Fast Facts Turkey!
What is the weather like in Turkey?
The coast of Turkey is temperate, warm, and humid in the summer.
Eastern Turkey has short summers and bitterly cold winters.
Central Anatolia is dry and hot in the summer, rainy and snowy
in the winter. If you plan to visit beaches, June thru September
is the best time to travel. Southeastern Turkey is very dry
and extremely hot in the summer.
April-May and September-October are the best months for touring
with the least amount of rainfall and the most comfortable temperatures.
For an updated forecast in Turkey, click here.
What is required for entry into Turkey?
U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport, visa, and
proof of onward passage. Friendly Planet can help you obtain
a visa, just click here.
Are there any health precautions I should take?
There is no risk for malaria in Istanbul. You should check
with your doctor about possible vaccinations against typhoid
and hepatitis. Take along plenty of insect repellent!
CDC Website link: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/mideast.htm
WHO website link: http://www.who.int/ith/countrylist10.html#208
What is the currency?
The currency in Turkey is the lira. One American dollar is
worth approximately 1,467,000 lira. For updated currency exchange
rates, click here.
Tipping: Tip 10% in expensive restaurants
even if a service charge has been added. Tip porters 3 million
lira, and tour guides around $5-$10 US.
ATMs: ATMs are found all over in major
cities. Beware of ATMs in secluded areas.
What items should I shop for in Turkey?
The best items to shop for in Turkey are handwoven rugs and
kilims, leather goods, silk, alabaster, copperware
and brassware, ceramics, Iznik tiles, brass samovars,
and meerschaum pipes. Be cautious of “antiques,”
some are fakes. If you do buy an antique, be sure to obtain
an official permit to export it.
What are the voltage requirements in Turkey?
Voltage: 230 V; Plugs C & F. You
will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to
use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter
and converter kit. Click here
for more information about electrical standards around the world.
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