Istanbul's Grand Bazaar

What about buying a US$400 carpet for only $16?

Well, I was in Istanbul and the last day before returning home and had to go to the Grand Bazaar, which is supposed to be the biggest market in the world… I don’t know if it’s the biggest, but believe me you can get lost in it.

A friend and I were looking around for souvenirs and curious stuff… everybody talks to you in all possible languages and if you answer, you will be persuaded to buy. Of course at first they will invite you a very nice apple tea with a sugar cube, and slowly the kindness will change into pressure to buy, so drink fast and say you have no more money!

Suddenly I saw a great carpet to bring home… and of course the market guy read my eyes and started to offer me the carpet (tip: don’t look any item for than 2 seconds if you won’t buy it!). I just didn’t pay attention, walked all my way straight and after taking a turn on the corner I asked my friend to take my money and hide his money from the wallet somewhere else and so he did.

We returned to the booth and I said I want to see that carpet, the seller said it’s really cheap for the quality and the price is $400… I said there’s no change to pay that much and that I have just $20, and from there I have to eat and go back to the hotel too.

He was “offended” for half minute. Then he suggested me to ask my friend for money… however he “didn’t have” and even he requested to se the wallet, we showed him that we are empty. He said that $200 is the minimum, and $150 is a gift price… and after like 30minuites he said that $80 is last offer.

I said even I want, I have no money so thank you and good bye… he didn’t say a word – I continued my route.

Other 20-30 minutes have passes and when I was leaving the market, the guy shouted me “ok, ok… give me the $16 and take it!”… and so we did… I think he could not accept dealing so long for nothing!

Of course he’s not loosing a cent and is not doing any favor to me, but the main point is: imagine the big margins they do selling $10 carpets at  $200-$400… you can always buy cheaper in a market!!!