Update – July 2106 – If you have arrived here looking for information following the July 15th coup in Turkey, you should follow the advice of your government’s travel department. The reason being is that any holiday insurance policies can become invalid if your actions are in direct contrast to what your government is saying.
As of the 18th July, the USA has updated their policy to say…
“In light of the July 15 coup attempt and its aftermath, we suggest U.S. citizens reconsider travel to Turkey at this time. This replaces the Travel Warning dated June 27, 2016.” – Read more about that here
As of the 17th July, the UK Travel department updated their policy to say….
“The situation in Turkey appears to be calming following an attempted coup overnight on 15-16 July. The security environment, however, remains potentially volatile. Following earlier disruption, flights to and from airports in Turkey are returning to normal, although some disruption remains and you should check with your airline or tour operator before travelling.” Read more and stay up to date here
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Update January 2016 – Dear readers, After the recent bomb in Sultanhamet Square, Istanbul, readers are asking if I have changed my mind regarding travelling in Turkey and I have not. My view is the same as before. Please read my thoughts written below over many years or read this article.
Update 30th of June 2015 – If you have arrived at this page because of the incident that happened in Tunisa, or you are concerned about ISIS and Syria, please take a look at this article instead, which talks about those concerns.
Update 15th June 2015. : If you have arrived at this page because of the stupid, fear mongering article printed by the Daily Express newspaper on June the 13th, please just ignore it. Even the British ambassador to Turkey has called it alarmist and inaccurate – Read more here
The British Embassy in the capital of Turkey called Ankara have also published this statement on their Facebook page.
Quote ” Despite recent media coverage, the travel advice for Turkey has not been significantly changed. Although we do advise against all but essential travel to areas near the Syrian border, the overall terrorist threat level in Turkey has remained unchanged for years. More than 2.5 million Britons visit the country every year and the overwhelming majority of visits are trouble free.“
Update :June 14th 2015: For some reason, there seems to be an increased amount of web traffic to this page. I am assuming that it is to do with ISIS.
The original article below actually refers to the Taksim riots of 2013 but if you are questioning whether it is safe to come to Turkey for a holiday in 2015, you might be interested in my other article which I have updated today.
Original Article about safety in Turkey for holidaymakers
For the past five days, I have woken up to many emails, Facebook messages, and comments on this blog. All of them are asking the same question.
Should I cancel my holiday to Turkey?
Will my family be safe?
The questions are all relating to the wave of demonstrations that have swept the country. Most images in the mainstream media show the Taksim area with demonstrators being tear-gassed or hit with water cannons and streets that have been vandalized or looted. It is easy for people who are not knowledgeable about the country to assume the same scene has been played out across the map.
The first thing to say is alarming amounts of the emails refer to riots. There is no denying that riots have taken place in some major cities however in many other places, there have been just peaceful demonstrations, nothing more.
It is also worth pointing out that the article published by the British Daily Mail is a complete load of bollocks. It is blindingly obvious they are playing with words to sell newspapers.
They keep repeating the following statement
“The Foreign Office has warned Britons to avoid all but essential travel to parts of Turkey”
The fact is the foreign office has displayed exactly the same warning for the last five years and the parts of Turkey they refer to are Hakkari, Sirnak, Siirt and Tunceli which have never been touristic destinations anyway.
When civil war broke out in Syria, they added to the warning to say avoid Akcakale and Ceylanpinar and all areas within 10km of Turkey’s border with Syria.
Their recent updated advice is simply…
“We advise British nationals to avoid all demonstrations”
So now, we have established the fact that the Daily Mail prints bollocks, it leads us to the question of what people should do?
Should You Cancel Your Holiday?
Well, I am not going to portray an image that everything is dandy fine here in Turkey. It is not. There are a lot of domestic factors that have led up to the current unrest in the country and to tell you about them all, would certainly take a lot of reading and involves delving into niches that this blog does not belong to.
If you do want to discuss the current situation, drop me an email and I will put you in contact with like-minded people who are knowledgeable about the country.
Re your holiday, Even though the country is going through a turbulent time, it is still business as normal for tourism. Hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops are still open. You will still be able to lie on the beach, visit local landmarks, historical sites, shop for souvenirs, or simply live it up in your favourite nightclub or bar.
I decided that there is no better proof than photographs so I took these yesterday afternoon, all within the space of an hour. They are from the coastal resort of Altinkum on the Aegean coast.
A Day in Altinkum
Around noon, I came across a demonstration. It was roughly 100 people marching up the high street. There was a lot of whistle blowing, clapping, and slogan chanting but there were no fights, no tear gas, and no water cannons. The police were directing traffic and cars were blowing their horns.
I jumped straight into a taxi and headed to the local historical landmark that is popular with tourists. They were wandering among the ruins. The Apollo temple was open for business, the same as it is every day.
We drove to third beach where people were swimming, sunbathing, sleeping, and eating in the local restaurants.
I then headed directly to the hub of the town; Altinkum main beach. Tourists were strolling along the promenade and businesses were handing out leaflets, same as they do every day.
After that, I went to the supermarket, had a couple of beers in a bar where holidaymakers and expats were watching the rugby. Then went back to my complex where my neighbours were sunbathing around the swimming pool and blah blah blah.
Do you get my point?
So that is Altinkum but what about other areas in Turkey?
