Exploring Kurdistan's Night Markets with Luke Damant: A Shopping Adventure in Erbil
Night markets are some of the most exciting places to visit in any city. They’re bustling with energy, packed with vendors selling everything from street food to clothes, and offer a perfect blend of local culture and commerce. In his latest vlog, Kurdistan's Greatest Crepe Cooker (watch it here), Australian YouTuber Luke Damant takes viewers on a lively night market tour through Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. His adventure highlights not only the food and shopping, but also the hospitality and culture that make Kurdistan a fantastic travel destination.
In this article, we will walk through Luke’s night market experience, from his search for street food to buying knock-off branded items, giving you a detailed look at what makes Erbil’s night markets a must-visit for travelers.
The Grand Bazaar in Erbil: A Night Market Like No Other
Luke’s journey begins in the heart of Erbil, where he and his friend Mac explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the city’s most famous marketplaces. Known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of goods, the bazaar offers a wide variety of items, from traditional Kurdish goods to modern knock-offs of well-known brands.
The Grand Bazaar is particularly vibrant at night, when locals and tourists alike come to shop, eat, and enjoy the electric ambiance. The area is well-lit, and the towering Erbil Citadel casts a majestic presence over the market, giving the entire experience an air of history and tradition.
Travel Tip:
The Grand Bazaar in Erbil is a great place for visitors to explore local culture, food, and products. For a more immersive experience, visit in the evening when the market is at its liveliest. Be ready to haggle, as bargaining is a common practice in Kurdish markets!
A Foodie’s Dream: Shawarma and Street Snacks
One of the first things Luke and Mac do is hunt for food, a recurring theme in Luke’s travel vlogs. On this night, they’re in the mood for a traditional Kurdish snack: shawarma. After wandering the streets, they find a small shawarma stand offering fresh, juicy chicken shawarma. Luke eagerly orders one, explaining that it’s always exciting to taste local takes on this Middle Eastern staple.
The shawarma is filled with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and a mix of local vegetables, all wrapped in soft, fresh bread. Luke praises the shawarma’s soft texture, explaining that it’s crucial for the bread to be tender to fully enjoy the flavors inside. The highlight, according to Luke, is the balance of the meat and the freshness of the ingredients.
As they eat, Luke compares the shawarma to other versions he’s tried in Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East. While the Kurdish version may not top his all-time favorite, it’s still a delicious and satisfying meal that costs just a few dollars—a perfect budget-friendly snack for travelers.
Travel Tip:
Street food in Erbil is delicious, cheap, and varied. Don’t leave Kurdistan without trying a traditional chicken shawarma. Look for busy food stalls, as they tend to offer fresher and tastier meals.
The Art of Bargaining: Shopping for Knock-Offs
After satisfying their hunger, Luke and Mac dive into the shopping scene, where they encounter countless vendors selling affordable knock-off items. Watches, wallets, belts, and bags are all available, featuring familiar luxury brand names like Rolex, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton—but at a fraction of the price.
Luke tries on a Tissot watch, which the vendor claims is a high-quality copy. At first, the watch doesn’t even work, as it’s missing a battery, but that doesn’t stop Luke from negotiating. Through light-hearted haggling, he manages to bring the price down, securing the watch for just 7,000 Iraqi dinars (about $5 USD). Though the vendor initially asks for more, Luke’s bargaining skills, honed through years of travel, pay off.
The fun continues when Luke finds a Gucci wallet, marked at 6,000 dinars (approximately $4). He jokes about how this new “Gucci” wallet will make him look like a high-roller back home. Ultimately, he leaves the market with his prized finds: a stylish knock-off watch, a Gucci wallet, and a sense of accomplishment.
Travel Tip:
When shopping in Kurdish markets, expect to encounter a lot of knock-off luxury goods. If you’re interested in buying these items, always haggle—it’s part of the experience. Vendors often start with high prices, but with a little bargaining, you can get great deals.
A Touch of Humor: Luke’s “Cock Hat” Find
One of the more humorous moments in the vlog comes when Luke stumbles upon a unique hat featuring the word “cock” printed in large letters on the front. Clearly amused, he decides to try it on, instantly falling in love with its quirkiness. Despite the odd design, Luke calls it the perfect souvenir, making the “Cock Hat” his new signature look for the night.
This moment captures Luke’s fun and playful approach to travel. He’s not just visiting new places to see the sights; he’s there to experience the local culture in all its weird and wonderful forms.
Travel Tip:
Keep an open mind when exploring markets in Kurdistan. You never know what odd or funny souvenirs you might find, and often, these unique items become cherished memories of your trip.
Kurdish Hospitality: Meeting Locals at the Market
Throughout his night market adventure, Luke is greeted by friendly locals, who are eager to engage with him and share their stories. He strikes up conversations with shop owners, street vendors, and even other tourists, learning about their lives and experiences in Kurdistan.
At one point, Luke speaks with a shopkeeper from Bangladesh, who has been living in Erbil for several years. The conversation highlights the diversity of people living in the region and the warm welcome extended to visitors from around the world. Luke’s interactions with locals are a reminder of the hospitality for which Kurdistan is known.
Travel Tip:
When visiting markets in Kurdistan, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with vendors and locals. Many people speak basic English, and they’re often more than happy to chat, share their stories, or offer recommendations for your trip.
Night Market Atmosphere: The Heart of Kurdish Culture
The energy and atmosphere of Erbil’s night markets are palpable. From the neon-lit stalls to the bustling crowds, it’s clear that the market is more than just a place to buy goods—it’s a central part of Kurdish life. People of all ages come together to shop, eat, and socialize, making the market a vibrant hub of activity.
Luke captures this lively atmosphere perfectly in his vlog, with scenes of crowded alleyways, street vendors preparing food, and groups of people relaxing with a shisha in hand. The market provides a glimpse into everyday life in Kurdistan, where modernity blends with tradition in a seamless and captivating way.
Travel Tip:
To experience the full vibrancy of Kurdish culture, visit the markets in the evening. The energy is infectious, and the cooler night air makes for a more comfortable shopping and dining experience.
Why Kurdistan’s Night Markets are a Must-Visit
Luke Damant’s night market adventure in Erbil offers a snapshot of the unique blend of culture, commerce, and cuisine that makes Kurdistan such an exciting destination for travelers. From street food like shawarma to bargain shopping for knock-off luxury items, the night markets in Erbil are a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
The hospitality of the Kurdish people, the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, and the variety of goods on offer make these markets a fantastic place to experience the heart of Kurdish culture. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, a delicious meal, or simply an unforgettable evening out, Kurdistan’s night markets are sure to deliver.
For more insights into Luke Damant’s travels through Kurdistan and his shopping spree in Erbil, be sure to watch the full video on YouTube !
Final Travel Tip:
When visiting Kurdistan’s markets, be sure to bring cash (preferably in small denominations) as many vendors don’t accept cards. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.