hotel is one of the oldest in the area, but renovation has kept it up with the times. While overlooked by most foreigners, it is spacious with 31,000 meters of sea-side private grounds. The 280-room resort provides several types

Some of the best all-inclusive accommodations start from $140, but you can usually find a discount deal for a week-long stay. Sentido Orka Lotus Beach Built in 2015, the Sentido Orka Lotus Resort is the newest resort on the block. Located between the city of Marmaris and the beach town of IĂ§meler, 5 km away, the Sentido Orka Lotus Beach Ultra-All Inclusive Resort has a new and modern feel. This bright, airy hotel prides itself on being a vacation resort for the ordinary working people - quality but affordable. With 441 rooms, all are similarly arranged with inviting, relaxing Sentido colors of light teal blue and white. The accommodations vary from one bedroom standard or superior rooms to two bedroom family-style rooms, all accompanied by a balcony. The Sentida offers no luxurious suites or villa-type accommodations, but several rooms connect to provide more space for families. If the beach is your main priority, this resort boasts a long private beach of 650 meters. Small beachfront villas are available for rent at 50 euros per day if you want more privacy. For families, this resort has a five-slide pool in the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eastern corner, perfect for kids to enjoy activities without the noise disturbing quiet beach time for other guests.

of accommodations: garden access rooms, standard rooms, one-bedroom Sultan Suites, a few two-bedroom suites, and duplexes with a balcony area. The view from the sea-side rooms of the Marti Resort is the best you can get in Marmaris. Each room also comes with a sitting area for extra space and comfort. Guests have the option of more than 1,333 meters of the outdoor pool and the indoor heated pool. The private 115-meter beach comes set up with sun loungers and umbrellas for guests every morning. The full-board, all-inclusive orange bracelet gives you access to all the services such as meals, restaurants, a la carte menus, snack bars, and afternoon tea breaks. The a la carte restaurants are Chinese, Turkish, and Italian but guests must receive a voucher to eat there at a discounted rate. Rates start around $180 per night for full-board. D Maris Bay At steep prices of $350-$500 per night, this hotel is chosen for it translucent waters and secluded coves. Each room has an outstanding view of the bay waters or the rolling mountains jutting up from the bay.

The room rates include a fantastic breakfast buffet. The D Maris Bay offers five modern restaurants, overlooking the coastline’s many bays. One of the most famous restaurants is the contemporary steakhouse, Nusr-Et, created by the Turkish chef and butcher sensation Nusret Gökçe, aka Salt Bae. Apart from the restaurants, the hotel’s main appeal is the five beaches, with white powdery sand lining the crystalline waters; all framed by a backdrop of impressive mountain ranges. The hotel’s private funicular tram takes guests to the main Bay Beach below the hotels. A water taxi will take guest to the other four beaches: La Guérite with a Mediterranean restaurant, Manos featuring Greek style cuisine, Maris Beach with private bungalows and Jacuzzis, and the Silence Beach for those wishing to destress and unplug from all technology. While this is the least inclusive hotel, the restaurants and private beaches make it worth staying for a few nights! All four hotels arrange transfers to and from the airport for a fee.

Literature

Written by Sara Hassan. Photos by Pixabay.

CELEBRATING BOOKS April celebrates reading for young and old.

World Book Day

International Children’s Books Day

World Book Day is organized by UNESCO in Paris in 1995 and has been an annual event since. April 23 is the death anniversary of Shakespeare and Cervantes, along with the birthdays of other famous writers, so it was natural to choose the day for this special celebration.

There’s also a special day for children’s books in particular! In fact, it kicks off the month on April 2. It began in 1967 in Switzerland around Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday. And it aims to inspire interest and call attention to the importance of children’s literature.

Every year it is hosted in a new city. UNESCO gathers publishers, booksellers, and libraries, the three major sectors of the book industry to choose the new World Book Capital for a one-year period. This year it will be Sharjah in the UAE.

This year’s sponsor is Lithuania, and events surrounding the special day are organized by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). The group tries to promote international understanding through children’s books, give children around the world access to books with high literary and artistic standards, and encourage the publication and distribution of quality books for children especially in developing countries.

The initiative celebrates books, authors, illustrators, copyrights, and reading in general. The tribute is an effort to encourage everyone, but especially young people to discover the joys of reading. If you want to plan ahead, next year’s host will be Kuala Lampur, Malaysia!

Celebrate the day by taking your children to a local library or bookstore, or just grab some hot chocolate at home and read some bedtime favorites together!

Around Town

Courtesy of the French Association Istanbul Accueil

CHARITY ART EXHIBITION Join the French Association Istanbul Accueil for its 13th annual Charity Art exhibition starting on April 4.

