Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Eda

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

I am deeply in love with the beautiful Istanbul. There are different parts of the city that have a different culture and set up, so depending on where you are the city always finds something different and appealing to offer to you. It is very crowded and on high tempo though, that may be tiring from time to time.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Amazing! There are lots and lots of cultural activities to do here. The city is always on, you can find places to grab a snack any time. You can go wandering anytime. Lots of restaurants, cafes, bars addressing different target groups.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Depends. You can spend 1500 tl per month & have a satisfactory life and you may spend 10000 and want more. The city offers a lot, this totally depends on how you live it.

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

No it is not. I'd recommend people to see the house first before doing any agreement online.

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

Istanbul offers cuisines from a variety of cultures. Even within Turkey's regions we have a wide food range - don't think its just kebab and baklava, you'll be amazed with what is expecting you! We, Turkish people, do not eat to stay alive and survive. Its a life style for us. Starting from the breakfast to the late night snacks, we make the best of it. Surely its not limited with Turkish food here, you can always enjoy world cuisines - indian, italian, french, argentinean, chinese, japan..

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

Oh, there are so many.. A typical cultural visit includes the historical peninsula which would take at least a day. If you are planning to shop, increase the # of days.
You need to spend at least a day or two on the Bosporus to fill yourself up with the view - preferably one day on the Asian side and another on the European. Have a meze (traditional Turkish tapas) dinner - either with fish or kebap. Go to a nice night club. Go to Bagdat Caddesi or Nisantasi for shopping, not the malls.

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

I love eating out in Istanbul. My favorite spots nowadays are: Duble Meze Bar, La Mancha for drinks, Kydonia (best meze in town and amazing seafood, make sure you know what you're asking for), dragon (best chinese)

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

Yes it is. This depends, once again, on what you are looking for. You may have drinks & chat with your favorite ones in Kadıköy barlar sokağı, you may find all sorts of bars in Taksim - İstiklal Caddesi (kareoke / latin / jazz / gayfriendly / clubs) or party till late morning (my personal favorite) on a good nightclub by the sea view on Bosporus (there are many places between Besiktas - Yeniköy)

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

Don't let anyone fool you because you're tourist (I don't know why, they still do that), know what you're asking for.
Enjoy the city! Even if the rush bores you from time to time, you'll miss it deeply when you're away.
Enjoy the Turkish breakfast!