🛑 NOTE 1 🛑
Currently I can't host, but I would love to be able in few months.
Thanks for your understanding!

🛑 NOTE 2 🛑
There is a TRAVEL GUIDE, you will find if you scroll down my profile. In case you are visiting ISTANBUL for the first time, I hope it will make your stay more interesting.
At the end of the GUIDE there are important informations that will help you to avoid fraud & scamming in Istanbul, as well as informations about money exchange and public transportation.
____________________

Hi there!
Welcome to my profile, where passion, adventure, and cultural exchange collide! I'm thrilled to embark on exciting journeys, connect with diverse communities, and make a positive impact around the world.
_____________________

PHILOSOPHY:
People are not strangers, just friends you haven't met yet.
______________________

ABOUT ME:
SiMo Lehbib is abreviation of my name and surname. I’m from Mauritania. I am a freelancer, hitchhiker and backpacker.
I graduated from KAFKAS UNIVERSITY in KARS (city in east of Turkey).
Currently, I’m working and living in Istanbul.
I’m an adaptable individual who believes that travel is the ultimate teacher. I'm constantly seeking opportunities to broaden my horizons, immerse myself in new cultures, and learn from the local people. As a curious explorer, I'm eager to contribute my skills, time, and positive energy to meaningful projects.
_____________________

INTERESTS:
I’m passionate about, travel, historical places, hitchhiking, photography, politics, documentaries, national & street food, nature and much more.
______________________

⛔️ FOR SURFERS ⛔️
I don’t like when surfers act friendly and kind only when they need a place to stay. Once I can’t host them or they find other accommodation, they stop replying and disappear. We can still be friends and hang out, I don’t want to waste time with opportunistic and selfish people. I’m looking to meet genuine friends.

❌ DO NOT ❌
send me a stay request if you have NEVER hosted any surfer/traveler before.

🛑 P.S 1 🛑
I love collecting coins from different countries, and ​​magnets from different cities, so I would be glad if you could bring me any coin/paper or cities magnets 😊

🛑 P.S 2 🛑
You don't need to contact me only if you are planning to stay with me, you might also be in touch for tips, advice and/or information.

🔴PLEASE🔴
Read the details of my home and look at the pictures of the room where you will be hosted before sending a stay request.
_______________________

Thanks for spending your time to read my profile.

See you in Istanbul :)
________________________

⭕️ ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE ⭕️

————————————————————————
🧭 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SITES 🧭
————————————————————————

• Hagia Sophia: A former Greek Orthodox cathedral, later an Ottoman mosque, then museum and now a mosque. ✅[free]✅
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nnxV53vj5ygMKgTK9?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Topkapı Palace: The primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for approximately 400 years. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/wXnyRf5eVriofkGN8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Beylerbeyi Palace: located in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood of Istanbul, is a prominent historic site on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. Built between 1861 and 1865 during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz, the palace served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and a place to entertain visiting dignitaries.🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/roRMYDAsZVdvbWyh6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): A historical mosque famous for its blue tiles surrounding its interior walls.✅[free]✅
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XenEjSYsoD6hri829?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Basilica Cistern: The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XwaBPeg2Yow68Xff6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kTNXfhD36GersGXB8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

🛑NOTE FOR WOMEN🛑
To respect the place of worship, cover your head, arms, thighs and legs. For Hagia Sofia Mosque there, are often long dresses for female visitors.

—————————-
🏛️MUSEUMS🏛️
—————————-

• Istanbul Archaeological Museums: Comprising three museums, this complex houses an impressive collection of artifacts from various civilizations, including Greek, Roman, and Byzantine relics.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/85obRJu3quLxgncK7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: Located in the Ibrahim Pasha Palace, it features an extensive collection of Islamic art, including calligraphy, textiles, and ceramics.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SagdcU4WhuoXzwzC8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Istanbul Modern: Commonly known as (İstanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) is Turkey’s first museum of modern and contemporary art, founded in 2004. Originally located in Karaköy, it has moved to a new building in Beyoğlu designed by Renzo Piano. The museum features Turkish and international art across various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and facilities like a library, café, and design shop.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/esuVenoZcr87V6nY9?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Pera Museum: Known for its diverse collection, including Orientalist paintings and Anatolian weights and measures, Pera Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vW79911SthxQHD8M6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Sakıp Sabancı Museum: Situated in a historical mansion on the Bosphorus, it showcases calligraphy, paintings, and furniture, along with temporary modern art exhibitions.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rc9QMQhHUQ3D3DSPA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Chora Museum (Kariye Museum): Famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, the Chora Museum was originally a church, later converted into a mosque, and now serves as a museum.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DkTQf11F6DtSmYJTA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

🛑NOTE🛑
All the museums mentioned above have a paid entry fee.

