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how to increase sperm count

2011-10-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

how to increase sperm count

Increasing sperm count is one of the biggest problem for men who can't have baby. So we will give you detailed info how sperm count could be boos by natural ways.

Whether you want to increase your chances of having children, or simply want to ejaculate loads of sperm and semen, doubling the load is what all guys want to do in the grand scheme of things.

An abundance of sperm is a sign of testosterone and a healthy reproductive system and guys who watch porn know that guys like Peter North are popular for a reason. So now it's up to you to turn your once ordinary sperm into Supersperm (cue the music).
Why Increase Sperm?
Aside from the ego boost it gives guys, having more semen and sperm to release will result in longer orgasms, no doubt.

As well, increased sperm production will likely lead to an increase in sexual desire as well -- not that you need it, of course. Nevertheless, if you simply want to shower your woman with your love (yes, that's the really nice way of saying it) or you want to give fatherhood a fighting chance, today's tip is surely going to teach you something you didn't already know about your swimmers.
Let Your Boys Fly
The following tips may not all apply to you, but there are at least a couple you can take to heart, or to your testicles, to improve and increase your sperm count.

1- Quit Smoking
If you smoke, quit now. If it's not bad enough that you already have bad breath and can't taste anything, smoking also affects your sperm count. Not only do you have significantly less sperm than non-smoking men (22%), your little boys are also slower and smaller.

2- Remove The Heat
The reason your testicles hang from your body and don't reside inside it like a woman's ovaries, is because they need to be a few degrees cooler than the rest of your body. So wearing tight underwear or tight pants that keeps them pressed up against your 98.6° body is not a good idea. As well, sleep naked if you can, to ensure coolness.

3- Start Eating Right
Believe it or not, your diet affects your sperm production big time (how it affects the taste is debatable, however). And although I'm sure you already know that a diet that's low in fat, and high in protein, vegetables, and whole grains is good for your health, I bet you didn't know that it's also good for your sperm. Keep the boys healthy, speedy and in abundance by eating right.

4- Have Sex & Masturbate Less Often
Many readers write in to ask why their semen is sometimes nice and thick, and yet other times, it's transparent and somewhat watery. Well, it's quite simple actually, the more times you ejaculate, the less dense your semen will be. If you have sex every day, or worse, masturbate furiously, then chances are that your sperm count and semen density will not be up to par.

5- Drink Less
Alcohol affects your liver function, which, in turn, causes a dramatic rise in estrogen levels. So, as I'm sure you've already concluded yourself, this will interfere with sperm production because estrogen, not testosterone, will accumulate in your body. Even two drinks a day will have long-term effects on sperm production, so maybe you should put the beer down for today.

6- Exercise Your Muscle
Although this may not increase your actual sperm and semen production, exercising your PC muscle can help you shoot further than ever before. For some reason, some guys equate this with being the man (myself being one of them). Do your Kegel exercises and you'll be able to thrown down.

7- Try Supplements, Not Just Drugs
While certain drugs, such as marijuana (and all her illegal friends) and antifungal medicine, may hinder sperm production, others, like testosterone therapy, may help increase sperm production. As well, certain natural supplements promise to increase sperm production.

L-carnitine, found in red meat and milk, is a natural amino acid, and increases sperm production and speed. Of course, it can also be taken as a supplement.

Folic acid (or L-lysine -- all foods made with grains must be fortified with folic acid), when combined with zinc, increases the amount of sperm produced.

L-arginine (found in nuts, sesame seeds, eggs, and meat) is also highly regarded as a sperm enhancer.

Also, antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium also improve sperm's speed and concentration.
It's All In Your Head
In the grand scheme of things, sperm really serves a purpose for the continuation of the population, but what do you care, right? All you want to do is shoot the boys across the room and freak out your woman.

Well, I hope I helped you do so. Until next time, on your mark, get set, ready, explode.

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2011-08-09T01:44:00.001-07:00

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2011-08-08T15:44:00.001-07:00

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aston martin vantage automatic transmission

2011-08-06T19:04:00.000-07:00

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Watch Bernard Bear - Football Youtube Video

2011-08-06T16:39:00.001-07:00

Watch Bernard Bear - Football Youtube Video

Watch Bernard Bear - Mountain Bike video from youtube

2011-08-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Watch Bernard Bear - Mountain Bike video from youtube

What does my site look like in other browsers?

2011-05-10T11:56:00.001-07:00

What does my site look like in other browsers?

Good question. Unless your home or workplace happens to be a computer repair store then chances are you have access to only one or maybe two computers. And even then probably only one operating system and one browser (no names mentioned).

BrowserShots is a clever site that takes a screenshot of your site from a bunch of different distributed computers, OS’s and browsers. When I tried it recently it covered 44 different combinations.

The service is slow, but it is free. You can pay a support fee to get access to faster response time. All in all a pretty handy service.

By the way, prepare to be shocked. Your baby may not look as pretty as you think.

Site Down for Maintenance with htaccess

2011-05-10T11:55:00.001-07:00

Site Down for Maintenance with htaccess

You can use Apache’s rewrite mod in your htaccess file to achieve a simple down for maintenance handler. Some scripts have this built in, some you have to roll your own. This will work with both.

The following htaccess rules will achieve the following:

1. Check the maintenance.html file exists
2. Avoid a loop and or server error by checking that the file being requested is not the maintenance.html file itself
3. Ignore requests from the site developer’s browser (that’s you so you can see the rest of the site)
4. Issue a temporary (302) redirect to everyone else’s browser to fetch the maintenance file instead.

You can modify this behaviour by:

Switching the maintenance mode on or off by renaming or deleting the maintenance file
Adding other IP address rules to permit others (developers, or clients) to view the site
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{DOCUMENT_ROOT}/path/to/maintenance.html -f
RewriteCond %{SCRIPT_FILENAME} !maintenance.html
RewriteCond %{REMOTE_ADDR} !123.123.123.123
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ /path/to/maintenance.html [L,R=302]

You can of course rename the maintenance.html file to anything you please.

How to make iPhone ringtones

2011-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

How to make iPhone ringtones

Out of the box, iPhones appear to only let you install ringtones purchased from the Apple iStore. For those who don’t want to cough up the dollar or so for a second’s worth of sound byte or just want to do their own thing, here’s how to use Apple’s own tools to do the job for free:

Open a new project in GarageBand.
Drop your sound file into the track pane – it will create a new audio track.
Delete or mute any other tracks that were auto inserted when the new project was created.
Click on the Loop button in the Transport controls at the bottom of the window.
Adjust the loop/cycle length using the gold coloured area at the top of the track ruler.
Menu->Share->Send ringtone to iTunes.
That’s it. It’s cropped, it’s in the right file format, and it’s in your ringtone folder in iTunes. Go ahead and sync to your phone.
Of course you can use whatever tools within Garageband to crop/edit the ring tone before you export it to iTunes.

Remember not to abuse copyright laws and use only your own recordings.

String Replace in MySQL

2011-05-10T11:51:00.001-07:00

I found out about this functionality just a few months ago. I can’t believe I went for years writing little scripts to pull the data out, manipulate it with string functions, and then post it back in.

Admittedly this is only really useful for simple changes. Most of the time I’ve had to make more detailed changes.

But nevertheless it is useful. In my case, most often when an update to a database doesn’t go quite as expected, leaving odd or rogue results – resulting in whole or part of a string needing to be replaced, or additional text inserted (same thing). This sure beats editing records by hand or knocking up little update scripts.

The usage is similar in a way to the PHP string replace function:

replace(in_Field, old_string, new_string)

An example:

UPDATE myTable
SET myField =
REPLACE (myField, 'oldString', 'newString')
WHERE ...
And you simply change your WHERE clause to suit your own conditions. Or leave it out altogether.

WordPress vs Textpattern vs sNews CMS Review

2011-05-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

WordPress vs Textpattern vs sNews CMS Review

This has been covered many times by others and yet I have still managed to spend the last 3 or 4 weeks mulling over the pros and cons of each, reading various reviews and comparisons by others and spending a infuriatingly inordinate amount of time installing, un-installing and re-installing all 3 platforms.
Now, at last I ve settled on my platform of choice: Textpattern.

Requirements
I have several pressing web projects at hand:
* retail business requiring static pages, a blog & ecommerce solution
* personal blogs x2
* community magazine requiring multiple authors for article and photo management, multiple layouts management, resources & links management, a simple forum
* corporate site with inbuilt blogging, multi user, user tracking and newsletter management
* large portal site restructure with around 200,000 posts currently being bogged down by a bloated backend

Blogging Tools as Frameworks
Having developed custom solutions based on various larger CMS and portal systems, most of them hacked to the extreme, I was anxious to try a something more lightweight and see how far it could be pushed without having to code a great deal. Additionally I had found, from a coder s perspective, that a common pattern emerged many times: one that would appear to be easily solved by using the blog as a development framework. A million people have eloquently arrived at that solution before me. Maybe I m a bit slow on the take up. Maybe I m a masochist. I m sure most programmers are.

Time
Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, I have a limited amount of spare time. If possible I would prefer to learn one new system well and apply it liberally to cover all my needs; and I m prepared live with the inherent shortcomings of that strategy. (Yikes, I may live to regret that statement)

Pre-selection criteria
The final 3 candidates were pre-selected based on the following criteria:
* Something that runs on LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP). All my development work has been done on this and I feel comfortable there. So the candidates were naturally drawn from the wonderfully deep pool of PHP driven solutions

* Simple to use and administrate
* Aesthetically pleasing nice to look at yes, I don t want to look at any more ugly admin interfaces
* Easy to extend via a sensible plugin architecture or via custom coding
* Open Source: not because it is free ( I did consider Expression Engine at one point) but because I enjoy the speed with which Open Source projects are generally developed
* Robust architecture less time spent chasing bugs that should never have been introduced in the first place
* A mature user community mature in the sense that it has been around a while and hopefully mature in the other sense

The not-so-shortlist
I looked at Joomla, Expresion Engine, Xoops, Serendipity, sNews, Textpattern, WordPress, Drupal, Website Baker.

