While entering Turkey with blank slate of expectations, I left the country with a newfound liking for their coffee, chocolate, people, and of course, a lot more. These photographs were taken of Izmir, Turkey in October 2008. And while Izmir, may appear to be overshadowed by the two larger cities, Istanbul and Ankara, it held its own history, modern culture, and beauty truly unique.  It was commercialized, housed brand names, and strong business men walked the streets. But at the same time, historic bazaars and traditional Muslim dress were just as common.The Turkish coffee and chocolate was delicious and could make eyes google at storefront windows. And the Turkish people, friendly and open. I met more unique, inquisitive, and polite people in Izmir than in many of my travels.  Returning to Turkey is on a list of goals, potentially to see venture the crossroads of Istanbul, or even back to Izmir.