—————————————————-
🧭 MODERN ATTRACTIONS 🧭
—————————————————-

• Istiklal Avenue: A famous pedestrian street known for its shops, cafes, and restaurants.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dmqcwvPKnfuRUpNE7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Galataport: is a vibrant and modern waterfront district located along the Bosphorus in Karaköy, Istanbul. This port is not only a hub for international cruise ships but also a bustling destination for tourists and locals alike.
Galataport combines history with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/pPt8V7NB1zZuZZtQ8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower with a panoramic vista of Istanbul. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BVPe6v9s3iswsYg16?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Dolmabahce Palace: The main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fLNEtBL5sWHnXeWGA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

————————————-
🍮 Turkish Desserts🍮
————————————-

Here you find the best places for (BAKLAVA, KÜNEFE, HELVA.. ect)

• Karaköy Güllüoğlu (Karaköy): Famous for its baklava, this historic bakery has been serving up mouth-watering pastries since 1949. Their selection includes classic pistachio and walnut baklava, as well as variations like chocolate and hazelnut.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KEU5gCLbhrfBNEPp7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Hafiz Mustafa 1864 (in Sirkeci, Taksim, Sultanahmet): With multiple locations across the city, this legendary confectionery offers a wide array of Turkish sweets, including baklava, künefe, and lokum (Turkish delight). The ambiance of the shops adds to the experience.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QBzUE172LdZ23KNX6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy (Taksim location)

• Saray Muhallebicisi (in Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy): Established in 1935, Saray Muhallebicisi is known for its traditional Turkish desserts. In addition to their famous rice pudding and kazandibi, they also serve excellent künefe and helva.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bAsMwvCEYPsMSXy28?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy (Beyoğlu location)

• Karaköy Lokantası (Karaköy): While primarily a restaurant, Karaköy Lokantası offers fantastic desserts, including a superb katmer. The combination of crispy pastry, clotted cream, and pistachios makes it a must-try.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/iHBxptssNCBT2Gm76?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Güllüoğlu Baklava & Künefe (Taksim): This is another branch of the famous Güllüoğlu family, dedicated to both baklava and künefe. The künefe here is made with the finest ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of crispy and creamy textures.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8u4LhhehT67rUGUD6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Çiya Sofrası (Kadıköy): Known for its authentic Anatolian cuisine, Çiya Sofrası also offers a variety of traditional Turkish desserts. Their helva, particularly the tahini helva, is highly recommended.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GZtUDSa1pornABMT7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir (Eminönü, Beyoğlu): One of the oldest confectioners in Turkey, established in 1777, Hacı Bekir is famous for its Turkish delight and various helvas. The historical charm of the shop adds to the experience.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SZ1ayCdsZC76Ttif7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

————————————
🧭 SCENIC SPOTS 🧭
————————————

• Bosphorus Cruise: A boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline.
You can find offices that organize trips ONLINE. This is one of them on TripAdvisor 👇🏼
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293974-d8682072-Reviews-Bosphorus_Tour_Istanbul-Istanbul.html

• Pierre Loti Hill: A hilltop café with a fantastic view of the Golden Horn in Eyüp Sultan area.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xYMD3N6ME5j2br6s8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Ortaköy Mosque: A beautiful mosque situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square. You can taste in Ortaköy area the famous KUMPIR, which is a baked potato that is cut open and covered with a pile of delicious toppings of your choosing. You can choose from sweetcorn, peas, tuna and kisir.
Mosque entry is ✅[free]✅
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/krRzRPJNLWWVqABW8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

——————————————————————————-
🌇 SPECTACULAR CITY AND SUNSET VIEWS 🌇
——————————————————————————-

Istanbul is known for its stunning views, especially during sunset. Here are some of the top cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy spectacular city and sunset views:

• Mendel’s: Located on Çamlıca Hill, Üsküdar. They offer panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline, perfect for a picturesque sunset.
LOCATION👇🏼

2. Marmara Taksim Hotel

• Location: Taksim
• Highlights: The rooftop bar provides stunning views of the Bosphorus and historical sites, making it a great spot for evening cocktails and sunset views.

3. Ulus 29

• Location: Ulus
• Highlights: Offers a mix of modern Turkish and international cuisine with a terrace that overlooks the Bosphorus and the city, ideal for watching the sunset.

4. Maya Restaurant

• Location: Bomonti
• Highlights: Located on the rooftop, it has beautiful views of the city and is known for its creative dishes.