Well, it is one huge country to keep track of and I have not got eyes everywhere but this is what other bloggers are saying
Mack from Antalya Central says on their Facebook page…
The trouble and violent protests in Antalya are centred around the ruling party’s headquarters, well away from tourist areas, although the central gathering point that has been always peaceful is the main square in Antalya centre. If you are coming on holiday, please dont be put off by these pictures, the violence is not aimed at foreigners or tourists, you are as welcome as ever.
Kalkan Turkish Local News said on their Facebook page...
The only thing that has really changed is that the FCO is advising people to avoid the demonstrations in cities. Common sense really. The rest of the advice is the same as before. Just to reiterate, Kalkan and surrounding areas are perfectly safe.
Turkeys for Life who are in Fethiye said on their blog…
You can never guarantee anyone’s safety at any given time and the last few days have changed nothing as far as your holiday is concerned. The same familiar faces, the beaches, the views, the bars and restaurants are all still here. And the risks to your safety are still the same – standing on sea urchins, sunstroke, stumbling from the bottom step of a bar after a few too many – are ones that immediately spring to mind.
POST EDIT : Alan a blogger from the Dalaman area says the following…
The hotspot area to avoid is Taksim in Istanbul and you can follow the Istanbul Trip Advisor experts on the forum here, to gain the latest news.
So many people will speak out if the country becomes unsafe for tourists. Those people include expat bloggers, travel companies with staff in many tourist areas and of course, your local embassy that also have personnel in major cities.
The people of Turkey are going through a turbulent time now, but that does not mean tourists will not receive the same 100% quality service that the Turkish hospitality industry excels at.
There is no need to cancel your holiday to Turkey.
We are open for business as normal.
Readers : If you have questions, please post them below. Please also use the comment form, if you have been in any area of Turkey throughout the last week and have information relevant to the discussion. You do not need a website for your comment to be submitted.
Join the conversation on Facebook
Hi Shannon, all airports in Turkey are on high security but have been as a matter of course anyway. Everywhere in the world gets threats because ISIS is global, it is not specific to Turkey. You can change your holiday package and ISIS can strike in that country as seen in Paris and Brussels. Olu Deniz is fine and carrying on as normal, like most of Turkey is.
Hi nat! Thanks for the blog. I am off to olu Deniz with a friend and we are flying in to dalaman airport on the 19th July. What with the recent attack on Istanbul airport I am quite apprehensive about going and this will be my first time to turkey. I am considering changing my holiday package. What is the current situation in olu Deniz have there been any issues there lately or do I need to be concerned about it at all..has dalaman airport threat raised ?
Regards,
Shannon Murphy.
Indeed continue too support a nation led by a despotic man and group of intolerant individuals whom allegedly have trafficked arms, people,oil, shot at refugees trying too escape isis, stood by and watched as isis build tunnels by the border who believe women taking contraceptives are traitors and women without children are unfulfilled , whose first lady thinks harems were excellent places of education for women, whom lock up students, journalists academics at a frightening rate etc etc etc and who think that 49 people dying in orlando and 53 others who were shot are perverts and deviants and who allow islamists too attack shop keepers and customers on the basis of them daring too sip a beer isnide their own shop while listening too music, and who labels germany as on top of their enemy list claims david Cameron is an arrogant brit trying too keep Turkey out of the EU and allows a mayor too post the names and photos of 11 elected german MPS in order for them too be intimidated and recieve death threats and call them traitors in the press, and thats not counting all the bombing a friendly, safe and fun place Turkey?I beg too differ
I’m currently in Antalya with my family and everything is fine. the people are friendly. Also don’t worry, for safety. Turkey is a safe country and never had a problem haven’t is 1 month. Everyone have a good holiday.
Hi Keith,
Altinkum is my home and the resort is carrying on as normal. If you are concerned about the beach front, there are plenty of other less crowded places to go. Which area do you know? I personally like the area around Apollo Temple or there are smaller restaurants around the resorts
Hi
We have booked for Altinkum in July and after the bombing in various airports and holiday destinations recently we are a bit nervous about the trip. Been to Altinkum twice and don’t want to be looking over my shoulder all the holiday and as the beach front gets busy scared of being with crowds what do you think.
Hi
Have not had a proper holiday for years, had a stressful time with family issues, we have booked to go to Marmaris early April for a relaxing stress free holiday, but now feel we will be always looking over our shoulder and not being able to relax.
I’m in the travel business specializing in cruises.
I can assure you no client of mine will be going to Turkey any time soon, especially after most major cruise companies have cancelled their Turkish itineraries for the year.
Hi Dana – I feel exactly the same. It can happen anywhere in the world. I’m not going to give into terrorists by changing my travel plans
Hi Nat! After yesterday’s attack in Istambul, do you feel the same way about safety? I’m pretty concerned about safety and an escalade of violence in main turist hotspots. I’m going in mid-March, and my family is certainly worried. I know no one can predict the future, but I would really like to know your point of view after 12-01. Best regards from México.
Glad to hear it!
Thanks Natalie that you encouraged me greatly!
It was a fantastic trip!
Regards, Katarina
Hi Natalie,
Thank you for your reply!
I will try to stay positive and enjoy the trip:)
Regards,
Katarina
Still go ahead with your plans Katarina. Life is just simply normal here.
Dear Natalie,
I am planning to visit Antalya and Cappadocia region
in November.
After the last election in Turkey and whatever is happening now in the region,
are there some reasons for not coming there?
Thanks in advance!
BR, Katarina
My advice is same as always Andy – Bombings can happen anywhere in the world. If it was me, I would still go but this is your decision. It is no use making the decision to come to Turkey if you are going to be in fear all the time.
