When I think about my life, three cities stand out: Sanandaj, Istanbul, and Haarlem. Each has shaped who I am in a special way, giving me memories and lessons I carry with me every day.
I grew up in Sanandaj, a city in Kurdistan, Iran, recognized by UNESCO for its rich musical heritage. The sound of Kurdish songs, the patterns of carpets, the beauty of calligraphy, and the craftsmanship of sculpting were all part of daily life.
I remember the world map on the wall in our home, a reflection of my father’s love for geography. When he noticed my interest in it, he nurtured my curiosity, often spending time with me to explore it together. He would point out countries on the map and share fascinating geographical details about them. He even bought me a geographical atlas, which quickly became one of my favorite books. Among all the places, one stood out: Istanbul. A city connecting two continents, it seemed full of life and wonder. I dreamed of going there one day. The art and culture that surrounded me, along with my growing fascination with geography, inspired a deep desire to turn my dreams of exploring the world beyond the mountains of my hometown into reality.
My dream came true. Years later, I spent two unforgettable years in Istanbul. The city was everything I imagined, busy, colorful, and full of energy. It was a place where history and modern life blended together, and every moment there made me feel alive.
Now I am in Haarlem, a quiet and beautiful city in the Netherlands. It offers a different kind of beauty compared to Istanbul's fast pace or Sanandaj's lively streets. Haarlem is peaceful, with its calm canals and remarkable historic charm. At first, I missed the energy of bigger cities like Istanbul, but over time, I started to see the beauty in its quietness.
These three cities could not be more different, yet each feels like a part of me. Together, they tell the story of where I have been and how I have grown.
When I first arrived in Haarlem, one thing stood out immediately: how friendly people are. On my first morning walk, I noticed strangers greeting each other with a cheerful “Goedemorgen!” It brought back memories of Sanandaj, where people used to greet everyone warmly, even strangers on the street. Over the years, that habit has faded in my hometown, making this small gesture in Haarlem feel special.
In Haarlem, life feels calm and organized. People often plan their days carefully, including social activities. I learned that meeting friends often means scheduling well in advance. This was new for me. In Sanandaj, and even more so in Istanbul, casual plans often happen quickly, sometimes with just a phone call or message. At first, I found it a little strange, but over time, I began to enjoy the certainty and thought fulness behind it.
Evenings in Haarlem are quieter. Most shops close early, and the streets settle into a peaceful calm. It felt unusual at first, especially after living in Istanbul, where the city stays alive late into the night.
In Sanandaj, evenings often mean family gatherings or spending time at small cafes. But Haarlem’s calm nights have their own charm, giving me time to reflect and appreciate the peaceful rhythm of life here.
How people move around in a city says a lot about their way of life. Each city I’ve lived in, Haarlem, Sanandaj, and Istanbul, has its own rhythm, shaped by its streets, transport, and how people get from place to place.
In Haarlem, bicycles are everywhere. The flat streets and well-planned bike paths make cycling an easy and natural part of life. People use bikes for everything, going to work, school, or the local market. Buses are reliable too, helping to keep the streets calm and free from heavy traffic. Haarlem’s transportation system feels peaceful and organized, matching the city’s steady pace.
In Sanandaj, transportation is quite different. The city’s hills make cycling uncommon, so most people rely on their cars. Over time, this has led to more cars on the streets and increased pollution. Buses are still available, but fewer people use them now, choosing the convenience of their own vehicles instead. Sanandaj’s growing reliance on cars reflects how the city is evolving.
In Istanbul, the city is always on the move. Public transport is essential in such a vast, busy city, with buses, ferries, metros, and trams connecting neighborhoods. Electric scooters and rental bikes have added a modern touch, making it easier to get around. The constant movement of Istanbul mirrors the energy of the city itself. It’s fast, dynamic, and always alive.
In every city I’ve lived in, animals have been an important part of daily life, with each place showing care for them in unique ways. In Haarlem, the sight of swans gliding gracefully along the canals or ravens and pigeons gathering in parks reflects the city’s harmony with nature. Strong animal welfare programs ensure that stray cats and dogs are rare, with shelters and rehoming efforts keeping animals safe. Nearby protected areas, where gazelles roam freely, offer an even deeper connection to wildlife, making Haarlem feel like a peaceful haven for all creatures.
Istanbul is alive with animals. Street cats and dogs roam freely, finding their place in parks, cafes, and busy streets. It’s common to see bowls of food and water left out for them by kind residents or the municipality. The city feels incomplete without its cats, who seem to belong as much to Istanbul as its landmarks. I’ll never forget the warmth of petting a cat curled up in the sun or watching a dog lounge calmly in the middle of a bustling street.
Sanandaj offers a quieter kind of care. Here, people and small community groups take it upon themselves to feed and shelter stray cats and dogs, especially during colder months. These small acts of kindness, like offering scraps of food or a warm corner for an animal to rest, reflect the heart of the community and its deep sense of responsibility.
