ISTANBUL

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ISTANBUL. FRIDAY 25.7.14



Another beautiful weather day. Woken by the call to prayer at 4.14, didn't realise it started so early. As hotel is surrounded by mosques, the calls start at slightly different times. Some sound as though they are answering another's call, but I think in reality they all say the same words, just different accents, and as the calls are in Arabic, it's not as though I can comprehend what is said. However they sound very exotic and add mystery to this marvellous city.



Spent time wandering the Grand Bazaar, a huge collection of small shops selling jewellery, pottery and ceramics, carpets and kilims, coffee, tourist treasures and material. All very exotic. Got caught short so needed to dash back to hotel. The bug has not fully left me yet.



Planned the Spice Bazaar, but will do it Saturday.



Wandered the back streets, all very interesting, shops selling similar products, don't know how they all survive. Visited an Islamic bookshop, and read the first few pages. I didn't know that Mohammed was married to an older woman, his former employer. Might consider a purchase so that I am better informed.



Ate Ottoman food last night, very tasty, mezes then ottoman rissoles in a spicy tomato sauce, washed down with an Efes beer.

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