Lost in the Grand Bazaar

The shopping is fantastic and the bargains are even better. My most memorable moment occurred when I went to take pictures of the Blue Mosque, and by a chance meeting with a local, was taken to the roof of a carpet shop and took pictures of Istanbul at sunset.

Quick Tips:

Take lots of film. Do meet people and talk to them. Read something about where you are going. Don't be an Ugly American.

Best Way To Get Around:

I was fotunate to stay in a hotel within walking distance of the Blue Mosque and the surrounding shops and cafes. I felt perfectly safe on my own. There were all sorts of transportation available, but walking and local streetcars were the best way to meet people.

The accomodations were definitely a grade or two up from the rooms we had in Tashkent. We bacame experts in toilet and bathing facilities. Loved the really different bathtub, wherein you could sit in or above the water. Great for leg-shaving!