THURSDAY 23rd JULY 2009 (IZMIR - ORIENTAL MARKET)

THURSDAY 23rd JULY 2009


Our mornings have slowed down a lot, now that we don't have to make miles anymore. Sort of miss that routine - the dread of packing and wondering what drama will unfold during the day.

We had to meet with Lutfu and Cihan at midday to discuss further The HORS's shipping arrangements. So far we are quite impressed with them.


We decided to walk along the boulevard (not as hot today - maybe 35 degrees) where a slight breeze was blowing. We had only ever walked part way and so decided to explore further a field. Every three or so blocks the atmosphere changed completely. At one end sat the up-market restaurants with the other end being the smoking houses. We walked past several large tug boats and thought it amazing that you had to step over the mooring lines to get to the tables and chairs. We watched children jumping off the wharf and doing what children do best. They were funny and imaginative using empty water bottles tied around their waists as floaties!









We then found ourselves at the Oriental Market and were pleased to be back in what we call a 'real' shopping area. The westernized shopping centres have no character whatsoever. The 'bazaar' on the other hand is old and fascinating, more interactive, interesting smells and colour galore. We sat on cushioned seats for a drink and before we knew it Paul was inside a cafe being taught how to make Turkish coffee. It looks like and has the consistency of warm chocolate icing but he liked it. We enjoyed this market far more than the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. The shop owners let you browse and touch without harassing you about the fact that that particular item is the BEST bargain in the whole world. They are all smiles, polite, patient and not pushy at all. It made the 'looking' experience a pleasure. There is always an exception to the rule though and I walked out leaving Paul alone to figure out how to escape!





It didn't take long for a couple of hours to pass at the Oriental Market (with not one purchase made) before we wandered in the direction of home. We nearly always took the narrow, covered market streets as they are more interesting. It's in the 'open' streets where the fruit and vegies are and the smell fills your nose with such fresh, wonderful scents. Can't say the same about the meat though...!!! And watching the bread-makers roll and flip and twirl their dough's before placing in an open fire-kiln was excellent. When they know you are watching they do their best to elaborate their routine.


We did take a wrong turn which took us out of our way a bit (not so happy as the legs were wanting to fall off!) BUT we did find the motorcycle shop area so Paul was happy with that. Nothing of interest though and can you believe one sales person hadn't heard of DUCATI...!!! Italian bikes just don't feature here - it must have been a translation issue though...surely he's heard of Ducati.


We got home just after 8.00pm...
went to our room and never moved a muscle from then on (couldn't..!!). We watched a crap movie on TV (it was in English though and we are hungry for the English language) so that made it bearable. We have our stockpile of muesli (and beer) and that's what ended up on the menu for dinner.



It takes a few days to even begin to get to know any area so sometimes just staying put for a while instead of traveling all the time is a good thing. There are a few places we've been holed up for several days at a time because of either 'issues' or breakdowns and these are the places we will remember the best. Another good day done and dusted.