Istanbul: People
Photos & Words: Salina Christmas

Riot police facing a small group of demonstrators on 25 December 2008 at Taksim Square.

One look from a policeman was enough to make me shuffle away sheepishly. The tourist must not get into trouble with the locals.

I am sure this, strangely enough, will make a comforting sight for the locals during the UEFA Cup Final which will take place here in May 2009.

If England qualifies and hangs on till the final rounds, I believe the riot police will be working overtime looking after the welfare of the England football fans. Or protecting the locals from them.

Galatasaray is only down the road from Taksim Square.