Stay Informed

The WFH encourages all meeting participants to inform themselves about their country of destination prior to commencement of any travel. The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade provide information to assist travellers in better understanding foreign countries they may visit and the known risks they should consider. The latest information is available at www.voyage.gc.ca. Participants may also visit their own local travel advisory websites for further information.

Airport

Istanbul's Atatürk Airport (IST) at Yesilköy is located twenty-five kilometers west of Taksim Square.The modern International Terminal is spacious and efficient, with all the expected services including an Airport Hotel. An underground passage (15-minute walk) connects the International Terminal with the older Domestic Terminal and also the Istanbul Metro.

A taxi from the airport to Taksim Square will cost between US$18 to $22. You will need to add 50% if you travel between 24:00 (midnight) and 06:00. The trip takes between 35 and 75 minutes depending on traffic.

Banking & Currency

Istanbul banks are open Monday to Friday from 8:30-12:00 and 13:30-17:00. Some banks that are located in tourist areas are open daily.

The Turkish currency is the New Turkish Lira or Yeni Turk Lirasi. There are banknotes in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Lira denominations in general circulation. There are also 1 Lira coins. The Lira consists of 100 Kurus. There are 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 Kurus coins.

Sterling, Euros and Dollars can be easily changed into Turkish Lira at all banks, post offices (PTT), and change offices.

There is often a shortage of small coins available in shops so don't be surprised to be given a sweet or two as change.The majority of the banks have ATMs and there are a huge number of freestanding ones at strategic points. They operate in the same way as those throughout the USA and Europe. There is an option on most to choose the language and in some cases to choose Turkish Lira, US Dollars, or Euros.

Credit Cards

Most major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and stores, but visitors are always advised to check with the vendor before a purchase is made. Cash machines with 24-hour access are available in many convenient locations.

Climate

The climate of Istanbul is mild. Good weather and sunshine is the predominant weather during June with temperatures ranging between 17°C / 20°C (64°F / 68°F) during the day and 12°C / 14°C (54°F / 57°F) at night. To check the current weather conditions in Turkey and Istanbul, click here.

Clothing

In summer (June-September) it is recommended to wear cool cotton clothing, a hat, and sun block lotion, but have a light sweater for cool evenings. Rain will not be a problem, although you may encounter it along the Black Sea coast and in the East.

Dining Out

Istanbul is a wonderful place for food no matter what your budget. From simple workers' eateries and sidewalk cafes to posh culinary palaces with liveried waiters, Turkish cuisine is good and the value-for-money unbeatable.

The typical dish of Istanbul would consist of lamb, mutton, and veal, to which a variety of vegetables are added. Pilaf, all kinds of pastry, bulgur, haricot beans, rich olive oil, and vegetables are used as side dishes. Meatballs, shish kebab, and doner kebab are classic dishes. Because of its coastal location, fish is also popular although it is usually cooked simply, such as grilled, or fried with olive oil and lemon juice.

Istanbul is the commercial and cultural centre of Turkey, therefore, there are restaurants of many nationalities such as Korean, Russian, Italian, and Chinese. American-style fast-food outlets are becoming more popular, but for a quick snack it is more appropriate to fill up at the plethora of tiny takeaways with kebabs and snacks. It is easy to sample good quality regional cuisine in typical small restaurants, usually at low cost, especially in the commercial and business areas.

Electricity

The electric current in Turkey is 220v, 50hz and the socket type is European standard.

Language and Culture

Approximately 98% of the Turkish population is Muslim. Turkey is a secular republic, and enjoys freedom of religion. The official language spoken in Turkey is Turkish. In most hotels, restaurants, and shops English can be found.

Shopping

Shopping is one of the great pleasures of a trip to Turkey and the rich variety of Turkish crafts makes it impossible to resist buying something. Alongside the most modem objects, traditional handicrafts from villages and provinces can be found. Practical things for the home and kitchen can be found, but alongside these are many decorative items, often in the traditional Turkish style.

Most visitors to Turkey cannot resist buying at least one or two things. The most popular objects for the holidaymaker are, of course, carpets; but the various leather and suede goods, copper and bronze wares, silver, ceramics, handicrafts, embroidery; and the famous Turkish meerschaum and onyx are on many people's lists as well.

Most of the shops are open from 9:00 through 19:00 Monday to Saturday. Some of the supermarkets, shopping malls, department stores, newspapers, and food shops are also open on Sundays.

Time

GMT + 2 (Pacific Standard Time).

Tipping

Tax and service charges are included in the cost of all goods and services. Although it is not mandatory, a small tip is expected for good service. As a guideline, add about 10 % to the total bill. Normally you are requested to leave a cash tip when paying by credit card.