Turkey Travel Guide,Pension,Hotels,History,Transportation,Tour,Tours

TURKEY IN BRIEF

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Name: Republic of Turkey

Extension: Approximately 780 thousand sq. kms Approximately 1,600 kms East to West; 650 kms North to South

Population: 67.84 million (October 2000 National Census)

Capital: Ankara

Language: Turkish

Religion: 99% Muslim, 1% Orthodox Christians, Catholics, Protestans and other. Turkey is a secular state where religious and state affairs are separated.

National Anthem: Istiklal Marsi (“The Independence Hymn”)

National Flag: White crescent moon and a star on a red background.

Historical Outline:

1299: Establishment of the Ottoman Empire 1922: Fall of the Ottoman Empire

1923: Proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on October 29

( First President: Mustafa Kemal ATATURK)

POLITICS

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Form of Government: Republic (Established on October 29, 1923, by Mustafa Kemal

ATATÜRK , founder of modern Turkey) Turkey has been holding freely contested multi-party elections since 1946.

Head of State: President Abdullah GÜL ( Selected 2007)

Legislature: Unicameral system (550 seats / five-year term) Last general elections held on November 3, 2002

Party (AKP), absolute majority government Prime Minister: Recep Tayyip ERDOGAN (March 11, 2003)

( First President: Mustafa Kemal ATATURK)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT TURKEY

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Work Hours

Banks are open weekdays from 8:30 am until noon or 12:30 am, depending on the bank, and from 1:30 am until 5.00 am. However, there are some banks which continue to serve during lunch breaks.

Museums are generally open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 am until 5.00 am or 5:30 pm and closed on Monday. Palaces are open the same hours but are closed on Thursdays. For specific information on museums, please visit our museums section.

Shops and bazaars are normally open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 1.00 pm and from 2.00 pm to 7.00 pm, and closed all day on Sunday. But most stores in shopping malls and crowded streets are open seven days a week, including lunch breaks.

You can find restaurants or cafes open virtually at any time of the day or night.

SOME OTHER FACTS ABOUT TURKEY

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In terms of population, Turkey is the second largest country in Europe (after Germany ), with 70 million people. In 2020, it is projected to be the most populous European country, with a population of 83 million.
Four million Turks live abroad. Of that number, almost 2.5 million live in Germany .
Geographically, Turkey straddles two continents, Europe in the west and Asia in the east.
The two continents are divided by the Istanbul and Dardanelles straits, which are located in Turkey .
Turkey is unique in being on the one hand Balkan and European, and on the other, Middle Eastern, Caucasian and Asian. It is also as much a Black Sea country as it is an Aegean and Mediterranean one.
Another unique aspect of Turkey is the fact that it is the only democratic, secular country among the Muslim nations of the Middle East .
In addition to being a pioneering country in the Islamic world, Turkey has also become fully integrated into Europe since 1923, when the Republic was established. She is a member of almost all European/European-related institutions, such as the Council of Europe, OSCE, NATO, OECD. Turkey has been an associate member of the European Union since 1963 and a candidate for full membership in the Union since 1999.
Turkey has the second biggest Army in NATO after the United States .
Turkey also entertains relations of strategic cooperation with the United States .
Turkey lies in close proximity to 70 percent of the world's proven energy resources and is a prospective regional centre for storage and distribution of oil and natural gas.
Turkey is among the world's 20 largest economies and she is a member of the Group of 20 countries.
The Turkish economy has been identified as being one of the 10 significant emerging markets by U.S. sources.
Turkey is a prominent producer and exporter of many commodities. Here are some examples:
Turkey is the leading cement producer in Europe and the seventh-ranked producer in the world.
Turkey is the second-ranked producer of glass-made items in Europe and fourth-ranked producer in the world.
Turkey has 40% of the world marble reserves.
Turkey is the second-ranked exporter of jewelry in the world.
Turkey is the world's leading supplier of processed leather.
Turkey is the second-ranked supplier of textiles and garments to the EU.
Turkey is the fifth-ranked carpet exporter in Europe.
Turkey is the sixth-ranked cotton producer in the world.
Turkey is the world's principal supplier of hazelnuts, chickpeas, fresh and dried figs, and apricots.
Turkey is the second-ranked supplier of cherry and watermelon in the world.
Turkey is the second-ranked producer of pine tree honey in the world.
Turkey is the second-ranked supplier of red lentils in the world.
Turkey is the third-ranked producer of tomatoes and second-ranked producer of tomato paste in the world.
Turkey is the third-ranked producer of olives and fourth-ranked producer and exporter of olive oil in the world.

HOW DO I MAKE CALLS?

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To make calls from your mobile phone in Turkey , please dial by following these guidelines.

To call another Turkcell subscriber: Dial 0, the network code, and then the seven-digit number; 0 53x xxx xxxx
To call a fixed line within Turkey : Dial 0, the tree-digit area code, and then the seven digit number; 0 xxx xxx xxxx.
To call another GSM operator in Turkey : Dial 0, the operator's three-digit network code and then the seven-digit number ; 0 xxx xxxx
To call an international GSM number: Dial the international prefix + the country code the GSM Network code and then the mobile number.
To call an international fixed line: Dial the international prefix + the country code the area code and then the phone number.
To send an SMS to a domestic GSM subscriber: After writing your message dial 0 xxx xxx xxxx
To send an SMS to an international GSM number: After writing your message dial the international prefix + the country code the GSM network code and then the mobile number.

MBA PROGRAMS IN TURKEY

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Why MBA programs? Earning a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree, can provide you with management skills and business expertise that open new career opportunities to you.If you are working in business and are looking to move up the ladder or to move from your current area of expertise to a new one, an MBA program can help you achieve your goals.
An MBA program will also launch you into the much higher pay range that upper level managers and executives enjoy.Furthermore, in the high-level positions an MBA degree will allow you to hold, your work will often be more interesting and rewarding.

Now, more and more MBA programs provide training that goes beyond general business management to provide subject area expertise.So, for example, if your career interests are in the field of e-commerce, you can find MBA programs with a strong focus in that area.In addition, many MBA programs will allow you to earn joint degrees, so you can combine business administration training with training in another field, like law, health, or even social work.

MOVING TO TURKEY

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DOCUMENTATION: (Foreigners coming to work-excluding L89/67 companies)

1: Certificate of secondary residence from nearest consulate with detailed attached list of HHG. 2: Personal bank guarantee for amount of duties

3: House contract

4: Passport

5: Greeks repatriating, foreigners married to Greeks, Greeks military and foreign EEC member who have lived abroad for at least 2 years.

6: Certificate of repatriating from the nearest Greek consulate.

7: Detailed attached list of HHG/PE.

8: Application for 5 years of residence permit and deposit to customs of an amount equivalent to duties until permit is obtained. Deposit then be reimbursed.

RESTRICTED ITEMS:

Check with the consulate.

FIREARMS / WEAPONS:

Weapons may not be imported into turkey. (Exeption: import allowed only with license to carry arms issued by the greek authorities.)

DUTIES:

One per kind of electrical appliances can be imported duty free. Appliances can be new provided they were purchased prior to date of "Issuance of certificate of repatriation". For foreigners coming to work, VAT would apply if shipments are imported from non EEC countries.

VEHICLES:

Please check with agent or consulate as regulations change often

TURKEY SPORTS

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Turkey has much to offer for the visitors, its geography and climate offer a wide range of opportunities to practice any sport and activities to do.