In order to get all the features I was looking for I would have had to choose one of the bigger systems: more bulk on the server, more load, harder to administrate and occasionally harder for users who are not web savvy to negotiate.

All are exceptional pieces of work and are capable (with a few twists) of fulfilling most web development needs. But a balance had to found between simplicity, beauty and power. It was a matter of finding the sweetspot: some features would have to be custom built or standalone scripts integrated in order to preserve some sanity.

And this is what led to my final selection being made from WordPress, Textpattern and sNews. At one point I did consider using all three over several projects. That would have been a great way to really test them out: but in the end time was the factor that made me make my final choice.

WordPress
Pros:
It used by millions
Simple plug and play for plugins
Admin interface is great
Template installation is simple

Cons:
I found many of the plugins buggy. Not all. Just some. But enough to start really annoying me
The forum appears a bit petty at times and there are a lot of unanswered posts
Complex layouts are possible, but only by working against the normal way of things
Template development appears to be messy

Textpattern
Pros:
Simple plug and play for plugins via cut and paste nice
Flexible layout building via inbuilt tag system
Textile: A Humane Web Text Generator: I really like this. It makes writing easy and generates compliant code that does not break your site
Good forum support
Inbuilt page stats and if you add the db admin plugin then you have direct access to phpMyAdmin features right from the one admin panel. A nice touch for admins
Custom fields. Yay! Developers friends
Inbuilt image & file management

Cons:
Sections versus categories yes it s confusing until you read the manual
Admin panel is almost confusing but isn t really just looks that way. Probably needs revamped. I m sure it s on the to do list for the developers. Might scare non web savvy users a bit though. Will have to wait and see
Template installation is messy. But template development appears to be very logical and powerful thanks to the inbuilt TXP tags system

sNews
Pros:
Simple
Templating is the easiest of them all with this one
Lightweight and fast

Cons:
Simple. More complex sites may be difficult to realise due to having to custom code a flexible layout scheme. It has just released and official multi user version which makes larger sites possible, but it doesn t support the level of access control available in WordPress and Textpattern
No plugin support

Verdict
I really wanted to join the band wagon and choose WordPress. The admin interface is so easy to fall in love with. It has all the cuteness of the Joomla interface but is simple. (Sorry Joomla, lots of eye candy but I don t have enough time to take up a new hobby: Joomla/Mambo administration). But those buggy plugins!

And I really wanted to choose sNews for its simplicity. Often simplicity = power. But it would mean hacking into the core too much. Currently this is how sNews is modded. The reasoning behind it is sound enough. But from my experience, without exception, every time I have seriously altered the core code of an open source application I have found myself unable to upgrade to newer versions. I’ll upgrade once or twice then the thought of plowing through all that commented code to find changes just puts me off and once again I am left with my own development fork.

So, in the end, I chose Textpattern. A compromise. One size fits all. It is a simple elegant solution. A powerful framework design that lends itself to the management of complex layouts and sites through the use of plugins and TXP tags. Much of the design and content management of the sites can be safely handed over to non coders. And in the end I ll hopefully get back some time.

Best FTP programs: online File transfer

2011-01-05T09:58:00.001-08:00

Blaze Ftp:
HyperText Studio: The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it

1st Choise FTP Pro:This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function

Blaze Ftp is a nice Ftp transfer program. It well known by two framed windows system You either may drag your files to local or FTP sections. This FTP program provides detailed information on FTB connection and how to use it. When comparing other FTP programs, Blaze FTP’s connection speed is a little bit slow. On the other hand it is extremely user friendly. The best of it, no need to pay for using this ftp program.
Smart FTP:
HyperText Studio The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it
1st Choise FTP Pro: This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

Smartftp:

Free and popular FTP program. With Smart FTP you can make multi download to various web sites simultaneously. This program also secures the Queuing of the download, setting the file transfer speed. Another advantages of Smart Ftp is free to use .

Flash FXP:

Most web master’s first choice FTP Prgoram. Both design and operating is outstandingly. FlashFXP meets most of requirements of users. From here you can get detailed knowledge hoe to install and operate this program. Trial download link

FileZilla:

The main advantage of this program is that Open source FTP client. It includes a site manager to store all your connection details and logins as well as an Explorer style interface that shows the local and remote folders and can be customized independently. download it

Adobe GoLive:
Adobe GoLive is a WYSIWYG- HTML editor that enables content authors to quickly and easily updates existing websites and blogs. You may operate it either cod based or interface based settings and reported to your entire site by using this program.

Adobe PageMill:
Another WYSIWYG (What-You-See-is-What-You-Get)- HTML editor by Adobe Inc.

The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development
HyperText Studio:
The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. There are two different edition of HyperText Studio. Web edition is open and free for all web users.

1st Choise FTP Pro:

This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

,

The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it
1st Choise FTP Pro:This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

prenatal vitamins benefits and side effects, ingredients prenatal vitamins hair growth

2010-12-24T08:12:00.000-08:00

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In essence, your body requires more of nearly every essential nutrient as it works overtime to support all the critical activity in your womb. As a result the idea of popping a pill containing everything you need sounds attractive. It's a hedge-your-best kind of option that appeals to most expectant mother's better instincts. But do you really need to take a pill to have a healthy baby?

Probably not, say nutritionists. But that's contingent on one important factor: that you eat carefully and well. Unfortunately, research has shown most pregnant women typically get too little of a number of important nutrients, including vitamin B6, folate, calcium, and iron. If, despite your best efforts, your diet leave something to be desired, you definitely should take a prenatal vitamin. (Stick with true prenatal vitamins. Regular multivitamins often contain to little of certain substances like folate and too much of other substances, including vitamin A.)

Also, if you're prone to nausea during the first trimester, certain healthy foods, especially leafy greens like spinach, can be virtually impossible to choke down. If you're to nauseated to eat anything healthy, a prenatal vitamin is just the ticket to keep you nutritionally on track. Just don't let that little pill lull you into a false sense of security. It's all to easy to lose sight of your dietary priorities if you assume you're getting everything you need in a single gulp. And if you choose to go the real-food route, remember that you'll still need a folate and iron supplement, and probably calcium as well.

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2010-09-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:02:00.001-07:00

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istanbul travel guide - istanbul city guide - istanbul trip advisor

2010-05-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Istanbul Museums
Ayasofya Museum
The Basilica of St. Sophia, now called the Ayasofya Museum , is unquestionably one of the finest buildings of all time .Built by Constantine the Great and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground and its diameter spans 31 meters. You should linger here to absorb the building's majestic serenity and to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics. (Open every day except Monday).

Istanbul has some of the most I exciting museums, ranging from the magnificent Haghia Sophia to the intimate Sadberk Hamm Museum. Entrance fees, where charged, are very reasonable.

Archaeological Museums (Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
Sultanahmet, Tel: 520 77 40 Across from the Cinli (Tiled) Kiosk sn Topkap: Palace's outermost court zs the magnijacent Archaeological Museum. The first jlooy and the annex of the museum is open to the public, displaying a selection of the 60,000 Greco- Roman and Neay Eastern antiquities in the collection, including moye than 75,000 inscribed clay tablets. Don't miss the wonderfully preserved Alexander Saycophagus found in Sidon and the treaty of Kadesh, the first peace treaty evey to be signed in the world. The museum brings to life the peoples of the ancient Middle East. Recently opened special educational section for children. Open 09.30-16.30. Closed Mondays.

Ataturk Museum
Halaskârgazi Caddesi 250, Sisli Tel: 240 6319 Ataturk, the foundey of modern Turkey, lived here briefly. The house displays some of hrs personal effects. 09.30-16.30. Closed Thuysdays and Sundays.

Calligraphy Museum (Mat Sanatlari Muzesi)
Beyazit Square, Tel: 527 58 51 The Ottomans, always uneasy with human pictorial representation, found fulley urtistic expression in calligraphy. This is the only museum of calligraphy in the world. 09.00-16.00. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Carpet and Kilim Museum (Mah ve Kilim Muzesi)
(Next to the Blue Mosque), Sultanahmet, Tel: 518 13 30 A wonderjul collection of ancient kslsms and carpets in a very cool, marble environment. Also a large collection ofcarpets. 09.00-12.00, 13.00-16.00. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Divan Literature Museum (Divan Edebiyati Muzesi)
Galip Dede Caddesi 15, Tünel, Beyoglu, Tel: 245 4141. Also called the Galata Mevlevihane, this is where the mystic "Whirling Dervishes" perform "Sema" dances and Suf music, on the last Sunday of every month. A memorable experience not to be missed. A fine display of instruments and dervish accessories. Closed Mondays.

Maghia Sophia
Sultanahmet, Tel: 52217 50 The Church ofHoly Wisdom is undoubtedly one of the greatest architectural creations in the world. Built by the Byzantine EmperorJustinian circa AD535, it was transformed into a mosque afler the Ottoman conquest of the city in 1453. Now a museum, it is awesome in size, and contains beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics. Hanging alongside the pictures of Chrrst are huge wooden discs proclaiming the greatness of Allah: a meeting point of religions. A must for any visitor to Istanbul. 9.30-16.30. Closed Mondays.

Kariye Museum (The Church of St. Saviour fn Chora)
Kariye Catnu Sokak, Edirnekapi, Tel: 63192 41 A legendary Byzantine church decorated with extraordinary laté- l4th centuryfrescoes and mosaics portraying the life and miracles of Christ. The most important and extensive series of Byzantine paintings in the city and among the most significant in the world. 09.30-16.30. Closed Tuesdays.

Maritime Museum (Deniz Muzesi)
Besiktas Tel: 26100 40 Includes examples of the extraordinary caiques that used to row the Sultans to and from their homes along the Bosphorus. 09.30- 17.00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Mosaic Museum
Opposite Arasta Bazaar (behind the Blue Mosque), Sultanahmet, Tel: 51812 05 Houses the beautiful mosaics discovered in Justinian's Grand Palace of Byzantium. 09.30-17.00. Closed Tuesdays.

Museum of the 1839 Reforms /Tanzimat Muzesi)
Gulhane Park, Tel: 512 63 84 A small museum celebrating the Ottomans' l9th century attempt to catch up with the rest of Europe. Open every day 09.00-17.00.

Rahmi M. Koç Industrial Museum
Haskoy Caddesi 27, Sutluce, on the Golden Horn, Tel: 256 7153/54 A recently opened museum which gives an excitingglimpse into Istanbul's industrial past. Displays include scale models of steam engines, ships, cars, a full Maklin train set which visitors can operate and a fully recreated ship's bridge. Open 10.00-17.00. Closed Monday.

Sadberk Mamm Museum
Buyukdere Caddesi 27-29, Sanyer Tel: 242 3813 Excellent archaeological and ethnographical collections displayed in two handsome old mansions on the Bosphorus.10.30-17.00. Closed Wednesdays.

Topkapi Palace Museum
sultanahmetSultanahmet, Tel: 512 04 80 The legendary palace of the Ottoman sultans from the l5th to the l9th centuries. Low buildings set in a series of courtyards, Topkapi is quite unlike a Western palace. Be sure to see the Harem, the Treasury and the golden-roofed Baghdad Kiosk. 09.30-17.00. Closed Tuesdays.

The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
At Meydam 46, Sultanahmet, Tel: 51813 85, 51818 05 A delightjul museum on the ancient Hippodrome, housed in Ibrahim PaSa Sarayi, the home of Suleyman the Magnificent's Grand Vizier. Beautifully displayed Islamic objects and antique carpets.10.00- 17 00. Closed Mondays.

Yildiz Palace Museum (Marangozhane)
Yildiz Palace, Barbaros Bulvari, Besiktas, Tel: 258 30 80/ext. 280 The converted carpentry workshop of Sultan Abdulhamit now houses exquisite poycelain pieces, giant vases and the joinery produced by the Sultan himself. Open 10.00- 16.00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Istanbul Mosques

Istanbul has hundreds of mosques, both monumental and intimate. Mosques are open to visitors every day outside worshipping hours, which are announced by the muezzins' call to prayer. All visitors are asked to remove their shoes and women are expected to cover their heads before entering. A few of the most architecturally interesting are:

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
Sultanahmet Square The mostfamous mosque in the city, built in the early l7th century, distinguished by six slendey minarets and walls covered with amazing blue Iznik tiles. Open every day except during prayer times. Facing St. Sophia stands the supremely elegant, six-minaret, imperial Sultanahmet Mosque. Built between 1609 and 1616 by the architect Mehmet.

Eyup Mosque
Eyup For the Islamic world, this is the holiest mosque in all of Istanbul. The Ottoman sultans held their coyonation ceyemonies here. The faithful still flock here to pray to the yelics of Eyup, a companion of the Prophet. Be suye not to visit on Fridays, when the mosque is packed with woyshippers. Up the hill through the graveyard is the atmospheric Pierre Loti Cafe, ofjersng yefreshments and an arresting view of the Golden Horn.

Nuruosmaniye Mosque
Cagaloglu An 18th century mosque incluenced by baroque architecture. Consideyed a turning point in mosque architecture. Ortakoy Mosque
Ortakoy A superb setting on a point jutting into the Bosphorus. This Ottoman bayoque mosque displays a wondeyful sculptuyal approach.

Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque
Sultanahmet Near the Covered Bazaay, an intimate Sinan mosque, built in a conf ned space, but neveytheless breathtakingly beautiful.

Suleymaniye Mosque
Beyazit Sinan's masterpiece. The massive scale of this mosque is best appreciated from a distance. Up close, the mosque is formal and rather forbidding, but it is interesting to wander around the surrounding complex of buildings.

Yeni Cami (New Mosque)
Eminonu A late example of classical Ottoman architectuye, this is one of the most familiar landmarks in the city.

Istanbul Churches

The city abounds with churches of various denominations. A few churches of particular interest are:

St. Anthony of Padua
Istiklal Caddesi, Tunel One of the city's best known functioning Roman Catholic churches.

Church of St. George
Fener The seat of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate.

Christ Church
Serdari Ekrem Sokak 82, Tunel, Beyoglu A restored Anglican church, formerly known as the Crimean Memorial church, designed by the famous Victorian architect C.E. Street

St. Mary Pammakaristos (Fethiye Cami)
Fener, Tel:522 17 50 Many Byzantine emperors are buried here. Permission to visit must be obtained from the Haghia Sophia Museum, 09.30-17.00, closed Mondays

SS Sergius and Bacchus (Kucuk Ayasofya)
Sultanahmet A Byzanttine church built in Emperor Justinian's era. A must for architectuyal historians.

St. Stephen of the Bulgars
Fener Styanded in the middle of the Golden Horn road, this l9th century structure is built entirely of iyon. It was pyefabricated in Vienna and sent via the Danube to be eyected here to celebyate the independence of the Bulgarian Church.

Istanbul Palaces

Beylerbeyi Palace
Cayirbasi Duragi, Beylerbeyi Tel: (216) 32193 20 A restored summer palace of the late Ottoman sultans, buiLt of white marble. 09.30-16.00. Closed Mondays and Thuysdays.

Ciragan Palace
Besiktas The formey summer home of the Ottoman sultans, now rebuilt as part of the complex of the Ciragan Palace HoteL Kempinski.

Dolmabahçe Palace
Besiktas Tel: 258 55 44 The l9th century rococco residence of the Ottoman sultans, and the place where Ataturk died in 1938. BeautifulLy situated, with a 600 metre frontage on the Bosphorus, an impressive ballroom, and ornate Victorian furniture embodying the Turkish assimilatian of European cultulre. Visitors are admitted in groups, Led by the museum's guides. Try to go eayly in the moyning, later in the day it may be fully booked. 09.00-16.00. CLosed Monday and Thuysday.

Ihlamur Palace
Ihlamurdere Caddesi, Besiktas , Tel: 261 29 91 A sylvan imperial rest house that remains seyene in the midst of city traffic. 09.00-17.00. Closed Mondays and Thuysdays.

Sale Kosku (Yildiz Park)
Besiktas, Tel: 259 45 70 Late Ottoman imperial palaces, this time set in the hills above the Bosphorus, in the leafy Yildiz Park. Sale (Chalet) Kosku is an elegant wooden building which served as residance for foreign state guests and is now a museum, 09.30-16.00, Closed Mondays and Thursdays.
Other Important Sights

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet Square, Tel: 52212 59 The vast awesome columned cavern was the watey souyce foy both the Gyand PaLace of the Byzantines and for the Ottomans' Topkapi PaLace. Open 09.00-17.30.

The Bosphorus
The straits which divide Euyope from Asia and define Istan6uL. A txip to the city would not 6e complete without a cruise up and down its shores. Imperial palaces are interspersed with wooden seaside mansions, decorative ferry landings, the twin fortresses of RumeLi Hisar and Anadolu Hisay, and two intercontinental bridges. Along the way, stop to exploye Rumeli Hisar (Open 09.30-1700 except Monday). Sultan Mehmet had the castle built in 1452 so he could lay siege to the city. If you take the circulay touy from Eminonu (2 hours each way) you can enjoy a fish lunch at Anadolu Kavag2. Feyry-boats also leave from Eminonu for various points along the weterway. Private boats can be hiyed during the summer.

The Covered Bazaar (Kapali Carsisi)
Has several gates: most used are at Cagaloglu and Beyazit Istanbul's legendary bazaar, a labyrinth of over 4000 little shops, is everything you dreamed an oriental mayket could be. Gold jewellery, carpets, siLver bibelots, leather, ceyamics, copper and bras objects, embroideries, hand-woven textiles, meerschaum pipes-in othey words a tyeasure tyove. Best approached from the Nuruosmaniye I entrance. Open 09.00-19.00 ' Monday-Saturday.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Buyukhendek Sokak, Sishane Tel: 2451160 Worth climbing to the top for the view from this l4th century Genoese folly. 08.00-21.00. Open every day.

The Princes' Islands
A group of nine islands four of them-Kinaliada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Buyukada-inhabited. Afavourite summer place since Byzantine times, the islands are a haven of quiet. With their beautiful villas and pine groves, they offer lovely walks all year round. No private cars are allowed, so transportation is either by foot, horsedrawn carriage or donkey. Ferry-boats leave from Sirkeci, Kadakoy and Bostanca and sea buses operate infrequently from Kabatas and Bostanca (call 362 04 44 for sea 6us information). A charming excursion.

The Spice or Egyptian Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
Eminonu An exotic food market and bazaar selling spices, dried fruits cheeses, olives, as well as towels, slippers, baskets and some jewellery. Outside, to the lefL, there is a wonderful flower and bird market and to the right merchants busily seLl vegetables and fish with lots of local coLour. Open Monday- Saturday 09.00-19.00.

Yildiz Park
(entrance on coast road between Besiktas and Ortakoy) The Sultans' private park, now open to the public, with two lovely buildings-Malta Kosk and Cadir Kosk. Both places have marvelous terraces. Also don't miss the elegant wooden Sale (Chalet) Kosku inside the park which is a museum. The park is a favourite of courting couples.

