Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Erhan

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

Izmir is the ease of life here. Compared to the other cities, there is little to no traffic in Izmir, the cost of living is much lower, and the “hustle and bustle” factor is minimal. Living in Izmir also means we are very close to some lovely spots on the Aegean such as Cesme, Foca and Kusadasi. I would characterize life in Izmir as comfortable and relaxing, which is a lovely change of pace from the other cities . That said, Izmir lacks the majesty and dynamism of the others. Also, you don’t miss much about your countries.
There are a couple of places to live in Izmir that are quite nice. Alsancak is the city’s heart: it is home to its theatres, best bars and restaurants, clubs and shopping districts. Rents there are a bit higher than elsewhere. The Karsiyaka neighbourhood, where I live, is a bit quieter and more family-friendly. It’s home to lots of pazars (daily markets) where you can stock up on inexpensive fresh produce, textiles, shoes, clothes and the like. Since Izmir is a relatively small city (at about 4 million people), getting around is easy, so if you choose to live in one area, getting to another is a piece of cake.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

Izmir, located in the western part of Turkey, is the country’s third most populous city and lies on the coast of the Aegean Sea. Izmir's culture, activities, history and large number of universities makes it an ideal student city.
Izmir is home to many quality University, making it a primier destination for international students from any part of the world. The Study Izmir Platform promotes Izmir as a center of academic thought and learning with an exciting student lifestyle.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

The cost of living is much lower than the other cities (İstanbul and Ankara)

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

To find accommodation is easy in İzmir. There are many Student flats around Bornova , Guzelyali and Karsıyaka. İntership student can find the flats from intership student platform of İzmir.
Most accommodation here includes 2 bedrooms or more, but it is possible to find smaller, one-bedroom flats. A 2-bedroom flat in Izmir will cost about 700-800 TL per month.

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

If you continue to eat and drink like you do at home, i.e. by buying pork, drinking wine and eating Italian pasta, you will find that your grocery bills will be quite high because all of those products are expensive and subject to high import tax. If, however, you adopt habits that are more conducive with the local culture – that is, you buy rice in bulk, do your shopping at the local market instead of the big chain grocery store – you’ll find that your costs can be much cheaper.

What places would you recommend visiting in Izmir?

Watch Tower, Kemeraltı, Eski Izmir,Ephesus , Alsancak and Karsıyaka.

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

To go out and eat & drinks is lovely in İzmir nights. There are many restaurant around Alsancak and Karsıyaka.

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

Nightlife is more safe than the other cities.

What advice would you give future students heading to Izmir?

Enjoy your life and erasmus during your studies. you would be in a big dream that you would never seen it again.