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Shop Like You're In... Istanbul
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items I am someone who always brings something home with me. Whether that be a souvenir or two, or a new thing that I want to learn. It keeps the experiences alive after I have to return to the real world. This collection aims to bring some of it to you or...
Sections
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Taste Istanbul
Cook Like a Local
Bring Home Istanbul
Discover Istanbul
Experience Istanbul
Taste Istanbul
A bit of reading, and watching, for the How to's and recipes of Turkish food.
This book may be huge. But because of that you won't get a more comprehensive guide to Turkish food from all regions.
The Turkish Cookbook
Visual Learner. This channel is great for Turkish cuisine.
Refik Anadol Studio - YouTube
This one is a little more modern, but still a great resource.
Özlem's Turkish Table: Recipes from My Homeland (Turkish dishes)
Cook Like a Local
Want to try and make some delicious Turkish treats? Some tools to help you along the way.
Feel like making your own Gozleme or Baklava. This traditional style Oklava if a helpful tool to have.
Beech Wood Non-Stick Oil Rolling Pin 18.7"
Traditionally Turkish Tea (Cay) is made in a double tea pot. If you want to keep it traditional you could consider investing in one of these.
Karaca Adelya Stainless Steel Induction Teapot Set
I am determined to try and make Kunefe, it was my favourite desert.
Kunefe Plate Set of 3 Silver Aluminum Pans
Bring Home Istanbul
A few bits and pieces that I brought home with me.
I went with a short shopping list when I went to Turkey. One of these lamps was on it. I asked for a tradition design, the gentleman called it 'The Flame".
Buhem Light Turkish Mosaic Table Lamp – Handmade Tiffany Stained Glass Swan Neck Bohemian Vintage Desk Lamp, Made in Turkey, Boho Home Gift
I brought home a nice set of glasses, unfortunately I lost a couple of the plates on the journey.
Turkish Tea Glass Set of 6 with Saucers
I still thankfully have some apple tea left from my trip. I bought several separate packages, they vacuum seal them. Hopefully when I run out, this will be a decent substitute. Or maybe I can just go back…
Eshai Turkish Apple Tea - Organic 100g
Traditional Turkish towels feel absolutely beautiful and soft.
Turkish Beach Towel 40x71 – Lightweight Diamond Peshtemal, Quick Dry Sand Free Travel Hammam Towel
The Evil Eye is common throughout many countries, including Turkey. You will see it on many trinkets you can buy, embedded in pavements, outside houses, hanging in trees. I brought it home in several forms.
Blue Glass Evil Eye Wall Hanging, Unique New Home Gift, Home Protection, Greek Evil Eye Bead in Box, Unique Evil Eye Home Decor
This place is massive, and can be overwhelming. Go early, avoid rainy days if you can't handle a crowd. Let yourself be escorted into a carpet shop, enjoy the complimentary tea and let them try and convince you to buy.
Grand Bazaar - All You SHOULD Know Before Going (2026 Reviews)
Discover Istanbul
A little background is really helpful before you go. My mistake I didn't do it early.
An amazing look into the layered history of Istanbul. What I loved about it in particular was it not only focussed on the more well known figures, but also the everyday people as well.
Istanbul: A Tale of Three Cities
A good exploration of the history of this amazing building.
Hagia Sophia: A History
Experience Istanbul
These are just a small portion of what I did in Istanbul, maybe they can help inspire something in you.
I was confused when my GAdventures your guide didn't really recommend seeing Hagia Sophia. I was glad that one of my tour mates and I decided to go anyway. You can join the massive line, if you don't plan on buying ahead go early. I prefered doing this, don't forget your headphones, I did and had to do the one earbud each with my friend.
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket & Museum Option
I talk a bit about my own experience here, to this day I can't truly explain what provoked my emotional response.
Discovering the Untold Sides of Hagia Sophia's Mosque
A sneak peak inside….
Nothing prepares you for this… #hagiasophia #travel #istanbul #turkey #traveldeeper
This may have been the favourite of the neighbourhoods I was able to visit. I had never heard of it before I arrived, learned from another tour member. I did it DIY, it was a public holiday and I didn't have much choice. I probably would have benefited from something like this. No matter what, go early to avoid the influencer crowds, especially near the rainbow stairs.
Istanbul: Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour
My own experiences are captured here.
Balat Istanbul: Walking Through One of the City’s Most Layered Neighbourhoods
So glad I got in before the influencer crowds.
You don’t expect this in Istanbul 🇹🇷 #travel #istanbul #balat #walkwithme
I didn't know about this mini tour when I booked my Turkey adventure. But it is really well thought of in the GAdventures groups. If I get the chance to return to Istanbul, I will definitely be doing it. You need more time there than you think.
Classic Istanbul Mini Adventure | G Adventures