Fact vs. Fiction: The Bazaars of Istanbul, Turkey

Shopping in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul will overload your senses. Colors, shapes, smells and sounds approach you from every direction in what can only be described as immersion in consumption. The bad news, however, is that the touts are waiting for you. Cast a wayward glance at any nice rug and someone will chase you down the hall trying to strike a deal. The result is an experience that’s slightly colored by trying to manage respectful bartering and curious shopping at the same time.

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[flickr images via governmentality and blackpower2010]