Sailing

Bordered by four seas, the Black Sea, Marmara Sea, Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, Turkey offers a great opportunity to enjoy of cruising by the seas and at the same time appreciating of the plethora of archeological sites, castles and temples around the coasts. There are many cruising charters available.

Gulets, before used for fishing and transportation, now are very popular to make journeys. Best Gulets are built in Marmaris and Bodrum.

Scuba Diving

Turkey along its coasts and especially in the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts offer great places to dive. Despite that Scuba diving in turkey is relatively new it is developing rapidly. Its coastline abounds with sheltered coves, bays and uninhabited islands, rich and varied marine life, numerous reefs, majestic rock formations, curious caves and sharp drop-offs.

There are special requirements for foreign divers, they should have official documentation of their qualification, training and must be accompanied, when diving, by a licensed Turkish guide. The limit for diving with diving gear is 30 meters. To dive exceeding 30 meters they must do it with the proper diving and medical equipment

Kas in the Lycian coast is the most popular place for scuba diving. It offers clear water with visibilities up to 40 meters, comfortable water temperature of 25-28 degrees and its possible to see underwater canyons, shipwrecks, caves, bizarre reefs.

Bodrum is another great place to dive in. There are sheltered seas with visibility average of 20 meters, water temperatures range from 17 - 22°C during the season which extends from mid April to late October.

Rafting & Canoeing

Although, Turkey is not well-known as good place to rafting, in fact there are some excellent rivers that provide perfect conditions for canoeing and rafting; both for professionals and rookies. Some of the best rivers for rafting are: Coruh, Barhal, Berta, Firtina, Colak, Koprucay, Manavgat, Dragon, Goksu (Silifke), Zamanti, Goksu (Feke), Kizilirmak and Dalaman Cayi.

The river Coruh in the Kackar Mountains in northeastern Turkey is readily acknowledged as one of the world’s top ten for rafting. Its origin is in the province of Bayburt and flows for 250 km to terminate in the Black Sea. 4th World Water sports Championships was held here in 1993 with approximately 300 competitors from 28 countries. The Coruh River is best for rafting from May to September and the prime months are May and June.

Fishing

Turkey has plenty fishing areas especially in the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Fishing can be done without a license in some non-restricted areas and just by amateurs. To get more details concerning fishing zones, the permissions and rules can be obtained from the Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

Football

Turkey in the last decades has been experimented a great development in a number of sports especially with football. Football is Turkey’s national sport and is played in all around the country. The most popular teams are Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Besiktas and Trabzonspor, being the Galatasaray the most success, winning the 2000 UEFA Cup and European Super Cup. Turkey in the last years has exported many of its players into top foreign teams principally into European Clubs like Barcelona, Milan, and Parma among others. As well as sending players abroad, the Turkish league has also attracted players into Turkey.

Skiing

Turkey’s geography and its climate have created great conditions for skiing and winter sports. Turkey is mainly mountainous, and many regions have cooler climates than the major resort areas. There are several ski resorts in Turkey, which offer skiing facilities spanning from November to May.

The main ski resorts in Turkey are Uludag in Bursa, located at 1 ½ hours south of Istanbul by ferry and bus. This very popular resort is at 2453 meters. Kartalkaya located in outskirts of Bolu, slopes at 2221 meters' (7300 feet) altitude. Ilgaz at Kastamonu in the north of Ankara in Kastamonu province, the ski center is at 2000 meters (6600 feet). Sarikamis located in Kars at 2120 meters (7000 feet) of altitude and Palandöken in Erzurum is Turkey's coldest and highest (3150 meters/ 10,300 feet) offering with good hotels, good conditions.

Wrestling/Oil Wrestling

Wrestling in Turkey is very popular and another national sport. Yagli gures means literally oiled wrestling. Every year since 1640 Turkey’s wrestlers – men and boys – have gathered for their national championships on a grassy field held on Edirne. The wrestlers wear tight short leather trousers called "Kispet", made of water buffalo leather weighing approximately 13 kilograms, and they cover themselves with olive oil.

TURKEY LANGUAGE

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Turkish is the official language of Turkey and one of the official languages of Cyprus. It belongs to the Althay branch of the Ural-Altay linguistic family, also know as Turkic languages. The Ural-Altay linguistic family has originated in the highlands around the Altay Mountains of Central Asia at centuries ago. More than 90 percent of the population of the country spokes Turkish but there also some 70 other languages and dialects that are also spoken, including various dialects of Caucasian and Kurdish as well as Arabic, Greek, Ladino and Armenian.

The Turkish language comes to Turkey when nomads from Altay Mountains came to Anatolian region bringing their language with them. Ever since very earliest times, Turkish has influenced various dialects of Middle Persian, and turned the Caucasus and Anatolia away from the Indo-European group of languages.

During the Ottoman Empire the language was expanded to the gates of Vienna and to Arabia, Egypt and Northern Africa, hence, the language and vocabulary has been influenced with words from Arabic, Persian and European languages. These imported words mostly (but not always) follow the basic grammar and vowel harmony of native Turkish.

After the establishment of the Republic, Ataturk impulsed reformations in the language and in 1928 was adopted a Latin based alphabet instead of Arabic script. In 1932 was established the Turkish Language Research Society in order to simplify the language, today still active, but with the name of Turkish Language Board and among its responsibilities are the simplification, enrichment and beautification of the Turkish language.

Now the Turkish alphabet has 29 letters, 8 of which are vowels and 21 are consonants. The Turkish language is written phonetically which means every letter is uttered while reading.

HEALTH IN TURKEY

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Turkish main cities are well covered with hospitals and private clinics available at reasonable costs. In rural areas and the east of the country, health services are less developed. The majority health cares services have bilingual professional and speak a foreign language. Medical facilities and standard of health care are not high in state hospitals and private health insurance is highly recommended.

It is recommended receive inoculations for Polio and Typhoid before travelling to Turkey. Also there is a risk of malaria in the south-eastern, but there are no reports of infection in main tourist areas. Some cases of bird flu have been reported in northern, eastern and central Turkey, but there is no evidence of the virus passing between humans.

To entry to the country there are no vaccination requirements, but is recommended to take care before to go to the country.

Water in the country are treat with chlorine, but to avoid any type of stomachic upset is recommended bottled water for drinking. Food from street vendors should be consumed with caution.

Health Precautions for Travel to TurkeyTo reduce health risks visiting Turkey is recommended consider the following precautionary health measures.

Take your malaria prevention medication before, during, and after travel, as directed
Mosquito and insect bite prevention
Avoid drinking non-treated water - try drink only bottled water.
Eat only cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself.
to prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not walk barefoot.
Avoid eat food from street vendors.
To avoid rabies try to not handle animals especially monkeys, dogs, and cats.
Use sun block and take sunglasses and a hat.

POSTAL SERVICE IN TURKEY

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The Turkish postal service is run by the PTT, they are easily recognized, all of them bear a yellow distinctive with a PTT sign.

Open hours are: Mon-Sat 8am-5pm; main branches are open until 7 or 8pm also on Sundays. Letters, Post cards and open enveloped post cards do have different tariffs. Post boxes are clearly labelled with categories of destination - yurtdisi means overseas.

The PTT is the best place to make phone calls. Post offices sell phonecards (30, 60 and 100 units) and jetons (tokens), and have both types of phone, as well as metered phones.

TELEPHONE SERVICE IN TURKEY

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Telephone Service in Turkey is provided by Turk Telekom, a half privatized company, covering all the country with local and international direct dialing system.