Haarlem’s festivals are full of charm and community spirit. In spring, the Bloemencorso flower parade fills the streets with colorful floats decorated with tulips and daffodils, celebrating the Netherlands’ floral heritage. King’s Day transforms the Grote Markt into a lively celebration, with food stalls offering sweets, games for children, and music filling the air. Families and friends gather to enjoy local beers and the cheerful atmosphere. On New Year’s Eve, fireworks illuminate the canals, their reflections shimmering on the water, creating a serene yet magical celebration that embodies Haarlem’s peaceful charm.
In Sanandaj, the Kurdish New Year, Newroz, begins in spring with a sense of hope and renewal. Families gather outdoors to light fires, a tradition deeply rooted in Zoroastrian heritage. People dance around the fires, laughing and cheering, as the air fills with the aroma of Kebabs and Saffron Rice. Fireworks light up the night sky, and the sound of Kurdish music fills every corner of the city. Dancing breaks out in the streets, with neighbors and friends celebrating together. It is a time when the entire city feels alive, united in joy and tradition.
Istanbul’s celebrations are bold and full of energy. On New Year’s Eve, the Bosphorus becomes a stage for dazzling fireworks that stretch across two continents, lighting up the water and the city’s historic skyline. During the Tulip Festival, parks transform into breathtaking gardens, with vibrant tulips in every hue creating moments of serenity in the bustling city. The mix of history, modernity, and celebration gives Istanbul’s traditions a unique vibrancy that reflects its spirit.
In Haarlem, food is simple and reflects the city’s steady rhythm. A sandwich or a salad at midday provides just enough energy to carry on with the day. Meals are often quick and practical, allowing people to continue their routines with ease. The air carries the aroma of fresh bread and coffee, and the streets hum softly with bicycles passing by.
Sanandaj takes a different approach. The midday meal here is a time to pause and savor. Kitchens fill with the aroma of rice-based dishes or traditional favorites like Keftawgosht, a hearty stew bubbling on the stove, and Kalaneh, a delicious flatbread served with melted butter. Families gather, sharing warm food and conversation. After eating, the city seems to exhale, settling into a quiet stillness before work resumes later in the evening.
Istanbul offers a feast at every turn. Mornings begin with the scent of fresh tea and warm bread, accompanied by a breakfast spread of olives, cheese, and honey. At lunchtime, the spicy aroma of Lahmacun or Kebabs fills the streets. Dinner is a celebration, with plates of bold and rich flavors shared among friends, often ending with the sweetness of Baklava. Though Istanbul moves quickly, its food invites moments of connection and celebration.
Each city approaches meals in its own way, yet they all remind you that food is more than nourishment; it is a reflection of culture, community, and the moments shared with others.
Haarlem feels like a watercolor painting, soft and serene. The canals flow quietly, mirroring the gentle pace of life. Sometimes, I take my bike out to explore nearby fields and parks, such as Heemstede, Vijfhuizen, or Bloemendaal, where the open spaces and quiet trails bring a sense of calm. The long summer evenings here are unlike anything I experienced before. There is no rush, only time to relax and enjoy the soft glow of the canals at dusk.
Sanandaj breathes with the mountains. The hills rise like guardians around the city, strong and steady. The mornings are crisp, filled with the smell of earth and wildflowers. Hiking feels natural here, where the landscape invites you to explore. In the city itself, life has its own rhythm with busy mornings, quiet afternoons, and lively evenings.
Istanbul feels like a city that never stops. The sounds of footsteps, trams, and the endless hum of its streets fill the air. Ferries glide across the Bosphorus, connecting two continents as they carry people through their day. Yet even in its rush, Istanbul offers moments to pause. Standing by the water and watching the boats, the city’s energy reflects in the waves. It feels alive in a way no other place does, a mix of constant movement and quiet beauty.
Living in Haarlem, Istanbul, and Sanandaj has shaped the way I see the world. Each city has become a part of me, leaving lessons and memories that shape who I am today. Haarlem has taught me the beauty of stillness, with its quiet canals and thoughtful pace. From Istanbul, I remember the energy and vibrancy of life, where history and modernity meet at every corner. Sanandaj, with its deep culture and artistic soul, holds the essence of what has influenced and shaped me.
Each place has shown me how people live, celebrate, and find joy in their surroundings. From cycling through Haarlem’s flat streets to experiencing the vibrant rhythm of Istanbul’s bustling streets and shores, and walking through Sanandaj’s rugged hills, I’ve learned that every place has its own rhythm.
These experiences have not only changed the way I see the world but also made me curious to discover more. Each city has a story, and every new place holds something that connects us all, whether it is through the way we move, eat, celebrate, or simply pause to enjoy the view.
We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the vibrant life of Haarlem. For more stories, tips, and local insights, keep exploring HaarlemToday. Don’t forget to share your favourite articles with friends and join the conversation on our social media channels. Until next time, keep discovering the unique flavors and experiences that make our city special.
