On the return trip to Kusadasi, we stopped for a demonstration of one of Turkeys best known products, Carpets. Our host gave us an education in the differences between the various types of carpets available.

First they brought out a selection of wool on cotton rugs. These contained 90, 110 or 250 knots per inch. Evidenced by the detail one could see on the back side of the carpets.

Before giving that explanation our host asked whether we thought in metric or English units. He observed that the US is converting to metric units - inch by inch. He went on to explain that the cost of the carpet is proportional to the number of knots, since that relates to the labor to make it.

It was obvious we were having difficulty with the math, so our host called to Ali Babba and his 40 teas. We got some hot apple tea to make the brain work better. Cheers - Che La Pet.

By now he felt comfortable enough with our perception to bring out his favorite carpets, wool on wool. These are the nomadic ones, the tribal ones.

The wool fibers are much thicker than cotton as is evidenced by the fringes at the end of the carpet. Since wool is so-o-o thick the carpets are 10, 20, 30 or 40 knots per inch.

With so few knots per inch, the designs on wool on wool are quite simple, geometric designs. They resemble the mats the American Indians made. Since much fewer knots means less workmanship these are the cheapest carpets. He reiterated that the finest is not the best. The finest is the finest. The best is the one you like the most.

And finally we were brought out the finest carpets, the Silk on Silk. 400 to 1000 knots per inch.

With this much knot density, very intricate patterns are possible. They threw out plenty of smaller ones of this style. In order to fly home on one, one needs to know the magic words - Visa Cadabra. Our host pointed out that silk is the strongest material available, so it is possible to walk on these carpets. But if you do, you must have very valuable feet. He also noted that buying such a carpet is like buying her a fine piece of jewelry. She doesn't need it. Chances are if she wants it she'll get it anyway. Whether she deserves it or not is not for him to say.