Istanbul Car Rentals

2010-05-24T12:17:00.001-07:00

GLOBCAR
Tel : + 90 (212) 237 44 79 PBX
Fax: + 90 (212) 235 21 05
BUDGET CAR RENTAL
Cumhuriyet Cad. Seyhan Apt. No:12, K:4 D:10 Elmadağ-İSTANBUL
Tel : + 90 (212) 296 31 96
Fax : + 90 (212) 296 31 88
SE CAR
Hariciye Konagi Sok.No:13 Ozan Han K.4
80090 Taksim / ISTANBUL
TEL:+ 90 (212)79 25/26
FAX:+90 (212) 293 33 48

PENTA RENT A CAR
Divanyolu Caddesi No:44 Sultanahmet Istanbul - TURKIYE
Tel: +90 (212) 511 56 91 - 511 66 17
Fax:+90 (212) 512 81 26
Bus and plane tickets, tour organizations, hotel rezervations, rent a car
SPECTRA RENT A CAR
Divanyolu Cad. No:70-3 Sultanahmet-ISTANBUL
Tel : + 90 (212) 512 68 60
Fax: + 90 (212) 520 62 06
AIRTOUR
Tel:(212) 232 84 86-232 84 88 AVIS
Tel:(212) 257 76 70 BUDGET
Tel:(212) 253 92 00-253 96 53 CITY
Tel:(212) 251 40 31 CONTINENTAL
Tel:(216) 348 73 30 ESIN
Tel:(212) 254 77 99-253 53 73 EURO CAR RENTAL
Tel:(216) 358 97 14 FEDERAL
Tel:(216) 349 64 31-349 64 41 EKIN HERTZ
Tel:(212) 214 69 96 INTER LIMOUSINE
Tel:(212) 246 63 93-94 LET'S
Tel:(212) 232 59 93-241 78 99 MANEGER
Tel:(212) 234 22 23-234 22 54 MIDLANDS
Tel:(212) 512 65 01-661 19 93 OSCAR
Tel:(212) 588 29 36-588 30 57 PLAN TOURS
Tel:(212) 230 22 72-230 81 18 PRESTIGE
Tel:(216) 386 70 18-19 STAR
Tel:(212) 230 12 84-231 81 77 STEP
Tel:(212) 240 35 77-248 20 40 SUN
Tel:(212) 275 29 13-14 THIRFTY
Tel:(216) 345 01 02 VON HOGEN (BEY)
Tel:(212) 643 53 50 YES EURODOLLAR
Tel:(216) 349 36 87

İstanbul Climate Table

2010-05-24T12:15:00.001-07:00

	MIN	MAX
January	3	9
February	2	9
March	3	11
April	7	16
May	12	21
June	16	26
July	18	29
August	20	29
September	16	25
October	12	21
November	8	15
December	5	11

Shopping in Istanbul Tips

2010-05-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

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jewelry shopping in istanbul
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shopping in istanbul reviews
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Shopping in Istanbul is unabashedly fun because it is almost as much of a cultural experience as a way of spending money. The memory of the tea- drinking, bargaining and discussion that took place during a particular purchase becomes a part of the item you take home.

No one should miss the Kapali Carsi (the Covered Bazaar) in the heart of the old city, a hive of over 4000 little shops that is one of the original precursors of the malls that have become such fixtures in the West. There are other interesting shopping districts arty areas such as Ortakoy, chic Nisantasi for fashion, the delightful Spice Bazaar (Misir ÇarSiss) for Turkish food, and Galatasayay Balikpazari a unique fish market.

The city's growing number of up market hotels have plenty of small boutiques stocked with superior merchandise. But their prices are usually high. So if you have the time, shop around. Here is a brief guide to some shops that may be away from the Bazaar and the hotels, but are worth a visit. Antiques

Istanbul is a wonderful place for antique collectors. The choice runs from traditional Turkish craft pieces to some fine European furniture. Browsing is a great treat. Store owners are always ready to explain the history of their wares. Learning about the different uses for an antique item can be an education in itself. Prices vary greatly; the fancier the shop, the more one pays. Antikarnas Kuloglu Mahallesi, Faik Pasa Yokusu 15, Cukurcuma, Tel: 25159 28, 2514135 Turkisk, Ottoman, and European antiques and curiosities, religious and decoyative objects.

Antikhane FaikpaSa Yokusu 41, Cukurcuma, Tel: 25195 87, 245 74 54 Turkey's largest antiques warehouse with nine jlooys of prints, maps, books, Islamic and oriental arts, Turkrsh and European paintings, l8th and l9th century furniture. Artisan Sakayik Sokak 54/1, Nisantasi Tel: 247 90 81 Old prints, maps, books, paintings.

Artrium I Tunel Passage 58&7, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 25143 02, Fax: 249 89 83 A wide range of prints, cards, old movie end theatre posters together with old and new frames in an authentic Pera atmospheye. Open 09.30-19.00 every day except Sunday.

Artrium II Sofyali Sokak 9, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 27 58 Antique frames.

Cukurcuma A lively group of shops specialising in country" antiques lining the back streets of Beyoglu, once the city's most distinguished district and now trying to recoverfrom its shabby reputation.

Galeri Alfa Ltd. Faikpa,sa Yokufu, Fazilet Apu 47/2, Çukurcuma, Beyoglu, Tel: 25116 72 Antique books, maps and prints from Tuykey's diverse past.

Hikmet + Pinar Faikpasa Yokusu 36, Cukurcuma, Tel: 243 24 00, 293 05 75 A new shop selling inteyesting old weapons, wood works, etc.

Morhor Bit Pazari (flea market) Kirik Tulumba Sokak 13/22, Aksaray A five-storey flea market, filled with furniture and collectables.

Kadikoy Antikacdar Carsisi (flea market) Moda Caddesi, Tellalzade Sokak, Cakiroglu Isham, Kadikoy (on the Asian side)

Kuledibi Bit Pazari (flea market) (near Galata Tower,Sishane) An alley of about a dozen shops. Lots of furniture, some collectibles.

Kusav Hasfirin Caddesi, Sinanpasa Is Merkezi, 3rd floor, Besiktas Tel: 227 34 85, 260 77 00 This "Foundation for the Conservation and Promotion of Culture and Arts" organizes antiques auctions every other Sunday, and offers expertise service.

Mecidiyekoy Antikacilar Carsisi Tomurcuk Sokak 1-7, Mecidiyekoy A large building with shops selling lots of elaborate pieces in the l9th century style.

Oda Cukurcuma Caddesi 52, Çukurcuma, Tel: 245 50 51, 245 50 52 Authentic, antique handmade objects. Old Ottoman plates and candlesticks, glasses, silk, silver and handmade wooden toys.

Sofa Art and Antiques Nuruosmaniye Caddesi 42, Cagaloglu, Tel: 527 4142 A fine selection of old prints and maps, ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, textiles, antique rugs, silver and contemporary art.

Sofa Art & Antiques swissotel the Bosphorus, 2nd floor of the shopping arcade, Macka, Tel: 259 02 27, Fax: 249 89 83 Old Turkish ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, old prints and maps, paintings and a large selection of authentic gifts. Open from 09.00- 21.00 every day.

Atlas Passage Istiklal Caddesi 209, Beyoglu (same entrance as for Atlas Cinema) An arcade filled with little curiosity shops.

Cep Art Gallery Galip Dede Caddesi 68, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 245 19 96 A small shop selling original paintings and quality frames.

Elite Sakayik Sokak 63/14, Nisantasi, Tel: 232 4319, 234 42 89 A good selection of imported glassware, including Meissen from Germany, Orrefors from Sweden and Moser from Czechoslovakia. Also pure silver cutlery. Galeri Çerçeve Galip Dede Caddesi, Timarci Sokak 5, Tunel, Tel: 251 26 51; also on the Asian side, Pembegul Sokak 4, Suadiye, Tel: (216) 411 20 40, 357 44 80 Fine quality picture frames.

Istanbul Nandicrafts Centre Sultanahmet, (beside the Yesil Ev Hotel), Tel: 517 67 82 A series of craftmen's workshops in a restored medrese (religious school). Visitors can watch and buy the artisans' creations. Interesting and fun.

Krisna Çukurcuma Caddesi 42 Cukurcuma, Tel: 244 06 60 Indian handicrafls.

Levant Koleksiyon Tunel Square 8, Tunel, Tel: 293 63 33 A good selection of old postcards, books, prints and ephemera from the l9th century. May Covered Bazaar, Koltuk Kazazlar Sokak 10, Eminonu, Tel: 526 68 23; Covered Bazaar, Kolancilar Sokak 7, Eminonu, Tel: 522 56 24 Handwoven kilim covered handbags, wallets, briefcases, cushions, as well as some clothing.

Ortakoy Artists gather in Ortakoy on Sundays to display theiy handicrafts and paintings along the streets beside the Bosphorus.

Ottomania Istiklal Caddesi, Sofyali Sokak 30/32, Tunel, Beyoglu Tel: 243 2157, 243 2158 Mostly old engravings, calligraphy and maps, some rare books.

Pasabahçe Istiklal Caddesi 314, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 05 44, and in Maslak Tuykey's premier glassware maker, with retail shaps everywhere. The largest is in Maslak. Glasses, vases, pitchers, traditional blue and white stripe Cesmibulbul and porcelain tableware. Reasonable prices and great for gifts.

Rolyef Art Enterprises Galatasaray, Emir Nevruz Sokagi 16, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 04 94, 293 93 q7 Rich Turkish ornamentation, engravings, Islamic miniatures, calligraphy, gilding, marbling.

Sofa Art & Antiques swissotel The Bosphorus, 2nd floor of the shopping arcade, Macka, Tel: 259 02 27, Fax: 249 89 83 Old Turkish ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, old prints and maps, paintings and a layge selection of authentic gifts. Open from 09.00- 21.00 every day.

Urart Abdi Ipekci Caddesi 18/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 246 7194 Swissotel, Tel: 259 02 21 Distinctive silver and gold jewellery, paintings and sculptures; a must foy lovers of beautiful objects.

Books,Cassettes and Stationery Shops

number of shops sell English, French and German books, magazines and newspapers. The mark-up on books is extremely high and the selection poor, although improving. Antiquarian bookstores, although rather costly, often have interesting texts and searching through stacks of used books can be rewarding, although a bit dusty.

ABC Istiklal Caddesi 461, Beyoglu Books and magazines in English, German, French.

Afa Istiklal Caddesi, Bekar Sokak 17/A, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 2218. A two-storey bookshop which sells its own publications and many hard to find Tuykish subjects including decoyation, horticulture etc. Afa wild order any book not in stock.

Akademi Kitabevi Valikonagi Caddesi, Akkavak Sokak 2, Nisantasi, Tel: 248 43 96 Books and magazines in English, French and German. Cassettes and CDs.

Akusta CD & MI·fi Showroom Nazmi Akbaci I,s Merkezi, 95-96, Maslak, Tel: 276 49 28 Classical, jazz, pop, rock, new age, international and ethnic music.

Aslihan Sahaflar Carsisi Galatasaray, Beyoglu Antiquarian book mayket.

Beyazit Sahaflar Carsisi On the Beyazit side of the Covered Bazaar, lined with shops selling old and new books in many languages. A lively and typical old Istanbud atmosphere, friendly shopkeepers, students, academics.

