Turkey: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

Turkey: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Turkey

Overview

Infinitely rich in cultural and religious history, Turkey offers everything from ancient architecture, and colorful and bustling markets to pristine coastlines, with crystal clear waters and unique rock formations.  Savor their delicious cuisine and enjoy the natural beauty of this ancient land that spans two continents. Turkey truly has something for everyone.

 

Disclaimer: Space is a precious commodity in Europe, especially in its most dense cities, be prepared for smaller hotel rooms. The same goes for bathrooms and elevators, don’t be surprised if they feel cozier than those in the US.

 

Capital City: Ankara

Population: 84 million (2021 est.)

Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone: UTC/GMT +3

Emergency Number: 112

Outlet: Type C/F

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Spice-Market

Packing List

Speak the Language

Language: Turkish is the official language of Turkey.

 

  • Hello - Merhaba (Mehr-hah-bah)
  • Good night - İyi geceler (ee ak-sham-lar)
  • Goodbye. (said by departing persons) - Hosçakalin (hosh-chah kah-lihn)
  • Goodbye (said by persons staying behind) - Güle güle (gyu-leh gyu-leh)
  • Thank you - Teşekkür ederim! (te-sh-qu-err ed-err-im)
  • How are you? - Nasılsın? (nah-sihl-sih-nihz)
  • I’m fine - İyiyim (ee-yee-yeem)
  • I am sorry - Özür dilerim (ouz-ur dill-ear-im)
  • Do you speak English? - Ingilizce biliyor musunuz? (een-gee-leez-jeh bee-lee-yohr moo-soo-nooz)

 

Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here 

Turkey

Weather

İSTANBUL WEATHER

Culture Notes

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir but many smaller towns and independent shops will require you to pay by cash. You’ll also need to carry change for taxi fares, tipping waiters (so that it goes to them directly) and public bathrooms.
  • The quality of tap water varies from region to region but it’s not used for drinking purposes in any part of the country. However, it’s okay to use it to cook food, make tea after boiling it and brush your teeth, as long as you don’t swallow the water. Filtration systems are in place in big cities but locals still choose not to drink tap water just to be on the safe side.
  • Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Holding hands is OK, but do it with a side of caution if in a conservative area. Most public declarations of affection will be noticed but those between LGBT couples might especially be frowned upon.
  • For information on LGBTQ+ travel safety and rights, this LGBTQ+ Turkey Travel Guide has been put together in partnership with EveryQueer to give you the best tips for visiting Turkey and insight into the LGBTQ+ scene.
  • Turkey is very strict about drug use. There is no leniency when it comes to using or selling drugs within the country, although smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol are acceptable.
  • Turkey has a mix of Western-style and squat-style toilets, sometimes with a jug of water for manual flushing.
  • While infrastructure is improving, much of Turkey remains difficult to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility concerns. Squat toilets remain the norm in many parts of Turkey, which can be difficult for travelers with certain disabilities.
  • Restrained behavior and clothing that covers you from elbows to below the knee are appropriate in (or even around) mosques. Female travelers should carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $5-7 per person/per day
Drivers USD $1-2 per person/per day
Restaurants(full service)  10 to 20% of total bill

 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Turkey. You can fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water or carry water purification tablets with you. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

 

Do I need a Visa? For Visa information, click here. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here.

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner, worldnomads.com or from a provider of your choice.

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please review our luggage restrictions below.

 

What does public transportation look like? There is a huge public transport system in Turkey such as local buses, taxis, minibusses, tram, and a metro. Your choice of transport will depend on how quickly you want to get from A to B.

 

Is Uber or Lyft available? Neither Uber or Lyft are available. If taking a taxi, we recommend only agreeing to use the meter,  as taxis have been known to charge overpriced flat rates. Otherwise, your best bet is to book a pre-trip transfer.

 

What about Wifi? Free wi-fi is common in Turkey’s cities, but the quality of connection varies. Internet access can be spotty or non-existent in rural areas, so it’s best to treat travel in these regions as an opportunity for a digital detox.

Luggage Restrictions

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Luggage restrictions purple – mobile – 1

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