Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Ezgi

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

I think Istanbul is the heart of Turkey. It contains both Eastern and Western Culture. Also from Istanbul you can travel another cities easily. But you have to be careful in some areas like Eminönü, Fatih etc.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Being student in Istanbul is great because it is the city that never sleeps.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

According to Ankara or some other cities in Turkey, it costs more to live in Istanbul. You need probably around 1,500 TL.

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

It's difficult in some areas because some people doesn't want to rent their houses to students and they don't want their house to turn a party house so they usually doesn't approve renting house to students.

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

Food is great. I like fresh bean and iskender kebab most.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

Sultanahmet where you can find a lot of palaces and mosques.
Kadıköy where you can buy clothes very cheaper.

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

I like eating grilled fish sandwich in Eminönü. And there are lots of cafés in Bagdat Street and Taksim. You can find a lot things that suit your taste.

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

Taksim is very good to experience nightlife. There is a bar "Tektekçi" where you can taste a lot of different tequila shots.

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

Don't trust everyone and be careful, you'll like this city and you'll experience Turkey in a good way.