Istanbul -First Night
The wedding and the Presidential suite


So we ended up at our hotel, two hours later than we expected, and our host said “ Welcome, You are very happy! Do you want something to drink? Water, coffee, apple tea?” That was the first but certainly not the last time we heard this offer. We got the presidential suite and went up to the roof to talk to the manager about tours, which we declined. Then we decided to stay there and eat supper. Beautiful fresh fish with grilled vegetables. And Raki. This is the national alcohol of Turkey, reminiscent of ouzo but not as anisy. When you add water it turns white and they call it tiger’s milk because it is strong and makes you growl. We could see a lot of Istanbul from the roof and there was a lovely breeze.
We then went out on the streets of Istanbul and naturally we shopped. I then found out my Discover card was not accepted in Turkey or Greece, which is a good thing because I will save money in the long run. The people are incredibly nice and predictable. “Where are you from? What part? I have (pick on of the following) : 1. A cousin who lives in Houston. 2. Been to the states to sell carpets to designers. 3. Went to school in _____________. 4. (personal favorite) born in Colorado.”
People let us use phones to call our credit card, always offered drinks, let me come back and pay the next day for my purchases, had paper airplane contests, and Jeannie’s marriage. Jeannie was trying on a coat and that prompted a spontaneous wedding. Pictures to follow. Home again and to sleep, with our windows open to the night air. NO Mosquitoes! No screens even. The next day is for going to mosques, museums and ………. Can you guess? …… shopping. See a theme?