Turkish telephone numbers do have 7 digits in Turkey. Each Turkish town/city has its own 3 digits "Area Code".

Calling To/From Turkey

Turkey Country Code is 90. To call to Turkey from abroad dial your Access Code for International dial usually 00 (worldwide), followed by the country code, 90 + the Turkish city/town code + the phone number. For instance, to call to a phone number located in the European side of Istanbul, the dial will be: 00 90 212 PHONE NUMBER.

To dial abroad from Turkey dial the international code 00 followed by the country code and the number including the local area code.

There are three GSM mobile-phone companies, all of whit sell pre-paid SIM cards for around $20. Top-up cards are widely available.

Public pay phonesPublic telephones are conveniently located throughout the country. There are public phone booths which accept cards or tokens, called “jetons”, which can be bought from post offices (PTT) or local shops. The JETONS are available in three sizes: small for local calls, large for international calls and medium which can be used for either.

Calling from your hotel might be quite expensive, but as an alternative the public phones are cheaper. It is wise to check rates before making a call.

Useful Numbers Emergency :

Office/Institution Number

Fire Department 110
Emergency 112
International Operator 115
Directory Assistance 118
Reversed Charge Calls 131
Police 155
Gendarme 156
Coast Security 158
Forest Fire 177

THE COMMUNICATIONS IN TURKEY

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The communications in Turkey are well developed, although telecommunication services (both domestic and international) are best in urban areas. Telephone system covers all the country with efficiently working direct local and international dialing system.

Postal Offices are conveniently located in all districts of every city and town. Turkish post offices are easily recognizable by the yellow and black “PTT” signs.

Internet Access is well developed, there are public places with Wi-Fi connection and Café Internet which have cheap fees per hour of usage of the service.

ATMs & Credit Cards

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In turkey major credit cards are widely accepted at almost all hotels, most restaurants, department stores, grocery stores, and big retailers. Visa, MasterCard are the most accepted, also American Express and Diners Club but less often.
ATMs are conveniently located everywhere in Turkey, even in small towns. Almost all banks have ATMs and there are a huge number of free-standing ones at strategic points operating in the same way as those throughout the USA and Europe. There is available an option to choose the language and in some cases to choose Turkish Lira, US Dollars or Euros. To avoid any problem or difficulty is best to use an ATM machine from the same credit card company.

TRAVELLER CHEQUES

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Traveller cheques can be exchanged at banks, post offices, change offices with a rate of the 3%, but also there are places that charge 9%. Although, traveller cheques could be convenient for travellers they are no as welcome as cash in Turkey, indeed there are some banks that consider a hassle to exchange traveller cheques. Other options to exchange traveller cheques are the four and five star hotels that can exchange them for Turkish currency although the rate is generally poor.
Be advised to take traveller cheques in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars and keep the receipts as you may need this when you are exchanging Turkish money back to your currency at the end of your trip.

TURKISH CURRENCY EXCHANGE

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Turkish currency is easily obtainable at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports. The easiest way to exchange money is using the change offices, although they have higher rates than Banks, they do not charge commission, therefore, always offer a better rate than banks. Something to consider is to be careful exchanging money in the street because it could faces some problems, especially getting old notes instead the actual.

US dollars or Euros are preferred. Some shops and hotels in the most popular destinations accept US dollars and Euros as payment.

There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that may be brought into Turkey, but not more than $5,000 worth of Turkish currency may be brought into or taken out of the country.

Banks are open mainly from Monday to Friday, but some are open until Sunday in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Most bank branches have ATMs which accept Cirrus and Plus.

It is recommended being careful exchanging the money to Lira the rates can vary at anytime.

TURKISH CURRENCY

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Turkey's currency is the New Turkish Lira (Yeni Türk Lirasi) simbolized as YTL. Introduced on January 1, 2005 to replace the old Turkish Lira dropping six zeros from it. The changeover to New Turkish Lira was necessary both for the prospective positive effects on the Turkish currency reputation and for technical reasons.
The New Turkish Lira is equivalent to 1,000,000 Turkish old lira, divided into 100 new kurus.

The denominations for YTL banknotes are: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100.

The denominations for coins are 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 New Cent and 1 YTL. The sub-unit of YTL is YKr (Yeni Kurus) and 1 YTL = 100 YKr.

As a recommendation avoid carrying large bills/notes for small payments, some people do not accept them, and be careful with old notes with six zeros because they are no longer legal for payments.

COSTS, MONEY AND BANKS IN TURKEY

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Turkey is a relatively inexpensive for travellers, the costs and prices has been keeping low. Travel costs are highest in Istanbul and at Turkish beach resorts in July and August; lowest in the small towns of eastern Turkey, and off-season (November through March).

Travel Costs in Turkey can be estimated according the type of services like accommodation, transport and meals that the traveller will get. Travellers can spend among €20.00 to €35.00 per day using buses and trains, staying in pensions, and eating one restaurant meal. Among €45.00 to €50.00, travellers can travel on more comfortably by bus and in overnight trains, stay in one and two-star hotels and eat most meals in restaurants. For more than €50.00 travellers can stay in 3 and 4-star hotels, dining in restaurants all the time, riding buses, trains and low-fare airline flights.

TURKEY HISTORY

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Turkish territory along its history has been birthplace of many different cultures and civilizations. Since 6500 B.C. Hattis, Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, Armenians, Persians, Romans, Seljuks and Ottomans have left important signs of its civilizations through the country, ancient cities, ruins and the cultural heritage that make of Turkey so unique.

The most remarkable civilizations in the Asia Minor where undoubtedly Byzantines and Ottomans. The Byzantine Empire also known as the Eastern Roman Empire with Constantinople as its capital was founded by Constantine the Great in AD 330 and survived to the collapse of the Western Roman Empire; for 1100 years the Byzantines were able to maintain control of their empire until the wars with enemies from the east principally Ottomans. After that Byzantine Empire declined the Ottoman Empire occupied and expanded their territorial control over Turkey and some parts of Europe, Africa and Western Asia, but the Ottomans’ ambitions of territorial control over the Mediterranean and Central Europe also brought many enemies and wars with them, causing the collapse of the Empire that governed the Mediterranean over 623 years.

Ottoman Empire’s collapse culminated with its participation in the World War I allied to Germany in 1914. The alliance was defeated by Allied powers and that brought the instability inside the Ottoman structure. At the end of the War, the Anatolian territory came under British and French control and Istanbul was occupied.

The occupation of Istanbul and Izmir by the Allies led the establishment of the Turkish national movement under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Pasha known as “Ataturk” or “father of the Turks”, a distinguished military and Hero of the War. The Turkish War of Independence was started with the aim of revoking the terms of the Treaty of Sèvres. In 1922, the occupying armies were repelled and the country saw the birth of the new Turkish state. Consequently the Sultanate and Caliphate were abolished.

In 1923 was signed the Treaty of Lausanne which led the international recognition of the sovereignty of the newly formed "Republic of Turkey" as the successor state of the Ottoman Empire, and the republic was officially proclaimed on October 29, 1923 in the new capital, Ankara, with Kemal Ataturk as its first President.

The new republic concentrated its beginings to make great changes into its social, economical and political structure, following the Western model. Political social and economic reforms were introduced by Ataturk and after his death in 1938, Turkish politics continue to form the ideological base of modern Turkey.