Enjoy art exhibits while contributing to a charitable cause. All funds that are raised are directly shared among the charities selected for this year’s event, which were chosen based on their work to help educate young disadvantaged children in Turkey. The opening night for the PDA Arts Exhibition is April 4, and the group plans to host an international women’s coffee morning on April 10 between 10:30am and 12:30pm at the gallery which will be sponsored by the Marriott Hotel. Selected artists will be at the event to meet guests. Galerie Ouvroir d’Art Lycée Sainte Pulchérie Çukurluçesme Sok. 7 Beyoglu – Istanbul www.istanbulaccueil.org

groups and associations Have a particular passion or want to learn one? There are different social clubs and associations to get involved with in Istanbul. It is a great way to expand your community, make new friends, and find support!

ART & CULTURE FRIENDS OF ARIT ISTANBUL Friends of ARIT, was established to support the ARIT (American Research Institute of Turkey) in Turkey; and runs a year-round programme of tours and lectures for members and guests. Membership is open to all interested residents of Istanbul. Contact: 0 (212) 257 81 11.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB The photo club, a group of international members of varying skill levels (basic to semi-professional), and share the common desire to capture the world in a photograph and explore Istanbul while doing so. Contact Tammy Ni: photoclubofistanbul@gmail.com.

BIBLE STUDY & CHURCHES UNION CHURCH OF ISTANBUL Union Church of Istanbul is an international, interdenominational church that offers services in English. Contact: ucistanbul.org

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY International Women’s Bible Study group meets Tuesdays from 10:00 until 12:30. Contact Vicki Günay: 0 (532) 314 1134.

KIDS BOY SCOUTS Boy Scouts & Cub Scouts of America are youth programmes for character development and leadership training. All boys holding a foreign passport are welcome. Cub Scouts: boys ages 6-10. Boy Scouts: boy ages 11- 18. Contact Vicki Günay: 0 (532) 314 11 34 or graygunay@gmail.com

GIRL SCOUTS Girl Scouts is dedicated to helping girls build leadership skills through the development of strong values, social conscience and conviction about their own potential and self-worth. Girls ages five and up are welcome. Contact Kat Bekham: 0 (542) 300 24 92 or usagsoistanul@gmail.com

SPEECH BUBBLES Speech Bubbles Theatre, is a drama group composed of amateur and professional dancers, singers/musicians from the international community; which also runs a part-time school of performing arts for children and adults on Saturday mornings. Contact: tom@speechbubbles.org

TOASTMASTERS INT’L ISTANBUL The English-speaking Istanbul Toastmasters Club helps members improve their communication and leadership skills in a supportive environment. Contact: vpmembership@ istanbultoastmasters.org

PAWI (Profn’l American Women of Ist.) PAWI is a network of American and Canadian women living in Istanbul that strives to empower and support members by promoting personal and professional growth. Contact: pawimembership@gmail.com

NETWORKING INTERNATIONS InterNations is where globally minded people have the opportunity to network and exchange valuable tips and topics regarding expatriate subjects. For information visit our website: www.internations.org

SPORTS OTTOMAN RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB Players of all ages (17+) and all levels of fitness are welcome. We practise Saturday 16:00-18:00, except on game days. www.ottomansrugby.com

ISTANBUL RUGBY CENTER Rugby Club in Istanbul has coaching for children and teenagers. Turkish, English, French and Spanish are spoken. www. istanbulrugbycenter.com

iTEAM An Expat Football Community of amateurs who enjoy playing and learning football. Ages, skills and experience welcome. Facebook: @ iTeamFootball

NATIONAL GROUPS AMERICAN WOMEN OF ISTANBUL AWI is a social network open to American and Canadian citizens in Istanbul. Contact Monisha Kar or Sia Israfil; awiistanbul@gmail.com BELGIUM FRIENDS OF ISTANBUL The Belgian Friends of Istanbul gather every month for social (such as drinks, brunch, or dinner) and cultural activities. Contact: bfistanbul@gmail.com CHICAS (Spanish Women of Istanbul) CHICAS unite Latin Americans, Spaniards and others Spanish speakers to socialise and help each other in a friendly environment. Contact: chicasestambul2016@gmail. com

CIRCOLO ROMA (Comunità italiana) The Italian Association organises social activities, Italian/Turkish conversation classes, and much more. Visit our website for more information: www. circoloroma.com

EAST ASIAN LADIES OF ISTANBUL The East Asian Ladies of Istanbul is a nonprofit social group for ladies from East Asia living in Istanbul. Contact Kim Cakirkaya: kim. cakirkaya@gmail.com or 0 (533) 463 69 30

ISTANBUL ACCUEIL Istanbul Accueil provides the French speaking community in Istanbul information on events and activities. Contact: istaccueil@gmail. com or Website: www. istanbulaccueil.org

DIE BRÜCKE Die Brücke, a platform for the German-speaking community, organizes social activities and provides information on education and immigration. www.brueckeistanbul.com

