Fast Facts of Istanbul

Key Facts

• Official title is Republic of Turkey
• Located in South-Eastern Europe and Asia Minor
• Time zone: UTC +3
• Turkish is the official language
• Local currency is Turkish Lira and rents can be paid in USD, EURO or Turkish Lira if you are a foreigner
• Secular state, but the majority are Muslim
• Muslims pray five times each day, often in congregation at a mosque. Friday is a special day for Muslims.
• High traffic volume will significant impact on travel times
• City across two continents split by the Bosporus Strait. Often referred as “European” side and “Asian” side

Culture

• Turkish people are generally warm and friendly
• Hospitality and looking after guests is very important in Turkish culture
• Turkish is written in the Latin alphabet and pronounced phonetically so once alphabet is learned, pronunciation is much easier
• The protocol of Turkish hospitality dictates that the host always pays for the meal. The concept of sharing a bill is not common
• Turks are proud of their country and will enjoy answering questions on their culture and history although be sure to avoid political history

Security

• There are many residential complexes and buildings with 24/7 security
• Crime is not as high as in most countries, but does still happen
• Most windows on the lower floors of buildings have bars of the windows for extra security
• Turkey is as safe as Europe or North America
• Everyone is advised to take a common sense approach to personal safety in a major city, and avoid large public gatherings.