Jullee’s Trip

The long-anticipated arrival of Jullee Kim was met with tears, news crews, star-eyed boys and a brass section. As she stepped off the plane, it was reported that the faint of heart dropped like flies by an electric lamp. At least that’s how I remember it. It was about a month ago, though, and I don’t fact check. There were, as always, many faces to the Jullee.

The surreptitious tourist.

The elegant diner.

The (very) amateur photographer.

The real joy of having her around was that it allowed me an excuse to indulge myself in food that I had been reluctant to go and eat on my own. So we ate and were stuffed.

Sadly, Jullee was made to leave here fan base in Istanbul. The date of her departure is on the fast track to becoming a national day of mourning on which posterity will recognize her by glutting themselves on mackerel and cream-top yoghurt.