Is it Safe to Visit Turkey? What you MUST Know

With everything happening in Turkey, the latest being the attempted coup, it might be very concerning for travelers/tourists to visit Turkey. After reviewing what government bodies around the world are advising their citizens, here is what you MUST know before you visit Turkey.

What’s happening in Turkey that could threaten your safety?

• On Friday, July 15, 2016, there was an attempted coup in Turkey; at least 290 people died. The coup attempt started in Istanbul and in the Turkish capital, Ankara. A fraction of the Turkish Army declared that it was forming a new government and constitution; it later surrendered.
• In June 2016, suicide bombers attacked Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, leaving at least 41 people dead and many wounded.
• In April 2016 a female suicide bomber attacked Bursa city.
• In March 2016 a suicide bomber killed five people in a very busy street full of restaurants, shops, and foreign consulates.
• In Turkey’s capital city Ankara, bombers attacked a military convoy in February 2016 and a bus in March 2016, killing 29 people and 37 people, respectively.
• In January 2016, a suicide bombing attack in the Sultanahmet district (which is one of the most popular tourist destinations) left 12 people dead and 14 injured.

Why would anyone want to visit Turkey?

1| Magnificent Architecture

Turkey is known for its architectural designs and magnificent art in its buildings, particularly its mosques. Sultanahmet district is the home to Turkey’s beautifully designed mosques; the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are among the top attractions. However, you will find several other kinds of structures around this area.

2| Experience the Culture

When you visit Istanbul you will be met with a totally different sound echoing street traffic, vendors selling in the streets and calls to prayer sessions. All around, Turkey reflects a strong and rich culture through the way its people dress, the food they eat, their religion, as well as the manner they talk to other people.

You will find art in spices, clothing materials, and home decorations w, en you visit Turkey. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a must see market. Similarly, Turkish people are very friendly; everyone talks to everyone over there.

3| Stunning Views

Turkey is also known for magnificent views in various regions. You get a breath of fresh air as you walk or drive along the coastlines. As you drive from one town to the next you are usually taken on windy roads up and down hills, thus presenting you with amazing views.

4| Perfect and Cheap Beach Holidays

Beach holidays in Turkey are very cheap in comparison to other warm countries. In places like Bodrum and Antalya, you will find more foreigners on beaches than local people. Gumbet beach in Bodrum, for example, is full of British holidaymakers some of whom have purchased apartments along the beaches and settled there permanently.

Advice Given to Travelers by Foreign Governments

• The United States Department of State has warned U.S. citizens of increased threats from terrorist groups throughout Turkey. It advises people to avoid traveling to southeastern Turkey.
• The British Government states that people are advised: “to avoid public places, in particular, demonstrations.” In non-affected areas, the message is clear and simple: precautions are still urged. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) latest update states: “If you’re in Turkey, you should be vigilant, follow the advice of the local authorities, closely monitor travel advice and contact your airline or travel company if you need more information; in Istanbul and Ankara, demonstrations and gatherings may occur at short notice; you should stay well away from any demonstrations”
• Also, the Irish Government urges precautions to its citizens. According to the government release, the “situation in Ankara and Istanbul, in particular, remains tense.” In all other areas, the highest precautions are advised.

Points to remember before you visit Turkey:

• Avoid traveling at night
• Avoid public places (where crowds gather) and demonstrations
• Also, use precautions in places deemed not affected
• Monitor travel advice (start with your country’s foreign office website, as well as your airline/travel company)
• Be aware of planned demonstrations (the British FCO website above publishes updates)
• Avoid traveling to the border areas between Turkey and Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir

Should You Still Visit Turkey?

It seems areas that are not too populated might be considered safer zones in comparison to the crowded heart of Ankara and Istanbul such as the Sultanahmet area and Taksim area.

An alternative to Istanbul, would you feel safe taking a beach holiday in places such as Bodrum as well as venturing on a trip to see nature and landscapes? I think I would. Bodrum Castle of St. Peter, Turkey is another stunning and educational place to visit in Bodrum.

However, Istanbul is a strong cultural place and it would be a shame to visit Turkey and not experience the magnificent Grand Bazaar and the beauty of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.