| •
Where
should we change money? |
Do
not change money before you arrive in Turkey, the rate is likely
to be very low. At the port entry, the exchange rate may still
be lower (but not to that extend) than the actual market, but
it will be convenient if you change the amount that should be
enough for the next couple of days. Refer to 'travel tips' for
estimated personal expenses.
Change offices will give you a much higher rate for cash. To
cash traveler cheques you will need your passport, and foreign
exchange department of certain banks may ask for the receipt
with the cheque numbers on it. |
| Turkey
is one of the safest countries in Europe. Crime rate is low
as a result of strong family bonds, social traditions and values,
and religion. There is no such problem in the countryside, but
in cosmopolitan areas and large cities, like the rest of the
world, you should be aware of pickpockets in crowds and on public
transportation. The odds are low, but it does not hurt to be
cautious. |
| •
Any
restrictions on clothing? |
| In
mosques, women are expected to cover their head with a scarve,
appreciated as a sign of respect. But this is not a rule that
is enforced all the time. Shoulders and knees need to be covered
for both men and women, and you are required to take your shoes
off as you go in. |
| •
Is
there any attitude against foreign travelers? |
| People
of Turkey are easy going, and they are not prejudiced. There
is no attitude against travelers. |
| •
Are
there any health concerns? |
| None.
No shots are required at the time for travel in Turkey, and
this is unlikely to change. Visit the web page www.cdc.gov/travel
(Centers for Disease Control) for updates. |
| •
How
about public transport... |
Public
transportation in Turkey takes a great deal of getting used
to. It is inexpensive and rather casual. It may be very complicated
though, as when you take a municipal bus, it is hard to tell
where you are heading, or where to get off. Busses may get crowded,
we mean very crowded, especially during rush hour.
“Dolmus” is the alternative way. It is a shared
taxi or a van that operates between set points at a set fare.
You can get on and off anywhere on its route.
Taking a cab is the easiest way to get around in Istanbul. Due
to the law, all taxicabs have to be registered at local stations.
Still, Istanbul is a great wave-’em-down taxi town. You
may easily find a cab waiting by the side of the road, or passing
by.
In Old Town Istanbul, the tram is rather convenient, and makes
a private car unnecessary. Stops are centrally located, within
short walking distance to major attractions. Recently the track
was extended over the Golden Horn to the new district, as part
a new project to ease the city traffic.
On the other hand, public ferries provide a great alternative
to land transportation between Asian and European districts
of the city. |
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