Meydan Beşiktaş–Istanbul’s nightlife mecca

            Meydan Besiktas is the coolest hippest vibrant fun neighborhood we found while in Istanbul. It is located on the Asian side of the city and magically balances the traditional ancient architecture I came to expect in Istanbul with modern night life. Unlike Taksim Square, the throngs of mostly 20-30 year old hipsters crowded the narrow cobblestone streets. The pubs and restaurants lining the interconnecting streets overflowed with people drinking, socializing, and of course incessantly smoking! The atmosphere was electric. In addition, there was live music which was a welcome relief because there was none in Taksim Square or any other place we visited. Well, that is not exactly true if you count the call for prayer which I absolutely loved! The other cool aspect of Meydan Besiktas was that it was located within walking distance of the bay. Once we tired of the mass of humanity, there was a welcome respite waiting for us along the beautifully illuminated walkways bordering the ocean. The group I was with spent one glorious night there, and we all agreed this was by far the “must” visit place in Istanbul if you’re looking for a raucous night life, good food, great drinks, and the ocean was always within a short drunken stroll.