Monday, May 31, 2010

Travel Bite: Turkish Viagra



Turkish Viagra is a ubiquitous moniker for various kinds of dried fruits and nuts I saw throughout Istanbul's Spice Bazaar. Frankly, I don't know if there's any truth to its claim of increased prowess or longevity.


In fact, rather than combatting it, I think their Viagra actually promotes E.D. (Eating Double). I know that I can go for four to six hours.*


I'm not sure why some are referred to as Viagra and others aren't, but you'd think the generic brand would be cheaper.


I came upon this Viagra market on the side of the road in the remote region of Cappadocia in central Turkey. I sure hope Pfizer isn't planning a hostile takeover.


The landscape in Cappadocia is fascinating, to say the least, with churches and houses carved into immense volcanic rocks.


Maybe the demand for Viagra explains why there are so many cave hotels (love nests?) like this one in the town of Goreme. Hey, whatever gets you through the night. In my case it was fig, apricot, date, almond, pistachio, hazelnut and walnut.

*Warning: Dried fruits and nuts are not recommended for everyone. Talk to your doctor first and see if Turkish Viagra is right for you.

10 comments:

  1. Prowess and longevity? What's that... I love that last pic. I have a Turkish cookbook that explains exactly how those rock formations came to be and even has a lovely dessert designed to look just like them. Despite the news today I long to visit Turkey. Would you take me? GREG

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  2. Greg, I was actually reading your review of the Turkish cookbook on your blog the other day by the Maloufs. I would like to see that book!

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  3. What a clever marketing ploy. I'm sure the tourists eat it up (literally). Whether it increases sexual drive or eating double, it's all about the appetite. I think the latter would be really dangerous for me.

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  4. Is that a brand, a marketing ploy or is viagra a Turkish word for dates, or nuts or something?
    Thought provoking post, Adair.

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  5. Andrea and Lynne,
    As far as I could tell, it was pure marketing hype. I have done a lot of searches online for it and can't find any real info on the subject.

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  6. How funny!

    Your pictures are stunning. I've never been to Turkey, but I hope to visit one of these days.

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  7. I am in love with Turkey and Istanbul and especially the spice bazaar! I was there in December and bought some sahlep (to make Arabic ice-cream) and other goodies; did not see the Turkish viagra or I would have bought some too! Capadoccia looks fascinating; I want to visit and spend a few nights in a hotel inside a cave! (as long as I don't have to sleep with bats!)

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  8. Ok, thats it, I'm cyber stalking you now, as in adding you to my google reader. You are funny and I want to hear what else you have opinions on. So keep it coming.

    (I don't know how I found you but I am glad I did)

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  9. Welcome, Brenda! Stalk away!

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  10. Simple and clear. Keep Posting. Order through buy medicines online with discount and take care of your health

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