As Turkey's largest city, Istanbul offers so much including
a low cost of living
, a unique culture, the best nightlife and shopping scenes in the country, as well as abundance of tourist and historical attractions.
Is it safe to live in Istanbul?
Despite being an extremely busy and loud city,
Istanbul is surprisingly safe
. While expats should take all the precautions that normally come with living in a new and strange place, such as staying vigilant of pickpockets and using common sense by not walking down dark alleys after dark, they should be alright.
Is living in Istanbul worth it?
From tourist to expat, if you are thinking of living in Istanbul as a foreigner, it is a
great lifestyle move
to make. … Many working expats choose the city to further their career, and some retirees choose it as a temporary base so they can explore a destination that in history shaped events around the world.
What should I avoid in Istanbul?
- Don't stay close to the sights. …
- Don't take the tram on Istiklal. …
- Don't shop on Istiklal. …
- Don't think there will be no queues. …
- Don't buy apple tea. …
- Don't buy everything you see in the bazaars. …
- Don't buy in bazaars without haggling. …
- Don't be afraid to try street food.
Is it worth living in Turkey?
Turkey can offer its residents a good climate, an active and healthy lifestyle, and most expats find they get
a good value for money when they move
to Turkey. … You can appreciate in full Turkey as a great value-for-money destination only if your income is paid in one of the major currencies, not in lira.
What to know before moving to Istanbul?
- How to get a permit and visa in Istanbul. …
- The currency rate of Turkish Lira is amazing. …
- Turkish banks have English-speaking staff. …
- Lifestyle in Istanbul is more authentic. …
- How to get around Istanbul.
How is life in Turkey for foreigners?
Living in Turkey
is not expensive for foreigners
from the EU and the US. Except for certain locations, housing and the cost of living is cheaper compared to that in their home countries. … Also the housing costs, options ranging from villas to apartment flats, are more reasonable in Turkey.
Is it safe to walk in Istanbul at night?
Is it safe to walk at night in Istanbul?
Yes, it is safe to walk around the streets in Istanbul
at night. While it's still safer during the day, you'll be unlikely to wander into a sketchy area.
Do they speak English in Istanbul?
What language do they speak in Istanbul? … Turkish is the official language of Turkey
What should you avoid in Turkey?
- Enter a mosque dressed scantily.
- Ride a taxi without a logo.
- Only go shopping at malls.
- Visit while you're on a diet.
- Focus solely on the touristic areas.
- Expect drivers to abide by traffic rules.
- Show off your wealth.
What are the bad things about Turkey?
- Turkeys Are “People” Too. Turkeys have personalities, just as dogs and cats do. …
- Fear Factories. …
- Don't Be a Butterball! …
- Bird Flu Blues. …
- Turkey-Free, Cholesterol-Free Tasty Treats. …
- Want Stuffing With Your Supergerms? …
- Foul Farming. …
- Feed the World.
What are the cons of eating Turkey?
- Turkey can be high in sodium.
- Some meat, particularly prepackaged slices, can be processed and contain other substances.
- Turkey skin is high in fat.
- Research suggests large amounts of tryptophan can make you sleepy.
How much money do I need to move to Turkey?
If you choose to live in Istanbul, factor in
at least 10,000 lira a month
because everything, including eating out, is more expensive. If your budget does not stretch that far, look to towns, and coastal resorts on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, like Altinkum, Kusadasi, Fethiye and Antalya.
Is Istanbul good for expats?
Istanbul is a great expat post
in many ways – it has the diversity of an active cosmopolitan city but also has a very nice expat population.
Can an American move to Istanbul?
If you are going to Istanbul for work reasons, you will have to
secure a work permit
, a work visa and a residence permit first. The first step is finding a Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country. There you will have to apply for a work permit and then for a work visa, in this order.
What do I need to know before moving to Turkey?
- It is the only East-meets-West nation – literally. …
- Istanbul is not its capital. …
- It has no official religion. …
- Leave unnecessary electronics behind. …
- Take note of the time windows. …
- Prepare the required paperwork.
