I have some great new additions to my "Favourite Things to do in Istanbul' list. As well as my favourite Bookshop, Jewelry store, Rug shop, Hotel and cafe, I can now add the best place to buy fresh Turkish Delight, favourite Pub and favourite place to buy leather handbags (from where I just bought three!)
Favourite Pub....Cozy Restaurant & Cafe. On Divanyolu Street (the main street in the old city, Sultanamet). A great place to get a beer and to people watch. (Make great mojitos too.....very rare in Istanbul!) Also has a roof-top restaurant where the views are spectacular, especially at night.
Favourite Hand-Bag Shop.... Gulsum Canta in the Grand Bazaar. There are hundreds of leather shops to choose from, this one was recommended to me by a local, and I found they had an excellent selection, from YSL to Gucchi, Tom Ford to Cellini, Prada to Valentino. Take your pick. Ask for salesman Yunus and mention my name.
Address is Fesciler Cad. (street) No 88-90. Just ask for directions.
Best place to buy FRESH Turkish Delight.... Koska. It is outside of the Grand Bazaar but very easy to find. I don't have the exact address but it is on Divanyolu Street (where the trams run). Again, just ask.
