Part 2 spicy, intriguing, antique istanbul!

You thought I would forget didnt you?

So after leaving the spice market we went back to the Grand Bazaar for a second look now that we had more time. Not a huge distance and on the way uncovered some more everyday needs that no family can go without.

First you cant live without the staff of life, water. You can command it to come to you though!

Next coffee anyone?

 

And what about one of these, something every wife and mother needs!

Once back in the grand bazaar, we found this little gem and had some fun.

How many wives can I have?

Picked up my outfit for Kelly's party and her top hat here.

Another way of delivering water to the masses.

We went on a search to find the antique shop we visited the day before, for a closer look. After asking directions to a shop we knew was nearby many times we found it. This place has been her since 1461 and has over 21 gates (entrances) it is enormous!

Another camera glen might like.

 

Any fireman need a new helmet? This one belonged to the NSW Fire brigade

 

So we wandered around for a while then decided to head outside and walk across the Galata bridge

 

This bridge spans 2 continents. On the one side you are in Europe, on the other, Asia!

 

 

Lots of men fishing on the bridge, big rods with 5-7 hooks on a line, they were mainly pulling out what appeared to be sardines.

 

Looking back at Topkapi palace where we were yesterday.

A very nice sailing ship, I did try to find the owner, just out of curiosity of course.

And the obligatory photo, Greg is in Asia and I am in Europe!

So we headed back to the hotel for a rest and relax before heading to a special restaurant for dinner. We got back about 5, dinner was not till 9.15 back in town so, hmmmm hot day, beer beckoning, hit the bar. Sitting quietly watching the world go by, conversations at our table and the next merge into one. A lovely young couple from Newcastle who have been living is for some 7 years, are doing a final trip before heading back to oz. chatting, chatting, drinking! I think it was about 7-7.30 went back to shower and change, with a promise of more catch up time tomorrow over dinner.

We headed out to find a cab about 8.45, 20 min trip into town arrived at the Orient Express Hotel for dinner in their restaurant on the roof - Imbat. What a view, what food, what booking? They did not appear to have our reservation, which our hotel had made this morning, we did witness it and had the confirmation. Not fazed the maitre'd asked whether we would like to sit inside or out, we opted for out on the terrace. Some shuffling of tables took place and once seated we were treated like kings. The food is wonderful and the staff and the view just maker it more so. The Joel called us a cab to deliver us home safely about midnight.

What a top day!