1 & 2. The first place is the Sofa Hotel and its restaurant, Longtable. It is located right across the street from the Fashion Design Institute of Istanbul.



Address: The Hotel Sofa, Lobby Kati Tesvikiye Caddesi No. 123 34367 Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey Ph: 90 212 224 81 81

3. The next place will be Mabel Cikoclata. Mabel Cikoclata started in 1947. All of their chocolates are yummy and different from what I have ever tasted.

Address: Vali Konagi Caddesi 32/1 Nisatasi, Istanbul, Turkey Ph: 90 212 225 27 89 www.mabel.com.tr

4. Let's talk about BNG Tunel. This women's wearing apparel boutique is both a la mode and affordable, what a extraordinary combination.

Address: BNG Tunel Tunel Meydani 14 Beyoglu Istanbul 34420, Turkey Ph: 90 212 251 97 26 www.bng-design.com

5. Concluding is the Spice Bazaar. I recomend everybody to go to the Spice Bazaar instead of the Grand Bazaar. I got a little overwhelmed with the Grand Bazaar, between all the junk they sell and the jewelry shops that sell all the little pieces. At the spice bazaar, the merchants allow you taste different kinds of candy that are known as "Turkish Delight". These make a extraordinary gift for that special loved one. Also if you know a "chef" in your family, the spice set will make a perfect gift. They'll be thrilled. As far as interior design goes, the glass vases are beautiful and would look great in somebody modern home, however with the airlines and their weight limitations I think and recommend it would be more beneficent to ship the items home. It would be cheaper in the long run!