Hint, me and my family fly to Belk next Tuesday, with last nights two bombings killing 96 people, what’s your advise, its only 300 mile, so bit concerned, thanks.
You will have a fantastic time Janet – Enjoy it
Hi
We have booked for the Daily Mail (would you believe it) offer to Northern Cyprus and Turkey later this month. Our trip includes a cultural tour of Turkey taking in the Taurus Mountains and Pamukkale/Hierapolos and the Antalya region. The offer appears to be backed by Tourist Boards as presumably tourism has suffered significantly over recent times. I hope we have made a good choice and our safety will not be at risk.
Janet
I have not been on the med coast this summer but all reports are that life is as normal. For first hand information, contact the team at Fethiye Times – http://www.fethiyetimes.com/
Hi Nat
We are coming to Gocek near Dalaman in September. I am assuming this area is still safe, but do you know if there any problems with refugee traffic in this area as we will be on the water?
Don’t think the Kurds, Georgians, Armenians, Syriac etc would agree with that Anthony. Broaden your horizon kid, it is a big country
Why visit Turkey, everything is Greek, may as well go to Greece, there’s nothing Turkish in Turkey.
Bursa is in the safe zone Chaity – A very long way from the border
Hi Natalie,
I’m going to visit Bursa, in September for a one year internship as a Product data analyst in IGREK MACHINE, I read the complete article and just want to double check if it’s in the safe zone.
Betty – Did you read the update to this article? I posted it in the first paragraph and it is here – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
But anyway, I am in Altinkum now. The sun is shining, everyone is going about their business as normal.
We are travelling to Altinkam in september is it safe in this area. i am so confused by the different comments
Hi Lucy, take a look at this post and the comments, then let me know on there if you still have questions – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Think it will answer a lot of worries for you
Hi Nat,
I am travelling to calis beach and am worrie about a variety of things. Firstly the 3am airport transfer from bodrum, dangerous driving, terrorism, its driving me mad 🙁
Can I have some advice?
Hello,
Just found your blog and have to say comforted by your information, best advice from people actually there at the moment, no where in the world is 100% safe these days (except maybe your toilet at home!) We are going to Icemelar for two weeks in August, having been to Turkey lots of times over 20 years, we went to Fethiye in the 90’s and only just missed a bomb!! My family have all been telling us not to go, newpaper and TV reports are quite frightening, but we had a fantastic time last year and only went for a week, so going for 2 weeks this time to the Marti Deluxe Resort which is lovely. I just wished they would all stop going on and on since the Tunisia Attack, it makes people very nervous.
Hi Liz – please take a look at this article instead – It is more up to date and relevent https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi DC – please take a look at this article which I have published today – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi Lana,
Please take a look at this article which I have published today – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi Jo – please take a look at this article which I have published today – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi Hayl,
Please take a look at this article which I have published today – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi Eden,
Please take a look at this article which I have published today – https://turkishtravelblog.com/is-turkey-safe-from-isis-and-terrorism/
Hi, I found this article very useful because I was unsure whether I was going to be safe due to the recent attack in Tunisia. I’m due to visit Gulluk in July and wondered if it was a safe destination as I would just like some reassurance.
Many thanks.
Hi Natalie
I have a holiday booked to Hisaronu at the end of August, i am a huge worrier and have been having sleepless nights and panic attacks about all the things i see in the news re: ISIS.
I am taking my 2 small children and keep telling myself we will be fine and then with all that awful news of the shootings on the beach in Tunisia and those poor people, this has raised my fears immensely.
You seem quite re assuring and i was hoping you might be able to help calm my nerves.
Thank you xx
My husband and myself are booked to go to Kalkan on 10th September. Will it be safe to go? Just concerned after the attack in Tunisia.
We love Turkey and this will be out 4th time to Turkey and it would be a real shame to have to cancel, however we just want to be safe and enjoy a well earned break!
I am going to Turkey in September, I am really worried can you reassure me?
Hi Natalie
we have a family holiday booked for august and we are a bit nervous about this with the recent stories we are hearing about the country, we are staying in Antalya. how safe is that area?
hi love we are going to Antalya in 5 weeks we love turkey and go often and just need a little assurance all will be well there xx
He is going to be very safe – he is going to have a wonderful time and you are worrying about nothing. Let him go and just relax
Hi, my son is going to Marmaris on Thursday 18th June 2015 , for his friends wedding , with all that I’ve been reading in the papers do you think it would be safe to travel to this part of Turkey ,
Many thanks
Worried Mum ( Chris)
The area that you are visiting is safe, beautiful and a delight to stay in. It is no-where near the Syrian border.
Who said British Blood?
Was it the stupid Daily Express article?
If so, they termed that to sell newspapers. It is called “fear porn”
The Blue Lagoon is popular with Brits and Turks. There are no more risks than anywhere else in the world.
Please stop worrying and just enjoy planning for your first holiday abroad. This is an exciting time for anyone and a memory that you will have the rest of your life so don’t let stupid newspapers ruin it
Stop having sleepless nights – They are for nothing. Life is as normal here. There are no more risks than anywhere else in the world.
Belek is a renowned area of 5 star hotels and golf courses. It is relatively small but should you want to get outside your hotel, there are easy transport links to places such as Antalya city centre or the lovely resort of Side.