SEA TOURS

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For those who enjoy a planned trip, these pages are for you! The tour operators are divided into two major categories: land tours and yachting. Within these two categories they are listed by country.
SEA TOURS

Australia
Passport Travel

Turkey
Bodex Yachting

U.K.
Westminster Classic Tours

U.S.A.
Blue Voyage
Prime Travel
ROW (Rivers Odyssey West)
Turkish Crossroads

TOUR OPERATORS

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For those who enjoy a planned trip, these pages are for you! The tour operators are divided into two major categories: land tours and yachting. Within these two categories they are listed by country.

LAND TOURS

Australia
Passport Travel
Skylink Travel

Turkey
Bodex Travel
Director Tour
Karavan Travel
Orion Tour
Trekking Tours of Turkey at twarp.com includes Daily Trekking Out of Istanbul, Seven Lakes Tour (2 days), Safranbolu Culture Tour (3 days), Adventure in Ancient Lycian Region (7 Days)

Turkey Adventure Travel

U.S.A.
Blue Voyage
Far Horizons
Grand Circle Travel
Pacha Tours
Prime Travel
Rick Steves’ Europe Through the Back Door
Sporades Tours
Tourag Tours

SHOPPING

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Turkey is a fun place to shop, but where to begin? These pages will give you an overview of where to shop as well as listings of shop owners. Do you have a favorite place to shop? E-mail us and let us know about it!

Carpets

Turkish carpets are more than just floor covering. For a historical view of this art form, please visit http://www.turkishculture.org/tapestry/anatolian_carpets.html

ISTANBUL

Firat Trading

Address: Peykhane Cad, Asmall Cesme Sok, Hurriyet Han No.6, Sultanhamet-ISTANBUL Phone: 90-212-638-1487 Fax: 90-212-638-7659 Are you looking for that special kilim, sumak or carpet? We have a good selection of new and antique handmade rugs from Turkey, Eastern Europe, Persia and other Asian countries. Our small shop serves customers from all over the world. We buy, sell, trade and do repairs. We are in Sultanhamet next to the Turkoman Hotel. We look forward to your visit! Fatih Firat - owner.

Valide Collection

Address: 55 Ticarethane Sokak

Sultanahmet Istanbul, Turkey 34410

Phone: 90-212-527-2522 90-212-527-6436

Fax: 90-212-512-5783

E-Mail: info@valide.com

For those looking for high quality, naturally-dyed wool carpets Michele Cok (formerly of South Carolina) and her husband, Recep, welcome you to their home. Here you’ll find rugs woven by woman in rural Turkey especially for the Valide Collection. These women carry on a thousand year tradition long recognized for its artistry and quality. Visits to the Valide Collection are by appointment only. A special gift awaits those who decide to make a purchase.

SELCUK

Solomans Carpets

Address: Ataturk Mah, 1054 Sok No2, Selcuk, Izmir, Turkey

Phone: 90-232-892-2966

Fax: 90-212-891-4981

E-mail: solomanscarpet@usa.net

Selcuk is one of the travellers most special stop off points in Turkey so why not make it even more special by taking a look at Solomans Carpets. They offer carpets and kilims from all over Turkey at special backpacker's prices, which make your purchase affordable and memorable. You don't even have to carry them as they ship door to door. Take a look at their website for more information.
For more information on shopping in Istanbul, please visit Focus on the World Magazine On-line at http://www.focus.mm.com/istshop.htm.

PLACES TO STAY

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Independent travelers come in all sizes and shapes and so it is with this listing of places to stay. By city, you will find listings for hostels, pensions, guesthouses, and hotels. Istanbul is a large city so the district is also indicated.

Prices do vary by time of year. In April or September you may have a lovely room for $15, but in the middle of summer the same room may be $30. In August and September we recommend you e-mail, phone ahead, or arrive at your destination by early afternoon.

All the prices on our pages are listed in U.S. dollars as the high inflation rate in Turkey doesn't make the use of Turkish lira practical.
Rooms are rented according to the number of people sleeping in them and the headings on our pages list the single room rate.
A final note to travelers: If you want amenities, such as air conditioning and fans, you usually will need to stay in 3-Star or higher rated hotel.

Istanbul
LESS THAN $10/night

Istanbul Hostel, Restaurant & Bar

Address: 35 Kutlu Gun Sokak (Next to the Four Seasons Hotel)
Sultanahmet
Istanbul -Turkey
Phone: 90-212-516-9380
Fax: 90-212-516-9384
E-mail: info@valide.com If you like champagne, but only have a beer budget, then visit Istanbul’s newest and classiest hostel. Clean dorm beds ($5-$8) and doubles ($15-$20), full service restaurant and bar with wide-screen TV. Magnificent roof top views. Minutes to the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and all the major sites in the Historic District. Open 24-hours.

GUESTHOUSES AND HOTELS $40 - $60/night

Hotel Cevri Kalfa

Address: Divanyolu Cad. No. 16
Sultanahmet, Istanbul, TURKEY 34410
Phone: 90-212-511-9110 (4 lines)
Fax: 90-212-512-5644
E-mail: cevriho@ibm.net

Hotel Cevri Kalfa is located along the tram that goes to both the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Spice Market. And it’s less than 200 meters to the Blue Mosque, St. Sophia's , and the underground Cisterns. Practical, clean rooms all with private bath. Breakfast is served on the terrace bar that offers a beautiful view of the Blue Mosque. English and French spoken. Also, next door you can visit the Old Bazaar and the famous Vitamin Restaurant. Doubles-$35, Singles-$40, Triples-$50.

HOTELS $60-$80/night

Address: Kadirga Cinci Meydan No. 36 Eminonu Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: 90-212-518-1897 90-212-516-0862
Fax: 90-212-517-3380
E-mail: info@hotelturkuaz.com
hotelturkuaz@yahoo.com

In the heart of old Istanbul you can find the city’s only original Ottoman mansion that now serves as a hotel - the Hotel Turkuaz. This quiet 14-room hotel offers all the hospitality you expect to find in a small hotel with services you’d expect in the largest, such as its own Turkish bath, 24-hour-room service, faxing/secretarial services, and a car park. The Pasha and Sultan Rooms are most popular with honeymooners. It is close to the famous sights of Sultanahmet and the Kumkapi fish restaurants. Standard Room - $50. Pasha’s Room and Sultan's Room- $80.

HOTELS $80-$120/night

HOTEL VALIDE SULTAN KONAGI
Address: Cankurtaran Mah. Ishakpasa Cad. Kutlugun Sokak No: 1
Sultanahmet Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: 90-212-517-6558 90-212-638-0600 (pbx)
Fax: 90-212-638-0705
E-mail: vsultan@hotelvalidesultan.com

Located just outside the walls of Topkapi Palace, the Hotel Valide Sultan Konagi is strikingly beautiful from its chocolate brown wooden exterior to its lovely, elegant rooms. It reflects its 19th Century heritage as an old Ottoman mansion while providing modern amenities such as an elevator and rooms with mini-bars and air conditioning. The roof top restaurant has a panoramic view of the sea, and from the other side enjoy the sight of the historic Blue Mosque. This family managed hotel is the perfect place to call home while in Istanbul.

ANTAKYA
HOTELS LESS THAN $15/night

Hotel Guney
Phone: 90-326-214-9713/14/15
The Hotel Guney has clean rooms and is located near the bus station and shops.

