What to know about Safety in Turkey?

I know many of you concern about recent terrorist attacks in Turkey which target civilians. Only one of them targeted tourists was organized by ISIS. It was very unfortunate but aimed to harm Turkey's tourism industry. Although SouthEast Turkey, Istanbul and Ankara are main targets, the other parts of the country remain safe for tourists. It is wise to obtain up-to-date information from your government before travel. Long-term residents should register with their embassy if they live in Ankara, or consulate if they live in other large cities. The consulates provide regular updates on such matters.

What is the safety level in smaller cities? Is it safe to travel Turkey?

Travelers who dress and behave respectably are as safe in Turkey as anywhere in the world. Violent crime is not usually random; most violent crimes are crimes of passion, or retribution for a serious affront. Football games can generate violence.

Foreign women who have moved to Istanbul from large cities in the USA or Europe often say they feel safer walking in the street in the evenings in Istanbul than back home. If you are a woman traveling alone or two women late at night it is best not to attract attention to yourself. It is usually assumed that you are trying to invite male company. If you are careful you will be fine. In seaside resorts or tourist areas some Turkish men make a living by picking up Western women and showing them the town, at the women’s expense.

Western women, particularly Americans, are often misunderstood because of their openness. Honest curiosity or light conversation may be interpreted as flirtation. Turkish men generally are not used to much interaction with women they don’t know. Although mixed group activities are common at school and work, it is improper for a Turkish man to show too much interest in a woman without getting to know her through his family or social circle first. He might thing that a foreign woman is open to his advances. If you feel uncomfortable, tell another Turk in the group that he is too friendly for your liking. They will know how to deal with it and will be pleased to help.

Turkish men have a justified reputation for being Casanovas, and if you go out alone with a Turk he is likely to assume that you will be open to his amorous approaches.

Shoplifting and pickpocketing increased during the economic slump, especially in the tourist and market areas. Be careful if people try to distract you or follow you—they may be petty thieves after your wallet or cash. Sometimes a person may approach you to change money on the street. Decline—it is often counterfeit.

If you would like to travel Turkey safely you are recommended to arrange your trip with a licensed travel agent so check TSC Travel www.turkeytourspecialist.com for escorted Turkey tour programs.

Is it safe to travel Turkey?

The Recent Terrorist Attacks in Turkey 2016

Unfortunately, Turkey is densely suffering from Syria problem during this period as well as PKK Kurdish Terrorists wants to control over the Southeast Region of Turkey. As a result of these, there were some recent bomb attacks in Istanbul and Ankara. Only one of them targeted tourists was in January 2016.

The other parts of Turkey remain safe so you can still consider travelling West and South of the country offers beautiful vacation deals for tourists.

As a Turkey travel specialist I would recommend you to keep an eye on the news and, closer to your departure date, talk to your travel provider for their latest advice. Additionally, leave organising your Turkey holiday money until closer to when you plan to travel to avoid any unnecessary exchange losses if you are unable to go.

If you would like to make a trip plan for alternative destinations you can contact Turkey Tour Specialists www.turkeytourspecialist.com and they will offer you some safe trip plans for Turkey.

How is general situation at the moment?

Being friendly and hospitable to visitors and guests is a part of Turkish Culture so don’t be surprised or think wrong when you see a Turkish reluctant to help you or welcome you in their house.

Of course, I am not talking about the guys hassle tourists walking around the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square. Be aware of them and do not accept any offers will end in a quasin’s shop!

However, we can still consider Turkey as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers.

Istanbul is the biggest city in Turkey with its over 20 million population. With the recent Syrian war, Turkey gets many refugees to the big cities. You must be careful about Street Crime, Pickpockets, bag-slashers, bag-snatchers, con artists. Always hold your bag in front and closed. Never carry so much cash and avoid displaying your valuables. Its simple and same as you would do in any other metropolis such as New York, London or Shanghai.

Mugging and Rape by force is rate but might be danger for alone travelers.

Any danger for female travelers?

Turkish guys can be very flirtatious, you must avoid turning a nice conversation to a date and then expect a long-term and trusty relation. As long as you observe the cultural norms and behave accordingly, you will have no problem or physical danger in Turkey. Thus, you can consider Turkey as one of the safest countries for female travelers.

What about street protests and political unrest?

Turkey has a young, developing country and people trying to establish democracy in the country. Its not easy to do it in a country ruled by “Sharia” (Islamic Religious Laws) over 600 years. Think about Europe and United States and how many wars made between countries, how many people died for it?

Although there is a cold war in the country, they are trying to find the mid-way with peaceful protests. These protests running mainly in Istanbul (Taksim Square), Ankara ( Kizilay Square) and Izmir (Konak Square) and not covers touristic areas of the cities. As a tourist you must stay around the touristic areas and do not participate any of the political or civil protests.