We followed the tram line in order to find our way to the Grand Bazaar after lunchtime. On the way, we passed people selling ice cream and calling for you to eat at their restaurant or enter their shop. I will definitely not be hearing that again in Pittsburgh! We also passed a little Tea Garden where people could enjoy Turkish tea or coffee outside on a patio in a little garden. It was so cute!
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| Tea Garden (looking out from patio) |
We finally made it to the bustle of the Grand Bazaar. However, today it wasn't as busy as the first day we went, which was nice. We could actually see the floor this time!
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| A quiet part of the Grand Bazaar (if you have a facebook, click the link to see a video inside the Bazaar!) |
We looked and were called to, chose and bartered for, and eventually managed to buy quite a few things, such as ceramics. Ever since a rather unfortunate encounter with a clown in Covent Garden when I was about 3, I have never liked people invading my space. So getting used to all the Turkish sellers calling out, "Angel, come buy." "How can I help you, darling?" "You're beautiful. Be my model. Try on these scarves." in order to sell their wares, was slightly difficult for me, but after experiencing things like this all week, I was getting used to it. But as long as you don't make eye contact, you can just walk right by them. They must have a pretty thick skin for that not to bother them: when people just ignore them altogether. Everybody in Turkey really is very hospitable to everyone. They go over and beyond to show you their wares, make you comfortable, flatter you, and are not at all annoyed when they take out everything to show you and then you don't buy anything. They love to show off what they have and are very proud of their products.
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