ANTALYA
PENSIONS LESS THAN $15/night

Ozmen Pansion
Address: Kilicarslan Mahallesi Zeytin Cikmazi No. 5 Antalya
Phone: 90-242-241-6505
Fax: 90-242-248-1534
E-Mail: OZMENPANSION@hotmail.com

Travelers from all over the world come to Ozmen Pansion in the midst of Old Kaleci. All the rooms in this large, family-owned pansion are clean and comfortable with nice bathrooms. Thirteen rooms have air conditioning and the rest have fans. A self-service breakfast with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese and jams is included. There is a downstairs garden to enjoy. The rooftop terrace has a lovely sea view.
But best of all, you'll find the staff very friendly and helpful. There is laundry service and they can help with air and bus tickets. E-mail your reservation to guarantee an air conditioned room or to arrange bus/airport pick-up for $5. Rooms with fan: Single - $10, Double - $15, Triple - $20, Quad - $25. Rooms with air conditioning: Single - $15, Double - $20, Triple - $25, Quad - $30.

BODRUM

PENSIONS AND HOTELS $10 - $20 /night

Zozo Pansiyon, Restaurant and Bar
Address: Ataturk Cad. Dere Sok No. 7
Phone: 90-252-316-1816
E-mail: zozobodrum@hotmail.com

Zozo Pansiyon has low-priced rooms with private baths plus a great relaxed atmosphere, and hot water is available 24-hours. Zozo’s is just a 100 meters from the sea and Bodrum’s famous bar street. On those very hot days, you’ll enjoy your cold beer in the vine-cooled patio. If you ask, they have window screens, which are great protection against mosquitoes. The friendly owner, Gurhan, speaks perfect English. Call if you want to be met at the bus station or the PTT. Doubles and Triples-$12 per person including breakfast! E-mail us for a reservation.

Oz-El Motel & Pansiyon
Address: Eski Cesme Mahallesi
Firkateyn Sokak No. 31/48400BODRUM
P.K. 524

Phone: 90-252-316-4015
90-252-313-6168

Fax: 90-252-316-4016

Oz-El Motel & Pansiyon is nestled in a residential area above the marina. It’s a good location for those taking morning ferries or charters. It’s well worth the $3 - $4 taxi fare to locate this hidden gem. Outside, you’ll find the traditional Mediterranean white-painted walls with blue window trim. Inside, there are very clean singles, doubles and triples. All with private bath and hot water. You’ll also enjoy the tree shaded patio and owner Yavuz Ozel!

HOTELS $40-$55/night

Delfi Hotel
Address: Umurca Mah. Dere Sok. No. 57 Bodrum
Phone: 90-252-316-4085
90-252-313-3826
90-252-313-5255

Fax: 90-252-313-3827
E-mail: delfi@delfihotel.com

Spend the late morning lounging by the pool, and in the afternoon walk outside Delfi Hotel's doors and turn right, and you're just a few 100 meters to one of Bodrum's twin bays. Cross the street and you can indulge in the experience of a Turkish bath. Turn left and walk 10 minutes and you're at the bus station to catch a ride to the local beaches or visit one of the twice weekly bazaars and go shopping. In the evening enjoy dancing the night away or listening to music at the Pool Bar. They offer airport pickup for a fee. Room (not per person) rates vary by time of year from $40-$55 a night and includes breakfast. Visit their website for on-line reservations.

HOTELS $80-$175/night

MERVE PARK HOTEL SUITES
Address: Ataturk Cadessi, 73 Bodrum
Phone: 90-252-316-1546
Fax: 90-252-316-1278
E-mail: info@mervepark.com
mervepark@yahoo.com

Merve Park is Bodrum's best small Continental style hotel. It's a special place. You enter its doors to find a refuge of cool air, a tranquil garden, a shimmering pool and rooms that are comfortable by any standard. A kind and attentive staff are at your service. The food, of course, is simply excellent. Merve Park is just 200 meters from the sea. From its 17 rooms and 2 suites you can choose from a sea or a garden view. Air conditioning, pool, 24 hour room service. Single - $100, Doubles - $140, Suites - $180. Discounts for stays longer than 7 days and other special programs. E-mail for details.

CAPPADOCIA

LESS THAN $10/NIGHT

Surari's Place and S.O.S. Cave Pansion
Address: Andinli Mah.
Goreme
Phone: 90-384-271-2307
Fax: 90-384-271-2307
E-mail address: soscave@sosmotel.com.tr
sururi@sururisplace.com

Both Sururi's Place and SOS Cave Pansion have great panoramic views of the fairy chimneys in Goreme. Sururi's Place has a great atmosphere and a rooftop bar. Many rooms are triples and quads so it's easy to room together. At SOS your cave home has bright white walls covered with colorful carpets. Both places are close to the Goreme bus station. Call for free pick-up from Goreme, Nevsehir, Urgup. Rooms for every budget from $7 to $10 with breakfast and free beer from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. Better prices for non-drinkers. Laundry, free Internet, Nomadic Tent, cafe and bar.

Sarihan Pansion
Address: Imran Mah. Gulluce Sok. No. 10
Urgup
Phone: 90-384-341-2264
90-384-341-8813

Fax: 90-384-341-5820
E-mail: sarihanpansion@hotmail.com

This family run pansion has clean, spacious rooms -- 3 with a balcony and garden view plus a line to hang your wash or wet towels. Rooms come with your choice of shared or private bath. It's on a quiet residential street just 200 meters from Urgup's bus/dolmus station. Breakfast is a special treat with homemade Turkish food from Yildez's kitchen including homemade jams. Singles: $6-8, Doubles: $10-$12, Triples: $15.

HOTELS $25-$40/NIGHT

ALFINA HOTEL
Address: Istiklal Caddesi No. 27
Urgup
Phone: 90-384-341-4822
90-384-341-5339
Fax: 90-384-341-2424
E-mail: alfinahotel@hotmail.com

Alfina Hotel is an historically restored cave home built more than 200 years ago. It is the perfect combination of old and new. It has a simple decor with a modern bath in rooms that look much as they did when it was first built. The large cave rooms offer a perfect temperature and very enjoyable sleep. Whether you're a group of 1 or a group of 51, you will find two gracious hosts to help make your stay a memorable one. You will enjoy western or Turkish cooking in the restuarant and a beautiful view from the outdoor bar. Singles: $36, Doubles $53. E-mail for complete prices including full and half-board.

OLD GREEK HOUSE
Address: Mustafapasa (near Urgup)
Phone: 90-384-353-5306
90-384-353-5345 (evening)

Fax: 90-384-353-5141

In a small town in Cappadocia there is an Old Greek House that is unlike any hotel in all of Turkey. It’s 250-year-old architecture is beautiful. The old frescoes displays workmanship that’s a long lost art. There are 14 rooms (32 beds) with modern bathrooms that can accommodate from single travelers to a large family. Enjoy homemade Turkish food and excellent local wines. Dine in the traditional way sitting on pillows! Small Turkish bath. Airport transfers. This family run hotel is a place you will never forget. Singles-$25, Doubles-$35. Large breakfast included.

DALYAN

PENSIONS LESS THAN $15/night

AYDIN Pansiyon
Address: Gulpinar Mah.
Dalyan (Mugla), Turkey

Phone: 90-252-284-2081

Here you are a stone's throw away from the beautiful Dalyan Lake. Aydin Pansiyon is a family run place with very clean rooms that are especially nice for backpackers and families as they can comfortably sleep up to 4 people/room. Every room has a built-in pine closets, private bath/hot water, and a balcony to enjoy the serene and quiet neighborhood atmosphere. The garden has 2 big trees that provide plenty of shade. Doubles-$15. Breakfast is served in the garden and is included in the price. Call Mustafa to make your reservation and receive free apple tea upon arrival. Open year-round.

