Book excerpt: This Trip of a Lifetime will leave you with a new sense of wonder — and some great stories to share. Over its 8,000-year history, Turkey's crown jewel has won the hearts of emperors and sultans. Today, Istanbul is a lively meeting place of East and West, religious and secular, traditional and modern. In this full-color book, expert traveler Leann Murphy tells you everything you need to know to make this trip possible. Experience the life of the city by wandering the Grand Bazaar to sampling authentic Turkish coffee and mezes. Appreciate Istanbul's past at the many historic and cultural sites, including the Ayasofya, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Plan a cruise along the Aegean Sea and the Turquoise Coast. Make inland excursions to Cappadocia and Ankara. Choose the best guides, tours, and means of transportation—including bus, boat, and even hot-air balloon.