Day one in Istanbul was unexpectedly busy. I must admit I was feeling under the weather, but everything was so interesting that I wanted more. The sights were incredible, but when you feel like you’re under water the whole time, it’s kind of hard to tell.
After what was most likely a lousy sleep (blasted snorers!) in our umpteenth hostel, we were ready to face a new day. Istanbul was one of those places that, even at its dullest time, remained endlessly entertaining. There was always some sort of buzz around us (this was partially due to Ramadan).
Because we went on a spontaneous site seeing bonanza the first day, it was kind of hard to absorb the true culture. By day two it started to sink in.
Right out of the gate vendors were trying to sell you things; a room for the night, baklava, dinner at their restaurant, handmade rugs…It was really quite cool. Neil and I are pretty patient with these things so we found it entertaining.
Our mission for the day-The Grand Bazaar! It was near by, so we decided to walk. The action seemed to continue down the street. It was a cocktail for the senses; wafts of grilling meat combined with mosque incense filled our nostrils, vendors shouted in attempt to lure customers, traffic streamed from both sides with no sign of slowing, sleepy kitties sat on stairways welcoming all friendly pets AND people, people, people.
I loved all of it! It was an amusement park for adults. This is why people travel!
We stopped to refresh ourselves with $1 freshly squeezed orange juice before we entered the rat race.
“Lady! Lady! Where you from?!” “Buy my lamp/rug/mirror/scarf!” “I have best price!”
Why yes, maybe I will buy something…
We got totally lost in the maze that is the Grand Bazaar. Horaay! Unfortunately that left us in the mercy of the food vendors inside.
Note to self: Do not eat INSIDE the Grand Bazaar. It’s literally 3 times the price.
We found ourselves unexpectedly at the Spice Bazaar. Fantastic!
We couldn’t have planned it better, if we tried. Such an overpowering smell; curry, cinnamon, paprika, cumin, pepper….you name it. Along with delicious Turkish Delights available to sample for FREE. How could one resist?
Once we were through the Spice Bazaar, we entered a huge pedestrian square that lead right to the water.
Neil was pretty stoked on getting a grilled fish sandwich straight off a fishing boat.
A few tomato, onions and lettuce tossed in a pita and BADA BING, fish sandwich!
Apparently, it was amazing, but holy cow did it ever give Neil bad breath. No kisses for a week!
Not a big fish eater myself, I opted for a doner.
Hot Damn! That thing was intense; French fries, pickles, lamb, random sauce…I think I even licked my fingers.
After a day like that there’s nothing to do but lie down and rub my belly.
~Josie