Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Saya

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

Hi, my name is Saya, I am Kazakh, I am married and I have been living in Izmir since 2018. Living here I have opened for myself so many beautiful places. I would recommend Izmir first of all for leisure, then for living and study(remember this my viewpoint).
Izmir is the third city after Istanbul and Ankara, which is located in the western part of Turkey. The city is quite modern, with a rich history, unique architecture and beautiful Aegean sea.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

I did not study here but most foreigners come here to traineeship, Master, Bachelor degrees to make a qualification. I see very modern, comfortable campuses of the students in the center of the city.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

I highly recommend for students exceptionally campuses, because to rent the apartment is not so far cheap, for exp. last year we paid 1600 Turkish lira and this year 1700 TL and yearly owner requires in the contract to add some money due to inflation+ 300 Euro deposit (it depends on real estate) + public utilities (gas, electricity, water, internet, telephone).

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

I think it is not hard to find good accommodations in Izmir. Just be careful with whom you are dealing, because there are so many bubble companies and study accurately contract, require that it should be written in English.
I also advise visiting these two sites: www.sahibinden.com; www.hurriyetemlak.com

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

Turkish kitchen is rich with various tasty food. Turkish people are Muslims, hence do not seek any pork here.
Turkish dishes will surprise your taste buds in a manner that not you’ll be amazed, but you’ll want more of it.
Here are the lists of Turkish dishes:
Mantı: Mini Ravioli
Köfte: Turk’s Meatballs
Lahmacun: Turkish Style Pizza
Menemen: Turkish Egg Delicacy
Şiş Kebap: Turkish Seekh Kebab
Döner: Turkish Sub
İskender Kebab: Strips Of Lamb
Corba: Turkish Soup
Kuzu Tandir: Lamb Delicacy
Pide: Turkish Patty
Meze: Dish With A Fish
Çiğ köfte: Spicy Balls
Pilav (Pilaf): Turkish Pulao
Yaprak Sarma: A Healthy Snack
Dolma: Vegetarian Delicacy
İmam Bayıldı: A Spicy Delight
Borek: Spinach Or Meat Puffs
Durum: Non-Veg Wrap
Kumpir: Must-Have Snack
Balik Ekmek: Fish Sandwich
Simit: Turkish Pretzel
Kunefe: Most Famous Dessert
Baklava: Pastries
Lokum: Yummy Jellies
Halva: Unique Halwa
Mozzaik Pasta: Chocolate Cake
Güllaç: Traditional Dessert
Kunefe: Beverages
Balik Emek: Dried Apricots
Simit: Delicious Kofte
Turkish Tea and Coffee: Turkish Dip

What places would you recommend visiting in Izmir?

Kemeralti pazari

Bazaar Kemeralti in the center of Konak region, can buy whatever things, in the center of the bazaar you can see Big mosque, cafes, restaurants, etc.
Kordon
Near this Kemeralti you can walk on the coast called Kordon of the sea, drinking a hot tea or coffee with Gevrek.

Agora museum
This museum is an open-air museum very ancient and historically subjects to Roman Empire buildings, here archeologists found a center big market with underground water carriage.

Tower Asansor

Here lived an Italian writer Dario Moreno and musician Enrico Macias. From the tower opens amazing view to the sea and city.

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

There will not be a problem with eating places, just be careful with matching the places to eat out in Izmir. Pay attention to the cleanness of the cafe or restaurant, then the price.

Antakya, good cooking cafe in Bornova, Izmir
Gozlemecim, Alsancak
Doyuran Manisa Kebap Salonu, Alsancak
Mado, Forum Bornova
Sturbucks, Alsancak

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

As far as I am not a lover of nightlife I don't have a good recommendation, but majority of youngsters go to Alsancak to enjoy it.

What advice would you give future students heading to Izmir?

I advise future students to take the initiative to start your pursuing your education, stay focused and make sure you complete your goal. Also, safety first! Be careful to stay out of trouble, often inform your parents about your condition and be friendly.