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    Awaiting Your Return From Shore |  In 658 B.C., a group of Dorian 
    colonists under King Byzas founded a colony in a sheltered spot on the 
    European shores of the Bosphorus. Subsequently Byzantium entered into an 
    alliance with Rome. Constantine united the two parts of the empire and 
    declared Byzantium the new capital, known as Constantinople. The city 
    reached the height of its splendor under the Emperor Justinian, sole head of 
    church and state. As the capital of a vast empire for nearly 1,600 years, 
    the city holds a great deal of historical interest. Istanbul is divided by 
    the Bosphorus, with a portion in Europe and a part in Asia. Most of the 
    population lives on the European side.
 
      
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        Pier InformationThe ship is scheduled to dock at either the Karakoy pier or the new 
        terminal, Sali Pazari. Tour buses, shuttle buses and taxis are reached 
        by walking through the terminal building. Major attractions lie within 
        20 to 30 minutes by taxi. There is usually a good supply outside the 
        terminal building. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting out.
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        ShoppingTurkey is famous for its carpets, which come in all sizes, qualities and 
        prices.  Leather goods, jewelry and brassware are also good buys. 
        Inside the bazaar (closed on Sundays), some 4,000 shops offer a 
        mind-boggling array of wares.
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        CuisineIstanbul boasts a number of excellent restaurants found mainly around 
        Taksim Square (home, too, for McDonald's), the Etilera area, and along 
        the shores of the Bosphorus. Grilled meats, primarily lamb, and 
        excellent seafood are on many menus.
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        Other 
        SightsSuleymaniye Mosque. This is Turkey’s finest Imperial 
        mosque, built by the famous architect Sinan.
 Golf
 Klassis Golf & Country Club. This 18-hole, 73-par golf course was designed 
        by one of the world's foremost golfers, Tony Jacklin. The number 2 hole 
        is the most challenging hole of the course.
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    Awaiting Your Return 
    From Shore | 
  
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    Complimentary 
    Spirits Await | 
    
    Return to Your 
    Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure | 
    
    Entertainment 
    and Dancing Await You |