The Smells and Sights of the Markets in Istanbul

Students visit the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market while in Istanbul, Turkey to discover products and wears that they didn’t know existed. The markets are a cultural hub far from what we are used to seeing in the United States, and so large you could spend a full day exploring and you would not see everything.

Jasmine Haefner from Stony Brook University, Josh Lasley from Florida State University, Emily Wood from Hollins University and Kyle Brady from Millersville University, make a plan to explore the maze of the Spice Market, without getting lost, in search of tea and new flavors for cooking.

The markets are filled with new sounds and unique smells. It seems everywhere the students turn there is a different combination of natural elements to experience.

Norma Barnett and Lily Barnett-Mould sample some of the local spices that are for sale in the market.

One shop owner tells Emily Wood from Hollins University to smell this special tea, then look into his eye. Why? Because the tea will make her fall in love with the first person she makes eye contact with. It didn’t work… but she bought some anyway.

Lily Barnett-Mould, Norma Barnett and Tom Mould try some Turkish Delight while shopping at the Spice Market. It seems every shop owner is eager to share the tastes and smells of Turkey.

The market is filled with people buying and selling goods. There is an endless sea of color. This vendor’s specialties are, saffron, love tea, apple tea and Turkish delight.

Jasmine Haefner from Stony Brook University smells some local spices before she makes a purchase in the market. Many of these spices are new to her; the shop owner is happy to explain how each is used.

The Spice Market isn’t limited to just spices, although almost everything sold will end up on a kitchen table in some form or another. Ramadan is in full swing and most locals are fasting, but still stop by the market to buy figs and almonds that will be served later in the night to break the fast.

The Grand Bazaar is packed full of people and students looking for good deals and a place to practice their bargaining skills. The sound and energy of this place is unforgettable.

Jasmine Haefner from Stony Brook University, examines the needlework of these pillow cases which feature the traditional tulip design which was brought to prominence during the Ottoman Empire.

The Smells and Sights of the Markets in Istanbul

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