5. Nardis Jazz Club

• Location: Galata
• Highlights: While primarily a jazz club, it has a terrace with a fantastic view of the Golden Horn, especially beautiful at sunset.

6. Leb-i Derya

• Location: Taksim
• Highlights: Known for its amazing views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, this restaurant offers a great ambiance for sunset dinners.

7. 360 Istanbul

• Location: Taksim
• Highlights: A popular rooftop bar and restaurant with a stunning 360-degree view of the city, perfect for sunset cocktails.

8. Sera Brasserie

• Location: Bosphorus, Ortaköy
• Highlights: Offers a gorgeous view of the Bosphorus Bridge and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a romantic sunset dinner.

9. Vogue Restaurant & Bar

• Location: Beşiktaş
• Highlights: Known for its chic ambiance and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and city skyline, making it a perfect spot for sunset dining.

10. Mia Restaurant

• Location: Bebek
• Highlights: Situated along the Bosphorus, it provides stunning views and a stylish setting, ideal for enjoying the sunset.

These venues not only offer great food and drinks but also provide an unforgettable backdrop of Istanbul’s enchanting skyline at sunset. Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak times!

• Pembe Yalı Cafe: Often referred to as “Pembe Yalı,” is a charming and popular café located in Istanbul, Turkey. Known for its picturesque waterfront setting along the Bosphorus, it offers a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary Turkish cuisine. The café is a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a relaxing ambiance with beautiful views of the water. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal, sip on Turkish tea or coffee, and take in the scenic surroundings.
🛑NOTE:🛑
The food they offer has poor reviews, so it's best to just grab a drink and enjoy the view.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FgP27NBYXAcyku5v8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

——————————-
🧭 ASIAN SIDE 🧭
——————————-

• Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi): A tower lying on a small islet located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus strait. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RnoZ57vCz86xXqYN9?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Here are a few ways you can get there (Maiden’s Tower):
1. From Kabataş: Take a ferry directly to Kız Kulesi. There are frequent ferry services that you can catch.
2. From Üsküdar: Walk to Salacak and take one of the small boats that regularly shuttle between the coast and the Maiden’s Tower.
3. From Eminönü: Take a ferry to Üsküdar, then proceed to Salacak for the boat to the tower.

• Skywalk: at Emaar Mall in Istanbul refers to a thrilling experience offered at Emaar Square Mall, located in the Üsküdar district on the Asian side of the city. The Skywalk is an adventurous activity where participants walk on a glass platform, providing a breathtaking view of the city below. 🔴[payed]🔴
LOCATION 👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jYusMxVpkh9nmf95A?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Kadıköy: A vibrant neighborhood with lots of cafes, bars, and a lively market.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YodTfgojupWkvvdJ6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Çamlıca Hill: The highest point in Istanbul, offering a panoramic view of the city. If you go there it is preferable to visit Çamlıca Tower which is the tallest structure in Turkey, standing at 369 meters. Opened to the public in 2021, it serves multiple purposes including telecommunications, broadcasting, and restaurants/Cafés. The tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul from its observation decks, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. 🔴[payed] 🔴
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gfS7NUGewGBSnUQP6?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

————————————-
🌯 STREET FOOD 🌯
————————————-

Istanbul is renowned for its vibrant street food scene. Here are some of the best places to enjoy street food in the city:

• Karaköy: Known for its seafood, especially fish sandwiches (balık ekmek). Try the famous fish sandwiches near the Galata Bridge. (Highly recommended ☑️)
🛑NOTE:🛑
The place I added its location here is just to guide you to the area, not as a recommended place.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cWnEPULyx2yocxK29?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Kokoreç is a traditional Turkish street food made from seasoned, grilled lamb or goat intestines. It is chopped into small pieces and often served on toasted bread as a sandwich. Flavored with spices like oregano, cumin, and chili flakes, kokoreç has a savory, slightly spicy taste. Popular in Istanbul and other cities, it’s a must-try for those who enjoy bold, unique flavors. Perfect as a late-night snack!

LOCATION:
There is no specific place I can recommend for you, just type in Google Maps the word “Kokoreç” and look for the nearest place to you.

• Taksim Square: Explore the side streets around İstiklal Avenue for döner kebabs, midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and simit (Turkish bagels).
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HkeuEcviboAfhMqV8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Eminönü: A great spot for traditional street foods like simit, börek (savory pastries), and kokoreç (spiced grilled intestines).
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/LiTKTcAwF49Ui9zU8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

• Beşiktaş: This area is popular for its street food, including artisanal sandwiches and Turkish pastries. The market area here is particularly lively.
LOCATION👇🏼
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qPFvnoM1MHHG66Ps7?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

———————————-
🏝️Princes’ Islands🏝️
———————————-

• Büyükada: The largest and most popular island, known for its historic mansions, horse-drawn carriages (now replaced by electric vehicles), and scenic views.

