If you could buy one thing in Istanbul what would it be?

Another carpet

But DON'T do it unless you know how to differentiate. Often, the prices are as good, if not better, at home once you figure in shipping costs, possible Customs duties, etc.

It would be that gorgeus leather coat stupid me didn´t buy last time. It was simple, thin and soft, lovely, felt and looked like made for me. Lamb, fur inside.

The shop was at the back of the Grand Bazar. I tried to "negotiate" but the shopkeeper didn´t like it. No wonder. Later at home I checked similar coats (but not even half as lovely) at home, and they cost 4 times more.

A Narghile pipe. I don't smoke but it would make a great ornament. I was going to bring one back but my wife insisted I wouldn't be able to carry it back. I still say I could've and I still haven't forgiven her for it There is some lovely ceramic wares there which would also be worth bringing back as a memento.

Worldinabag:

I have one..you can get all sorts of them on-line. I know it isn't the same as getting one over there, but....

Lots more Pashmina and cotton scarves. Some for all my friends and family. Don't buy on the first day, just see how low you can negotiate. Smile and keep negotiating. I finially got gorgeous pashmina shawls for 8 to 15 lires. Loved Istanbul.

Thanks everyone, I am looking forward to Istanbul.

Elina...how much would that coat have cost u in Istanbul?

We bought a delicate cut-glass tea set. I wish we had bought more extra tea glasses as a a few cracked! (Little did I know then you are supposed to stick a teaspoon inside before pouring hot mint tea...)

In general, I'd be very careful about "pashminas" sold in open markets... NOt just Istanbul but China, HK, US, Italy. More often than not, it does not contain real pashmina fiber but rather synthetics that has similar "feels". REAL pashminas are quite expensive (and expensive to dry clean properly).

...and Everyone (well, excluding those with dentures?) loves turkish delight. I love the pista ones but the small-cut rosewater ones are nice too.