We were informed that the Grand Bazaar covers 40 acres. You can imagine that we didn’t have time to explore it all and we found it very easy to get lost. Our guide told us to return to gate one and if we couldn’t find it, to ask for directions. What fun it was. We set out to explore the labyrinth of streets covered by painted vaults and lined with thousands of booth-like shops, whose wares spill out to tempt you and whose shopkeepers entice you in for a sale.
Jewels, carpets, scarves, silks, souvenirs, everything you could possible want.
Can you imagine the scene in 1400 when the traders from the east came with their goods to sell to the merchants from the west.
The Spice Bazaar was in a separate place. Humm it smelled wonderful and the displays were colorful and beautiful. Spices of all kinds, died fruits, teas and mounds of Turkish delight. Turkish delight is just like the northwest’s Applets and cotlets, my favorite was made from pomegranates and pistachios.
These cups, you see here were used by everyone to serve us their famous apple tea.
As a last treat,we were taken to a restaurant for a traditional Turkish meal. We were served several courses,some I can’t name, with lamb sis kebabs and baklava for desert. It was delicious.
Now for the wonderful people we met. All were open, welcoming, hospitable and kind.
Beautiful families out on the street together.
Enjoying an afternoon in the park.
Playing in the park, watched closely by Dad
This my favorite picture. Young people are the same everywhere.
In the mosques the women pray in alcoves on the side of the main room or in the balconies above. We saw a few of these ultra conservative women.
This little doll is playing in the leaves. She was adorable.
We spotted this bride, after her wedding in Cappadocia.
A young salesman, with his wares, I think he was enjoying his drink, probably yogurt, a favorite in this area of the world.
We had a wonderful trip. If you have the opportunity be sure to visit this fascinating part of the world.
Love Mom
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