Basic Tips for Your Next Trip to Turkey

Recently, I met with a friend who was traveling to Turkey for the first time. Since I had just come back from my trip, she asked for some simple tips before she packed her bags. Some of the questions she asked will seem rudimentary to more well-seasoned travelers. But for those who are just getting the wanderlust bug, it's good basic knowledge to have, whether you're traveling to Turkey or to other corners of the world.

1. What kind of shoes do you recommend?

I wear my trusty camper boots and Puma boots. I love the way they hug the cobblestones. 

2. Is it cold at this time of year? Coat or jacket?

Who knows with global warming? It was temperate when I was there, but layering is always the key. Bring a waterproof jacket, gloves, and of course a fabulous scarf.

3. What are the best places to shop? As a first-time visitor?

I love the Arasta bazaar. It has a bazaar feel with less pressure maybe. The Arasta, and shops nearby, have some hip designers. Look up where weekly fleas markets are.

4. Do I need to know the language?

I know very little Turkish. I just have some of the bargaining mannerisms down and certain looks.

5. Should I haggle? Does it work?

No question, you should haggle. If a store has fixed prices, expect to pay that unless you are buying wholesale. That means more then one!

6. I'm looking for a rug. What should I look for in terms of quality?

Too broad a question. RESEARCH. Ask questions before you go. There are so many blogs, books, resources you can find. Allow yourself to be seduced by the stories. LOOK and DO NOT buy the first day, no matter what. But if you try to bargain and a price is met, be prepared to buy.

These are two books I recommend: Rugs and Carpets of the World by Ian Bennett (great images of what looms are used and what weaving looks like) and Kilim, the Complete Guide by Alastair Hull and Jose Luczyc-Wyhowska. Fantastic images and great insight of all the tribes and explanations of what the pieces are and why things are done a certain way.

7. Do I need to wear a head scarf?

Your trusty pashmina works. Mostly you will need to cover your head when you go to a religious place.

8. Do I need cash or can I use my credit card?

Cash always is best for the vendor and often for you. More bargaining power, less fees for all!

9. What kind of bag should I carry? For shopping...

I use my ancient Tumi bag that is a cross bag with hidden pockets, it's light weight and black. I am not a back pack lover.

10. Can I buy most toiletries and things over there?

Yes, you can buy all of that over there. Istanbul is very cosmopolitan. You may not find brands you are familiar with but take a chance and go local! 

If you have additional questions about Turkey that you'd like to ask me, leave a comment or message me on Facebook. I'm happy to share my love of this beautiful country. For now, enjoy some night scenes and street shots I captured from my last visit.

New Arrivals - Rugs!

Fuat and his brother...the suppliers from Van

Rug dealers are a special breed. However, so are those of us buying them!  With each trip to Turkey I repeat ...I will not buy rugs, I will not buy rugs, I will not buy rugs. I am in control! Luckily for you, this trip was a perfect example of my lack of control for these beautiful creatures. I am a sucker for the crafts I fear will disappear as time goes by – the camel bag, the baby cradle cover, etc. 

Check out the newest rugs in the collection below. It's just a small sampling of what I brought back so you'll have to check the shop to see them all. I fell in love with the new colors, the mix of techniques, and the asymmetry of the designs. Such great workmanship!

A Taste of….Pul Biber

During my trip to Turkey in February, I tried quite a bit of pul biber, a smoky, crushed red pepper similar to red pepper flakes you find here in the states but it's slightly damp with a subtle fruit flavor. Pul biber is made from the aleppo pepper and is regularly seen on tables at Turkish restaurants, either in a shaker or a small tin bowl. As with most things, you'll have to taste the various kinds to see which one you like best. In the U.S., pul biber can be found at your local Mediterranean market. I brought some home and have been adding it to just about everything. The flavors instantly transport me to Turkey.

I also brought back these wonderful tinned copper condiment dishes. They are perfect for holding spices, dips or sauces. The crescent moon on the lid is functional, but I think it adds another element of beauty to the design. You can find them here. 

6 Favorite Eats (and Drinks) In Istanbul

I'm on a plane to Turkey today! The little red star in the picture above is where you'll find me.

