Souq Wakif

I realize I didn't have the comment setting turned on so readers should be able to comment on these posts from now on. It's hard to explain in words just how amazing the Souq Wakif was so I thought I'd post a few pictures from our excursion today.

 (above) Here we have Diana, our instructor, shortly after bartering for a couple of pashminas. After several prior trips to India, she's an avid haggler.

 Tanis, trying on a necklace (which Laura later bought).

 Me and my new hat (thanks Sears!)

 For lunch, we went to an Iranian restaurant. We thought we were going to a little cafe in the centre of the market, but it turned out this place was more like a palace. This is one of the private rooms, which the Amir uses to entertain guests. The owner was kind enough to give us a bit of tour when he saw our eyes bulge out of our heads (Natalia) when we first walked in off the street. Best. Picture. Ever.

This picture doesn't really give it justice: this place was literally glowing!

Look at this hallway! And the intricate detail on the wall! It was probably one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. I don't know about the rest of my group but I was giddy with joy just to be out of the heat and in an air conditioned building again. Mark my words, I will never complain about the heat in Toronto ever again!

 Natalia and Tanis modeling pashminas.

Laura, with her new necklace.

 The owner brought us tiny plates with mint, goat cheese, walnuts and radish when we sat down.

An eggplant appetizer with burnt onion (top), fresh watermelon juice with mint (bottom).

 Mint tea with mint leaves, sugar and a nougat.

La crème de la crème: home made pistachio and saffron ice cream.