Is it safe for Black Americans in Turkey? I was invited to sail the Turkish Riviera with SCIC-Sailing luxury charter yacht company. on an all-Black Press trip.
When I told my friends and family I was traveling to Turkey every single person asked me if it was a good idea because Turkey wasn’t safe.
This article will discuss is Turkey safe and specifically ‘Is Bodrum safe?’ That’s one of the most common questions that Black Americans ask before they decide to cruise and visit Turkey.
Turkey has a serious problem with its international image. Americans see the country as a breeding ground and facilitator of Islamic terrorism.
They also see it as a violent place where visitors have to be ready for a terrorist attack which is not true but this misconception refuses to go away.
There were 4 mass shootings in the US this week alone but somehow Americans are brainwashed to believe other destinations are unsafe which is so bizarre to me.
The easy answer to this question is yes; Bodrum is a very safe place to vacation in Turkey, but there are some precautions you should take while visiting Turkey as an African American tourist as you would any other destination.
This article goes over all of the travel and safety tips you need to know before going on a luxury Turkish cruise with the SCIC-Sailing Cruise from Bodrum.
There are so many common misconceptions about Turkey that is all over Beyonce’s innanets that I had no choice but to clear these misconceptions up regarding traveling to Bodrum, Turkey.
About 75% of the country is Turkish, about 20% is Kurdish, and the remaining 5% are all other minorities.
First of all, Turkey is not an Arabic country. This makes the official language Turkish not Arabic and the Turkish Alphabet is Latin Alphabet.
Turkey is a secular, democratic country (Republic of Turkey). Although most of the citizens are Muslim (98% of people), there is no obligation to wear a burka.
You are free to wear whatever you want.
Even though drinking alcohol is not popular among religious people, you can buy and drink alcohol. In some regions of Turkey, especially on the Mediterranean coast, there are some amazing wineries, and there’s even a Turkish brand of beer; Efes Pilsen.
Is it Safe to Cruise on a Luxury Turkish Gulet?
If you are planning a Turkish gulet cruise getaway with your family or friends, but your most significant worry is safety.
Let me put your fears to sleep because Turkey and especially Bodrum is one of the safest most luxurious destinations for Black Americans.
Some Americans have a fear of traveling to a Muslim country. I’m here to tell you, after visiting Bodrum that while Turkey is a Muslim majority country, its laws are mostly not based on religion.
I never felt unsafe in Turkey and I didn’t worry about carrying my backpack in the front, I never worried about my electronics being stolen nor did I worry about becoming a victim of petty crime.
Turkey is a very large country known for its hospitable people and Mediterranean cuisine.
Sailing Turkey on an SCIC-Sailing luxury yacht you can discover historical cities, beautiful coastline, sparkling sea, amazing food, and incredible nature.
There has been a spread of misinformation and fear among tourists. For this reason, it is no surprise you are asking “Is Turkey safe?” In this post, I will help you understand fact from fiction when traveling to Bodrum Turkey.
Perhaps you want to go on a gulet cruise in Turkey, but safety issues worry your mind.
You should know that it is safe to travel to Turkey, especially when going on a gulet cruise since they take part in touristic regions far from problematic areas.
Unfortunately, tourism suffered in the last few years because of the political situation that was happening in some parts of the country.
To be exact, tourists are being advised to avoid the regions near the Syrian border, which can be uncertain.
Contrary to depictions in some media outside Turkey, this country is generally safe, people are polite and helpful, regardless of other person’s nationality.
As a matter of fact, it is among the top 10 most popular destinations in the world.
Turkey Travel Restriction 2022
The Turkish government has several travel restrictions that it uses to control its borders. This includes special measures to protect security and health in the country.
Due to COVID-19, Turkey introduced travel restrictions on foreign visitors in the interest of public safety. Turkey’s Covid restrictions have been reviewed and updated throughout the pandemic.
Yes, Turkey is open to tourism. Travelers of all nationalities who meet Turkey’s immigration regulations can enter the country following the rules outlined below.
As always, foreigners need a passport and a valid visa or a copy of an approved online eVisa to travel to Turkey.
Visitors should check the latest lockdown update and travel advisories. Turkey’s travel restrictions for tourists are under constant review as the international situation evolves.
Who May Not Travel to Turkey
The Turkish government does not prohibit any nationalities from entering Turkey. The same COVID-19 requirements now apply to passengers arriving from all countries.
Most international tourists can travel to Turkey either visa-free or, for those fitting the requirements, with an eVisa.
