Balti Bazaar

Advantages: Great food and wares
Disadvantages: Crowded

...The Grand Bazaar is a must for any tourist visiting Istanbul, but it's not a peaceful experience! The only aisle we didn't get harrassed to buy goods was in the Gold section - we obviously didn't look rich enough! The Grand Bazaar attracts more tourists than any other market in Turkey - the store holders are very persistent and the goods will definitely be priced at tourist prices! We visited the Spice Bazaar which is very close to the Grand Bazaar and really enjoyed the experience. It is a lot quieter, goods were cheaper and samples of yummy turkish delight and nuts were offered with no pressure to buy. It feels more authentic than the Grand Bazaar - more locals obviously shop there. Both markets are fun but watch your wallet!... Read review

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Advantages: Good price, good quality
Disadvantages: None

...The Balti International restaurant on Bristol Road has always a favourite haunt of many a Birmingham University, and recently they started a buffet menu at £6.95 My original thought was of horror as I had seen a number of buffet and "all you can eat" Balti houses already and had visions of a little chunk of meat floating around in a vast pot of sauce! However, at £6.95 I was nothing less than satisfied, if not more than satisfied. An excellent meal and excellent value at the price. Highly, highly recommended.... Read review

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Advantages: A great city
Disadvantages: Nothing really

...Istanbul is a definate must to the travelling person. The historical background in this city is absolutely amazing!! When i went there we went on the bosphuros is which a must do because it is the chanel that separates the asian continent from the European one. With this you can then travel to the Bazaars and I strongly recommend that you go to the Spice bazaar and the grand bazaar. You can buy many things including fine turkish leather and some very sweet tasting apple tea. You must buy some of this because it will blow your taste buds away. I enjoyed going around all of the religious faciltiies and there are some very nice buildings that you can visit. I enjoyed my visit to Istanvul even though it was very short. One interesting fact is that the island of galacatasary is were the team has all of it's pitches and places... Read review

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