Why can't it sound more uplifting? I't sounds a bit sad.

Sorry Roswitha, but this is not one of my favorite sounds....especially early in the morning....first time I heard it...it startled me...hahaha. Even after being in Turkey for a month at one point....it still seemed strange.

yes... nice idea to include this in the turkish sounds topic )))))))))))

Bargaining for leather goods in Grand Bazaar is an art form in itself. Here are two important hints.

1. While surfing in Istanbul. You must hit leather shops at lunch hours, when you are tired and hungry. Start with the most expensive goods in the shop and make sure the bargain goes on until the shop owner himself is desparetely hungry. You will definitely be offered a free lunch. You dont have to buy any thing afterwards...Just thank him and resume surfing...Why spend your own money on lunches?

2. If you have a real intention of buying anything. Always have Turkish friend with you. He/she should keep silent until the bargain is concluded between you and the shop keeper. Before you actually pay however, your friend should take the shop keeper aside and claim his comission for bringing the tourist to his shop (10%). A comission can not be refused, hence you will enjoy a further discount on your final bargain.

Alpha... if i were you, i would edit a nice brochure (How to bargain successfully in the GB) with which the heading committee, or at least a couple of the most powerful merchants of Grand Bazaar can be blackmailed successfully. It is said that the best income is gained trough advertising. ))))))))))))))