hometown experiences by Aslı

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

It's a really nice harbour city with it's kindest people of all in Turkey.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

I can say that İzmir is safe and fun for students. No prob in any time of the day. There are no thousands of choices for entertainment, however any poeple can find something according to wishes.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

It depends on how you live. It is small Istanbul and you can find the best for living or the least. But as a student 1500 lira is quiet nice for living.

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

I have never searched because it is my hometown. However i'm sure its easy to find small tiny shared apartments around Alsancak or Bornova. Bornova is commonly called as the student center in İzmir. Karşıyaka is also nice. It depends on where you study.

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

It's a part of mediterannean cuisine. We like olive oil a lot here. But you know it's a big city you can find whatever you wish. My favorites are zeytinyağlı sarma. Search it, taste it if you can find. My grandmother is the master.

What places would you recommend visiting in Izmir?

İzmir is a slow city, despite of the growing lately. Just enjoy it. Walk on the seaside, eat mussels, drink beer.. See the ancient cities around and other historical artifacts.

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

You should drink rakı and eat fish. We call it "going to rakı balık". Taste the sea products. Balık Ada in Alsancak is kinda my favorite. And Adabeyi in Konak Pier is also nice with the view.

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

neeeeeh. Not an Amsterdam. But there are very popular pubs and clubs in Alsancak, Karşıyaka and Bornova. If you are here in summer time Çeşme is the place where you should go for night and day parties.

What advice would you give future students heading to Izmir?

hug it like your home. it will hug you back. Also go to Köfteci Remzi. forgot to tell in eating part. It's in Bostanlı. Anyway enjoy it.