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2012.02.16

Comments

Katy

Quite daunting to think these guys live in the neighbourhood day in day out hefting sledgehammer. On one hand, you wish the tradition preserved and continued, but on the other hand, if modern technology can replace the damage done to the bodies - why should anyone stop it over an old fashion artistry piece of metal. But then that's also their meal tickets for generations. How long did you stay there for the material of the slideshow?

Robyn

Hi Katy -- this was shot on the run, over less than two days. We plan to go back though. Beyond the blacksmiths there are a few things about this strange city that we found intriguing. It's a place that doesn't seem to want to let you in -- which of course makes it appealing!

Neil | Butterfield

You must have really enjoyed yourself in Turkey. I must say that after watching that movie with Brad Davis "Midnight? " I have always been a little nervous about going to Turkey.

Radhika

Hi robyn !
Keep up the fantastic stories, its always a pleasure to stop by .
My husband and I are doing a three week long trip to turkey , we will be in istanbul for part of the time n then drive to the smaller towns and villages . Please share your must do eating experiences and restaurant recommendations . Thnks very much .

Robyn

We certainly did Neil, this was our 4th trip in less than 2 yrs and we're heading back in a couple months. It's nothing like the movie. ;-)

Radhika, whereabouts are you planning to do your drive? Turkey's a big country; our explorations have primarily been central Anatolia, Black Sea, southeast/east. I haven't been to the Med or Aegean area for over 10 yrs so can't help you there. (Although I do remember some great meals.) Hope you're leaving enough time in Istanbul. If it's your first visit, at least a week. And then it still won't feel like enough time. :)

Radhika

Hi robyn, thanks fr yr quick reply ! We do a week in istanbul so I would love to have ur suggestions fr meals. The remaining two weeks are with a tour agency that specialises in the lesser known towns and villages . Thank u !

Robyn

Hi Radhika - Check the Istanbul category on the sidebar, that's pretty much the sum our faves in Istanbul. Datli Maya is quirky but wonderful, definately go for the daily specials if available. And try the cookies and small baked goods on display (changing often as well) -- savory biscuits and sweet nibbles with regional influences, things you definately won't see in other bakeries around town. You must go to Besiktas for that bakery's aci badem (almond biscuits) and tahini spirals, and the kaymak at Pando. Also: Hayvore (lunch is better) or Mohti for Black Sea food, Hatay Sofrasi for southeastern food, and Halil in Kadikoy for fantastic lahmacun. All of these can be found on istanbuleats.com (a great resource overall). I'd also consider their kebab crawl in Little Sanliurfa, unless you're traveling to the southeast. Places I don't recommend: Karakoy Balik Lokantasi (awful, awful service not justified by the food), meyhanes on Nevizade Sokak (same). If you want a more local, delicious and reasonably priced meyhane experience go to Cukur, near Galatasaray Lisesi, check istanbuleats for address.
What's the name of the agency you're using, can I ask? Drop me an email if you'd prefer to answer that way. [email protected]. Have a great time! I know you will.

radhika

hi robyn,
thanks for all your help and tips. the tour we are using came recommended highly by our friends- called gurtours.com . please let me know if u need any more information. keep up the wonderful writing!

Robyn

You're welcome radkhika, and thank you for the info. Have a great trip!

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