What you should never do in Istanbul

2024 Author: James Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 14:00

Istanbul is called "the city of contrasts" for a reason. Here you can easily find yourself in the middle of a European street in a real oriental bazaar, where there is literally everything, and the merchants do not stop talking for a minute. And then suddenly find yourself on the Asian side of the strait, surrounded by shimmering modern skyscrapers …

In this beautiful city, you can have an unforgettable vacation at club parties and concerts, get acquainted with the unique monuments of architecture and history, admire the view of the Bosphorus. And so that nothing spoils your vacation - use our advice.

Don't be afraid to buy food on the street

Street trading is an important part of Turkish culture. Take a closer look at the outlet: if the locals are happy to try and buy food there, then you can safely do it. What is missing here: Turkish simita bagels, stuffed mussels, grilled fish sandwiches, sweets, fruits, fresh juices …

When ordering, specify the presence of spices in the dish and it is better to immediately give up spicy additives.

When ordering, specify the presence of spices in the dish, and if you prefer mild food, then it is better to immediately give up spicy additives. If you still need to put out a fire in your mouth, ask for water or a traditional Turkish drink - salted ayran.

Don't buy anything without bargaining

And it doesn't matter what amount we are talking about, because the main thing is the process itself. There are huge shopping centers and markets in Istanbul, and bargaining here is an obligatory moment of buying and selling. The buyer has every right to ask for a discount, especially when paying in cash or when purchasing multiple items. Even in branded stores, do not hesitate to ask about the availability of promotions, for example, "3 things for the price of 2".

Do not pay in large bills in a taxi

In Istanbul, taxis operate around the clock on a meter with a single tariff, and the only way to cash in on tourists is to give them a short change from a large bill. Istanbul taxi drivers use it especially actively at night, when many passengers are drunk. So always have small bills ready, and also check the meter when you get into a taxi.

Don't call Natasha "Natasha"

Natalia or Natalie - this is how it is better not to call a girl in Istanbul. For some time now this name has become a household name in Turkey, as the representatives of the ancient profession are called here. For example, as common nouns "Fritz" or "Schumacher" in Russian. To avoid troubles, you should not also ask for juice in Ukrainian here, since "sik" in Turkish means a three-letter word in Russian.

Be sure to try cheeses, sweets, fruits before buying to make sure they are fresh and tasteful.

Don't Buy Food Without Tasting

Try before you buy is another consumer's legal right. The law applies to small shops, markets and supermarkets in Turkey. So be sure to try cheeses, sweets, fruits before buying to make sure they are fresh and tasteful. After all, later you may not like the too spicy or exotic taste of a Turkish delicacy …

Do not eat or drink outside during Ramadan

Otherwise, you may be reprimanded or even cursed! In tourist areas, this usually does not happen, but in more religious places, respect for long-standing Muslim traditions is imperative. Ramazan fast is observed in late July - early August. But drinking alcohol in public places and on the streets of Turkey is prohibited at any time of the year.

Do not forget to take off your shoes when entering the mosque

Women should also take a headscarf with them to cover their heads when entering a church or mosque. Still, Istanbul is not a resort city, so if you do not want the obsessive attention of Muslim men, then for the duration of the trip, give up mini-skirts and deep necklines. And also choose comfortable shoes: on the old cobblestones and the seven hills of Istanbul with heels you will not go far.

Do not visit night Taksim alone

Taksim is the party district of Istanbul. It is here that enterprising Turks are engaged in looking out for lonely tourists, inviting them for a beer, and then evaporating. And the victim is left alone with a bill of several hundred dollars or lira for just a few glasses of beer. You also need to be wary of pickpockets who are not averse to cash in on the guests of the city. Therefore, be vigilant and hide your phone, money and other valuables in a safe place.

Turkish hangovers are the rich meat soup "kellepacha" and strong coffee without sugar.

Do not pass by the salt maker's shop

It is in them that you will find an amazing pickle - a morning salvation for those who have a successful evening! Such shops can be traditionally found in the Eminenu area behind the Galata bridge. Locals don't even know about the healing power of pickle, they just like to have a glass for appetite or if they want salty. And the Turkish ways of dealing with a hangover are rich meat soup "kellepacha" and strong coffee without sugar.

And most importantly, do not forget to have a great time and enjoy your vacation in Istanbul!