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 October 31 Istanbul/At sea


“Travelling tends to magnify all human emotions”


We’re finally out of the Pera Palace Hotel - nice as it was, it had drawbacks as old hotels tend to have eg squeaky floorboards, small bathroom, bad lighting, poor aircon etc. And to top it off G has left his power board there, we think!! Life is full of lemons !!!! 

Our medium sized bus was loaded up with suitcases and we left the hotel at 8.30. First stop was at a Carpet shop/factory. It’s the old sales pitch story but with a touch of elegance. Firstly we had a lady showing us the technique of making a handmade rug and the knotting  process then we were treated to Turkish tea or coffee while being shown at least 50 carpets of varying sizes and colours.  Then we visited the Grand Bazaar - HUGE!  Unlike in Asian markets there was no hard sell amongst the traders,  all was very peaceful and I think most people were like us - just browsing.  

From there we drove to a backlava making business.  While walking back to our bus I recognised Helen and Lynton Rose waiting in a group - they’re sailing on Regent too. The business has been operating for 5 generations and is known world wide.  Taken unto the owner’s office we were welcomed by the owner then issued with disposable caps, lab coats and shoe covers and taken to the floor below where about 8 workers were stretching the filo pastry.  A very interesting process indeed,  with flour filling the room and settling on everything to hair and clothes.  We were then ushered into the actual room and some  of us were invited to assist!!! Down another floor we got to see the pastry being placed in a container, 40 layers in fact - with p crumbled pistachio spread across the top.  Down another flight of stairs to watch the tray come out of the enormous oven, I now have a new respect for baklava even though I’m not especially fond of it, 

Next stop was the ship - home for the next couple of months. G’s power board hasn’t turned up, will make do with other plugs we have. Went to the sail away on the pool deck where they had music and drinks etc and then decided to eat at Sette Marie, the Italian restaurant.  Joined another couple and had a fabulous evening, they’re from Jackson Hole Wyoming.  The ship is lovely though haven’t had time to explore yet.  





  

  

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