Turkish Bazaar in Kusadasi

Turkish Bazaar in Kusadasi

Most shore excursions in Kusadasi end with a visit to a rug merchant. Complimentary beverages accompanied a dazzling display of handmade Turkish rugs. A craftswoman tediously weaved a thin row on a new rug. As all this unfolded, the manager described the type of threads and natural coloring methods, encouraging attendees to touch the rugs to feel the differences. At the conclusion of the presentation, a professional sales force moved in to convince some to buy, but we slipped out as quickly as permissable.

Outgoing and friendly in Kusadasi.

The Turkish Bazaar outside the door features all kinds of wares pitched by aggressive, friendly salesmen. Aromas of exotic spices wafted through the air. We negotiated a bit on soccer shirts at one stand, but it was a guy silently offering shoe shines that reeled us in. Amy wore her favorite cowboy boots which had been worn to bare leather by a long Connecticut winter. For 5 Euro, the craftsman agreed to polish them. It took about ten minutes, during which the shirt guy came back with incrementally lower pricing, and when the cobbler finished, the rich shine on the cordovan boots had everyone smiling.

Refreshments in Kusadasi

The merchants in the Turkish Bazaar didn't ignore customers or talk on their cell phones to friends like teenaged clerks in an American mall. They were professional salespeople who zeroed in on anyone who passed their stores and engaged them in conversation. This made Julie somewhat uncomfortable, but she did find some lovely pashminas to buy as gifts.

Jay at sidewalk cafe

Jay and his girlfriend, on the other hand, spent the afternoon in the Bazaar, celebrating in the friendly atmosphere. "Hi, I'm Katie," reportedly echoed through the alleyways and shops, and the merchants "gave them major love" everywhere they went. They reciprocally loved spending the afternoon in Kusadasi rather than going to Miletus and Didyma like we did.

"Hi, I'm Katie!" back on board in new jacket.

The big purchase was a soft leather jacket for Katie, but there were also other purchases like a purse for Julie, pashminas and keychains. They also enjoyed the food and drinks of the region at a sidewalk cafe.

Authentic Turkish meal for Jay and Katie.

For shoppers in particular, Kusadasi is a great destination in its own right, but treat yourself to at least visiting Ephesus on your first visit.

(All photos courtesy of Jay and Katie.)