Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Aggouro

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

Welcome to one of the most influential cities of history:)

Well, I always say, If someone has survived in Istanbul, they can make it anywhere. It's hectic and there is always something that goes wrong. the traffic is a nightmare, so be prepared for long hours on the public transport, packed like sardines, that is if you don't rent a room that is out of subway network.

Always keep your eyes open for scammers, from people who rent the rooms at least twice it's worth (well, because you wouldn't know the market! ) to taxi drivers etc.

I would recommend to live here if you are well prepared for sudden changes, in this circus-like mega-village. oh, START LEARNING TURKISH immediately, because you probably won't find many people who speak English fluently.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

generally speaking, this is the best place to study in turkey, you'll have all the clubs and bars, though they are quite expensive for an average Turkish student.

If you pick Istanbul Technical Uni, Bogazici Uni or Istanbul Uni, you'll probably have cool a campus life, and have cool friends to hangout with.

Oh, as far as I know, the professors go easy on exchange students here.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Almost everything is cheaper than western-northern Europe. I would say that you can compare the costs of living to a central European capital. BUT alcoholic drinks, because of heavy taxes, you'll easily pay 10+Euros for a bottle of cheap turkish wine.

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

Try to find a place that is on subway line M2, because the main attractions will be on this line. Or BESIKTAS district

If your university is in the asian side however, look for a room in KADIKOY district.

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

here comes the best part, people would say that turkish cuisine is awesome, but which one, exactly?

We have 4-5 different types of cuisine, from light, mediterranean to hot spicy kurdish food.

And tons of desserts, to die for!

just a heads up though, the shops are discouraged to sell pork; because of halal policies and it's really hard to find pork. except for the high-end supermarket chains

Also gluten-free food it quite hard to find, it's gonna be a challenge if you are. Or any type of dietary restrictions.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

Let's not even go there! HAHA just type Istanbul on google and have a look!

I can recommend you to try "VEFA BOZACISI" though, it's my favourite drink here.

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

Yeah as long as you trust your guts that a place has high standards, go for it.

a rule of thumb though, have a look inside, if it's a crowded place with locals, that probably would mean they serve well.

stay away from street food (on a cart or tray etc. ) like mussels and stuff. they are just filthy.

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

You'll probably stick around Taksim area

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

Think twice before you pick Istanbul or Izmir, and a couple more times if the university you have applied for is in central or eastern Turkey. Good luck!