NVI (Dutch Community of Istanbul) Dutch Club Istanbul keeps typical Dutch festivities alive and organizes activities for Dutch-speaking community. Contact Lisette Ruygrok: info@nvi.online

LUSO BRASILEIRO Portuguese speaking group. Isabel Ponte Gulpan: 0 (532) 274 16 53

DNSI (Dutch School of Istanbul) DNSI provides Dutch language and cultural lessons to students (3-16 years old); and a one-week Dutch summer school. Visit our website for more information: www.dnsi.nu

FRIENDS OF INDIA ASSOCIATION Friends of India Association (FOIA) connects Indians in Istanbul through various social events. Contact foia. istanbul@gmail.com

C@RMA C@rma is a social initiative promoting dialogue between professionals and NGOs. We have volunteer opportunities that require various skill set on our platform, www.4carma.com, and also organise events where NGOs present their projects and brainstorm with other professionals. For more information, contact info@4carma.com.

FRANSIZ FAKIRHANESI LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR Contact Mother Mary: psdptr@gmail.com or 0 (212) 296 46 08

SOUTH AFRICANS IN ISTANBUL For information please contact: esbie@hotmail.com SWEA (Swedish Women Edu. Assoc.) SWEA, a world-wide network for Swedish-speaking women, organises events and activities; and welcomes everyone who speaks Swedish. Contact: istanbul@ swea.org

SUPPORT ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS& AL-ANON For more information and a full listing of all Englishspeaking AA meetings in Turkey with local contacts can be found on the AA Europe website: www. aa-europe.net and www. istalanon.blogspot.com.tr. Al-Anon meets Thursdays 6:30pm at the Dutch Chapel Union Han, 237-239 Istiklal Caddesi, near Tünel in Beyoğlu.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Looking for the support of other parents of children with special needs; and additional resources for your child? Contact Carol Crous: 0 (533) 730 71 48

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN OF ISTANBUL CLUBS BOOK CLUB The Book Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday. For details, contact Mary Akgüner: books@iwi-tr.org

BRIDGE GROUP Bridge group meets on Fridays at 10:30. All levels welcome! For details, contact Sandra: 0 (532) 483 5319. CRAFT GROUP For details, contact Gaye Hiçdönmez: crafts@iwi-tr.org or 0 (532) 700 0693

MAHJONG CLUB Mahjong group meets every Monday at 10:30 - 16:00. No previous experience required! For details, contact Gesa Horna – gesahorna@ aol.com 537 362 4912 Mimo – mimokhanoflynn@ gmail.com 5362732489 MUMS ‘N KIDS MEETUPS IWI has weekly meetups and playgroups organized according to children’s early years ages. Please contact mumsnkids@iwi-tr. org for more information and resources.

ROLLER-BLADE & BIKE GROUP This is an Asian-side meetup. Bikes can be rented, but bring your own rollerblades. It’s lots of fun. For details, contact Gabriele Sailer: gsailer@paradisefruit.eu.

ISTANBUL & I Fostering dialogue and connecting young leaders to projects that help disadvantaged and displaced communities. İstanbulandi.org TAILS OF ISTANBUL A volunteer network to help stray animals in Istanbul, and to promote animal welfare in Istanbul, Turkey and beyond. Tailsofistanbul.org

RUNNING GROUP Running Group is a monthly membership. Thursdays 19:00 & Sundays 8:00, Caddebostan sahil. Contact Marina Khonina: marina. khonina@gmail.com or 0 (534) 982 83 07 TENNIS GROUP Tennis Group takes place at Istanbul Tennis Academy (ISTA) in Istinye. All levels are welcome! For details, contact IWI Sports Coordinator, Olga: pautova@hotmail.com

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JOIN INTERNATIONAL WOMEN OF ISTANBUL! From Women, For Women International Women of Istanbul (IWI) is a non-profit social organisation, managed by volunteers with a membership of international women from more than 60 different countries of all different generations and backgrounds. Our mission is to provide a support network for international women living in and around Istanbul. For 40 years we have been strengthening friendships across borders - IWI brings together international women making life in Istanbul that much better. Whether welcoming and assisting newcomers in Istanbul or providing opportunities to socialise, building their professional network or giving back to the community, IWI has always provided a way for international women in Istanbul to exchange ideas, share challenges and offer support for one another. We look forward to meeting you! For more information, visit iwi-tr.org or contact us at membership@iwi-tr.org.

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- Küçük Çamlıca

Tri-Lingual Schools

- Küçük Çamlıca - Çiftehavuzlar - Dragos - Tuzla (Sabancı University) - Kavacık (Acarkent)

Toronto - Downtown

www.keystoneschools.com.tr / www.kilittasiokullari.k12.tr / www.keystoneschools.ca

We are an accredited school

French Language Assesment and Certification Center

International Examinations Center

Accreditation in process