"City breaks: Carpets and culture in bustling Istanbul which strides two continents
By John Craven
Should you be strolling through the sunlit courtyards of the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, beware a smartly dressed gentleman politely asking if you could possibly tell him the result of the University boat race.
He'll explain he developed a love of rowing when he spent time in the UK but sadly the Turkish Press has no interest in the light and dark blues. Only after my wife and I spent several minutes in his charming company did his true purpose emerge - he wanted to sell us a carpet!"
More:Cultural city break in bustling Istanbul | Mail Online