As I'm getting ready for another buying trip in Istanbul, I'm reminded of all the things to love about this country, old friends to visit and shopping of course. However, sustenance is usually first on my mind and it starts as soon as I get on the plane. I love flying with Turkish Airlines. Lots of the men are over-cologned. The airline staff take their jobs seriously, like to look good and are usually friendly and efficient. But it's the sour cherry juice, the raki and the ayran that get me going. It is a part of getting into character! 

Mmmmm….sipping on raki in Nevizade Soka, Instanbul.
This is a scene you will often see me repeating on visits to Turkey.

Raki, the non-sweet, anise-flavored national drink of Turkey, is typically enjoyed with meze, seafood, fruit and cheese. It's a clear alcoholic beverage that turns milky white when mixed with water and is also known as lion's milk. Time Magazine named raki one of the "top 10 ridiculously strong drinks" in 2010. There's a debate going on about changing the national drink in Turkey to ayran…okay, okay you non-drinkers can have balic without raki.

This lovely guy at this particular kebab joint in the Grand Bazaar is always front and center, ever present with his smile. There are so many great places like this one, but when traveling in far-away lands, familiarity and routine make me feel a little bit more like a local. It's usually my first stop before hitting the Grand Bazaar to see what's new and trending in the marketplace.

Ayran is a yogurt-based drink that is served cold and mixed with salt. It's non-alcoholic, a bit similar to Indian lassi and is especially wonderful during hot summer months.

Stuffed grape leaves are pretty familiar in the States these day, especially those who frequent Mediterranean restaurants. They even come prepackaged in various sizes, from snack tins to giant buffet-size tins. In Turkey, everyone does them a little bit differently. I love them rolled up tight and thin.

My picture doesn't do this cheese amazing pastry any justice, but künefe is my all-time favorite Turkish dessert. Made with fresh kadayif (similar to phyllo) and fresh cheese (as in made that day), künefe is best when served piping hot. 

Pide, a flatbread similar to pita or pizza, is so delicious and it's a treat watching it be prepared. Toppings vary just like they do on western-style pizzas. And just like pizzas, they're best when prepared in a brick or stone oven. A Turkish fast food, pide is cheap and can be found sold in street carts.  

I'll be traveling for the rest of the month. Keep up with me on Instagram (@theloadedtrunk) to see more yummy food shots and sneak peeks of what I'm seeing at market.

And if you're hungry for more travel stories, check out some of my older posts….

• Morocco-Fes
• Marrakech
• Thailand
• Vietnam

My travels to Turkey and Morocco and countries that load you with wonderful tea and mouth watering small plates of food called mezze, have made me a convert to using any cool old or new bowls, baskets, trays or stools throughout my home that aid me in re-creating some of my memorable travel moments. Each piece has multiple uses. Use them in your bathroom, patios, and by all means to add dimension to your entertaining accouterments.

There are still towns where craftsmen using old techniques have not changed in 1000 years. This group mixes old and new pieces, all useful, re-purposed and functional.
From top left clock wise...

• Large Mezze tray with wrought iron stand
• Hand engraved tinned copper platter
• Deep tinned copper tea tray
• Ottoman tinned copper bowl with lid
• Tea tray with 3 handles
• Recycled tire and wrought iron stool
• Ottoman tinned copper bowls
• Zinc baskets

From Construction to Perfection

I landed in Turkey last night after a long but exciting journey. Exciting mean all flights were on time and the flight was empty. I indulged myself with some of my favorite Turkish delights on board, sour cherry juice, cheese, wine, ambien and sleep! I woke to an airline breakfast of one of my favorites. Feta, tomatoes, olives and Chai and Aryan, a salty yogurt drink. I was happy and had not gotten off the plane. After a bit of a delay and a long walk to I found my next flight to Kayseri. Greeted by my friend Murat I was driven to Goreme in Kapadokya, central Turkey, my ultimate destination for the next few days.

my loft just before leaving USA

My my room in the Sultan Cave Hotel in Goreme, Turkey. My friend Mehmet had been working for several years on this masterpiece. more to come.