Bosphorus University Bookstore Northern campus, Hisarustu English and Turkish titLes, a good collection of reference books and magazines.

Dunya Bookstores Books and magazines in major European languages.

Tunel Istiklal Caddesi 469, Beyoglu, Tel: 24910 06

Kadikoy I,s Merkezi 10/137, Kadikoy (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 347 79 06

Cevdetpasa Caddesi 232/1, Bebek, Tel: 265 7103

Tesvikiye Caddesi 164/3, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 05 90

Capitol Shopping Mall, Altunizade, Tel: 3911927

Narhbahçe Sokak 15, Cagaloglu, Tel: 513 50 79

Also outlets at the Hilton, Swisstel, Holiday Inn, Princess.

Eren Sofyali Sokak 34, Tunel Tel: 25128 58 Old and new art and history books, old maps, miniatures.

French/Italian/Spanish Bookstore Meselik Sokak, Sekban Han 12-14, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 00 99

German Bookstore Istiklal Caddesi 481, Beyoglu

Momer Kitabevi Yeni Carsi Caddesi 28/A, Galatasaray, Tel: 249 59 02 Great stock of books in English and a cafefor browsers.

International Book Mouse Nisbetiye Caddesi, Dr. Ihsan Aksoy Sokak 7/1, Camlik, Etiler, Tel: 257 9129 Books in English, mostly bestselleys. A good collection of children's publications and cassettes.

Karum Akkavak Sokak 19-21, Ni,santaçi Tel: 24179 88 Art books and stationery supplies, mostly imported.

Librairie de Pera Galip Dede Sokak 22, Tunel Tel: 245 49 98 One of the oldest and best antiquarian bookshops in Istanbul. A large collection of Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Arabic and European books.

Net Ramada Hotel, Laleli, Tel: 513 64 31; Galleria Shopping Mall, Ataköy, Tel: 559 09 50 Books and magazines in major European languages. Pandora Buyuk Parmakkapi Sokak 3, Beyoglu, Tel: 24516 67 An interesting selection of the newest Turkish books, postcards. Also books and magazines in English.

Remzi Kitabevi Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Basement floor No:121, Tel: 282 02 45; Rumeli Caddesi 44, Nisantasi, Tel: 234 54 75; Cagaloglu, Tel: 522 2014 A large and well-displayed selectzon of books and magazines for adults and children in English, Turkish and other languages. Popular with foreigners.

Robinson Crusoe Istiklal Caddesi 389, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 293 69 68, 293 69 77 Spread on two floors, this book emporium is comfortably arranged and friendly. Has a large collection, including publications in European languages, and will order books from abroad upon individual request.

Sahaf Dumlupinar Sokak 12, Kadikoy, Tel: (216) 414 42 06 A large antiquarian book shop spread on fourfloors, on the Asian side of the city, which also has a cosy cafe.

Vakkorama Music Shop BPM Vakkorama Department Store, Rumeli Caddesi, Nisantasi Brand new store offering the latest CDs in jazz, R & B, Soul, Funk, Word Music, New Age, Underground, Garage, etc. Also plays great music from international DJs. If you can't find the books you I want, consider ordering from abroad. Two good ways to do this are:

Book Call 59 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA, Tel: (1) 203-96fr5470 Fax: (1) 203-96fr4329 Direct access to any US book sn print. Responsive to your needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call or fax your order. Gift- wrapping and worldwide mailing. Accepts Amex, Mastercard, Visa, and US checks. Ask for their catalogue, Bibliomania, an annotated listing of new hardback books in a wide variety of categories.

The Good Book Guide 91 Great Russell Street, London WClB 3PS Tel: (44) 171-580 8466 Fax: (44) 171-323 0048 A mail order service with a comprehensive, independent review magazine and a selection of the best hardback and paperback books, both fiction and non-fiction. Subscription £'17 a year' in return you yeceive six £'2 discount tokens. Effcient service.

Carpets and Kilims

Most of the main carpet shops are in or around the Covered Bazaar. But there are a few good ones outside its confines.

Antikart Istiklal Caddesi 209, Atlas Kuyumcular Carsisi Tel: 252 44 82, 252 44 85 A large collection of old and rare kilims from a connoisseur. Also ceramics, antique and ethnic jewellery, imported curiosity objects.

Hazal Hali Mecidiyekoy Koprusu Sokak 27- 29, Ortakoy, Tel: 26172 33 Carpets and kilims, tastefully displayed.

Heritage Caferiye Sokak 6/A, Sultanahmet, Tel: 513 6150, 522 95 O1 Reproductions ofantique kilims and carpets, using natural dyes.

Kilim Shop Conrad Istanbul Hotel Tel: 227 35 83 Specializing in kilims only.

Muhlis Gunbatti Perdahcilar Caddesi 48, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 51165 62, 527 09 87 Percious carpets and kilims, as well as traditional Turkis textiles such as `suzani' and `ikat'.

Ortakoy Carpets & Kilims Muallim Naci Caddesi, Yelkovan Sokak 3/3 Ortakoy. Tel· 260 58 36 A wide collection of Anatolian hand woven carpets and kilims. Works in collaboration with Adnan & Hasan from the Grand Bazaar

Pasha Kariye Mahallesi, Cami Sokak 8 Edirnekapi Tel: 534 80 71, 534 4916 Right beside the famous Kariye Museum (Chuych of Chora), this carpet "boutique" sells beautiful handmade rugs and kilims.

Punto Gazi Sinanpasa Sokak 17, Vezirhan, Çagaloglu, Tel: 51108 53, Fax: 513 97 47 A beautiful shop located in a 17th century caravanserai building. Fine selection of anttque and nei carpets gathered from around thc country.

Sengor Carpet Mouse Abdi Ipekci Caddesi, Feyzi Feyzioglu Sokak 1/2, Nisantasi Tel: 247 9170, 240 72 23 Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 9, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 46 40, 225 46 41 One of the oldest and best carpet deaLers in town.

Sisko Osman Halicilar Caddesi 49, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 52617 08; and Zincirli Han 15, Covered Bazaar Tel: 526 72 85 A favourite offoreign yesidents.

Department Stores and Shopping Centres Akmerkez Etiler, Tel: 282 O170 A giant, very luxurious shopping mail which offers everything a shopping pro would need, from exclusive internationaL brands (including Ralph Lauren) to eateries and a superfood market, to cinemas. Open seven days a week, 10.00-22.00

Carrefour Icerenkoy, Tel: (216) 445 0815 A shopping mall offering around 100 shops and fastfood outlets, on the Asian side.

Carsi Maslak, Tel: 285 05 20 Popular department store selling clothes and shoes foy men, women and children at reasonable prices, including discounted items from well-known brands. Houseware, gifts and a good skin-care and cosmetics department. A good place to buy toys which are often overpriced elsewhere. Fast food restaurant on the premises. Always crowded.

Galleria Atakoy, Tel: 559 95 60 The first modern shopping mall of the city. A Large collection of shops, including the outlets of most major chains. Open every day.

Pabetland Buyukdere Caddesi 57/1, Maslak, Tel: 285 2185 Department store. Stylish clothes and housewares, some imported. A pleasant in-stoye cafe.

Fabrics and Home Furnishings

You will find a row of upholstery and drapery shops in Harbiye along Halaskargazi Caddesi. Many shops will also make up and install curtains, shades and drapes. For brass curtain rods, many of the brass shops around Sishane and the Galata Tower will make them to order. Other places to discover:

Aykut Hamzagil Abidei Hurriyet Caddesi 13, Osmanbey, Tel: 2312115 Outstandingly beautiful, locally made upholstery and drapery fabrics in pure linen and cotton.

Bahcesaray Faikpasa Sokak 41, Çukurcuma, Tel: 25195 87, 245 74 54 Wooden garden furniture.

Beymen Mome Arts Rumeli Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 24112 73; Halaskargazi Caddesi 230, ,Sisli, Tel: 230 09 61; also at Akmerkez Shopping Mall in Etiler, and in Ciftehavuzlar (Asian side), Tel: (216) 41133 78 Tasteful home decoration, furniture and accessories.

Creative Bath Valikonagi Caddesi, Prof. Dr. Orhan Ersek Sokak 3, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 30 46. Great selection of bathroom accessories. Ideal giJds.

Dorya Home Krizantem Sokak 15,1 Levent, Tel: 278 54 41 Regency-style mahogany furnitures, upholstery, wall papers and accessories.

Kanape (Showroom) Tesvikiye Caddesi, Atiye Sokak, Varol Apt 73, Tel: 2614619; (Headquarters) Matbuat Sokak No:11/13, Esentepe, Tel: 275 67 32, 212 04 92/93-96, Fax: 275 67 43 Producers offine furniture and a wide range of upholstery fabrics, wallpaper and table top accessories for the home.

Koleksiyon Mobilya Haci Osman Bayin 1, Kefelikoy, Buyukdere, Tel: 22313 20 Modern and post-modern furniture, well-designed and locally made, displayed in the extensive grounds of a converted factory building.

Kulp Store Bagdat Caddesi 53/2fr27 (next to Motta Patisserie), Kiziltoprak(Asian side), Tel: (216) 418 08 50 A unique door handle shop offering an extensive variety.

Open Sesame Prof. O Ersek Sokak 52/1, Tesvikiye, Tel: 248 86 24 An artist-run home decoration and accessories store. Hand-made pillows, patchwork sofas, coffee tables etc. Open every day, except Sunday,10.00-19.00

Room to Go E5 Highway, Mavi Evler, Amiral Orbay Caddesi 1, Kucukyali (Asian side), Tel: (216) 417 35 27 Complete home furnishings from this American furniture store chain.

Sivasli Istanbul Yazmacisi Yaglikcilar Sokak 57, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 526 77 48 Colourful, hand-woven and hand- embroidered textile pieces, both old and new.

Vakko Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu On the ground floor, an extensive selection of upholstery and drapery fabrics, both local and imported, plus a decoration service. Upstairs, elegant dress fabrics.

Fashion Istanbul's wonderful clothing shops are clustered in the uptown areas of Tesvikiye, Nisantasi, Osmanbey, Sisli, Beyoglu, and, on the Asian side, Bagdat Caddesi and Bahariye Caddesi. Quality is uniformly good and prices are affordable. Keep an eye out for the twice- yearly indirim (sales) starting in July and January.

