Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Yassir

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

I found it vey good as place but I don't like the planning of the city I have the impression that the city isn't developping at all. In the other side I love the suberbs of Izmir (Urla,Selçuk, Sirince Köy, Efesus) I would like that I like some parts of Izmir (Mavisehir, Nareledere...). I would highly recommend Izmir beccause it is a hisorical city with a very nice weather, kind peolpe and not very expensive

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

well the student life is good in general but without any entertainments all over the year it is becoming quite difficult.
but you can manage it with integrating association (InterNations...) or go for the Facebook groups activities (anti-boring international, language exchange groups...). You can meet with locals and some internationals in these groups.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

will from my personal experience 1000 Turkish lira would correct if you share expenses of renting with friends.

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

it is easy there is plenty of options for accomodation. during the whole year.

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

very good I had some problems at the begining to get used to it (Manti, çig köfte, Turkish tea, rice...I could not eat that at the beginings).
The best thing I like in Izmir is Breakfast out side in week ends or Mangal (BBQ) there is many place where you can do it.

What places would you recommend visiting in Izmir?

I would recommend to visit the suberbs of Izmir (Marinas "Kusadasi, Urla, çesme" and hisorical places like Efesus and other villages "Sirence köy, Kaynaklar, Kemalpasa...). You can cycle in Izmir toward Kuscennat or visit the Zoo and other places.

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

sure there is plenty of place where you can eat from cheap to expensive (simple Bönerci or Borekçi to the classical restaurants in Konak Pier and other places such as shopping malls).

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

Well every things stops at midnight you can go to Alsancak Kibris sehitler caddesi you may have some fun. but in summer the things are more vibrants

What advice would you give future students heading to Izmir?

I would advice anyone to visit the city since the friends I could meet had a positif experience. Especiallty the suberbs of the city and the closest cities are very nice "Pamukkale, Selçuk..."