Question

When will guests be arriving in Istanbul?

Answer

Traveling to Istanbul from the US is a long journey and there is a lot to do once there. Keeping in mind that it may take a few days to adjust to the time difference / jet lag, most guests are staying 5-7 days, some even longer. We will provide optional events starting on Wednesday, May 22nd for guests arriving early. There are also a lot of amazing things to see and experience outside of Istanbul (e.g., Cappadocia, the Aegean Coast). For more information on activities and tours, please visit the Things To Do section.

Question

Will I need a visa to enter Turkey?

Answer

No, Turkey just changed its policy. US citizens do not need to get a visa to enter Turkey.

Question

Is Istanbul safe?

Answer

Istanbul is considered a safe city for tourists and we have never had any problems - knock on wood. Dana has never felt threatened or uncomfortable by men in Istanbul. If anything, they're charmed by her Turkish (see FAQ Common Turkish Words / Phrases) or intimidated by her negotiation skills :) There are very few unhoused individuals or people asking for money on the street in Istanbul. As you would do anywhere, follow your gut and trust your intuition. If an alleyway seems seedy, don't walk down it. If a person seems dodgy, let them walk past you. Like any major city, it's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings and to take common-sense precautions, especially in high-traffic tourist areas (e.g., Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar). We feel safe openly using our phones and wearing nice clothing and jewelry. That being said, still be mindful of your belongings and watch out for scams / people who take advantage of tourists. Many people are more than happy to take as much USD from you as they can. Support local businesses and tip well, but stay aware.

Question

Will my phone work in Istanbul?

Answer

Yes, your phone should work in Istanbul - we highly recommend getting an international plan with your carrier for this trip. We have a $10 a day plan with AT&T that allows us to use our phones as we would in the US (Google Maps, calls, everything!)

Question

Is WiFi available in Istanbul?

Answer

Yes, WiFi is available in most places in Istanbul (e.g., hotels, restaurants, cafes). It can be slow, but it does work and is pretty reliable. We haven't had trouble searching the internet or streaming while in Istanbul.

Question

Do they tip in Istanbul?

Answer

Most restaurants and cafes include a service charge which is new. If you had a great experience, feel free to tip as much as you'd like though it's not expected. 100 - 200 Turkish lira goes a long way ($4-$8 USD as of October 2023)

Question

What are some common Turkish words / phrases?

Answer

We recommend learning a few key words / phrases in Turkish. It's always nice to show interest in the local language and culture, and English is not very common among locals. Google Translate will be your friend in Istanbul! Hello = Merhaba (prounounced "mehr-hah-bah") Yes = Evet (pronounced "eh-vet") No = Hayir (pronounced "hi-yeer") Please = Lütfen (pronounced "LOOT-fen") Thank You = Teşekkürler (pronounced "te-shek-you-lair") Thank You Very Much = Cok Teşekkürler (pronounced "choke te-shek-you-lair") No Thank You = Hayır teşekkürler (pronounced "hi-yeer te-shek-you-lair") Goodbye = Hoşçakal (pronounced "hosh-chah-KAHL") Good Morning = Günaydın (pronounced "goo-nihy-DUHN") Good Night = İyi geceler (pronounced "EE- geh-JEH-layr") Excuse Me = Affedersiniz (pronounced "ah-FEH-dehr-see-niz") I'm sorry = Özür dilerim (pronounced "OZ-oohr DEE-lehr-eem") How much? = Ne kadar (pronounced "neck - adar")

Question

What should I remember to bring?

Answer

1. Head scarf / shawl for visiting mosques 2. European adapters for US electrical plugs 3. Walking shoes

Question

Do many people speak English in Turkey?

Answer

There is low English literacy in Turkey, so Google Translate, patience and compassion are important.