(Rose) Gul Motel and Pansiyon (not to be confused with the Gol Hotel)

Address: Maras Mah. Erkul Sok.
Dalyan, (Mugla) Turkey
Phone: 90-252-284-2467
90-252-284-4842
Fax: 90-252-284-4803

Very lovely decorated rooms some with mini-refrigerator others with air conditioning. All with beautiful baths/hot water. The terrace (open 24 hours) offers great views of the nearby rock tombs or enjoy Ottoman style seating with floor pillows and a free reading library. Friendly advice about Dalyan. Singles-$10, Doubles-$14 (with air conditioning $18), and Triples-$20 (w/air conditioning $24). Self-service breakfast with full menu and tea is included. Also free afternoon tea with Turkish pastry. Delicious homemade Turkish dinner is available at an extra cost. Fax or call for a reservation!

DATCA

HOTELS $20 to $60/night

Hotel Marphe
Address: Kocatarla Mevkii
Datca, Turkey

Phone: 90-252-712-9030
90-252-712-9031
Fax: 90-252-712-9172
E-mail: webmaster@hotelmarphe.com

Hotel Marphe is just minutes by car to the town center and beaches, but its countryside location lets you enjoy the shaded pine trees and the quiet life for a really relaex holiday. It offers resort style living with two room apartments (plus a kitchenette) that can sleep up to 4. There is also a special honeymoon suite. Very large swimming pool with children's area and jacuzzi. See their web pages for prices and photos. Discounts for e-mail reservations and week-long stays.

FETHIYE AND OLLUDENIZ

PENSIONS LESS THAN $15/night

Pension Cetin

Address: 100 Cad. Dolgu Sahasi DSI Yani

Phone: 90-252-614-6156
Fax: 90-252-614-7794

The Pension Cetin has a great location on the east side of the harbor. It is just minutes to the center of town and the harbor. The dolmuses (mini-buses) to the beach are also close by. This family run pension is a great place to meet travelers from all over the world as well as Turkish tourists! It has very clean rooms with private baths and most balconies to enjoy the night air. Call from the bus station (Kamil Koc customers can call for free). Singles-$6-$8, Doubles- $10-$12 and Triples-$18. Breakfast is $2.

IZMIR

PENSIONS $15 or less/night

International House
Adress: Mithatpasa Cad. No. 435
Phone: (232) 484-6719, (232) 441-0172

International House is just for tourists. It's clean, has hot water & offers Turkish breakfast. There are facilities to cook and wash, like your home! From the center "Konak" catch any Mithatpasa bus and ask for the Mektucu bus stop.

KUSADASI

HOTELS $10/night

Hotel Sezgin
Address: Kahramanlar Cad. Zafer Sok. No. 15
Phone: 90-256-614-2046
90-256-614-4225

Fax: 90-256-614-6489
E-mail: sezgin@ispro.net.tr

The Hotel Sezgin offers clean rooms with private showers (24-hour HOT water) at pension rates. Internet Service, laundry facilities, change money, book exchange, restaurant & bar. Call for free pick-up from the bus station or harbor. Free transport to Ephesus, plus view an English video about Ephesus before you go. Centrally located. Open year-round. Excellent English is spoken by Sezgin the owner. Sezgin says, "Come here. Be happy. Enjoy this special place!" Don't decide where to stay until you have visited here. Singles-$10, Doubles-$14, Triples-$22. E-mail\fax your reservation for a free welcoming Turkish raki or apple tea.

MARMARIS

$10/night OR LESS

Interyouth Hostel and Backpacker's Cruise
Address: Tepe Mahallesi Sok No. 45
Marmaris
Phone: 90-252-412-3687
Fax: 90-252-412-7823
E-mail: interyouthhostel@turk.net

The Interyouth Hostel has a great location in the Grand Bazaar. They have Internet service, laundry, plus can help with your fery tickets to Rhodes, plane tickets and bus tickets. They also run the only Backpacker's Cruise, the 24-meters gulet called the Southern Cross, with summer departures 2-3 times a week. This cruise is unique in it allows you to make a one-way voyage from Marmaris to Fethiye. The four day trip costs around $200 including all meals. Drinks are extra. Snorkeling and fishing gear, and game boards available. E-mail for more information! Dorm beds $5, Doubles and Triples at $6 per person.

Family Pension
Address: Tepe Mah. 33 Sok. Kat 2, No. 5 Tekin Apt.
Phone: 90-252-412-8332

Family Pension is the place to stay if you want to experience Turkish life. Hatice Cikiakci, the owner, has a one-room pension with two single beds. It's very clean and there is hot water on demand. It's a short five minute walk to the Centrum and the harbor. The beach is about a 10 minute walk. Hatice doesn't speak English so have a Turkish friend call ahead or ask anyone for directions. The doorway to her flat is next to the barber shop. Then its down the hall, up the stairs and at the top of the stairs go straight on to the gate to her flat.

OLIMPOS

PENSIONS LESS THAN $15/night

Turkmen Camping Pansiyon & Restaurant
Phone: 90-242-836-1562

The Turkmen Camping Pansiyon has new treehouses. Price includes breakfast and a "yummy" dinner. They also have bungalows with private baths. They have a very friendly and helpful staff.

SELCUK

PENSIONS LESS THAN $10/night

Artemis Guest House: Jimmy's Place
Address: Ataturk Mah. 1012 Sok, No. 2
Phone: 90-232-892-6191
90-232-892-9537

E-mail: jimmy@egenet.com.tr

People can feel at home here. There are eighteen spotless rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Fans & heaters available. It's a 5 minute walk from the bus station. (They will meet your bus.) Free pick up from Kusadasi harbor. There's a beautiful Courtyard Garden where you can enjoy a big breakfast or just relax in treetop Turkish Lounges. They also provide laundry service, kitchen access, English DVD movies in Dolby Digital, Satellite TV, Internet, board games, and Bar. Their Information Resources and Services offer free transport to Ephesus and the beach, free travel desk, accommodations, day trips, Samos ferry tickets & travel agent access. Recommended in Lonely Planet, Let's Go 2000, "Rough Guide 2000, Michelin & others. A member of the "No.1 Transport and Accommodation Network." You can E-mail or phone with any queries and to ensure a place. Double & Twin Rooms: $10. Triple rooms: $15.

Dreams Guesthouse
Address: Ataturk Mah. Tahsin Basaran No. 3
Phone: 90-232-892-2278
90-232-892-6694
Fax: 90-232-892-2278
E-mail: mailto:Dreamsguesthous@hotmail.com

Dreams Guesthouse has clean comfortable rooms with balconies just 100 meters from the bus station. (Please follow the dolphin heads on the road!) Hot showers all day and private baths come with towels, soap and toilet paper. There is a cool, shady courtyard downstairs and a new rooftop terrace for relaxing, eating good Turkish food and drinking. There is laundry service and an entertainment center with billiards and television, plus a free English movie with Dolby surround sound every night. Free lift to Ephesus. You can also buy your ferry ticket to Samos here. If you're looking for a nice, family atmosphere, you'll like it here.