SPECIAL COVID-19 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS IN TURKEY
Additional procedures are in place to safeguard the health of residents and tourists in Turkey. To be granted entry to the country, visitors from overseas are required to comply with the following special coronavirus rules.
Complete a “Traveler Entry Form” before arrival
All incoming passengers over the age of 6 must complete a “Traveler Entry Form” at least four days before their arrival in Turkey. Children under 6 are exempt.
The purpose of the form is to contact individuals who have been in contact with someone who later tested positive for COVID-19.
Visitors should provide contact information and the accommodation address in Turkey.
The “Form for Entry to Turkey” must be completed online and takes a few minutes. All passengers need to present it before boarding a flight to Turkey and again on arrival.
- Turkish Ministry of Health announced on April 26, 2022, that masks are only required indoors in public and education transportation vehicles and health institutions.
- U.S. citizens planning to travel overseas or currently overseas and planning to return to the United States should contact their airline for specific information about testing requirements for travelers. Airlines may adopt and modify their own specific policies to implement the CDC’s testing rule.
Country-Specific Information:
- Turkey has confirmed cases of COVID-19 within its borders.
- The Turkish Ministry of Health releases Turkey’s daily vaccination and COVID-19 numbers at https://covid19.saglik.gov.tr/.
- Passengers, regardless of their nationality, over the age of 18 who have not been vaccinated
Tourists/Non-Citizens: or with no record of Covid-19 (recovery) are required to submit PCR tests with a negative result, performed at most 48 hours before their domestic flight, as of September 6, 2021. - PCR tests are not required in domestic flights for those who are vaccinated and flight is at least 14 days after the second dose or for those who are in the immunity period after a Covid19 infection.
US Department of State
The US Department of State has a travel warning on its website which includes this (as of September 2019) Level 2 warning:
“Exercise Increased Caution” is the statement for the whole of Turkey with only the below significant warnings mentioned:
“Do not travel to:
- Areas near the Syrian and Iraqi borders due to terrorism. (Level 4)
Reconsider travel to:
- Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli, and Van (Level 3)”
Read the entire Travel Advisory.
The Embassy of the United States in Ankara website also issues useful advice.
The Best Turkish Gulet Yacht Charter Company
SCICSailing Turkish Gulet Charter
Chartering a Turkish Gulet from SCIC- Sailing is a great chance to do all of these things, and more. Depending on which Turkish Gulet you charter with SCIC-Sailing you will have access to swimming, beaches, and even exploring Cleopatra’s Island.
For many people, Turkish cruise tours are an unparalleled vacation opportunity. There’s something to be said for taking in all that luxury while traveling; it’s different than any other vacation experience out there.
One thing is for sure: It’s one that can only be truly understood by experiencing it yourself! If you’re planning on visiting Bodrum, I highly recommend looking into booking a luxury cruise as part of your trip.
These cruises offer guests some of the best amenities around – from lounging on the deck to delicious gourmet food prepared daily– not to mention some breathtaking views.
Cruising is often viewed as an activity for older adults but I traveled with content creators of all ages with my husband and me being the oldest at 50.
I suggest you visit Bodrum, Turkey now as it is slowly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and each year the number of visitors is increasing.
Turkish authorities are doing a good job of providing safety, and security is high so you should feel safe as long as you keep out of borders with Syria.
There is no true reason to fear a Turkish gulet cruise here are a few additional reasons to visit Bodrum:
- Turkey has very hospitable welcoming people, especially African American tourists.
- Taste some of the greatest cuisines and desserts that will leave you wanting more.
- Visit historic towns like Bodrum, Gocek, Antalya, Marmaris, and Fethiye.
- Visit Turkish villages.
- Turkey’s coast also has some of the most stunning beaches in the world followed by resorts that are surrounded by the turquoise sea and it offers some of the best value for money vacation options
- !Gulets originated from Turkey and this type of vacation can guarantee you the best possible luxury cruise experience in the privacy and comfort on board.
- All gulets also come with a professional English-speaking crew who provide excellent service during the whole cruise. In Turkey, you can get the best value for your money than anywhere else!
SCICSailing INFORMATION
For further details, visit the ScicSailing website to download the ScicSailing Sailing Brochure which is full of photography and facts.
The ScicSailing sailing cruises are 1 or 2 weeks from Saturday to Saturday
Individual sailing cruise 1 week per person including breakfast/lunch/5 dinners/all snacks in-between and all drinks including alcohol is priced from $1071.00 to $1271.
