Last day in Istanbul

Having plotted our assault of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar we set off to make the most of the 3,000+ shops on 60 streets. The metro took us straight to an entrance and in we entered. So fortunate few tourists about as in the summer it must be overwhelming. We did not want or need to purchase anything, the benefit of only travelling with 12kg backpacks. The shop owners try their best with the patter " leather jacket nearly free" ...but must be long days for them all and we wondered how any actually made a living? Just so, so many gold, jewelery, leather and fabric shops. An hour and we were done.

Minature chess sets

Thankful so few about

Next was a well known doner kebab shop for an early lunch and to find a barber for Jeff.

We had not had any meat since Monday and it was well worth seeking out the shop.  We asked the chap in front if he knew of a good barber? So we follow him down a narrow alley, up steps and there is a chap working in a space the size of a large cupboard. We were told he had worked in the trade for 61 years. Mustafa was his name, no English, but young chap who served us tea gave us the lowdown.

I was intimating sheep noises at the beginning. So for $30 or 1,000 turkish lira Jeff was given a haircut, hair wash, eyebrows trimmed, nose and ear wax. Immaculate.

The spice market did not take long. Much more interesting wandering around the stores surrounding the Bazaars. There is an entire block selling womens underwear. All the shops hosted by men. My goodness what was on display that is worn under the passion killer chadors etc was a revelation. Size 20 models with a couple bits of string, strategically placed hearts, lace.....

Men hard at work restocking for the summer

Men standing around their ladies wear store talking, smoking. Always 3 or 4 at each place. Offically unemployment in Istanbul  is 10% whereas under-employment over 30%.

Made our way back across the Galata Bridge heading for the Museum of Innocence. This is based on a book recommended by friends. 

As you walk off the bridge this is on your left side. The Galata Tower at the top, apartments of varying standards then the inevitable graffiti.

Up the hills to the museum which Jeff entered, taking lots of photos for friends Bob and Janet, while I entertain a cat outside. Onto Carrefour for groceries, a chain we are familiar with in France. They cater for the local culture - no bacon, buttermilk etc.

Opposite the museum

Early start tomorrow to get three buses to Canakkale for our Gallipoli adventure.