| Arrival in Istanbul Istanbul Ataturk Airport receives daily two direct flights from the major cities in Europe and United States. Besides there are direct flights from many cities in the Far East and BDT countries Visa Requirements The most up-dated visa information can be received from the internet site: www.mfa.gov.tr Consular Information link. However it is recommended to consult to the nearest Turkish Missions to find out if a visa is required for your entry to Turkey. The minimum validity of the passport should be six months. Climate Because of Turkey’s geographical condition, one can not speak about a general overall climate. Istanbul has a moderate climate with winter period 2-4 degrees Celsius and in summer period up to 27-30 degrees Celsius. The average temperature in September varies between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Electricity The standard voltage in Turkey is 220 Volts, with a frequency of 50 Hertz. Security Istanbul is regarded among the safest metropolises of the world. Time Turkish Standard Time is GMT + 2 from October to March; CET +1 and EST (US) + 7. Please note that local summer time is GMT + 3 from April to October. Phoning in Turkey Turkey’s GSM operators have a wide range of roaming agreements with foreign operators. It is possible to use most of the Cellular phones in Turkey. Public telephones have two different systems. Some of them work with cards while others work with tokens. They are both sold in post offices and tobacco shops. For international calls it is advisable to purchase cards. All over Turkey, phone numbers consists of two sections: area code with three digits and the number itself with 7 digits. Same area / city calls just the 7-digit number Currency The monetary unit is the Yeni (New) Turkish Lira. New TL (YTL) denominations Exchange ATM can be found in even the smallest Turkish cities. Most ATM’s accept international credit cards or bank cards. A strip of logos which indicates the cards accepted is displayed on the ATM’s Banks will exchange foreign currency and traveler’s cheques with your passport as a proof of identity. Exchange rates change daily and can be checked in the press. Exchange offices “döviz bürosu” also offer a fast service and usually they do not charge commission and only change foreign cash currency. Passports are not required. Credit cards All major credit cards are welcomed at the hotels, restaurants and shops. For the registration and the hotel payment only VISA and MASTERCARD are accepted. Shopping Istanbul is a shoppers’ paradise for carpets, leather goods, gold bargains and fashion. The fascinating Covered Bazaar and Spice Market make shopping an irresistible joy. Eating out Turkish Cuisine is one of the best in the world. You may find many restaurants which serve Turkish and International cuisine. Besides, a lot of fast-food possibilities can easily be found. It is recommended to spend an evening at the Bosphorus shores for to taste fresh fish with Turkish wine. Tipping Tipping in Turkey is most of the time not included for services. In any case tipping is your prerogative, a reward for service.
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