You and your family will have a great time
Hello, I will be going to Turkey on the 24th of June to Dalaman, Olu deniez as my first time abroad. I will be travelling with just my boyfriend and I am 19 years old from the UK. I have recently read the warning about Turkey and Syria, just wanted to know if the area I will be visiting will be safe and any extra information about Dalaman. I’m nervous to go abroad for the first time and just want to make this holiday is safe and relaxing. What’s it all to do about “British blood” ? Also, if we were to explore the surrounding place, to go to Olu Deniez lagoon, will we be safe there too? Is it a tourist place? Thank you!
hi nat im going to turkey this august with my family.we are spending 10 days at Cornelia de luxe in antalya belek im such a nervous traveler and have started to have sleepless nights…now this has added even more worry can you give me some information on this and surrounding areas please
There is no need to cancel Clair – That area is no more dangerous than your home town
Hi we are a family of four and will be travelling to Belek in September, we are getting concerned about safety in the area and the transfer from the Antalya airport to the hotel. We have looked into cancelling but would rather go if safe. Is there any trouble in the belek area please
That is actually quite a good rule Kevin
In less than two weeks I will once again be in Turkey after four long years. Çorlu, Istanbul, Erzurum & Mardin to be exact.
My general rule wherever I travel is if the locals aren’t in absolute panic then neither should I.
I have cancelled our family Holiday to Turkey end of Sept this year and July next year…. i’m not that silly to travel there. I just have to see what they have done to the three guys in Syria to think i’m not crazy enough to go to a country where any one of my children or my husband or myself could be kidnapped and the same may happen to any one or all of us. So it’s AVOID Turkey all the way for us for at least the next 5 years 🙂
I hope that do did eventually have your much deserved break in Turkey, the troubles are no worse that the splinter group of the IRA when they “misbehaved”, we have visited a few countries where there were “problems”. But why put your life on hold because of a few “nutters”?
Perfectly put; the news companies write a load of bollocks! 🙂
This is my 3rd time to be in a country with a few problems and every time I get huge amounts of worried emails asking if I’m ok… usually while I’m chilling on a beach somewhere!
People need to remember that CNN, The Daily Mail, etc. are just companies that need to make profit, and me chilling on a beach doesn’t quite sell as well as 1000s of people fighting the police.
All those areas are safe and you will have a great time. For Istanbul, try the Sultan Ahmet area. Some cheap hostels and B&Bs there
Hi Nat
Thank you for your blog
Im going with my boyfriend to Turkey, in september. Going to istambul, capadocia, Antalya and one day one night in izmir
What do you think about this áreas?
Where we could stay in Istambul, in a safe área but cool to stay (and not too expensive)?
Thank toy Nat
Regards!!
Nothing to worry about. i am in Altinkum now and the only concern is sunburn!
Hi Nat,
My eldest daughter is coming to stay in Turkey towards the end of September – she is staying some place called Altinkum I thjink – its not her first time abroad but it is her first time away without us – she is going with her boyfriend I think they land in Bordum.. is there anything she should watch out for – is the area safe please?
thanks.. Mark.
we are planning to come to Turkey, my son and I, and we do not plan to cancel our trip. I have travelled to Turkey few times and I find it much safer than the US, my hometown. In my country people are killed, murdered, raped, kidnapped for years, and human trafficking is getting larger indicating much unsafe country . Turkey is much safer when compared to many other countries. So if one wants to send a message to dictatorial leadership why not stop coming to the US as a tourist since, one can argue, we have government that has been taking our freedoms for many years. invaded countries for no reason, and occupying countries for over dozen years. Let’s not be altruistic and be typical Westerner telling the world how to live when we cannot even meet our statements. For example, during the Civil Rights riots in the US during the 60s where over 100 cities were burning, National Guard was called in to suppress the riots, and many people died. I did not see any statement calling for people to end their tourist visits to the US. People in glass houses should not throw stones!
Great stuff. Thanks for taking the time out to come and give feedback
Hi Natalie,
I just wanted to thank you for your blog and updating this post frequently. My girlfriend and I just came back from our trip to Turkey (Istanbul and Cappadoccia areas) and had a fantastic time. We were there for the last 2 weeks of June and had no concerns over safety whatsoever. We definitely were concerned before we traveled, but we kept ourselves updated through this blog and decided to go heeding yours and others advice. The people there were superbly friendly and life seemed as normal as any other place. There was a gathering on our last day near Isktiklal street, but we steered clear, and a few hours later, it had dispersed. So, to anybody who is still concerned, just be smart and avoid gatherings, and you’ll have a fantastic time. Thanks again.
Dalaman is reportedly very quiet Andrew. Life is carrying on as normal
Hi Natalie
Me and the wife’s are coming to dalaman in October can you tell me if all is well ???
Many thanks
No need to cancel or be worried for your safety.
Well said Gerry
I have purchased a house in Akbuk I travel there this Saturday with my family
we are coming for 1 month we were there cleaning 2 weeks ago and we had no problems what so ever
the locals can’t do enough for new people they were so helpful
don’t let bad press dissuade you from visiting this wonderful land
Hi, we have organise for a large group to stay at lara beach in antalya in July. There is mixed feelings at the moment with half wanting to cancel and the other half still wanting to go. How long do you think the protests will continue? We have been looking forward to the holiday for so long but I am worried for our safety, even though we are not planning in leaving the resort much.
Amazing. Thank you so much!
Appreciate the tips!
Hx
Thank you! We did not cancel the trip so I guess we just might see each other in Istanbul 🙂
Really depends on where you plan to go in Istanbul Robert. Things look like they are starting to calm down this morning in the Taksim area but it could all change again. No one knows. The Sultan Ahmet area is carrying on as normal and that is where all the main sites to see are. I wouldn’t cancel if I was you. Istanbul is a very big city and not all of it is a no go area
Hi Hayley,
I loved staying in Olu and using it as a base to get around. Yes, the overall British influence is dominant but easily ignored.
