Welcome to the Egyptian Spice Market and the Istanbul Grand Bazaar

I think we are all aware the election is coming up. And the Lunch Bunch made it clear they wanted to see more photos of my renewal leave adventures. So I wanted to share a joyful memory with you today. Here are some photos from a very well spent afternoon: 

Imagine stepping into a shopping mall built in the 1400s or 1600's. Welcome to the Egyptian Spice Market, and the Istanbul Grand Bazaar, Istanbul’s legendary “covered markets,” where thousands of shops squeeze into a maze of winding streets and alleyways. These two markets host hundreds of thousands of daily visitors, all hunting for treasures, tasting Turkish delights, and looking for a good excuse to bargain for a deal. (Which you know I love). 

We spent the better part of a day exploring these two markets, making new friends, getting addicted to Turkish pomegranate and mango tea, learning about saffron and carpet weaving, enjoying dragee, grilled olives, and fresh pistacios, taking in the colors and energy, and spending a few too many Lira. 

The scent of the spices was otherworldly. And it was great fun. I hope you enjoy the photos.

—Rev. Jeanne