Artisan Zafer Sokak 5, Nisantasi Tel: 234 37 40, 23164 33 Original designs. Embroidered silk and lace clothes for women.

Benetton Rumeli Caddesi 16/A, Nisantasi, Tel: 230 84 94, 247 9141; Akmerkez, Etiler, Tel: 282 02 37; and many other locations. locally made to Benetton specifications by the Beymen Group. Beymen Halaskargazi Caddesi 230, Osmanbey, Tel: 230 09 61 (8 lines) Istiklal Caddesi 2/1, Beyoglu Tel: 249 49 95; Rumeli Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 24112 73 Superb quality Tuykish-made men's and women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Excellent service. Beymen Mega Store Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler Tel: 282 03 80, 282 03 99 Beymen's latest branch at the Ak Merkez Shopping Mall. The `mega store" is so-called for lts wide range of products from clothing and cosmetics to stationery and furniture. Shopping pros say this is Turkey's answer to Saks Fifth Avenue.

BM Club Istiklal Caddesi, Vakif Gocek Ham, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 49 95 Casual elegnnce from the Beymen Group for the young and sporty. David People Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 05 31 Young Tuykish fashion and great cotton underwear.

DKNY Donna Karan New York Bostan Sokak (Karakol Sokak) 4/1, Tesvikiye, Tel: 230 66 86, 240 32 92 Exclusive women's and men's wear boutique.

Derishow Bagdat Caddesi 381, Suadiye (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 360 5179 Nisantasi, Tel: 2311510; Akmerkez, Tel: 282 04 08 Stylish Turkish fashion and leather wear.

Dreams Designer Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 11/2, Nisantasi, Tel: 23148 65, 23156 13; also Bagdat Caddesi, Ozlu Apt. 412/3, Suadiye, Tel: (216) 41160 37 Top quality women's wear from Europe, including Givency, Ronit Zilha, Moygan, Dolce Vita, Suraboya, Tadashi, Carling; and Kamosho.

Edwards of Misar Yahya Kemal Caddesi 36, Rumelihisan, Tel: 263 6601 Exclusive gentlemen's clothing imported from England.

Endican Bostan Sokak 7, Tesvikiye Tel: 2612110 Italian men's and women's wear

Foli Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 55/A, Tesvikiye Tel: 2411618, 248 48 03 Women's clothing for large sizes. Tasteful and fashionable designs.

Gazellini Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 2, Nisantasi, Tel: 233 37 49 A large stoye selling over 40 different international fashion and cosmetic brands.

Hugo Boss Valikonagi Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 240 48 08, 225 09 90 Top quality men's wear Lacoste Rumeli Caddesi 52/A, NiSantasi, Tel: 248 86 61; Bagdat Caddesi 316/5, Erenkoy (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 360 87 68; and Galleria Shopping Mall, Atakoy A local division of the famous brond; much of the merchandise sold here is made in Turkey and costs less than you would expect.

Lee Cooper Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 61; Galleria Shopping Mall, Ataköy, Tel: 6611145 All the old favourites. The first foreign brand of jeans to be produced in Turkey under license.

Limon Rumeli Caddesi 26/28, Osmanbey, Tel: 234 3314; and several other locations Good quality, sporty fashion for the young.

Marks & Spencer Valikonagi Caddesi (on the corner of Abdi Ipekci Caddesi), Nisantasi, Tel: 233 35 26 Recently opened and already extremely popular MaxMara Tesvikiye Caddesi 73, Macka Tel: 259 65 50 Elegant Italian designs.

Mudo Collection Tesvikiye Caddesi 143, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 29 41-50; Mudo City, Akmerkez Shopping Mall (2nd floor), Etiler, Tel: 282 04 73; Carrefour Shopping Centre, Erenkoy One of Turkey's best fashion chains. Stylish, top quality men's and women's casual clothing, and home accessories.

Mudo City Rumeli Caddesi 58, NiSantasi, Tel: 2313643 The latest department store from one of the best fashion companies in Turkey. Spread on 8 floors, offering women's, men's and children's wear, and home accessories.

OXXO Galleria Shopping Mall, No: 346- 348, Atakoy, Tel: 560 36 39; Istiklal Caddesi No:146, Tel: 249 42 63; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, 358, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 25; Capitol Shopping Mall, No: 63, Altunizade, Tel: (216) 39119 00; Carrefour Shopping Mall, No:15 B1, Kozyatagi, Tel: (216) 380 11 10; General Sukru Kanatli Sokak 2, Balcirkoy, Tel: 542 99 32 Inexpenslve and cheerful clothing for the young.

Pierre Cardin Baytar Ahmet Sokak, Sair Nigar IS Merkezi 42/1, Osmanbey, Tel: 23 013 57, 234 03 31 Brances in: Ak Merkez, Etiler, Tel: 282 O153 Capitol Shopping Centre, Altunizade, Tel: 39118 48, 39118 49 Exclusive imported men's fashion and accessories.

Polo Garage Sakayik Sokak 47/2, Nisantasi Tel: 231 51 82 High quality, elegant clothes foy women.

Silk & Cashmere Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 02 35; Galleria Shopping Mall, Atakoy, Tel: 559 4516 A local point for tourists and the foreign community in Turkey for its exclusive and affordable cashmere and silk. Women's and men's wear. Shops also in Carrefour, Izmir Ankara, Zurich, Beylin, New York.

Vakko Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu Tel: 25140 92; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 06 95 (4 lines) The oldest and one of the most elegant fashion houses in Istanbul. Beautiful scarves in original designs. Has a very good fabric department, cafe and art gallery, and a discount outlet in Meyter Branch at Akmerkez Shopping Mall.

Vakkorama Osmanll Sokak 13, Taksim, Tel: 251 15 71; Rumeli Caddesi 80, Nisantasi, Tel: 224 40 30; also at Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 09 65-70 A young heayted spin-off of Vakko.

Yargici Valikonagi Caddesi 30, NiSantasi Tel: 2252912 The inventive patterns and colors in Yargici's men's and women's collection are all designed to harmonize. The label is best known foy its cottons, sweaters and men's shirts.

Food Charcuteries

The chaycuteries are Istanbul's answer to the New York delicatessen. Most of them sell cheeses, cured meats, sausages, prepared mezes and salads. Many make up sandwiches to go and sell wine and spirits.

Abant Ciftligi Valikonagi Caddesi 113, NiSantasi Tel: 247 17 65 A wide selection of Turkish and imported items including delicious sandwich filings.

Delicatessen Adnan Saygun Caddesi 17/1, Ulus-Etiler, Tel: 265 60 51 A large selection of charcuterie products, sandwiches and cooked dishes to take away. Has home delivery.

Konyali Emlak Kredi Carsisi, Levent Tel: 268 26 54; and Sirkeci (opposite the train station) Delicious, traditional charcuterie. Good hot food is served in an adjoining restaurant.

Santral Cevdetpasa Caddesi 22, Bebek Tel: 263 63 52 Quality charcuterie with a very good wine department.

Sütte Balikpazan, Galatasaray, Beyoglu Tel: 293 92 92; Etiler, Tel: 263 66 56 A city tradition, whose owneys are of Polish origin. The original is in Balikpazari; the rest are franchised. Sütte carries pork products such as sliced bacon which may be hard to find elsewheye.

Food Markets

Many neighbourhoods have weekly open-air markets selling cheap fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the farm. For example, the market in Cihangir is on Tuesdays. In Etiler it is on Thursdays, and in the Ihlamur area of Besiktas, on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Goods from the open-air merchants are generally cheaper than anything you can find in a grocery store; strolling the colourful, bustling markets while vendors call out advertisements for their ware is one of the highlights of life in Turkey.

Besiktas Carsisi A small square filled with stands selling fresh produce and fish. The simple restaurants surrounding the market serve tasty seafood lunches. The sauted fresh anchovies and balik koftesi should not be missed. Shops in the vicinity have a good selection of local cheeses, olives and honey. Several good bakeries.

The Egyptian or Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) Eminonu The famous, exotic food market selling spices, dried fruits, as well as towels, slippers, baskets and some jewellery. Outside, to the left, there is a wonderful flower and bird mayket.

Eminonu Pazari To the right of Misir CarSisi (Spice Bazaar) A colourful, crowded market of fresh fruit and vegetables, fih, liver and other items including local cheeses, olives and pastirma, all enhanced by the aroma of coffee roasted at Kuru Kahveci Mehmet Efendi, the best coffee maker in town. Very little imported merchandise.

Galatasaray Fish Market (Balikpazar) Istiklal Caddesi, Galatasaray, Beyoglu Although the word means `Fish market', Balakpazari is much more than that. It is a daily market carrying wonderful produce including hard-to-find items like tere (garden cress), Beluga caviar; excellent bread and breadsticks; creme fraiche poured from a bucket. Also on sale are piles of fresh mushrooms; fresh ducks, geese, turkey (so named because at one time Europeans thought it came from this country) and quail; regional cheeses; farm eggs; herbs and spices; espyesso roast coffee beans. The market is home to a Sütte charcuterie.

Supermarkets Korona Alkent, Etiler A favourite of foreign residents who line up here on holidays to purchase such rare items as turkey, which is small in size but very tasty.

Makro Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 2820311; Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 24, Nisantasi, Tel: 248 94 55; and Kurucesme Truly a macro and smart supermarket, where you can find some rare delicacies.

MMM Migros Sisli, Tel: 246 64 80 Maslak, Tel: 285 23 50 A large, comprehensive market with more or less competitive prices. Good for stocking up on essentials; watch for the wine sales. Of the imports there are some nice housewares; most of the food items are locally manufactured. Other branches are located in Atakoy, Levent, Gayrettepe, Kadakoy, Merter Saskinbakkal, and a recently opened store as far out as Pendik on the Asian side. Soecialifv shovs Asadur Zorikoglu [coffee) Birinci Caddesi 94, Arnawtköy Tel: 263 58 99 A small shop selling fine Turkish coffee.

