I now know entirely way too much about carpet. Turkish, Iranian, and Afghani carpet, to be exact. I was on a leisurely stroll through the park yesterday morning when I met Jessup and his cousin, Yeleni. They both reside in the states, but spend a significant amount of time here in Turkey for business purposes. Jessup owns multiple businesses throughout the country. A few hostels, restaurants, and a travel agency, just to name a few. His most coveted business is a high-end boutique selling handmade carpets from around the world. Now these are not your typical area rugs. He offers the crème de la crème to people with money – lots of it. Can you imagine spending 10K on a 4×6 rug for your entry way? Insanity, I tell you.
The carpet industry is huge here, so of course, I had plenty of questions. After a brief discussion, I was invited to follow them back to his shop, so that I could look around. I was slightly skeptical when we approached our destination, because it looked like a house; no signs or storefront to greet us. He then explained that it isn’t open to the general public. Once inside, I was greeted by his staff, Gunner and Josef (quite possibly two of the sweetest people you could ever meet). They gave me free roam of the place and provided a detailed history lesson. It was truly fascinating.
By the end of the day, I was offered a job, as well as room and board. My initial thought was, “what could I possibly bring to the table?” Well, make the Americans feel more comfortable, of course! Nothing like a young redheaded girl from the West Coast to help you pry open your wallet. It all sounded very nice, but of course, I had to decline. If I was strapped for cash or wanted to reside here long-term, I would probably consider it, but alas, that’s not the case. I’m here to enjoy myself, not work – God knows I’ve done plenty of that over the past few years. The experience would probably be a hoot, though. Can you imagine the stories I’d have to tell? I’ll hang onto his card, because you never know what the future holds…
Later that evening I decided to hit the road. I boarded an overnight bus to Geyikli, so that I could catch the morning ferry to Bozcaada. Overnight buses make me nervous. My last experience in Vietnam was horrible. Picture this if you will: Me, in the middle of nowhere, disoriented, flailing around, with bodily fluids pouring out of every possible exit… nonstop. It was one of only two times that I’ve actually wanted to die – yes, die. Sure, I can see how that sounds a bit dramatic, but it was honestly hell on earth. After that, I swore off overnight buses… until now. Never say never, I suppose.
Much to my surprise, I passed out within minutes. I dozed in and out of consciousness as we made multiple stops throughout the night. I was the only passenger left by the time we reached Geyikli. We arrived ahead of schedule, so I was dropped off on a street corner around 5am, completely clueless.
Geyikli is a tiny rundown town in the middle of nowhere. I’m convinced it only exists due to its port. I stood there for a few minutes hoping someone would come by, but quickly realized that wasn’t going to happen. I wandered the streets for a while, before catching the attention of several dogs. These were not the cute and cuddly kind either – oh, no. These were the big, dirty, and rather aggressive kind. Luckily, an old man appeared out of nowhere to rescue me. He scared off the dogs and motioned for me to follow him inside his shop. He didn’t speak any English and my Turkish is limited to “good morning” and “how are you?” After a few words, it was just hand gestures and facial expressions to follow.
We sat outside of his shop for about 45 minutes drinking tea and eventually a few of his neighbors decided to join us. One understood that I needed a ride to the ferry, so the old man was kind enough to give me a lift. I’m seriously amazed by how warm and welcoming people are here. The chances of that happening at home are slim to none. I wish I could make him cookies or send a thank you card, as his kindness was much appreciated.
I arrived at the ferry with a few hours to spare, so I decided to make myself comfortable. I found a nice spot along the shoreline, dropped my bags, and watched the sun come up over Aegean Sea. It was truly beautiful. I can’t think of a better way to start my day. Life is good, right now. Actually, scratch that… life is pretty fucking great.
