Tourist trap or not, I was ready to explore the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. This bazaar is massive…read moreand amazing, so be prepared to walk around. I ended up going multiple times to this bazaar while I was vacationing. The second or third time I visited, my hubby and I got many things from one particular shop. The shop owner wanted to show us more of his merchandise which was not in his store. The best part was that he took us thru a narrow staircase which opened to the factory part of the grand bazaar. Many shop owners have storage units and working areas on the second floor of the grand bazaar. It was a great experience checking out the working place with pots, pans, ceramics etc. Back to the buying part: I bought several goodies such as silk scarfs, jewelry specially rings and other treasures. It was fun walking around the many shops. There are around 3,000 small shops connected to each other. Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Many of the vendors sell similar items. If you feel like your getting ripped off, just walk to the next shop. Bargain like a pro, use sign language, or any other sneaky methods. Some of my recommendations: You want to get the best deals? Do not wear expensive jewelry or clothes. The prices are not set so when the employees see you they can make the price higher or lower. Try not to say your from the U.S, say any other country. U.S is considered a rich country, therefore they will try to sell you everything double the price. Have fun, and definitely buy some items to remember your trip by. I loved the grand bazaar, wish I could shop there every week.~

Tourist Trap? For sure! The Grand Bazaar is a maze you'll get lost!…read more Oldest market, and for me the biggest I have ever been to. It has several entrances and exits, thousands of merchants (no exaggeration) and you'll find everything in here from souvenirs, teas, Turkish delight, spices, fake branded clothes and so on. Higher prices than anywhere else. Beautiful decor, prepare to face the crowds and the maze. You'll be trapped and get lost, so bring your patience along. But when in Istanbul, you have to visit!

My wife and I found Abi and his brother to be wonderful. We originally purchased a carpet from them…read moremany years ago in Istanbul and have really enjoyed it. We have stayed in touch and have purchased many more when Abi visits the U.S. on his annual road shows. I recommend a visit while you are in Istanbul. You will be impressed. Bob

Scammers from alibaba WhatsApp. They report cheap prices and…read morefake shipping. Big time scammers. Never shop with them.

BUYER BEWARE!!! This place will scam you big time! This is a total racket in Turkey. They sat us…read moredown, brought in this you lady who demonstrated making hand-knotted rugs and told us the rugs they showed us were handmade. I bought a 6 X 9 rug for $2500. When it arrived, it wasn't the rug I chose, but a 4 X 6 rug. I told them it wasn't the right rug or size and they tried to accuse me of changing my mind, suggesting I was lying about it not being the correct rug. I disputed the charge and they finally agreed to send me the correct sized rug. I received the rug and felt the need to confirm that it was handmade. I consulted a very reputable local rug dealer and my suspicions were confirmed, it was NOT handmade!!! It was machine made and not worth $2500!!! Mr. Melik told us that if the sheen of the rug changes when looking at it from one end to the other, that means it is handmade. This is a complete lie!!! Do NOT deal with these people!!! Lesson learned!!!