Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by A-Bahador

What is it like to live in Istanbul? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

This city is one of the best cities for young people to live, I had great times there, Everyday you can experience something new, see something new.
No difference between day and night, both are amazing.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Students in Istanbul are really happy people, they enjoy each minute of their hours. it all because of Istanbul, a mixture between entertain and history with modern life.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

It's between 1000tl - 2000tl.
it depends where and how you want to live.
I used to live alone in a studio near Taksim and I was a party animal, I used to smoke and drink and I was an outgoing person, I spent 1800tl per month.
I think it's not expensive city. comparing what you get, it's also a cheap city.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Istanbul? Is there any advice you can give?

I think one of the easiest things to do is finding accommodation in Istanbul. My advice is first you better come to Istanbul and stay in a hostel for few days, in these few days you meet lots of people and you can find a good place to rent. but don't rush! Come to Istanbul and visit a place you want to pay.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

pure satisfaction! of course Doner Kebab, find a quiet place in old city near grand bazaar and enjoy your delicious Doner with Ayran. and after your meal you can try Baklava (a Turkish candy)

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

everyone knows about old city in Istanbul and blue mosque and haji sophia, topkapi and galata, but I recommend you to enjoy an evening in spice bazaar behind the new mosque and but some awesome fresh spice for your dinner and then walk through galata bridge and get a fish sandwich (balik ekmek) and enjoy the view of black sea, maybe a weekend in Belgrad forest or a tour to Bogaz can be enjoyable.

Is it good to eat out in Istanbul? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Of course eating outside is great in Istanbul, just kick fast foods and try to explore Turkish foods. My favorite place in Istanbul is "Sedef restaurant" in Sultanahmet. you can get a tram and walk from Sultanahmet station. you can see it in main street. and fish sandwich in wagons by the street in Karakoy station.

Is the nightlife good in Istanbul? Where is good to go?

this city never sleeps, specially Istiklal caddesi (Istiklal street) there are thousand of bars and night clubs in this street, you can find lots of places for exchange students in this street. If you can save some money you can go to Reina club in Bebek area, it's a first class night club under the bosphrous bridge by the sea.

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

It's like every city in the world, if you wanna live good, make good friends. learn transporting system in Istanbul, it saves lots of money for you. use Turkish currency and learn Turkish