A Little Taste of Turkey

So I'm back from Turkey, refreshed and revived -- though a vacation from my vacation might be in high order. While I'm getting back into the swing of hectic NYC life, here's a pictorial taste of my travels...

the delicious meze plate at Antiochia in Istanbul, amazing food, chic neighborhoody resto

a bounty of ikat prints at the infamous Grand Bazaar, the owner of this shop sells fabric to Donna Karan

the morning spread at Padma hotel in Alacati, homemade jams, spreads etc... possibly the BEST bfast I've ever had

Istanbul's historic Spice Market: more spices, nuts, dried fruit & teas than I could ever imagine

some of fresh produce displayed on nearly every street corner in Istanbul

the massive (& gorgeous) wooden table at Macakizi hotel in Bodrum, perfect for relaxed beachfront dining

a super cool lamp for the high-concept design store/firm Autoban in Istanbul

me and my traveling partner-in-crime Lauren at a cute cafe in Alacati

there's no better to wind down a sunny afternoon than with a glass of rose` & some light snacks

Favorite Finds: Inspirational Ikat

In my frenetic, last-minute preparations for my trip to Turkey tomorrow, I figured a bit of graphic, colorful inspiration would be an appropriate adieu. The ikat trend was all over runways this season and I've scouted some great pieces that translate the trend to the table for a cool, fun dining experience with a touch of exoticism.

Fingers crossed that the airspace ash currently affecting Spain, Morocco and of course Turkey will subside and our flight takes off on time tomorrow. Until then, I'll be tying up loose ends at work and dreaming about exploring Turkey's incredible spice markets, shopping it up at Istanbul's infamous Grand Bazaar, wandering through breath-taking mosques and historic sites, delving into Turkish cuisine face-first, relaxing at the baths and taking in all the other sights, sounds, smells and tastes that everyone and their mother has been raving about to me upon learning of my travel plans. And not to worry, I'll be documenting my experiences along the way...stay tuned and bon voyage!

1. Ikat napkins | Anthropologie, $8 each

2. Vintage Uzbek ikat porcelain teapot | Distant LA, $94.99 *featured in May 2010 Elle Decor

3. Java platter | Home, James! East Hampton, $150

4. Ikat fabric table runner | Sheherazade, NYC, $25

5. Ikat plates | Dandelion SF, coming soon

6. Ikat bowl | Anthropologie, $14 each