If you go to Istanbul, Turkey and you love Interior Design, go to these 5 great interior design places.

1 & 2. The first place is the Sofa Hotel and its restaurant, Longtable. It is located right across the street from the Fashion Design Institute of Istanbul.

Address: The Hotel Sofa, Lobby Kati Tesvikiye Caddesi No. 123 34367 Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey Ph: 90 212 224 81 81

3. The third place is Mabel Cikoclata. This chocolate store has been around since 1947. Their chocolates are unique and delightful.

Address: Vali Konagi Caddesi 32/1 Nisatasi, Istanbul, Turkey Ph: 90 212 225 27 89 www.mabel.com.tr

4. Let’s talk about BNG Tunel. This women’s wearing apparel boutique is both a la mode and affordable, what a extraordinary combination.

Address: BNG Tunel Tunel Meydani 14 Beyoglu Istanbul 34420, Turkey Ph: 90 212 251 97 26 www.bng-design.com

5. Last but not least we have the Spice Bazaar. I recomend everyone to go to the Spice Bazaar rather than the Grand Bazaar. I got a little overwhelmed with the Grand Bazaar between all the junk they sell and the jewelry stores that sell all the small pieces. At the spice bazaar, the merchants let you try various kinds of candy that are called “Turkish Delight”. These make a great gift for that special loved one. Also if you have a “chef” in your family the spice set will make a perfect gift. They will be thrilled. As far as interior design goes, the glass vases are pretty and would look great in someone’s contemporary home, but with the airlines and their weight restrictions I think and recommend it would be better to ship the items home. It would be cheaper in the long run!

So, where do you start? What do you want the theme to be? Maybe beach theme bedrooms, nautical theme design, country themed? When you look at magazines what designs do you see that catch you eye? Do you look through Elle Decor, Home Magazine, Better Homes and Gardens or Metropolitan Home. These are some different styles.

After you’ve decided on the theme the next thing is to start with the furniture. That is the biggest and hardest to move and place. Move it to where you think but then get a second opinion from an San Diego interior designer or San Diego interior decorator like me and re-work the room and the colors you want. Think about the feel of the room. What colors do you like and especially do not like. That’s important - what is important? Photos? Art, etc. People collect for a reason. Let’s show off your collection! That is why you bought it in the first place! Also, have fun, this is your home, not your business. This is the place to relax and enjoy!

I am a big believer that even though a move is very stressful; by using the services of a interior designer or interior decorator, this can be a smooth transaction. Also, a good one has a suggested list of people I have worked with over many years that can help you do the things you need. From a housekeeper, to a handyman, to an electrican. You name it, I probably have them on my speed dial list.

Also, really think about the color you and if you have a husband, what he likes. Maybe he likes cool tones- blues, greens, etc and you like warm tones. There are ways to blend them together to create a seamless fit. That is why using an interior design firm is a good way to bounce ideas to make both of your dreams come true.

Now that you learned some new tips, have fun working in your new home. Remember that using the help of an interior designer will make moving less stressful to you and your loved ones.