Fethiye is more like a city these days and while it is nice, it was too busy for my liking. Kas on the other hand was great. Loved walking the cobbled streets and everyone was so friendly.
If you are looking for a hippy place off the beaten track, perhaps look at Faralya, near Olu Deniz. Not been there but heard many good things about it. Maybe worth investigating.
There is no demonstrations near Izmir airport, just in the main city. My friend is in Kusadasi now and she is reporting that all is fine and quiet. Life is as normal.
I am traveling to Kusadasi with my family this Sunday via Izmir. Is it safe in Izmir and Kusadasi? Are the demonstrations anyway near the Airport?
Thanks Natalie. Having second thoughts about Olu now if it’s full of English like you say. Went there about 7 years ago and it was pretty busy but not too full on…I guess a lot can change in 7 years though!
Would you recommend staying there and using it as a base for day trips, or is there anywhere else you could recommend in the region which has stunning beaches, hidden away from the hoards of tourists and cool hippy towns with a real vibe for Turkish life. Would it be better to be based in Fethiye or just stay put in Olu. Also, what is Kas like? Any tips or recommendations would be gratefully appreciated!
Thanks,
H
My friends and I have a trip scheduled in Istanbul starting June 20th and we are wondering how things are really in Turkey. Will the strikes affect us? Is the situation worse now than it was the past weeks?
Bodrum town centre has had one violent demonstration but many other peaceful ones. Where abouts are they staying in Bodrum? Most of the small coastal resorts are continuing with life as normal. Just make sure your boys avoid joining any large groups of Turkish people that are demostrating
I wouldn’t cancel if I was you Ana. Even if you avoid the Taksim square areas, there are so many other places to go in Istanbul that are really peaceful. It is such a big city and not all of it is under disruption. The main sites to see are in Sultan Ahmet and all is calm there
If I am correct, the cruise port for Istanbul is in or near Ortakoy which is roughly a 30 minute walk from where all the demonstrations are. Having said that, go over the bridge and head to the Sultan Ahemet area and you will be fine. That is where all the major sites to see are anyway. Sure your cruise ship will also give you advice and guidance as well
My family and I are thinking on stopping by in Istanbul for a day or two. It’s part of thr cruise schedule. It will be in July. Are we safe to look around the city?
Hello Natalie!
In early May, I booked a 5 day-break in Istanbul starting on July 25th. I know we’re still over a month away but the situation seems to have deteriorated so much in such a short period of time that I’m thinking of cancelling it, I fear strikes may become a hindrance to tourism.
I’d appreciate to hear your opinion.
Thank you so much in avance.
Both my boys are going to Bodrium , im sure they will be fine , just wanna make sure they are nowhere near all the riots
There are non violent gatherings in Antalya city center and not hearing anything from the rest of the areas.You will be fine
Hi nat! We’re going to Antalya in July, near Goynuk, to the Mirada del mar hotel. How is that area? although I think the resort area will be safe, how is Antalya center?
Hi Mohammed. Yes most of the country is safe to travel to. The only areas that you should stay away from is border towns with Syria and of course Taksim in Istanbul. Where are you planning to go to? Turkey can be expensive but there are ways to cut down on costs. I have listed most of them here https://turkishtravelblog.com/traveling-around-turkey-on-a-budget-tips-to-save-money/
Yes, I do and I think you will have an amazing time. I love all those areas. They are so beautiful and culturally driven as well (Apart from Olu) It is a very British resort but the beauty of the region is amazing.
Hi Natalie,
My boyfriend & I are traveling to Olu Deniz/Fethiye, Patara and Dalyan at the end of August.
Do you think these areas will be safe to travel to?
Many thanks,
Hayley
Hey Nat after reading the article i calm down a little bit people were telling me not to go im going with my family 2 kids and 2 adults plus me and my wife we are going at the end of June so is is safe to go 100 % sure and people tell me turkey is expensive i mean its hard to stay there for one week is that true because its my first time coming to europe plz reply thanks
Hi Andrew, Ortakoy is within close walking distance to Taksim. By mid July however, I am presuming that it would have all calmed down. The demonstrations are definitely not like Egypt or Libya. If I were you, I would keep monitoring the situation and then make a decision around the beginning of July depending on what transpires in the next few weeks. If it is still carrying on then consider swapping your hotel to the Sultan Ahmet area.
Yes, perfectly fine. Nothing reported from there. Life is happening as normal.
Thanks for the update Ryan. Much appreciated
Yes, they are unaffected. There has been a few demonstrations but they are peaceful. life is as normal there.
hiya, very grateful for your blog. me and my partner are planning our first trip to turkey in marmaris/icmeler in aug/sept this year. Can you confirm these areas remain unaffected? thanks
Even Istanbul is still moving at a normal pace. I’ve been in Beyoglu since long before the protests began, and woke up the Friday before last to tear gas coming in through the window. Although I won’t be back in the city for another couple weeks, I’m assuming the situation is approximately the same – Taksim and Tarlabasi are a mess, as are the roads leading up to Taksim. Fatih, Sultanahmet, and everywhere out of the immediate area is and has been perfectly fine.
Now, having said that, I do still have marks from rubber bullets on my back and know several people who got hit with tear gas canisters from participating in or watching the protests. Me and local friends had gas shot at as for no reason more than once, even when we were the only ones on a particular street.
