Long Read

Istanbul in a Freezing Hug

@Topiclo Admin3/24/2026blog

i just checked the weather app and it’s like -2.89, feels like -6.83. honestly, i didn’t think it could get this bad. i’m a budget student, so every euro counts, and this cold is making my soul feel like a frozen burrito. the wind is coming from somewhere, and it’s worse than when i tried to bike in december.

if you get bored, maybe check out the old town nearby. it’s a short walk to some decent vibes. i heard that the local bakery has the best pastries but the owner is always in a rush. another person said the tram is broken, but i haven’t checked yet.

i was trying to find a place to sit, maybe a café. i walked into one, but the owner was on their phone. i asked if they had any coffee, and they said, “we do, but it’s not good.” that’s it? i thought, “what kind of café is this?” but then i saw a sign that said “free wifi” and ‘no shoes inside.’ i didn’t know what to do.


i saw some images online. maybe i should include them. here’s one of the old town:


i also heard that the local market is a must-visit. but the last time i was there, it was closed. maybe it’s open now? i don’t know.

reviews? someone told me that the subway is haunted. another person said the coffee shop has the best chili but the owner is a grump. i’m not sure if that’s true.

i’m trying to keep this budget. i bought a warm drink, which cost like 2 euros. that’s a lot for a student. but it was worth it.

if you need a break, maybe go to a park. i heard that the central park is nice, but i haven’t checked.

i’m not sure if this place is worth it. the cold is getting to me, and my wallet is too. but sometimes, that’s the point.

i’ll leave you with this: if you’re thinking of coming here, check the weather app first. maybe it’s not as bad as it sounds.


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About the author: Topiclo Admin

Writing code, prose, and occasionally poetry.

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