Today I arrived in Izmir, Turkey. I had done exactly zero research on this city so I did not know what I was in for. So far, it has been the highlight of my trip to Europe. I started my day with a walk from the port along the waterfront to the Bazaar. Along the way there were countless Turkish soldiers and police gearing up and practicing for a parade. It was the biggest show of force I have ever seen and I felt a little uneasy to have my camera out. There were trucks with surface to air missiles, anti aircraft cannons, tanks and howitzers along with what looked like thousands of infantrymen. I managed to sneak a few shots that are definitely website-worthy.

I have to say that the best places are the ones you expect to be anything but spectacular. Let’s just see if I can top my day today when I arrive in Istanbul tomorrow!’