Moral of the story is, avoid demonstrations and you’ll likely be alright. However, the tear gas does waft around quite a lot and might marginally affect folks in places like Besiktas (they probably have their own protests, at any rate). Izmir is cooling down, I think, and places like Bodrum or Antalya should be A-okay.
Is icmeler safe ,have got holiday booked for august and are worried wether it is safe ?
Hi Nat. Informative sight. Well done. I do agree though that adding dates would be an advantage. We have planned our stay in Istanbul for mid-July, staying on the Bosphorus, near Ortakoy area. As of today (June 12), how does that sit with a safe-enough distance from Taksim Square?
Hi Emily, the Syrian war has absolutely no effect on any of the holiday resorts. They are all thousands of kilometers from the border. Turkey is a very big country. Re the riots, as i pointed out in my article, it is not the same everywhere. I would be the first person out of the country, if I thought my safety was in danger. The holiday company would also have charged you 300 pounds because no foreign embassy is advising that it is unsafe to travel to Turkey. Apart from Syria and they were just playing tit for tat.
Hi Rose, the old part of Istanbul is calm and nothing is happening there. People still visit the main sites etc. Keep an eye on the news incase of any extraordinary circumstances but there is no need to cancel
Alanya is safe. Nothing has been reported from there apart from copious amounts of people sunbathing on the beaches! There is no need to cancel your trip and your transfer will be fine
Hi Joan, I can;t really help you as specialty is my niche. However your grandfather and his wife could have been Jewish. There has been a large amount of them in Turkey over the years, especially in Istanbul.
Re knitting – I would love to give it a go however time is limited
Re God – It is possible the lad does not believe in God, not everyone here is a practicing or believing Muslim
Hi Linda,
I founnd two hotels named Alzer in Istanbul however both of them are outside the area where problems are occurring. If it was my holiday,. I would go and just avoid the Taksim area.
Hi rick, the violence is not widespread. For your trip next month, reports are coming in that the Sultan Ahmet area is calm and that is where all the major sites to see are. So if your hotel is in the Taksim area, you might want to change that. It sounds like you are well traveled so have a realistic idea of what it is like. will update here on the site if for any reason it changes
What an excellent site. The only thing I would ask is to date some of the comments. My wife and I are scheduled to travel to Istanbul next month and we are watching this very closely. CNN tonight (6/11) is wall to wall coverage about Taksim Square and we certainly are concerned. This is a vacation after all and I have no intention of spending my hard earned money and my very scarce leisure time in a place where I am limited in my ability to fully enjoy the experience. If I want to see protests and unrest, there is ample opportunity here on UC campuses That said, we have traveled all through the Middle East and Africa and have faced these kinds of questions before. We know that the news skews the picture and the most valuable information is not where the political unrest is, but where it is not. If it is so widespread that our ability to enjoy the trip is compromised, we will find an alternative. We will keep an eye on your site and really appreciate the information
Hi Nat
I read all the comments, but tonight on the news we saw the violence escalating. We are leaving for Istanbul in 2 days time. We have reservations at the Alzer Hotel.What is your opinion about the safety at this stage?
please advise or please help me. i have for years been trying to locate any information on my grandfather ELIAS ADIS i know i was told he was from Turkey married to Sarah Baccouby i was told from damascus syria they did have a son in 1897 but i do not know if he was born there or in England. i also assume that they would have been Jewish , do you think that would be a correct assumption. p[ease i am begging for some help. i love to knit and i notice so much yarn comes from Turkey, is that so and do you knit. my grandaughter is serious over a boy from Turkey who does not believe in God, is that how it is there? thanks so much any infrormation would be so greatly appreciated, especially who was Elias Adis or Sarahs fmily and was that during the Ottamon Empire. Thanks So much Joan Adis
Hello!
Im flying to Turkey this saturday (dont know if i should cancel the trip), thats why i wanted to know is it safe in Alanya hotels?
And im little bit worried about the transfer from Antalya to Alanya with the bus, is it safe?
Please answer! Thanks a lot!
hi there, i have booked to travel to istanbul in July..I’m worried whether i should cancel plans. I’m there with my family and we’re staying in the old part of town..
i have indeed cancelled mine and changed it, i dont fancy turkey at all the syrian war put me off before but now thease riots made up my mind for me. im not risking my babies by taken them here, were off to fuerturventura instead yes cost more but worth every penny to be safe.. just annoyed the holiday company charged 300 pounds to change it ;(
But did you not read the article AB? I am here and it is safe. People are sunbathing, walking around the local attractions etc. Shame if you cancel. where were you thinking of traveling to? Let me know and i will find out more information for you
Hi Kshipra,
At the moment, the Sultan Ahmet area is the best place to be. It is away from demonstrations and also close to all the major landmarks. There is no need to cancel, just don;t book your hotel in the Taksim area although I am sure by August, the situation will be resolved
Hi Lex, you need to do some research on where she will be staying in the city because it is extremely big. There were demonstrations in Bursa last week but not sure if they have continued. Is there no contact details of who is running the internship?
Hi Shame, thanks for the share etc. Wondered where you had been lately. Glad to know that you agree about the Daily Heil!
Hi Nina, yes blogs and forums can be a good source of information. Don’t cancel your holiday, it would be such a shame
Great news Tracy. Liked your FB page to follow you so looking forward to your write up
Hi Natalie, a fine example of the power of blogs and how they offer some balance to the bedlam. I’ll be staying in Istanbul for a couple of days next week and i’m looking forward to it.
