The number of tourists visiting Ýstanbul from January through November of 2011 has increased by 16 percent compared to the same period one year ago, according to official figures.
Ýstanbul Provincial Culture and Tourism Directorate figures for 2011 reveal that Ýstanbul attracted 7,509,000 foreigner tourists from January through November. This number was 6,489,000 in the first 11 months of 2010.

This tower designed by award-winning firm FXFOWLE, the tallest on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, makes a memorable presence for the headquarters of a dynamic construction and development company. Occupying an "edge-city" context at the intersection of two major highways, the tower is completely freestanding and seen in the round. Functioning like an obelisk, it marks the end of long vistas and announces the entrance to the city from the east. This tower marries sculptural massing rooted in locale, a solar responsive skin with allusions to Islamic tradition, and the incorporation of green spaces throughout. Rooted in the particular spirit of Istanbul, it offers an antidote to the universal application of conventions that has regrettably become the norm for many international practices.

Soda Istanbul is by far my favorite contemporary art and design space in Istanbul. Located in Nisantasi this small, cosy and cool art space hosts globally rising artists exhibitions as well as designers works.

We went because: On a previous trip to Greece, we ventured off to Istanbul. What an adventure. We had to go back - history, food, shopping.
Don't miss: Sultanahamet, the oldest section of Istanbul. And the Turquoise Coastline is a must-see. Spectacular. Breathtaking. Read More

Istanbul's evocative skyline is set to be capped by a new peak, as architects on Wednesday unveiled plans to build a tower almost 300 meters high, which will rival the highest buildings in Europe.