The Grand Bazaar

Good evening to our fine students,

Okay, we said we were going to the Bazaar and not buying anything! HA! We couldn't resist. The scarves, the gold, the silver, the T-shirts, the Sultan's signature? Yes...no kidding!

The Grand Bazaar, which is 700 years old, was one of the places the salt traders from North Africa came through to acquire items not found in Africa. These days there are many more products for sale but it this is where major trade began between Asia, Africa and Europe.

One of Pat's favorite moments in the Grand Bazaar was when we were asked if we'd like to go down yet another narrow alley to view the goods. We were invited by a trio of young men who were seated at the beginning of an alley that was at a 90 degrees angle to the alley where we were walking. "Would you like to come in here? We will help you!" I asked Marian if she'd like to go to the right and noted to her that there was a 8" step to navigate. "No problem, lady. We will help you!" In the next moment, the three of them stepped to her wheelchair, one on each side and the third in back. They lifted her, chair and all, up the step. Marian raised her fist in air and shouted, "Woohoo!" We all laughed and shook hands. We only wished we had been able to take a picture!

One of Marian's favorite experiences of the day was going into a scarf vendor's shop. The proprietor was very welcoming and showed us many, many scarves and offered us Turkish or apple tea, as is the custom here. Marian drank apple tea. Pat drank Turkish tea. Both were delicious! He showed us pictures of the woman who makes some of his scarves. We only wish we could have met her in person. He, like many other vendors, was very helpful, kind and engaging. Marian was able to bargain successfully below his asking price. In doing so, he looked at Pat, smiled and said, "She's a tough lady!"

It was a great day and as our day is winding down, your day is just beginning. Listen to your teachers, work hard! We are looking forward to seeing your presentations.