Request a ScicSailing Holiday Brochure here.
Website: scicsailing.eu/en/
Email: info@scicsailing.eu
Terrorism in Bodrum
The chances of you being a victim of terrorism in Bodrum are extremely low. Bodrum is probably one of the safest destinations in Turkey and you don’t even have to worry about pickpocketing let alone terrorism.
Is Bodrum Safe for Solo Travelers?
It is very safe to travel to Bodrum alone as a Black woman. Because Bodrum is located off of the coast they are accustomed to seeing swimming suits, shorts, and tank tops.
The men in Turkey are very respectful and you will not be harassed or receive catcalls from men because you are sunbathing on the beach.
If you feel threatened and worried about your safety, you can ask people around you for help also.
Is Bodrum Safe for Families
Bodrum is completely safe for families, solo travelers, friends, couples, and generational travel. Families of all kinds are welcomed to Bodrum and the hospitality of the Turkish people is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
It doesn’t matter if you are exploring a remote village, a local coffee shop, or the upscale mall that houses the Louis Vuitton store you will be made to feel as if you belong in Bodrum.
If this is your first time traveling to Bodrum you will see families of all ages because it is a very safe destination. There are playgrounds all around the marina and you will see children of all ages playing.
Important_phone_numbers_for_emergency_situations”>Important Phone Numbers for Emergency Situations<
Below is a list of important phone numbers to learn before your visit to Bodrum, Turkey:
- 112: Emergency call center
- 155: Police
- 156: Gendarme
- 110: Fire department
Hospitals in Bodrum
I strongly suggest doing your research no matter the destination just in case something happens you will know where the local hospital is located and how you will pay for treatment if something unexpected happens.
Bodrum Public Hospital is the only public hospital in the region and if you are skeptical about Bodrum Public Hospital another option is Acıbadem Bodrum Hospital which is a relatively better option than Bodrum Public Hospital.
The best hospital to go to in Bodrum is Private Bodrum Hospital and below are some additional hospitals in Bodrum:
- 75. Yıl Milas Public Hospital
- Datça Public Hospital
- Marmaris Public Hospital
Consulates Near Bodrum
There are numerous consulates in Bodrum and Mugla province that you can go to if you have ever found yourself in a situation in which you need to contact your country’s embassy.
Keep in mind that you need an appointment before going to a consulate. Additionally, the opening and closing hours of different consulates might be different.
In Bodrum, you can find Austria, Germany, Belgium, Italy, India, and the United Kingdom consulates. And also, there is one consulate general in Bodrum.
Turkey Travel Warning
One of the most popular places along the Turkish coast, Bodrum brings in a million visitors each year. Such crowds can lead to unexpected dangers such as dangerous roads and drinking water that may not always be pure.
This ancient port means lots of beaches during the day and lots of dancing at night. However, you need to take special care in places like the airport and the roads as well as with the water.
The BJV Airport
The airport to Bodrum is very small so you will not be enjoying cocktails in a state-of-the-art lounge. With that being said keep in mind that eating and drinking options are limited. There are a few restaurants on-site but nothing lavish.
Water and Cocktails
Prior to chartering your yacht I suggest checking with SCIC-Sailing to find out if there are any warnings that have been issued by the local authorities.
Also, I was told to try Raki which is a popular local alcoholic beverage that is very strong. This Turkish national drink is made of twice-distilled grapes and aniseed.
Raki is serious business in Turkey. It’s the go-to spirit for celebrating a promotion or a birthday or for muting the pain of a job loss or the end of a relationship.
Buying Knock-off Handbags in Bodrum
Turkey is the third biggest exporter of counterfeit products to the EU after China and Hong Kong, according to data on the value of goods seized.
Falls in the value of the Turkish lira and the deterioration of the Turkish economy are further fuelling demand as such items become cheaper to traders buying in euros.
Foreigners can buy a high-quality replica Gucci, YSL Fendi, and other high-end luxury brands for pennies on the dollar. Turkey is very well known for its’ production of high-quality textiles and leather goods.
Although I’ve seen counterfeit items in NYC I never thought there would be so many fake designer bags in Turkey of all places.
The more hidden the knock-offs were the better the quality of the items. I can tell you that I was shocked! As someone who appreciates the real bags, I know most of the details which you need to pay attention to.
I have purchased pre-owned items and always made sure these were authentic by purchasing them from a trusted seller such as trendlee or the real real.
