Bebek the Neighbourhood

First impression of Bebek? It’s like the Beverly Hills of Istanbul.

In Bebek, ne can see Istanbul from a whole different perspective, and see where the high class spend their spare time, and where they live. Expansive waterside apartments are located close to the sea, and because of their location, the apartments are quite pricey, but are worth a view if you are visiting Istanbul.

Right at the bay, there are small yachts belonging to the proud owners of the same apartments. These yachts are a definite accessory of pride to any Bebek resident, particularly when summer kicks in. Small yacht parties and dinners have proven to be a favourite with the locals, who own or rent the yachts as they entertain their guests; this is what has been considered a fancy and expensive dining experience, with Champagne flowing from one end, and caviar at the other end.

The Bebek neighbourhood appears to be something from the movies, as it somehow combines the serenity that is given off by the sea, and fast lane life, presented through the fancy restaurants which are located in the same area. Cafeterias are also popular in this neighbourhood, and they are usually filled up and busy over the weekends, when the working class are taking a break.

Although Bebek has some of the best renowned architecture, it is actually a historical neighbourhood which was originally constructed during the Ottoman era. It is located on the European shores of the historical Bosphorus, and there are also similar neighbourhoods close by, which are just as beautiful and historic.

The word Bebek means ‘’baby’’ in Turkish, suggesting that the neighbourhood got its name from the expression ‘’as beautiful as a baby’’. The apartments are a vision of architectural perfection at its very best. The area is well maintained, and is quiet during the week, with exceptional noise being guaranteed over the weekend, thanks to the yacht dinner parties and social events which are common during the summer.

The cafeterias in Bebek are basically more westernised, although you are sure to get a good cup of Turkish tea, served in a small transparent glass, which is usually presented with local patterns and designs all over it. There is a large waterside building called the Egyptian Consulate, which was built for the Ottoman Minister, but was later sold to the Egyptian Embassy. The neighbourhood was constructed during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II.

The expensive apartments are however not the only attraction of this neighbourhood. Bebek is somewhat a community on its own, as it encompasses history as well. A university is also found here, The Bosphorus University, located at the hills of Bebek. It is considered to be one of the top universities, not only in Istanbul, but in the whole of Turkey.

The university was built in 1971, and boasts one of the best academic systems in Turkey. In the same area, Robert College is situated, however it now only has the high school campus. This college was founded by an American Missionary, called Christian Robert. It is considered to be the oldest American college outside of America.

Some of the main historical sites found in this neighbourhood include Bebek Mosque , Ayse Sultan woods and kiosk, the Greek Orthodox church, Bebek Hotel, Asiyan Park, and the Tevfik Fikret Museum. The Bebek Hotel is a favourite for tourists looking a first class experience of life in this neighbourhood. The Asiyan Park is a well-occupied place during the weekend, as tourists visit the area, while locals head there to simply relax.

The seafood restaurants found on the bay are simply divine. The view makes the experience  worth the while, particularly when tourists and locals dine at sunset. The best fish is served at the seafood restaurants, particularly the famously well-known fish and chips dish, with fresh fish cooked to perfection.

The Bebek neighbourhood represents the harmonious co-existence of people from different races, cultures, and backgrounds, as one can find a mosque and a church close to each other. These historical artefacts actually bring the community together.

A popular weekend activity is fishing, and some are seen in their small boats or yachts as they spend lazy afternoons in the sun. The fresh fish caught is usually sold to the seafood restaurants, which are only a few miles away.

Life is much more serene and is experienced at a much slower and more cultured pace in this neighbourhood.