Istanbul Is Full Of Not Just Cuddly, But Cuddling Stray Cats

I’m your average Californian world traveler. I’ve always loved cats, and dream of someday having my own (or doggo), but I cross many international borders, and fear it will be too difficult. The road is often lonely and I always want to play with stray animals to alleviate this feeling, but they’re usually too afraid of people. When I arrived for a two-week sight-see in Turkey, I couldn’t believe how many stray kitties roam the streets and cafes, and how aggressively friendly they are! If I stood in one spot for just a few minutes, it was guaranteed that one would come running to be stroked… and then soon after, another! I believe it is a reflection of the warm hearts of the Turkish people, who have taken it upon themselves to care for these animals, feeding them and even building them adorable houses.One day, I was strolling the Bosphorus Canal and I saw something I’ve never imagined possible: two cats just cuddling each other, inseparable. I’ve never seen any cats, let alone strays, behave like this. As I quickly snapped photos, I wondered if anyone would believe it wasn’t staged but then, who could ever possibly pose cats like this? Who would even try? Life’s too short for that!Needless to say, I loved Istanbul and can’t wait to return. I miss the kind people, the scrumptious food, and of course, the little furry ones. I wonder if some of them, too, miss me back. Aw. Hehe.If you need some kitty snuggles, or you don’t believe me, go see for yourself! They’re waiting.More info: pacificreverie.com | InstagramLovebirds!It was a chilly day, so maybe they were huddling only for warmth? But then why would they sit atop this windy wall? They are exposed to the elements here.I don’t have the answer. Other than that they were just enjoying the view, like everyone else walking by that day. They are clearly at peace.Just a perfect day.Maybe they planned this outing earlier? I wouldn’t be surprised.Morning yoga.Kitty house! These are all over the place, and not just for one cat each… they are shared.Nearly every cafe has cats on the tables. They are the real guests. People eat and sip chai around them.This guy hardly lifted his head to say “hello”. He was in no way threatened by the bustling cafe. It made me happy inside.Hard day’s work.Awww yeah!That good scratching!Two strays. This scruffy boy hopped up and wouldn’t go. I didn’t mind at all.This one was pregnant and, hence, wary.Still wants some loving, though!Plenty to go around.Cats live all over these rocks, scouring for fish or whatever else they can find.They come running, demanding to be picked up! I said “okay” every single time! I cuddled as many as I could but still left so many in need of a hug.No kitties; still pretty.Requisite tourist shot in front of the enormous Blue Mosque.Stunning sunsets are normal there.Vendors everywhere.Vendor before Blue Mosque backdrop.Friendly smoked chestnut vendor.Police. Although this guy looks tough, he probably pets a few kitties everyday.Needs to go viral. We still have never said a word to each other and I was in a rush. Help me track him down.