My fear of buying a knock-off is always front and center but my bestie Rhonda is a luxury handbag connoisseur, thus we have discussed all the details one needs to pay attention to when buying a pre-owned bag.
This knowledge obviously helped me so I could spot the differences in the fake ones. I traveled to Turkey with both my authentic Gucci and Fendi bag and the day I walked around the City Centre I was wearing my Gucci crossbody and I couldn’t tell the difference between the bag I had on vs. the replica.
I was in shock by the quality of the bags and the price point. If you are going to purchase a knock-off while in Turkey I suggest doing your research and really understanding leather and what makes a good bag.
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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES
The Bodrum Edition Review
Best Beaches in Bodrum
The Best Luxury Hotels in Bodrum
Is Turkey Safe? Yes, especially Bodrum Turkey. Is Sailing around the Turkish Riviera with ScicSailing on your bucket list now? If you were apprehensive about experiencing the beauty of Turkey’s Aegean coast on a 7-day luxury cruise from Bodrum you should be!
Does visiting hidden bays and beaches, swimming, and snorkeling in the turquoise waters sound like heaven to you?
I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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FAQs
Is it safe to holiday in Turkey at the moment 2022? ›
OVERALL RISK : HIGH. Turkey is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it - namely those near the border with Syria. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists here, too.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists 2022? ›Besides the threat of terrorism, Istanbul is considered relatively safe for tourists and locals. Istanbul is even considered moderately safe for solo travelers and female travelers. However, visitors should remain cautious as many tourists are often caught in scams, frauds, or pickpocketing schemes.
Is it a safe time to visit Turkey? ›Turkey - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk.
Is Istanbul airport layover 2022 Safe? ›In 2022, Istanbul is considered to be a safe (ish) destination.
Where is the safest holiday in Turkey? ›Which areas in Turkey are safest for families? Families hoping for a classic poolside holiday with a killer beach view visit areas in the provinces of Dalaman, Antalya, Feyithe and Bodrum - all generally considered to be safe.
Is Antalya Safe 2022? ›The simple answer is yes, Antalya is a safe city to visit. However, like in any other city, it is always important to use common sense and follow the safety tips and advice before traveling. Antalya's beaches are gorgeous, just keep your eyes on your belongings!
Is it safe to travel through Istanbul airport? ›Istanbul Airports: Know Before you Go
I've flown in and out of here twice now, and it's SO much better than the previous Ataturk airport. Turkish airlines as well as most of the other airlines at Istanbul airport are reputable, so you shouldn't worry about the safety of this airport at all.
Turkey is safe for female solo travelers. A solo trip to Turkey is no more dangerous than visiting any other country by yourself. You need to use your common sense when solo traveling in Turkey as you would anywhere else in the world.
What should I be careful of in Turkey? ›- Don't Wear Shoes In Worship Places.
- Do Not Forget Table Etiquette.
- Avoid Obscuring A Praying Person's View.
- Do Not Disrespect Ramadan Customs.
- Do Not Board A Cab Without A Taxi Logo.
- Do Not Wear Revealing Clothes.
- Do Not Misuse The Turkish Language.
- Avoid Leaving Food On Your Plate.
Temperatures are warm-to-hot throughout Turkey in May, and average rainfall low. Popular places like Istanbul and Cappadocia see average temperatures of around 68-69°F (20-21°C), while Antalya, Bodrum, and Pamukkale are even warmer at around 77°F (25°C).
What season is May in Turkey? ›
April to May — Spring / Good Season
Spring is a beautiful season in Turkey. The weather in Turkey is close to ideal, as it is warm, but not too hot. The flowers begin to bloom all across the country, so you will have pleasant scenery to look at in cities and in the outskirts.
You could be fined for not wearing a face mask where it's mandatory. Additional measures may vary across provinces, and new measures may be introduced at short notice. Police have been given powers to enforce COVID-19-related restrictions. Follow Turkish announcements and local media for up-to-date information.
Is Turkish airline safe? ›Turkish Airlines is now rated as a seven-star airline for safety by the global rating agency AirlineRatings.com. Turkish Airlines' incident record over the past five years has been outstanding and has resulted in the airline's safety rating being lifted from five-star to the highest seven-star.
Do I need PCR test to travel within Turkey? ›There is no requirement of vaccination certificate and/or pcr or antigen tests. Mask requirements on board depend upon the regulations set by the destination country.