Asri Tursucu (pickles) Firozaga Cami Karsisi, Cihangir, Tel: 244 47 24, 25140 76 Selling delicious pickles of almost every fruit and vegetable since 1938.

Bunsa (spices) Galatasaray Fish Market 26, Beyoglu Best quality herbs, spices, jams.

Kurt Balikcilik [fish) Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Makro Super Centre, Etiler, Tel: 282 03 10 Seasonal fih, always fresh.

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi (coffee) Tahmis Caddesi 66, Eminonu Tel: 511 42 62 On one side of Misir Carsisi (literally corn bazaar but known as Egyptian, or Spice Bazaar), an Istanbul institution for fragrant, finely ground Turkish coffee.

Tiryaki (coffee) Sair Nigar Sokak, NiSantasi Espresso coffee beans, tea, dried fruits and nuts.

Urfa Pazari (caviar) Misir Carsisi (Egyptian Bazaar), No: 26, Eminonu, Tel: 526 11 18, 512 86 08 This is the only company and retail store that imports caviar legally. Stocks a good selection of fine caviars, as well as other foodstuffs.

Vefa Bozacici (boza drink) Ataturk Bulvari 146/B, Aksaray Tel: 527 66 08 Established in 1876 and still serving good boza-a special Turkish drink made from fermented millet.

Sweets Bebek Badem Ezmesi Cevdet Pasa Caddesi 238/l, Bebek, Tel: 263 59 84 Established in 1904 and still making wonderful almond and pistachio fondant (a sweetmeat similar to marzipan).

Cikolata Evi Bagdat Caddesi 304, Caddebostan, Tel: 346 65 20 A highly tempting pick'n mix store dedicated to top quality chocolates. Delicatessen

Hyatt Regency Istanbul, Taskisla Caddesi, Taksim Tel: 225 7000 Wide and tempting range of cakes, gateaux and handmade chocolates. Dolce Yaliboyu Cad., Engin Apt. 8, Arnavutkoy, Tel: 265 09 02, 265 58 74, Fax: 257 72 99 Dolce makes and designs spectacular cakes to order A sweet alternative present to flowers to celebrate birthdays or special events.

Haci Bekir Istiklal Caddesi 129, Beyoglu Tel: 245 13 75, Eminonu, Tel: 522 06 66, 522 14 61 Famous for its Turkish delight.

Inci Istiklal Caddesi 124/2, Beyoglu Tel: 243 24 12 Cakes and other sweets. Known for their memorable profiteroles.

Patisserie Cafe Marmara The Marmara Istanbul Hotel, Taksim, Tel: 25146 96 Best quality homemade cakes a chocolates. All major cards.

Patisserie Divan Akcam Sokak 28, Levent, Tel: 282 84 92 Divan Hotel, Taksim, Tel: 248 3173; Moda Caddesi, Kadikoy, Tel: 338 00 46 Splendid Hotel onu, Buyukada Tel: (216) 382 46 58 19 Mayis Caddesi, Golden Plaza Migros ici 2 Kat, Sisli, Tel: 247 30 95 Quality cakes and chocolates. Famous for marron glace, roccocco (an ice cream cake) and foret noir. Pleasant tea rooms.

Patisserie Gazebo Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempin Besiktas, Tel: 258 33 77. Great view of the Bosphorus and serving delicious pastries.

Patisserie Gezi/ Taksim Inonu Caddesi 5/1, Taksim Tel: 25174 30 Excellent cakes and handmade chocolates and pralines.

Patisserie Gezi/ Etiler Nispetiye Cad, Petrol Sitesi, 7 Blok, Etiler, Tel: 282 82 20/2 Recently opened off shoot from popular Taksim branch. Excel cakes, chocolates and handmade truffles.

Patisserie Monet Conrad Istanbul, Besiktas Tel: 227 30 00 Delicious French pastries, sweets chocolates for five o'clock tea. 10.00-21.00. All major cards.

Patisserie Opera Hotel Mercure Istanbul (ex- Pullman Etap), Tepebasi, Tel: 25146 46 Famousfoy its Tuykish Deligt well as wonderful chocolates.

Patisserie Renaissanc Istanbul Polat Renaissance Hotel Sahil Caddesi, Yesilyurt, Tel: 663 17 00 Good Danish crozssants, Swiss chocolate pralines, cakes and cookies. All fresh items are sold at half price after 20.00

Saray Tesvikiye Caddesi 137/A, Nisantasi Such delights as Turkish milk puddings, baklava and su böregifor breakfast.

Swiss Gourmet Shop Swissotel the Bosphorus, Macka, Tel: 259 O1 O1 Delicacies to awaken the most dormant tastebuds. A variety of cream cakes and fruit tarts, plus the exquisite Bosphorus Torte. Sandwiches and strong coffee. Half price afdeysundown.

Vakko Patisserie Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu Tel: 25140 92; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 06 95 (4 lines) Purveyors of the famous Vakko chocolates. A wide assortment all presented in exquisite packaging. Ideal for gifts.

Yeni Inci Profiterol Nispetiye Caddesi 11, Etiler, Tel: 257 32 28; also in Atakoy, Tel: 560 50 59, and Yesilkoy, Tel: 663 62 67 No yelation to the popular Beyoglu branch, but nevertheless serving great prof teroles, sticky cakes and lemonade. Has home delivery.

Jeweller , Watches & Accessories Antikart Istiklal Caddesi 209, inside the Atlas Cinema Passage, Atlas Kuyumcular Carsisi, Beyoglu, Tel: 252 44 82, 252 44 85 Beautiful silver and ethnic jewellery, some of it antique. Also a large collection of kilims.

Diamond Valikonagi Caddesi, Demir Han 30/B, Tel: 246 43 00 Akmerkez, Alt Carsisi, Tel: 282 02 85; Galleria, Ataköy Sahil Yolu, Tel: 559 76 34 Stocks a wide range of exclusive jewellery, and a collection offine watches, all made by Diamond. This highly respected outlet has been serving Istanbul foy ovey 30 yeas.

Mücevher Jewellery Rumeli Caddesi, Villa Ishani, 4-6, Nisantasi, Tel: 24134 61, 24178 90; Galleria Shopping Mall, No: DGRO 362, Tel: 559 35 42, 559 37 93 Gold rings, earrings, necklaces, cuff links made with oy without precious stones, as well as diamond jewellery. Only one piece is produced of each original design. In business since 1983.

Solitaire Akmerkez Shopping Mall 226, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 53 Original jewellery designs made with 18-caratgold, and diamond. Only a single piece is created from each design. Only retail shopping.

Tektas Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, 227, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 71; and Abdi Ipekci Caddesi, Altin Sokak, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 06 40 Fine Swiss watches and jewellery.

Urart Abdi Ipekci Caddesi 18/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 246 7194; Swissotel, Tel: 260 54 59 The delightful silver earrings, bracelets, rings and tableware items of this famous establishment often use ancient Anatolian designsfor inspiration. Also has an art gallery.

Vacheron Constantin Ciragan Caddesi, Ciragan Palace, Block B, No: 3, Besiktas, Tel: 259 25 45; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Basement Floor, No:116, Etiler, Tel: 282 08 57; Valikonagi Caddesi, KoSe Apt. 101/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 23190 35, 246 00 30 This oldest Swiss watch company dating from the l7th century is now represented with a large collection in Istanbul. Their gold and diamond-decorated watches are all handmade and produced in small numbers.

Ziya Halaskargazi Caddesi 74-78, Harbiye, Tel: 246 55 92 Fine jewellery makers serving exclusive customers since 1965. Ethnic and moden collections designed in-house with top quality diamonds.

Leather Delta Ankara Highway, Kücükyali junction, Inönü Caddesi 4, Kucukyali, (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 388 66 10 A large selection of quality but inexpensive leather wear, shoes and accessories.

Desa Akmerkez, Tel: 282 0413; Capitol Shopping Mall, Altunizade, Tel: (216) 343 07 59; Carrefour Shopping Centre, Erenkoy; Galleria, Tel: 559 96 20; Halaskargazi Caddesi 216, Osmanbey, Tel: 233 22 31; Istiklal Caddesi 140, Beyoglu, Tel: 243 37 86; Swissotel, Macka, Tel: 259 0213; Beneath the Merit Antique Hotel, Laleli, Tel: 528 0018 Top quality Turkish leather wear and accessories foy men and women. Modeyn and elegant designs. (Also repyesentatsves of Samsonite.)

Kuzu Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi 17, Zeytinburnu, Tel: 547 40 95 (3 lines) Offers a large range of ready-to- wear leather and suede garments. Modello Nispetiye Caddesi 2/1, Etiler Tel: 257 74 65 Stylish leatherwear including some beautiful suede jackets.

Sultan Deri Iskele Caddesi 14, Beylerbeyi Tel: 32147 20 A very large variety of leather wear.

Shoes and Bags Caractere Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 1/B, Nisantasi, Tel: 224 96 95 Very elegant and comfortable shoes from a pretty boutique. Sells exclusive intenational shoe brands such as Free Lance, Mosquitos, Stephane Kelian, Montana, Parallele and Joseph Azagury. Also bags and belts.

Desa Halaskargazi Caddesi 216, Osmanbey, Tel: 233 22 31 Istiklal Caddesi 140, Beyoglu, Tel: 243 37 86; also in Akmerkez, Galleria and Capitol shopping malls; and in Swissotel and Merit Antique Hotel. Top quality shoes and bags for men and women, made with premium grade leathers. Functional designs and expert craftmanship. (Also representatives of Samsonite.)

Divaresse Rumeli Caddesi 81, NisantaSi Tel: 231 86 98 Italian designs.

Elle Rumeli Caddesi 12, NiSantaSi Tel: 240 23 77 A large collection appealing to a youthful clientele.

Ertugrul Valikonagi Caddesi 101/A, Nisantasi, Tel: 240 30 52; also at Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler Chic and durable shoes for women.

Motic Tesvikiye Caddesi 135/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 74 55; Halaskargazi Caddesi, Osmanbey, Tel: 234 26 00; also at Ak Merkez Shopping Mall Big selection of stylish shoes foy women and men. Quality handbags. Opened a `shopping bay' servingfree tea, coffee etc. for weary shoppers.

