"If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital": that's how Napoleon once summed up his feelings about the metropolis of Istanbul. Previously known as Constantinople and Byzantium, Istanbul is a unique city. Unique in its location, with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, all brilliantly joined by the Bosphorus Strait, which flows peacefully from the inland Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea further north. The city's unique atmosphere, a skilful blend of past influences (Ottoman, Byzantine, Persian, Greek), gives Istanbul a superb diversity of neighborhoods each with multiple identities, and an incredibly rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. In short, Istanbul is a delicious dessert, with many varied ingredients, the harmony of which leaves us speechless. One thing's for sure: if you try it, you'll definitely want to try some more!