Turkey Travel Advice

Turkey is around 1,000 miles across. Istanbul alone covers over 700 square miles, and not even a 10-day tour provides enough time to see all the city has to offer. Check the exact transit times on your chosen mode of transportation. Turkey has an efficient system of buses and "dolmuslari" (minibuses), but consider domestic flights for faster transit.

Dress style is liberal in Istanbul, Ankara and other tourist towns, but more conservative in Eastern Turkey. In the east, opt for long sleeves and long skirts or slacks. Although many Turkish women wear headscarves, these aren't necessary for foreign women except in mosques. If you'll be touring mosques, wear conservative clothing and shoes you can remove easily. Depending on the region, summers can be humid with temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures can fall below freezing, so pack accordingly.

Most people who work with tourists know some English, French or German. Some also know Greek, Arabic or Russian. In less touristy areas, many speak only Turkish. Knowing phrases for ordering in restaurants, shopping and using taxis and public transit will make your trip easier.

Turkey is a major producer and exporter of textiles. The traditional high-pile cotton towel, which originated in the 18th century in modern-day Bursa, is a good keepsake. Other specifically Turkish souvenirs include "kilims," evil eye talismans ("nazar bonjuk") and handmade ceramics with traditional Turkish designs.

For a more authentic experience, go where the locals go. In Istanbul, in addition to the Grand Bazaar in Beyazit, visit the Kumkapi Fish Market or the Arasta Bazaar behind the Blue Mosque. Seek out local hamams instead of those designed for tourists. If you have time, visit towns like Konya, Goreme and Bodrum in the southwest, and Trabzon and Samsun in the northeast.

Pricier establishments in well-developed areas have Western-style restrooms. Even in major cities, however, simpler places may have only squat toilets with no toilet tissue. Carry your own tissue, and if the toilet isn't flushable, place used tissue in a trash can. You'll usually find water nearby for washing, but bring antibacterial hand gel just in case.

Police take even "minor" offenses like petty theft, soft drug use, public drunkenness and illegal gambling very seriously. These can result in arrest, fines or deportation. Especially at night, police may stop you, ask to see your passport and ask what you're doing. Significant security threats are rare, but when they occur, police may close off streets and check everyone passing through. Cooperate politely, and you'll have no problems.