Is it safe to holiday in Antalya Turkey at the moment? ›In general, Antalya is safe for travelers, as locals are very welcoming and eager to show foreigners their country.
Are holiday resorts in Turkey safe? ›Turkey is, on the whole, a safe tourist destination. The country continues to be one of the world's most popular tourist attractions. Every year, 40-45 million people visit its shores, the great majority of them have no issues and have a good time.
What is the safest city in Turkey? ›Istanbul is undoubtedly the safest city to stay in Turkey. Since some of Turkey's absolute most famous landmarks call Istanbul home, a trip to Turkey really isn't complete without visiting Istanbul.
Is Istanbul or Antalya better? ›Both Antalya and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Antalya. The ideal length of time for a trip to Antalya is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Istanbul is 3-7 days.
Which part of Istanbul is safest? ›Safest Areas in Istanbul: Maçka and Nişantaşi
Not part of the usual tourist areas, but still convenient to amenities and attractions, are the leafy residential districts of Maçka and Nişantaşi. They offer upmarket shopping, vast views across the city, and well-lit streets.
1. Sultanahmet (Old Town/Old City) – top area for first timers. Sultanahmet is the most popular part of the city, one of the best areas, the cultural and historic heart of Istanbul, where all the main attractions, points of interest, and of course, historic buildings are located.
Are taxis safe in Istanbul? ›
Although Istanbul taxis are generally very well monitored and safe, sometimes you may find a driver that will be rude or try to scam you. Some of the most common scams to watch out for are switching notes, making rides longer and refusing to give change.
Do you still have to wear masks in Turkey? ›In line with the guidance provided by the Turkish government, wearing face masks will be mandatory at areas where people are collectively located, including supermarkets, marketplaces and workplaces.
Is it safe to travel to Istanbul today? ›OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM. Istanbul is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it that are considered somewhat dangerous. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists here, too. What is this?
Should I carry my passport with me in Istanbul? ›You should carry your passport or residence permit at all times. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the Turkish authorities may stop members of the public to conduct ID checks. There's also a number of police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey.
Do I have to cover up in Turkey? ›Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country and the dress may be more conservative than some other parts of the world - for both men and women. While you won't likely see the locals in tube tops, gangsta pants or short shorts, there is no requirement for anyone to be fully covered.
What is not allowed in Turkey? ›Smoking is banned in all indoor areas including cafes, restaurants, hotels (it may be allowed in the hotel room), bars and on public transport as well as in the gardens of mosques and hospitals. It is sometimes banned at certain outdoor public events, for example artistic, cultural or sports events.
What should I know before traveling to Turkey? ›- Turkish cuisine is vegetarian-friendly.
- Always carry cash.
- Street cats and dogs are part of the scenery.
- Don't drink tap water.
- Greetings are done by kissing both the cheeks.
- Be careful when crossing the street.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
- Research Well Before You Make Your Itinerary. ...
- Learn Few Common Turkish Words. ...
- Pick An Appropriate Accommodation. ...
- Dress Decently. ...
- Respect The Culture. ...
- Carry An International Adapter. ...
- Get Vaccinated Before Travelling. ...
- Use Public Transport.
April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 20°C to 30°C, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey's grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
Is Turkey good in May? ›May is one of the best months to visit Turkey. You'll enjoy at least 10 hours of daily sunshine all the way down the coast from Istanbul to Antalya and temperatures averaging around 26ºC and sometimes feeling hotter. The sea is warm enough for swimming, particularly in sheltered bays, and everything will be open.
Do I need a jacket in Turkey in May? ›
In spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) you may encounter rain, and the air may be cool or even chilly at night, but comfortable during the day; bring a warm jacket or a sweater and windbreaker. In Northeastern and Eastern Turkey, prepare for near-winter conditions.
Is it good to visit Istanbul in May? ›Warm and sunny but not yet sweltering, May is an ideal time to visit Istanbul, with outdoor eating and drinking coming into full swing.
Is May good for Istanbul? ›The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s.
Is it rainy in Turkey in May? ›Sunshine and rainfall
There is a 64% chance of a perfect sunny day and a 36% chance of seeing a mixture of sunshine and clouds with an average 15mm of rainfall this month.
Turkey will accept the UK's proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record.
Which Covid vaccine is accepted in Turkey? ›SARS-CoV-2 VLP Vaccine.
Is Turkey safe from terrorism? ›Turkey has been effectively countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations for decades, ranging from FETÖ to the ethnic separatist PKK terrorism, and the leftist DHKP-C to religiously motivated terrorist groups such as Al Qaeda and DAESH, as well as the “17 November” and “ASALA” terrorist organizations.