• Heybeliada: Known for its lush greenery, the Naval High School, and the historic Halki Seminary.

• Burgazada: Smaller and quieter, ideal for relaxing walks and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

• Kınalıada: Closest to the city, known for its beaches and less crowded environment.

HOW TO GET THERE:
- Public Ferries: Operated by Şehir Hatları (City Lines), they depart from Kabataş, Kadıköy, and Bostancı. Check the schedule on the Şehir Hatları website for timings.

- Fast Ferries: Operated by companies like İDO, they offer quicker travel times and depart from various points including Kabataş and Bostancı.

- Sea Taxis: Available for more flexible and private travel options, though they are more expensive.

TIPS:
- Timing: Ferries can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

- Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance if possible. Istanbulkart can be used for public ferries.

- Amenities: Bring water and snacks, as options might be limited on some islands.

For more detailed schedules and ticket information, visit the websites of Şehir Hatları: https://sehirhatlari.istanbul

——————————————————
🥘 Traditional Turkish Cuisine 🥘
——————————————————

Will be added soon…

———————————————————————————-
Luxury restaurants with panoramic view of Istanbul
———————————————————————————-

Will be added soon…

———————————————————-
🛑IMPORTANT INFORMATIONS🛑
———————————————————-

⭕️Few months ago the metro was extended to connect both the European and Asian airports. This is the cheapest way to get to the city center (between $2 and $7, depending on the distance).
⭕️ To use public transportation in Istanbul, you’ll need an Istanbul Card, which you can buy from machines at the stations for 70 lira ($2.50). You can use one card for multiple people. The metro operates from 6:00 AM until midnight. There are also shuttle buses available, and metrobüs(es) are available 24/24. (I’m sharing this because many of non-turkish Couchsurfers have had issues with Taxi and transportation.

⭕️ For currency exchange, the best rates are at the Grand Bazaar in the Old City.

⭕️ Always carry some cash for emergencies, as many places don’t accept cards or charge extra for card payments.

⭕️ Street food is affordable and delicious, though only cash is accepted.

⭕️ Plan to spend at least two days exploring the Old City and try to visit early to avoid crowds. After the Old City, Taksim is a popular area to visit. You might find that one day is sufficient, but five days might not be enough to truly experience it.

⭕️ If you plan to visit the Princes’ Islands, go early in the morning to make the most of your time on the island.

⭕️ Be cautious with taxis and clubs; if someone approaches you on the street offering to take you to a club, buy you a drink, or give you free food, it’s best to decline and leave immediately. We have had many negative experiences with this.

⭕️ Do not order a taxi from the street, instead use uber, bitaksi or any other reliable apps.

⭕️ When you get in the taxi make sure that the distance calculator shows the ride price of 30 Turkish Liras (September 2024 price) But, the price can be increase at any time due to inflation

⭕️ For any problems or safety issues, the fastest way to get help is to contact the Tourism Police. Here are their contact details:

Call ☎️ : +90 212 527 45 03
WhatsApp 📱: +90 505 187 66 14

HAVE A WONDERFUL STAY IN ISTANBUL ✨😊

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

To meet people from all over the world, hear their stories and learn from their experiences

Interests

I’m passionate about, travel, historical places, hitchhiking, photography, politics, documentaries, national & street food, nature and much more.

• photography
• human rights
• running
• reading
• traveling
• hitchhiking
• films
• meeting new people
• politic
• tourism and travel

Music, Movies, and Books

Music:
- Rock N Roll
- Jazz
- Techno
- Slow Pop Music

Movies:
- Home (Documentary)
- Social Dilemma (Documentary)
- 14 Peaks (Documentary)
- Everest (Documentary)
- Purple hearts
- The last dance
- The Holiday

Books:
- Atomic Habits
- The Subtle Art
- Rich Dad Poor Dad

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Organising Couchsurfing weekly meetings in (Kars, Turkey) when I was living & studying there.

Teach, Learn, Share

Learning:
- Culture
- Customs & traditions
- Cooking

Share:
- Experiences
- Hangout
- Ideas
- Knowledge

Teaching:
- Arabic
- French
- Turkish
- Cooking

What I Can Share with Hosts

Great time and beautiful memories.
Cook, clean, different helps..

Countries I’ve Visited

Morocco, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Mauritania, Turkey