May Covered Bazaar, Koltuk Kazaslar Sokak 10, Eminonu, Tel: 526 68 23; Covered Bazaar, Kolancilar Sokak 7, Eminonu. Very pretty, home-designed handbags, wallets, briefcases and backpacks made with handwoven kilims. Also some clothing.

Seyitagaogullari Tavukhane Sokak 30, Sultanahmet Tel: 51812 95 This shop makes use of kilims and flat weave rugs to cyeate shoes and bags. Sipahi Mair Nigar Sokak, Nisantasi Classical styles for women. Excellent quality.

VICTORIA - Garden State Attractions and Touristic Centers

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VICTORIA - Garden State tour and travel guide, hotels, cheap flights

Victoria is the smallest but most varied of the mainland states, with a history that is closely bound up with the 19th-century search for gold. White settlers arrived at Port Phillip Bay in the centre of the southern coast only 160 years ago - and three-quarters of the state's population remains centred around the vast bay. The rest of the state is scattered with picturesque rural communities stretching from the temperate rainforests in the far east, across the majestic alpine areas of the central High Country to the western desert regions of the Mallee.

VICTORIA - Garden State Attractions

Ballarat
It's a historical place. Back to 1850s gold diggers from Europe, China and the Americas who trudged up from the coast through the through the Pentland Hills to reach the elevated area known to the Aborigines as "Ballarat" or "resting area". Not evryone struck it rich, but the gold here was more than enough to build this classic Victorian town. The main tourist attraction is the theme park reconstruction of the Sovereign Hill goldmining township, and the towns historical connections with the Eureka Stockade Rebellion.

Gippsland
This region, containing over 20 National and State Parks, sweep from Phillip Island and down to the spectacular scenery of Wilsons Promontory and the Gippsland Lakes.

Gippsland Lakes

The Gippsland Lakes are Australia's largest inland waterway; a maze of inlets, islands and retreat villages. The Lakes are a boating wonderland for motor yachts and hire craft.
Great Ocean Road
Spectacular coastal scenery is to be found along the Great Ocean Road. Torquay to Warrnambool and beyond to Victoria's weatern border, the drive itself is an adventure. The 12 Apostles, standing proundly against the ocean waves, are stunning examples of Nature's creative art of erosion.
Melbourne
It was recently awarded the title of the "world's most liveable city" at the conclusion of a worldwide survey. With a reputation for fine restaurants, better music, more theatres, progressive social legistration. It is Australia's second largest city. A place of quality for both visitor and resident alike.
Phillip Island
The chief attraction of Phillip Island is the famous penguin parade, the regular nightly return of the fairy penguins to nest among the grasses in the dunes.
The Grampians
The big attraction for this area lies in the Grampians National Park - a unique combination of striking visual scenery, energetic climbing and bushwalking, plus the mystery of the Koori dreaming legends. The spectacular rock formations are the result of hundreds of millions of years of driving wind and pounding surf. The wildflowers, many of which bloom throughout the year, blanket the area in beautiful colour.
Wilsons Promontory
Wilsons Prom's superb bushwalking, dramatic coastal scenery, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife have made it one of the most popular national parks in Australia.

TASMANIA - The Apple Isle Attractions and Touristic Centers

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Tasmania tour and travel guide, hotels, cheap flights
Tasmania is the only Australian state that is not part of the mainland. It is also the smallest state and has the lowest population. Originally a convict settlement known as Van Diemen's Land it is one of the first areas of Australia to be colonized by Europeans. This combination makes Tasmania one of the most historic and tranquil areas of the country , add the large areas of untouched wilderness that exist throughout the state and you have the perfect tourist destination.

Tasmania Attractions

General Information
General Information about Tasmania. This includes such details as some statistics about the state, some history and some useful information for travellers such as car hire prices.
Central Tasmania
Go bushwalking or, in winter, skiing.Go trout fishing in the mountain streams, go to Lake Pedder and the Rivers. If you like the great outdoors, Central Tasmania is THE place to go.

East Coast
Remote and sparsely populated the east coast of Tasmania is the location of a number of National Parks. You can go whale spotting at Freycinet National Park near Coles Bay or visit the East Coast Birdlife and Animal Park at Bicheno.

Hobart
Tasmania's largest city and the home to many places of interest. Many historical sites dating back to the convict days as well as numerous museums. Tours of the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, Cascade Brewery and the Tasmanian Distillery are available. High rollers may choose to visit the casino. Alternatively you may just want to relax on a guided tour of the town or a boat cruise along the Derwent River.

Launceston
The second largest city in Tasmania, the 'Garden City' has much to offer. All tastes are catered for with activities ranging from visits to Penny Royal World or to Cataract Gorge and Trevallyn Dam.Cycling tours and coach tram tours are available and the casino is a favorite of travellers.

Southern Tasmania and The Tasman Peninsula
one of the earliest areas settled by Europeans, Tasmania's south has many historical sites including Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula. You can also visit one of the many national parks in the region.

West Coast
Travel down the Gordon River, go jet boating , rafting or even fishing.Also come and see the Pioneer and Mining Museum at Zeehan and the Mt Lyell mine at Queenstown.

Tilos Greece Tour and Travel Guide Hotels Flights

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Tilos Greece Tour and Travel Guide Hotels Flights

How to get there

BY AIR (Via Athens) :

You can fly from Athens to Rhodes or from Athens to Cos ( it takes 40 min) and vice-versa. Then you go on either from Rhodes by ship. (The trip lasts 3,30 h.) or you can take the ship from Cos as it comes back from Patmos island. If you are in Rhodes, ask for information at the Port Police (Tel. 27690)
BY SEA:

Daily departures from Piraeus at 12:45 a.m. with the ships of D.A.N.E Sea Line. But you have to stop and change ship at Cos or Rhodes.
If you want to go to Tilos directly without changing a ship, there is a departure once a week from Piraeus. The trip lasts 18 hours.

General and Useful information

Tilos is 64 sq. km in area and has a population of 300 with a number of small villages like Gera, Roukouni, Agriosykia, Mikro Chorio, Misargia, Kato Choria, Scafi, Megalo Chorio, Livadia, only the last two are inhabited.

TILOS’ POLICE STATION:

Tel. 44222 (Livadia area)
MEDICAL SERVICE:

Tel. 44210 ( the doctor speaks English and Italian)
POST OFFICE - TELEPHONES - TELEGRAMS:

You can be served at Megalo Chorio, but mostly at Livadia.
TRANSPORT SERVICE:

From Livadia to Megalo Chorio by bus or taxi. When you get a taxi the price is not fixed, but you can make a deal with the driver. You can also have a tour all around Tilos by a small ship.
BEACHES:

Mile-long beach in Livadia, stony at village end, shingle with sandy patches at the far end. Several other isolated coves accessible by boat and by walking. Sandy beach at Eristos (about 10 km from Livadia). Mile-long beach in Lethra, Agios Apostolos and Plaka (at Megalo Chorio)

SIGHT - SEEEING

MEGALO CHORIO: It is the capital of Tilos since the ancient times, built within the fortress and round it on the slopes of the mountain. The church of Archangel Michael was built then just outside the Hellenistic walls.

Big silver icons from the church of Taxiarchis in the castle were carried here. It’s worth seeing the wood-carved iconostasis with the pulpit and throne, works of mid 19th century. Inside and round Megalo Chorio there are numerous little 15th century churches with fine fresco-Paintings.

AGIOS ANTONIOS: A small port on the NE part of the gulf, with a few houses, a restaurant and a hotel. The most unusual thing to see is the "beach Rocks" on the coast with human skeletons dating from the 5th century B.C.

PLAKA: 3 km to the left of Agios Antonios. We get to a beautiful beach and the Plaka estate which belonged to the monastery of St. Panteleimon, which is 2 km from Plaka. It’s a road along the edge of a precipice leads to a fantastic scenery almost at the top of the mountain. Sunset is a sensational sight from up there!

COMMUNITY OF KREMASTI - RODOS

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With the corresponding document we inform you that the Community of Rhodes is the largest Community of the island of Rhodes with approximately 5.000 residents.
It is situated in the northwest side of the island and in the countershaft of Rhodes - Airport and it is 12km from the town of Rhodes and 3km far from the Airport. It is also a transporting node that connects the entire north side of the island with the city of Rhodes and the airport with the east side through the new provincial road.

Religion and Folklore events in Kremasti

It is from the prettiest Communities of Rhodes, its center is 700m far from the sea, offering beautiful and cheap touring lodgings, all kinds of shops for tourists, a verdant scenery and it is connected with the town of Rhodes through the frequent urban means of transport.

The Community of Kremasti takes up space from the ancient Ialysias.
The Castle of the Kremasti has been built since the age of the Knights of Rhodes and was the residence of the great magician. It is located on a small hill in the center of the settlement and its name is said to come either from the fact that the old built-up area overhangs around the Castle or through the paraphrase of the great magician "Grand Maestri".

A play with students of Kremasti

In the Community of Kremasti the majestic Temple of the Assumption predominates, that feasts in the 15th of August and the nine days after the funeral of Virgin Mary, that represents the Pandodecanesian Worship and the religious celebration which lasts from the 1st till the 23rd of August.

During the same period, approximately from 10 to 23 of August the Panhellenic Handicrafts’ Exhibition of Kremasti takes place in special installations.
Sumptuous cultural manifestations take place in the new year's day, the Epiphany the period of Easter and the 15th of August.

Religion and Folklore events in Kremasti

Click to Zoom in

The residents on their majority work on touring jobs and a small amount of them with the Agriculture.

Businesses of this Community

BABEL CAFE Cafe
"DOMA BAR" - "ROOF TOPS" CAFE- BAR
ESMERALDA HOTEL HOTEL APARTMENTS
GALINI GARDEN RESTAURANT - CAFE BAR
INTERNATIONAL RENT A CAR
KOALA Bar - Restaurant
"KOUKIA SMARAGDI & SONS" QUALITY CLOTHING
LOBBY CLUB CLUB
MELODY PALACE MUSIC HALL
PEGASUS RESTAURANT
PELEKANOS HOUSE RESTAURANT, CAFE-BAR