Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Selcuk

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

It is an amazing experience to have a vacation in Istanbul. But to live there is a different thing because of the transportation. Anyway, I live there since 1983 and I can not move to anywhere else despite of all disadvantages because the advantages are more and more better. Istanbul is the heart of entertainment and moreover as being an historical city which was capital of Byzantium Empire and Ottoman Empire has lots of things to see.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

It is amazing because you can have lots options to make other than the courses. It is cheaper than western european countries.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

They sould check the different webpages that give detail information about it but generally it depends on the life style. But it is from 50% even to 70% cheaper than western european countries.

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

There are lot of options depending on the university location. There are lots of websites that offer rent flats or rooms.

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

You can find any kind of food from all over the world. The turkish cuisine is also so rich with kebabs, different fish and vegetable meals with olive oil.

What places would you recommend visiting in Istanbul?

All city I will say but if there is so limited time it is better to start from European side.

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

Yes, there are lots of cheap and delicious options. You can find from any website, even from google-map

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

It is amazing. Especially in Taksim area there are more than thousands bars, discos and night-clubs. It is better to go with a group of friend.

What advice would you give future students heading to Istanbul?

They shouldnt spend their time just studying, they should also visit the city everypart, European and Anatolian sides.