HOTELS $20-$40/night

Hotel Akay
Address: Isabey Camii Karsisi Serin Sok. No. 3
Phone: 90-232-892-3172
Fax: 90-232-892-3090 (PLEASE be sure to write your return fax number!)
E-mail: sevenwondersefes@yahoo.com

Danger!! If you come to the Hotel Akay for one night, you will change your mind and want to stay at least two more nights! From the terrace you have a bird's eye view of St. John's Church, the castle and the 425-year-old Isabey Mosque. Enjoy fine Turkish food here or a BBQ. This Selcuk family hotel is a small place that wants to be of service to its guests. For example, free lifts to Ephesus and airport transfers from Izmer. Singles-$22, Double-$30, Triple-$40 Breakfast is included. Call/fax to make your reservation. English, French and German spoken. Recommended by Lonely Planet, Fodor's and Lets Go!

SILIFKE

HOTELS LESS THAN $15/night

Hotel Akdeniz
Phone: 90-324-714-1285
cThe Hotel Akdeniz has very clean rooms. They are simple and basic.

TRAVEL INSIDE TURKEY

2007-12-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

There's a way to travel for everyone's budget from the local dolmus (or mini-bus) to air transport.

Air
Domestic air service is available from three carriers: Turkish Airlines information is available at http://www.turkishairlines.com/.

There is also Istanbul Airlines and Onur Air, but they do not have web pages.

Getting from/to Istanbul's International Airport
There is an airport bus. It runs from 06:00 to 23:00 and costs around $5 per person. It stops in Aksary (from here you can take the tram to the bus station) Sultanahmet, the main tourist district, and Taksim.

You can also usually arrange for an airport transfer from your hotel Ask them about the cost or contact an Istanbul travel agents for limo service as well as normal airport pick-up.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Istanbul
METROPOL EXCURSION TOURS
Address: Adirga Liman Caddesi No:91/2 34400 Kadirga, Istanbul
Phone: 90-212-516-2213 90-212-516-2912
Fax: 90-212-516-2212
E-mail: info@metropoltours.com

Tur-ISTA
Address: Divanyolu Cad. No. 16A Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Phone: 90-212-527-7085 90-212-513-7119
Fax: 90-212-519-3792
Web: www.tur-ista.com, www.travelturk.com
E-Mail: tur-ista@tur-ista.com, info@travelturk.com

There are, of course, taxis. It's difficult to estimate cost. Between 23:00 and 05:00 when the airport bus isn't running the cost is around $12 to Sultanahmet. It will be more during the day, because of traffic delays! Check with the Tourist Information Office in the International Terminal (to the left after you go through the doors after baggage claim) for estimates and advice on the best transport to take based on the time of your arrival and budget.
From hotels in the Sultanahmet area there is The Airport Bus that picks you up at the door of your hotel. It, too, costs around $5. Ask at your hotel.

Bus
Buses are very easy to use and are usually comfortable. Ulusoy, Varan, Kamil Koc and Pumukkale are generally considered to be the top bus companies in Turkey. Ulusoy will be the most expensive while Varan and Kamil Koc are a bit cheaper. Pamukkale is usually the cheapest of the group.

But different bus companies cover different parts of the country, and for certain destinations, such as Cappadocia, none of the four offer service and you'll have to use a local carrier.

For long distance travel, most people take overnight buses. As a rule of thumb, tickets usually cost between $1.50 and $2 per hour of travel.

All buses are now smoke-free (except for the driver!)

TIP: When the bus makes a stop at their special centers, you will have to pay a small fee to use the rest room. They are usually clean. Don't despair when you see the Oriental style rest rooms. Walk to the end and you'll find one or two Western style toilets!

Hop-On Hop-Off b uses have been designed for backpackers. You buy an open ticket which allows you to get on and off at 22 "hot spots" from Istanbul then down the Coast and back to Istanbul via Cappadocia. Buses pick up and drop off at a main hostel.
Hop-On Hop-Off 's e-mail address is feztravel@feztravel.com.

Ferries
Ferry schedules are UNPREDICTABLE and are all subject to change without notice. If you are catching a plane or must be somewhere on a precise day, either plan to arrive a day early or have an alternate plan!
Prices shouldn't change very much.

BODRUM
Bodrum has two ferry providers: the Bodrum Ferryboat Association and Bodrum Express Lines, which operates hydrofoils. Both offices are located near The Castle of St. Peter.
The Bodrum Ferryboat Association accepts Visa, MasterCard and Eurocard. They have offices in Bodrum, Datca and Didim (Didyma).

Bodrum:
Phone: 90-252-316-0882 90-252-313-2509
Fax: 90-252-313-0205

Datca:
Phone: 90-252-712-2143
Fax: 90-252-712-4239

Didim:
Phone: 90-256-813-1479
Fax: 90-256-813-1479

Bodrum Express Lines also accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Eurocard, plus travelers cheques and foreign currency. They offer no smoking and smoking areas, passenger insurance, hostess service and comfortable airline-style seats. Children under 6 are free. Children 6 - 12 are half price. Their phone number is: 90-252-316-4067. The fax number is: 90-252-313-0077.

CESME
Cesme has three main ticketing agents for ferries to Greece and Italy, although, you may buy tickets from almost any local ticket agent. The three main ticketing agents are: Erturk, Karavan and Maskot.

Erturk is located near the ferry dock.
Their telephone number is 90-232-712-6768.
Their fax number is 90-232-712-6223.
Karavan is also located near the ferry docks.
Their phone number is 90-0232-712-7230.
Their fax number is 90-232-712-8987.
They also have offices in the following cities where you can make reservations:

Izmir: 90-232-421-9572
Istanbul: 90-212-247-5044
Kusadasi: 90-256-612-5329
Marmaris: 90-252-412-0455
Fethiye: 90-252-612-2361
Antalya: 90-242-248-8280
Alanya: 90-242-511-1857
They also have a web site at http://www.karavantravel.com/.

Maskot is the representative for the Italian Liner, Med Link Lines with service to Brindisi. They are located in the town center.
Their phone number is 90-232-712-7654.
Their fax number is 90-232-712-8435.

DATCA
Datca has two ferry providers: the Bodrum Ferryboat Association and Bodrum Express Lines, which operates hydrofoils.

The Bodrum Ferryboat Association accepts Visa, MasterCard and Eurocard. They have an office in Datca.
Their phone number is 90-252-712-2143.
The fax is 90-252-712-4239.

Bodrum Express Lines also accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Eurocard, plus travelers cheques and foreign currency. They offer no smoking and smoking areas, passenger insurance, hostess service and comfortable airline-style seats. Children under 6 are free. Children 6 - 12 are half price. Their office is in Bodrum.
The phone number is: 90-252-316-4067.
The fax number is: 90-252-313-0077.

DIDYMA
Didyma is served by the Bodrum Ferryboat Association. They have an office in Didim (Didyma). Their phone number is 90-256-813-1479. The fax is 90-256-813-1479. Boats depart from Altinkum, just 4 km. from Didyma.

The Bodrum Ferryboat Association accepts Visa, MasterCard and Eurocard.

ISTANBUL
Karavan is one of the main ticketing agents for the ferry from Istanbul to Izmir.
Their phone number is 90-212-247-5044.
Their fax number is 90-212-241-5278.

They also have offices in the following cities where you can make reservations:

Cesme: 90-0232-712-7230
Izmir: 90-232-421-9572
Kusadasi: 90-256-612-5329
Marmaris: 90-252-412-0455
Fethiye: 90-252-612-2361
Antalya: 90-242-248-8280
Alanya: 90-242-511-1857
They also have a web site at http://www.karavantravel.com/

IZMIR
Karavan is one of the main ticketing agents for the ferries to Istanbul and Italy.
Their phone number is 90-232-421-9572.
Their fax number is 90-232-463-6472.