Thanks for reassuring us that the situation in Turkey is not as bad as it seems from the pictures in the media. I am travelling to Istanbul in the beginning of August with my husband and we were contemplating on whether to cancel given the current reports coming out of Turkey. What I will do is scout the internet and forums for comments from people who’ve travelled to Turkey already and just skip the sensationalistic media reports. That’s how I found this blog and am glad I did because you have a lot of useful information here!
Good advice and a nice round up of the opinions of others. Last I heard from a friend who has joined the protests in Istanbul is that the atmosphere “was like a festival, all the tourists were around with us, they sang, danced with us.”
I also can’t help loving the irony that the expat’s paper of choice, that spiteful little rag the Daily Heil, is stirring things up. Hopefully some of its immigration/asylum seekier/single mother hating readers living in Turkey will look at their own experience of the situation in their towns and villages and start to question the trash this paper prints.
My daughter is going to Bursa for an internship soon. Will she be safe there?
hi natalie
im planning to visit Istanbul with my family for a holiday in Aug2013 and would be there for a week. Is it safe to travel during that time? or should I cancel my plans? I really am very confused as to how to go about this.
Natalie and fellow agree’ers
I am planning my trip to Turkey June but I am planning on cancelling the plans. Even though it does affect their economy, they should realize I am not responsible to spend money and risk getting injured and dead. If you are that worried about it, I would recommend you vacationing instead of I
According to internet sites, it looks to be around 1 to 2km away away from Taksim.
Reports are going out that the Taksim area is now calm however no one can predict what it will be like at night time.
To be honest, if your main reason for going to Istanbul is to site-see, you have picked the wrong area anyway. Most of the major sites to see like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica cistern, Topkapi palace are in the Sultan Ahmet area. This area is also reportedly very calm at night.
Try ringing the hotel and asking them about the situation to get an update. If no one can give you a straight answer, I would change bookings to the Sultan Ahemet area just to be sure
I don’t think they will go away Stephen. Ripples have been made that won’t be so easy to brush under the carpet.
The name off the apartment Osamanbey Aparts Egrenekon Sisla .
Is this place near Tasmin SQ
Yes, I’m sure that those people working in tourism don’t want to see a drop in dollars euros or lira to their pockets, and that really does mean anybody that has a financial interest in tourism and travel agents! The bottom line is the drop in Borsa will affect the big businesses in Turkey, the paymasters or funding for the akp! This in turn will affect the akp!
I realise most foreigners would just like these issues to go away, but hopefully they won’t, and the Turkish people (the 30% that are poor, specifically) will ultimately gain from a more moderate government than the dictator currently in place!
Well said Kelly and your student is oh so right. I am worried about the future of Turkey but for visiting tourists and at the moment, life is as normal. Like you say an incoming government which can do better is an unanswered question.
Hi Natalie,
One of my students told me this week, “to live in a democracy is a continual battle” and she is French, so she should know!
The Brixton riots of 2011 / 12 (oh and not to even mention the 80s) is a perfect example. …see, I can’t even remember the date ….did that situation / those situations stop all tourism to London? No.
I saw the pictures on the net of Brixton and covered on the Turkish news…..”what an unruly lot those Londoners were” the media images wanted us to believe. In fact those feelings had a source, the riots were the outlet and undoubtedly those feelings have not been 100% resolved but life goes on in a democracy. Now, that was the Great British Government that people were bucking against…… so surely the people of Britain can empathise with a democratic process in another country?
Continuing on the theme of London, the Brixton situation was bad but it was limited in geographic area. We have a similar situation in a few cities of Turkey at present. There is no need to avoid the whole (massive) current country because of troubles limited to a few hundred square metres. Just a need to avoid those few hundred square metres. The feelings that are erupting at present have been oncoming for years and when the media is no longer interested they will not be 100% resolved. …and thus democracy evolves. We have seen it throughout history in all democratic countries.
Dramatic headlines in foreign countries make people living in those countries better about being in their home country. after all, “is the UK a great place to live? ” …. and so their media needs to deflect attention away from domestic troubles and over-inflate the troubles of other countries.
This is simply a case of ordinary people getting fed up with being told what to do by a Government that has been in power a very long time….. normal cycles of democracy and hopefully time for change in Turkey. But will an incoming Government be any better?….I doubt it. Maybe there will be a honeymoon period.
If the tourists listen to the hype, the ordinary people who work in tourism will lose their livelihoods, the media giants will increase their sway and the ordinary tourists will miss out on a chance to visit a beautiful country which is 99% peaceful AND has a currently weak currency (weakened further by the current issues) so the tourists should take this opportunity to make their Great British Pound go further and enjoy a trip to Turkey this summer.
Do you mean the metro in Istanbul Deen? Outside of those areas, the main system of transport is bus or internal flights and both of those systems are running as normal. Latest report from Cappadocia is all is normal as well. There was a gathering of around 500 people in Avanos but it was peaceful
Hi Norman
Can you give some more info about the Caddes area because never heard of it. Istiklal avenue in Turkish is caddesi, do you mean that?
All the main sites to see are in the Sultan Ahmet area and all reports are saying that area is calm. They also reporting that Taksim is starting to calm down but keep an eye on the situation from day to day
Hi rod, congratulation on your granddaughter. Just keep an eye on the situation in Ankara city centre at night. Sure your friends will keep your updated as well
Looking forward to read your write ups about TBEx and of course, when you reach Turkey as well. Enjoy life on the road Derek
Thank you for posting the real picture in Turkey.
