Black sea cruise disappointment

[cruzemaven]

We were so looking forward to revisiting Istanbul with a special interest in returning to the Grand Bazaar with our friends who have never been there. Unfortunately, I just learned that the Grand Bazaar, one of the most unusual and interesting markets in the world, is closed on sundays and sunday is the day the Insignia is going be there. Having been to Istanbul several times, we have covered the historical and religious sights thoroughly and thought that the Grand Bazaar would be our one shopping adventure on a 12 day itinerary that is steeped in historical sights. Too bad Oceania couldn't have planned to go to Dikili, Turkey on sunday and then to Istanbul on monday instead of the other way around. Oh well, just thought I'd would pass this along to those of you who are planning to go on this cruise...cross off the Grand Bazaar!

[SeaCCruiser]

I am sorry you won't be able to visit the Grand Bazaar, but perhaps the Spice Market is open on Sundays. We bought beautiful gold jewelry and caviar at the Spice Market, the colorful spices arranged in cone-shape mounds were a feast for the eyes, and it was less hectic than the GB. The itinerary sounds wonderful, hope you have a great time!

[cruzemaven]

Unfortunately, the spice market is closed on sundays as well. I know there are many other sights for first time visitors to see....I just feel it's ashame for the passengers on this cruise to miss out on one of the top highlights IMHO. It's not often one gets to Istanbul! While where on the topic...we're looking for suggestions for something unique or unusual to see in Istanbul. Having been there several times, we feel we've seen all the well known sights. So, we would love to hear suggestions of lesser known sights we might have missed. Thanks.