They also have offices in the following cities where you can make reservations:

Cesme: 90-0232-712-7230
Istanbul: 90-212-247-5044
Kusadasi: 90-256-612-5329
Marmaris: 90-252-412-0455
Fethiye: 90-252-612-2361
Antalya: 90-242-248-8280
Alanya: 90-242-511-1857
They also have a web site at http://www.karavantravel.com/.

KUSADASI
Kusadasi has two main ticketing agents for ferries to Greece, although, you may buy tickets from almost any local ticket agent. The two ticketing agents are: Azim Tour and Diana Travel Agency.

Azim Tour accepts Visa, MasterCard. Eurocard and American Express. They are located in the Grand Bazaar.
Their phone number is 90-256-614-1553.
Their fax number is 90-256-614-5479.
Their e-mail address is: info@azimtours.com.
Children under 6 are free and children 6 - 12 are half price.

Diana Travel Agency is located on a side street close to the ferry docks.
Their phone number is 90-256-614-3859.
Their fax number is: 90-256-614-3170.
They also have an Istanbul branch.
Their phone number is: 90-212-247-3879.

MARMARIS
Bodrum Express Lines serves Marmaris to Bodrum. They accept Visa, MasterCard, and Eurocard, plus travelers cheques and foreign currency. They offer no smoking and smoking areas, passenger insurance, hostess service and comfortable airline-style seats. Children under 6 are free. Children 6 - 12 are half price.
Their phone number in Bodrum is: 90-252-316-4067.
The fax number is: 90-252-313-0077.

TASUCU
Erturk is the ticketing agent from Tasucu to Cyprus.
Their phone number is: 90-324-741-4325.
The fax number is: 90-324-741-4033.

TRANSPORTATION

2007-12-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

This page will help you find the transportation resources you need to help plan your trip.

The first part is International Travel organized by the continent of departure.

The second part is Travel Inside Turkey.

You may also want to visit our Tips page where fellow travelers share their travel experiences with you. There is a section dealing with transportation .

You can also contact Local Travel Agents who can help you with the purchase of international and domestic air, bus, train and ferry tickets.

International Travel

You can reach Istanbul by air from almost anywhere in the world!

Below you will find links to airlines that fly to/from Istanbul organized by continent.

TIP: If you're thinking of an a-round-the-world ticket check out Thai Airlines at.
http://www.thaiair.com/

From Africa
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com
Egyptair at http://www.egyptair.com.eg/
Gulf Air at http://www.gulfairco.com/
Royal Air Maroc at http://www.royalairmaroc.com/
Tunisair at http://www.tunisair.com.tn/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/

From Asia
Air France at http://www.airfrance.com/
Aeroflot (Russia) at http://www.aeroflot.aero/eng/
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com/
Gulf Air at http://gulfairco.com/
Japanese Airlines at http://www.jal.co.jp/en/
Singapore Airlines at http://www.singaporeair.com/
Thai Airlines at http://www.thaiair.com/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/

From Australia
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com/
Gulf Air at http://www.gulfairco.com/
Singapore Airlines at http://www.singaporeair.com/
Thai Airlines at http://www.thaiair.com/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/

From Europe
TIP: If you live in the U.K., there's a list of Turkish airlines' offices in London. It's at http://www.abta.com/destinations/turkey.html

Adria Airlines (Ljubljana, Slovenia) at http://www.adria-airways.com/index.asp?l=en&p=qb&m=0

Air France at http://www.airfrance.com
Air Malta at http://www.airmalta.com/
Alitalia (Italy) at http://www.alitalia.com/home/index.htm
Austrian Airlines at http://www.aua.com/
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com/
Czech Airlines at http://www.csa.cz/ (from all major European capitals)
Finnair at http://www.finnair.fi
Iberia (Spain) at http://www.iberia.com/
JAT (Yugoslavian Airlines) at http://www.jat.com/active/en/home.html
KLM at http://klm.nl/
LOT (Poland) at http://www.lot.com/
Lufthansa at http://www.lufthansa-usa.com/
Malev (Hungary) at http://www.malev.hu/
Qantas (from London) at http://www.qantas.com.au/
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) at http://www.sas.se/
Singapore Airlines at http://www.singaporeair.com/
Swissair at http://www.swissair.com/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/

From the Middle East
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com/
El Al (Israel) at http://www.elal.co.il/
Emirates Airline at http://www.emirates.com/
Gulf Air at http://www.gulfairco.com/
Saudi Arabian Airlines at http://www.saudiairlines.com/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/

From North America
American Airlines at http://www.americanair.com/
British Airways at http://www.us.british-airways.com/
Finnair at http://www.finnair.fi
Lufthansa at http://www.lufthansa-usa.com
Thai Airlines at http://www.thaiair.com/
Turkish Airlines at http://www.turkishairlines.com/
United Airlines at http://www.ual.com/

From South America
Varig (Brazil) with travel partner, Lufthansa, at http://www.varig.com.br/

Air Couriers and Ticket Consolidators

Air Couriers
There are two interesting sites that provide information and links about these two alternatives in budget traveling.
Budget Travel on About.com is a great site for those on a tight budget It offers links and brief explanations about flying as a courier, stand-by travel and using ticket consolidators.

The International Association of Air Couriers offers insights and numerous links to air courier services and traveling space available as well.

Ticket Consolidators and Bucket Shops
There are many ticket consolidators and bucket shops on the Internet. Unfortunately, not many of them offer tickets to Istanbul. Below is a brief listing of those who do offer ticketing to Turkey. You can also easily locate budget airfares by perusing the Sunday travel section of your local newspaper.

You should carefully select a reputable operator. For a travel agent Edward Hasbrouck’s perspective on how to best purchase an international ticket see
http://www.travel-library.com/air-travel/consolidators.html

Below is a list of ticket consolidators who offer tickets to Turkey:

Australia
APP International Travel at http://www.cheapafares.com/ says that since they were founded in 1982 they have grown to a major wholesaler of very discounted tickets on the international market.
Timeless Tours is a travel wholesaler. They sell air and land arrangements in Turkey to both the travel agents and also direct to the public. (They don't have a web site, but we've provided a link to their e-mail.)

Canada
Butte Travel Service Ltd. says they offer very good prices to Turkey. They say they have been providing travel information and reservation services to the Edmonton community for more than 30 years.

England
For the UK bucket shops, the largest and most popular (by far) aggregator site is http://www.cheapflights.co.uk

The Air Travel Advisory Bureau is another option. Companies subscribe to be listed (so they're screened), but callers pay nothing to use the service. Tell ATAB (020/7636-5000 from the U.S. and 0870/870-5540 toll-free from the United Kingdom, or www.atab.co.uk) which city you want to fly to from London, and it refers you to up to six British consolidators specializing in that destination.

Korea
BoraNet Travel at http://www.boranet.com/ (Korean) says they offer the lowest air price and air ticket booking on Internet

USA
AESU at http://www.aesu.com/say they have been the experts in discount travel since 1977. Air fare from all major gateways. No need to be a student. They're available to everyone. Major airlines. No charters.

All Continents Travel at http://www.allcontinentstravel.com/ says it is one of the founding members of the U.S. Air Consolidators Association. They say they are the West Coast's leading airline ticket consolidator. they say their paramount objective is to provide top value, competitive pricing and efficient services.