I will be flying in next week with my wife and kid. In terms of public transport, is Turkey’s public transport system esp Metro still works or disruptive? Is it bad traffic jam?
Hope you can shed some light on this. I will be heading in and out of Turkey Airport 4 times in 1 week as will be flying over to Cappadoccia and back and then back in for Athens.
Well my wife and i fly out this Tuesday for 4 night to Istanbul from Edinburgh.
The main problem how safe will it to travel from Atturk to our Hotel which is in the Caddes area.
We have arranged transfer with Hotel.
Will it be safe to site see during the day, but our other problem will we Hotel bound at night due to the trouble.
Many thanks
Thanks to everyone for the posts.
We are on our way to Istanbul on Monday to meet our new granddaughter born just last month. We will also travel to Ankara to visit friends that we have been acquainted with via e-mail since our last trip 6 years ago. So we do appreciate the information you have all posted with such “positive” feedback for visitors concerning the existing problems within those two cities.
Glad to hear Natalie 🙂 The topic was raised during TBEX. Many of us had the same though — oh let’s tweet Natalie and get some more firsthand info — but at the same time we also realized you had to be swamped with hundreds of people asking the same questions. Anyway, thanks for the info, I cannot wait to pass through Turkey 🙂
Well said Mustafa
Been following your story guys. Where are you headed to now?
I wondered how you would feel what with Istanbul being your ex home. Remember you saying you were heartbroken to leave
Thanks Ken. I think the Foreign Office should pull the Daily Mail up for misquoting them.
I live in Turkey and can categorically say that there is no need to cancel your holiday. I live in Fethiye, but all of the surrounding areas have had no trouble. This goes for all of the tourist destinations except the very large cities. The weather is hot and sunny and people are on the beaches, round the swimming pools, eating and drinking in restaurants and bars, all as normal. Boat trips as well, all unaffected. The news about the riots gets blown out of all proportion. Yes we have seen trouble in Istanbul, Ankara and a few other large cities, but all tourist spots along the Aegean and Mediterranean coast are all quiet with everyone enjoying their holiday. Newspapers like the Daily Mail should be ashamed of themselves for putting people off coming here. They should check their facts first. My advice, come here for a lovely relaxing holiday in the sun.
Hi everybody…….i can say you one important thing about country.it safe and kindly still to everyone…i m prof.toursit gide for 3 languages and i m travelling with my group in istanbul…..NO PROBLEM at all…you do not need to cancel your holiday to TURKEY.just come and see wit your eyes what is going on here…..Thanks to everyone
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Exactly Alan – An ideal way to support them is by still coming here
We just left Istanbul and we actually lived 5 minutes from Taksim Square and last Friday we actually could smell the tear gas.
As for now I wouldn’t cancel my Turkey holiday. I would just try to avoid the demonstration. Friends of ours were in Sulanahmet and they couldn’t even tell on Friday or Saturday that somewthing is even going on. That said, you going to be fine the main attractions.
On Sunday, we went up to Taksim to see what’s going on.. here are some pictures: http://istanbul.for91days.com/13/06/02/gezi-park-after-the-storm/
. . timely and useful stuff here Natalie – in my opinion keeping to holiday plans and enjoying your holiday here in Turkey is also a clear symbol of solidarity with the people who are trying to build a more decent society.
I’m going to be very blunt here Stephen and say that you so wide of the mark – it would make not a jot of difference to the ‘suits’ in Ankara, but a boycott would devastate the lives of many ordinary, decent Turkish families who are dependent on the few months of tourism work to see them through the year.
The Daily Mail gets on my nerves Jack – A little bit of Fact checking is all that was needed but they just want to sell newspapers. Thank you for adding to the words of reassurance.
Thank you MM – The last things the Turkish people need is to start suffering financially.
Exactly Jennifer. It is easy to get nervous after pictures that have appeared in mainstream media however Turkey is a very large country
Thanks for this post, Natalie! My sister-in-law is going to Turkey at the end of this month and she doesn’t travel internationally very often. She’s really only been to Italy and France, so she’s been freaking out a bit. I’m sending her this post to ease her mind because I don’t think she should cancel her trip on account of the protests. I think she just needs to use her head and steer clear of any demonstrations.
I agree with Nat on this point. I was in the Sultanahmet area a few days ago & it’s business as usual. Tourist are unaffected.
The protest is in Taksim…if you stay clear of that area all surrounding areas are fine.
Love your sarcasm and sense of humor here! I’ve thought the same thing. I would advise tourists to probably avoid Taksim and Besiktas in Istanbul, but otherwise I’ve heard from friends friends that all of Eminonu and Sultanahmet areas are quite quiet. In fact, I wish I was back in Turkey now! It’s heartbreaking to watch everything unfold from afar!
The Daily Mail (or Daily Bigot as I like to call it) talks bollocks about most things. They do so love to stir things up. Of course it’s safe in the parts of Turkey that the overwhelming majority of people visit. Go and have a good time. Business as usual!
I thought the same Stephen but unfortunately the only people who will lose out are the thousands of families that work in the tourism industry. The government won’t support them if the tourism industry goes tits up! Boycotting Turkey will only add to their existing worries
Personally I would advise all tourists to cancel their plans to visit Turkey, if at all possible! If not for safety’s sake, the cancelled hotels, flights and loss of revenue will send as good a message to the despotic and dictatorial government as anything!