Into the Mystic and Out the Hookah

After the Cruise Down the Bosphorus (see SB's previous post) it was time to experience the local cuisine.  Most notable, unfortunately, was the fermentted carrot juice. Despite this godforsaken drink there were still brightspots to the meal.  Such as the Ilskander and the Kofte (both local favorites).  As we let our stomachs digest our group strategized the next move.  There was a large clamor for a local hamam, which is apparently a heaven sent scrub down and massage.  The women and The Baby Faced Angel Brian Fisher went to the Hamam to treat themselves.  The men went to cheat themselves and abuse their lungs and wallets at the Hookah bar Star Cafe.

Comprised of 4 champions we predictably decided to turn everything and anything into a competition... as all testosterone driven species do.  There were many suggestions for the rulings of what would count towards our hypothetical crown.  Although several days later there are still no clear rules there has been  an important precedent:  any form of creative and witty insult to another member of our pack deserves a point; however you will be penalized if the taunting lacks creativity and humor.  With this being our Magna Carta we decided to govern ourselves and let loose on Istanbul.

As we strutted our stuff down the bustling streets of Istanbul we must have given off a "special" vibe because every single vendor told us they had a "special price" - JUST FOR US.  After being convinced to spend our Turkish Lira at Star Cafe we sat down for what would become that cafe's most epic 5 hr showing of persistence, endurance, and power.  The vendor Saladeesh (possibly misspelled) brought us out some Effes beers and an Apple and Mint hookah.  As we lounged on the couch our banter hit full effect.  With our ostentatious attempts at temporary dominance we caught the attention of many locals and tourists.  The crowds started to fill in this cafe and our hearty laughter only increased in decibels.  Saladeesh even stareted joining in our "tomfoolery," an unnamed contestant actually used that word and was naturally awarded 3 points.  We made friends with many of the other customers as well, as they joined the conversation at some of the more meaningful points. Such as when Fisher joined us. And I quote an adjacent couch "Did you just get back from a hamam? because you are glowing!"  Needless to say the jury was unsure on how to handle that interaction and Silky Smooth Fisher was both awarded and deducted a point at the same time.  The adjacent customer was entered into the competition as a write in and was awarded the maximum 10 points allowed for one move.

After a few hours Saladeesh brought us out more shisha (hookah tobacco) and even gave us his favorite mix for free - grape, wine, and vodka.  This epic display of iron will continued for a painful 5 hrs.  As we disembarked and literally hugged our new friends at Star Cafe they promised if we are to return they will pay for some of our purchases.  I would be remiss if I didn't name the introductory champion - TJ the Tiger.... 

(Seated from left to right: Dan aka Hippy, Luke the Duke, Scotty the Body, TJ aka Tiger)

After the competition was over we were left to navigate our way back to the hotel and marvel at how wonderful this city truly is. 

LJ