Experience in Istanbul, Turkey, by Nesil

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

It is hard to live in Istanbul for a woman. We discuss it everyday in every platform. There are so many violence and sexual abuse cases, and if they know that you are foreign, it is even worse. Don't hesitate on going to Istanbul if you get the chance, but you should just be very aware of these dangers.

On the other hand, the city is very beautiful.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

There are many artistic events, concerts, exhibitions, etc. in Istanbul and I think they are very essential for students. You can have more fun in some or less fun in others, there are many options for everything.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

If we consider all expenses which include rent, bills, market shopping and etc, 2. 500 or 3000 Turkish liras is what it costs to live in Istanbul.

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

I wouldn't say it is difficult to find accommodation in Istanbul, there are so many dormitories, student flats and people who are ready to share their flat with an Erasmus student. Kadıköy and Osmanbey are two of the best neighborhoods for students.

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

Turkish food is amazing. We have so many kind of dishes from all around the world. For Turkish cuisine, the city Gaziantep's food is the best. Alinazik, kuru patlıcan dolması and çiğköfte are my favourite dishes. You can google them by the original names.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

After visiting usual touristic places, you must see:

• Kuzguncuk
• Karaköy
• Çukurcuma
• Cihangir
• Moda
• Arnavutköy
• Caddebostan

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

It is even better than at home if you don't want to eat the Turkish dishes that your mom cooks anymore. 49 Çukurcuma is one of my favourite pizza places. Dem Karaköy also is my favourite tea spot where they serve all kinds of tea from all around the world.

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

Nightlife in Istanbul is awesome, but if you are looking for some casual indie music it's almost impossible to find a place that plays it. Yet, people generally like to go to Reina, Angelique, Eelence and Sortie.

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

Prepare yourself to see the laziest students of all! At my university (Bilgi University) Erasmus students are more successful than us.