Shopping In Iraq
Iraq was long established in the map as a trade centre, the epicenter of activity being the ancient capital of Baghdad, before strife and insurgency broke down its very core. Since the about 100 BC, Baghdad was a well known stop in the Silk route. Business travelers, students and missionaries - all were welcome in the bustling city, which had so much to offer.
With the last fifty years of fighting, economy in Iraq has broken down. But what still exits are the traditional markets or the bazaars. Selling traditional Iraqi wares, the markets are a riot of smell, color and sounds. A series of narrow lanes and passages form these markets and it is easy to get lost here. Language spoken is also by large Arabic but a lot of the shopkeepers would surprise you with their knowledge of English language, even if they may not speak it well. Bargaining is a norm but you will get the best of deal if you have local guide with you.
The range of wares sold is wide though some markets are known for certain things. Copperware is a famous in the bazaars of Baghdad while the city of Mosul is where muslin cloth originated from. But most bazaars have some things in common- they are crowded, noisy and colorful.
A range of woven rugs or carpets are another specialty of Iraqi bazaars. Many are traditionally woven at homes and sold at these markets. Bright motifs and colors mark these rugs. A wide range of cotton cloth can also bought from theses markets. Cotton is the preferred clothing choice in the long summer months in Iraq and its variety is mind boggling. The wafer-thin muslin cloth is said to be originated in the Iraqi city of Mosul and can be bought at different ranges of price. Household wares like utensils, tea, coffee spices and soap can also be bought, bringing with them the smell of traditional Iraq.
The copperware market of Baghdad is one of the most famous markets of the country. Copper is beaten into pots, pans and pitchers of all size and shape. They are also decorated with intricate engravings. One can buy these for their kitchen use or the more elaborate ones, for decorative purposes. This is one of the few traditional skills of Iraq which has survived the years of violence and suffering.
Apart from the bazaars, there is hardly any option left in the cities for shopping. For a tourist, the duty free shops inside the airport can always be the last option, before leaving the city. These sell products at reduced rates but the amount that you can spend here is also limited. One can only spend about 100 Iraqi Dinars here. Cigars and perfumes are said to be a few attractions of these shops.
The once modern and bustling cities of Iraq are now slowly trying to get back on their feet and revive the economy. While this will take time, the old flavor of Iraqi bazaars can still be an answer to a shopaholic's call.