If you’re heading off on your Mediterranean family holidays, Turkey is more than likely to be one of your first choices. The ubiquitous trio of sun, sea and sand are obviously the biggest draw cards, but Turkey has a lot more to offer than that. Not only is Turkey steeped in a fascinating history (the remnants of which are some of the most important archaeological signposts in the world), it also has a proud and colourful culture. It’s not hard to shop, eat and drink like a local on your family holidays; Turkey has some of the most wonderful shops and bazaars you will ever see. If you’re visiting Istanbul, whether you’re looking for food, souvenirs, spices or art you will find a market tucked around every corner.
The Grand Bazaar Istanbul
The Big Daddy of all markets, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is home to over 5000 shops and stalls. If you can’t find it in the Grand Bazaar, it simply doesn’t exist. Gold and silver jewellery, fabulously exotic antiques, metal and copper object-d’art, leather goods and hand-painted ceramics are just a selection of the treasures you can find. When you are travelling with children on your family holidays, Turkey’s biggest undercover bazaar is a fascinating and exciting attraction for kids of all ages. They will love the smells and sounds of the bustling bazaar. The Turkish people love children, so they will be entertained and embraced by the locals. While it is a good idea to stay close and keep tabs on the family, the Grand Bazaar has a safe and friendly atmosphere and is an ideal day out in Istanbul.
The Spice Market Istanbul
Whilst not strictly for the children, an excursion to the wonderfully aromatic Spice Market in Istanbul should still be included in the itinerary of your family holidays. Turkey is renowned for its exotic spices, fruits and nuts and these markets will have your head spinning and your mouth salivating with the selection on display. The first thing that hits you is obviously the smell, which permeates every nook and cranny of the markets creating a delightful, if at times overpowering, scent. Row upon row of jewel-coloured spices line the stalls in huge baskets and the aisles are crowded with locals jostling for the lowest prices. As with any market in Turkey, the first price is never the last price and haggling is a way of life, so don’t be shy to ask for a discount. Why not involve the children in the fun of purchasing some precious spices to take home as a souvenir – you may find they get a better price than you!
Tahtakale Market District
Situated in between the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Markets, the Tahtakale Market District is the most authentic taste of Turkey you will find. Almost exclusively patronised by locals, the streets of the district are lined with shops and stalls selling everything from handkerchiefs, beads, food stuffs, luggage, clothing, kitchen utensils, wooden furniture and toys, to mosque decorations and even firearms. A fabulous place to visit on your family holidays, Turkey’s genuine way of life is on display through the sights, sounds and colours of the Tahtakale Market District
Article Source: http://www.bharatbhasha.net
Article Url: http://www.bharatbhasha.net/travel.php/231631
Article Added on Wednesday, April 14, 2010
LD
| Other Articles by Davide Smith | |
•For Family Holidays Turkey Has it All
No matter what sort of slant you want to put on your family holidays, Turkey can satisfy even the fussiest of children (and adults!), with a range of activities to suit everyone. No matter whether your family is the type that wants to spend the entire holiday frolicking on the beach, only emerging to hit the pool; or you are a more cultured bunch who loves to soak up the history and art of your chosen destination; you will find everything you need on your family holidays in Turkey.
The Beach...
•Spend Your Family Holidays Turkey Underground
Everyone knows that above ground family holidays, Turkey offer plenty of opportunity for sun, sea and sand. However, if the bright sun is dazzling your eyes or you’re simply looking for something a little more unique, why not head underground?
Istanbul’s Cisterns
Istanbul is a sprawling mass of beautiful Byzantine cisterns that exist from the time when Istanbul was known as Constantinople and even James Bond has paid them a visit. The city has hundreds of gloomy cisterns, but the grandest of...
•Take the Family on a Tour of Turkey s Culture
So far on your family holidays, Turkey has provided you with sun, sea and sand for the best part of your trip. But it seems a shame to go home without having shown the kids some of the fantastic culture on offer in this fascinating country. The majority of the country’s citizens are currently Islamic, but there is a wealth of rich history of other religions and politics surrounding the country. This means that a trip to Turkey can offer you experience of systems of beliefs and history that are...
•Unforgettable Experiences For Turkey Family Holidays
In terms of family holidays, Turkey is about as good as it gets. With a combination of sun, sea and sand that will keep every member of the family in the holiday mood, this holiday is likely to be one that is remembered. But why not throw in a few unforgettable experiences, just to make sure that it goes down in family history.
White Water Rafting
The Coruh River in Turkey has long been rated one of the world’s top ten rafting rivers by professional rafters. A trip downstream is...
•A Family Holiday to Fethiye
When planning family holidays, Turkey instantly springs to mind as a contender. There is so much to see and do and whether you choose to holiday in the exotic capital Istanbul, or opt for a more relaxing stay in a coastal resort, family holidays to Turkey will never disappoint. One of the best things about Turkey is its accessibility and no matter where you stay, even those with young families will find it easy to explore the neighbouring areas. Olu Deniz is one of the most popular family...
•Fascinating Family Holidays Turkey and Its Famous Whirling Dervishes
Becoming ever more popular for family holidays, Turkey has some fascinating sights and experiences to offer its visitors, not least of which are its famous Whirling Dervishes.
Who are the Whirling Dervishes?
Although in modern day terminology we might use the term Whirling Dervish of someone who is seen to be dashing about hurriedly to get things done; the real Whirling Dervishes are members of the Mevlevi Order which was founded in the city of Konya in present day Turkey by the followers of...
|
| |
