I bought this Pashmina in Istanbul for the prize.
I looked for fabric everywhere but didn't find any that wasn't made into something.
In its grander squares, 19th century buildings are newly renovated.
Most people live in 1950’s style apartments
and shop in open markets.
We visited churches,
parks, and a museum. The people are very proud of their independence and are working hard to move their country forward.
Students performed dances in their traditional dress at dockside.
and beaches.
We drove into the mountains to see the future site of the 2014 winter Olympics.
This old wooden house was once the typical style of the country.
Its former leader lived in this house during the summer, painted green to camouflage its location.
We are dwarfed by both its height and width. You can get lost amongst the 4000 shops under one roof
where everything from sweets and spices to jewelry and ceramics are sold.
The local drink is healthy
but everyone smokes in spite of bold “ Smoking Kills” on the cartons.
As we leave this grand city, we are off to more exotic destinations.



This is a giveaway/contest. I will be posting pictures of places we are visiting. You earn one entry for a comment on each post (including this one) without guessing. You can earn a second and third entry by emailing me the correct city and country pictured. DO NOT GIVE AWAY the location in your comments. I promise some nice prizes but I also hope you will have some fun.