Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by erdem

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

Istanbul is one of the paradises of the world :) and you should definitely go and see. A lot of people from different languages and strains live in Istanbul. Istanbul is absolutely an historic city There are a lot of historical places to see.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Istanbul is both cheap and expensive for students. It depends on the lifestyle of the student. However common place either for students or professionals is Taksim. In Taksim everything is cheap.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

It depens on the living place and lifestyle as i mentioned above. However a student can make a living like kings for about 1000 Dollars :) even it is much. This is a lux life for a student for me

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

It is absolutely very easy. You can find from everywhere especially from the internet.

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

Turkish Kebap and Turkish delight are famous and also you should try stuffed vine leaves and you can find freshfish everywhere and it is cheap. A fulfilling fish is nearly 2 euro. Of course 'manti' and 'gozleme' must not be forgotten too.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

You shoul visit Sultanahmet, Ayasofya (Saint Sofia), Topkapi Palace, The Basilica Cistern, Camlica Hill, Castles, Dolmabahçe Palace...

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

To eat fish with Turkish Rakı and the scene of The Bosphorus is great. However i recommend Turkish Kebap i like it very much. i like eating out and the most i paid is 400 euro in a very expensive and the famous restaurant of Istanbul that has Bosphorus view. My favourite spots are Feriye, Lacivert and Villa Bosphorus but there are much more spots these are some of them.

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

It is great everywhere is different and you can have fun in everywhere the most famous place for nightlife is of course Taksim and Cihangir.

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

Dont trust everyone so much and learn about the money also bargain when you go somewhere else like restaurants, shops. Stay awake till morning and have fun in Taksim. Inhale the smell of The Bosphorus... and also you can find me i can show you around and entertain you ;)