FAQs
Question
Weather in Istanbul
Answer
August in Istanbul features warm afternoons and evenings but comfortable late nights and early mornings with mostly sunny skies. Daytime average high temperatures are around 27-28C
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Currency
Answer
Turkish Lira is the sole currency. Currency exchange offices and ATMs are widely available. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Though still, it helps to carry cash 1 USD = ~32 Turkish Lira at this time
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Shopping
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Istanbul has some of the best shopping malls - Historical & modern. You can find many worldwide known brands as well as local boutique stores with great clothes, souvenirs and treats Bargaining is essential in bazaars, street sellers or souvenir stores. Start with 50%! : )
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Transportation in Istanbul
Answer
Public transport is safe and widely available. Subways are in good condition and network gets expanded every year. Get an 'Istanbulkart' with 10 use for easier access if you plan to use Traffic is tricky especially in rush hour. We do not recommend you renting a car unless you are up for the experience! Uber is not operating in Turkey at this time! Uber alternative taxi app is called BiTaksi with Credit Card payment available Yellow cabs are widely accessible outside the apps. Though beware! Many drivers may not speak English. You will likely need to pay cash (POS devices are getting more widely available - e.g. especially you can ask for that at the Airport taxi) And again, good to check your route via google maps as some drivers will try to take much longer routes. Taxi rates are in Turkish Liras. If a cab driver asks for payment in Euro or USD, avoid that. Ferry is best option to cross to Asian side given the experience. Widely available in Besiktas, Eminonu, Karakoy etc Feel free to have some Simit (Turkish bagel - a must try for breakfast!) in your backpacked to feed the seagulls following you!
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Visa Requirements
Answer
Visa requirements: https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa e-visa for the following citizens: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/info/can-the-citizens-of-all-the-countries-eligible-for-e-visa-obtain-a-visa-on-arrival/
Question
Language
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Turkish is not like any other language we know of... Easy to find English speakers in touristy areas. But if you would like to learn few basic phrases: https://www.livingoutlau.com/basic-phrases-turkish-for-tourists/
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Water
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Recommend to drink bottled water. Completely safe to brush your teeth etc. using tap water
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Tipping in Istanbul
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10% is the standard tip for restaurants and bars. While it is not a "have to", sure it would be very much appreciated For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash. No need to look for 10%
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Cats in Istanbul
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The cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves.