Grand Bazaar
Istanbul, Turkey
September 26, 2008
Istanbul, Turkey
September 26, 2008
I had such high hopes for Istanbul. I wanted to find Old Delhi mixed with Marrakesh and a big dollop of Damascus. I was of course disappointed – initially. Fortunately my travels brought me back to Istanbul several times and each time she charmed me a little more till now I can hardly fathom my initial dismay.
I made the mistake of making the Grand Bazaar one of my first stops. I was expecting the Aleppo Souk but instead discovered a tourist trap selling trinkets and t-shirts to bus-loads of shuffling tourists. I had no idea Istanbul was such a firm institution on the tour bus trail. I can’t deny it dulled my enthusiasm considerably.
Thankfully I persevered and in the following days and repeat visits I discovered a place I really enjoy and will happily return to every chance I get.