Why are they Cancelling flights to Turkey? ›According to the measures taken by the Turkish government and other foreign countries against the new coronavirus (COVID-19), flight restrictions have been imposed between Turkey and all countries. Due to these measures all international flights have been cancelled.
Which is the No 1 airline in the world? ›Qatar Airways has been voted the World's Best Airline for a record seventh time at the 2022 World Airline Awards, winning the prestigious Airline of the Year 2022 title.
Why is Turkish air so cheap? ›The main reason is low labor costs, weak unionization, comparatively low gate fees at airports, low food/material costs, and most of all very efficient use of planes which are almost always in flight. By the way Turkish Airlines owns Anadolu Jet and Sun Express airlines, which are budget arms of the parent company.
Can I travel without PCR if im vaccinated? ›
All other passengers must have a full vaccination certificate or proof of a negative PCR test, not older than 72 hours.
Does Turkish Airlines give you a blanket? ›We provide pillows and blankets on Business Class flights, as well as a travel kit which contains a sleep mask, earplugs, lip balm, socks and other items you might need while traveling.
Do airlines need proof of vaccination? ›Noncitizens who are nonimmigrants and seeking to enter the United States by air are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before boarding a flight to the United States from a foreign country.
Is it safe to walk in Istanbul at night? ›Luckily, Istanbul is still quite safe at night, but you should take extra precautions. Walking around at night in one of the tourist neighborhoods in Istanbul such as Sultanahmet or Kadikoy is quite safe. The places that you should be careful of are the nightlife district in Istanbul, especially near Taksim.
Is Turkey cheap for tourists 2022? ›Bulgaria & Turkey Are Cheapest Holiday Destinations for 2022, Report Shows.
Is it safe to visit Istanbul as a woman? ›Istanbul is generally pretty safe and petty crime is low. However, be careful around the Old Town as pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen. Avoid hanging out solo in Taksim late at night (after 10 pm), especially on the main street Istikal Cadessi. It's also advisable to not go solo there on the weekends.
Can you wear jeans in Istanbul? ›Technically, you can wear whatever you want in Istanbul, there are no rules. But I think that the Istanbul dress code for tourists is important, especially for women visiting Istanbul, to feel more comfortable exploring the city and I will elaborate on what I mean by that more below.
How much money do you need for 7 days in Turkey? ›Past travelers have spent, on average, TRY135 ($7.29) on meals for one day and TRY67 ($3.58) on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in Turkey for a couple is TRY346 ($19). So, a trip to Turkey for two people for one week costs on average TRY6,077 ($327).
Why is tourism in Turkey declining? ›Turkey's tourism industry is suffering after the fallout from growing domestic instability. According to Nikkei Asian Review, the country is losing its popularity as the recent terrorist attacks, last year's attempted coup and other political challenges have kept travelers away.
Why is Turkey so cheap now? ›The lira shed nearly half its value last year. This is in large part because Turkey's central bank and policymakers have chosen to go against traditional economic theory. Instead of using higher interest rates to tackle a persistent rise in prices, they've been cutting borrowing costs instead.
Can you kiss in public in Istanbul? ›
Getting Your PDA On
Turkey is a largely Muslim population and showing your affection in public can sometimes be frowned upon, especially in the more traditional neighborhoods. Make sure to keep your amorous moments private so that you don't have to deal with unhappy stares.
Uber and taxis in Turkey are generally safe. But it is important to take the right kind of precaution no matter if it's an Uber or a local taxi.
Should I go to Turkey alone? ›Turkey is terrific for first-time solo travelers who already have travel experience but haven't traveled by themselves before. There is a pervasive culture of hospitality here, and locals are almost always eager to help visitors experience their country.
Can I use Uber in Istanbul? ›Reserve a ride with Uber in advance in Istanbul
Complete your plans today by reserving a ride with Uber in Istanbul. Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.
It is impolite to stand with your hands on your hips when talking to others – or to put your hands in your pockets. Good friends will often touch each other (it's common for women to hold hands with women, and the same for men), but you will rarely see members of the opposite sex touching in public.
Where do celebrities hang out in Istanbul? ›A good place to start is along the Bosphorus, where the city's most flamboyant nightclubs live, including 1 Reina, 2 Sortie, and 3 Supperclub. These are all very much on the clubbing radar, and celebrity sightings are not rare.