Konya: The Citadel of Islam

This city is so so so interesting. Lets start with a ratio of inhabitants to discos/bars.

Over two million people: ZERO

Nightlife is nonexistent and it was very apparent as I sauntered through the dark and empty streets with a slight feeling of uneasiness.

My accommodations: The Aziziye Otel, no thanks to the Konya Couchsurfers, ıs located on a particularly dark street corner. The hallways were straight out of a David Lynch flick, and the people staying there were beyond Queer.

There was Mustafa who followed me everywhere, including the restroom.

And there was the Iranian man who I chatted with in the lobby for twenty minutes.

Then he hugged me.

He_______did_______not________ let________ go.

During the daytime, the city had a totally different feel. The obscure streets from the night before became bustling markets. Everyone I met was super friendly and the bike racks were at overcapacity.

Did I mention the Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervishes)?