Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Emir

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

Living in istanbul is like a competetion in which you should differentiate bad, good and better options and choices. You can find bad things, not good atmospheres and good not expensive places and also high quality products and facilities.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

It s totally about which university studying in. some of them are far away from center but some of them have the best area of istanbul. Boğaziçi, İstanbul Technical university and Yıldız Tech Uni s Besiktas campus are amazing and centrall. The weeks completely belong to students. Many places are full of students especially at central squares.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Rent can be 500 - 600 tl ( 200 euro) for one room .
Meal expenses 1000 tl ( 300 euro)
Transportation 70 tl (20 euro ) for one month

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

If it is possible get contact one turkish student who lives in istanbul otherwise some opportunist people will try to get much money than what your future home costs. If you know a little bit turkish search online via www.sahibinden.com

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

They are delicious and cheap when compare to european food.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

Hagia sophia, blue mosque, eminönü port, all sides of bosphorus, golden horn, pierlotti hill, taksim square, belgrad forests, princess islands ...

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

yeah it is cheap if you dont choose fancy restaurants. some döner and kebap restaurant could be cheap. also chain fast food restaurants. some who grill meatball - köfteci ramiz.