safety in Istanbul

Hi Ellen,

I also frequently travel by myself. I took the RS Turkey tour about 15 years ago. It was an excellent tour and I highly recommend it. I arrived in Istanbul before the rest of the group. In Istanbul as well as in some of the places we stopped, I sometimes explored on my own. I never felt unsafe (in terms of personal safety). I did sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable (e.g. noticed people were staring at me or working hard to try to sell me something).

I just got back. The only problems would be with avoiding getting sucked to a shop! I felt safe, just more of a magnet attracting vendors. I did not stay out much after dark, though. As well as being quite cold at night it was a bit creepy. But so is downtown Chicago at night. I was normally so tired after a day of seeing sights that I had no energy to do anything but get fed and go to bed. You can always don a head scarf to become more invisible. Lot of young women walking around. Just pack a simple silk scarf and blend in with the locals.

We were in Istanbul several years ago (great city, great food, great shopping). We found walking around on our own no big problem although the men did stare at me (I was tall, fit and blond - now only one of those applies!)Having said that I'd go for a Rick Steves tour, just think you'd get alot more out of the experience with the great tour guides. This is not Paris with an understandable metro system etc. You will also I think feel much more comfortable (and yes I've travled extensively on my own in the Orient). Sorry if it is socially incorrect to say so but the middle-eastern Muslum world is generally not an equal equality society. I was caught up in a riot once and my Muslum host saved me from harm at some risk to himself so I am forever greatful to him.

My friend and her husband went to Turkey and LOVED it, but, my friend who is half asian, and her hubby who is caucasion both felt she was treated much differently then him. She basically couldn't be sure if all the stares were because:
1) inter racial couple
2) she was asian
3) she was female,, LOL
She also noted that when her and her husband walked down the sidewalk, the men would step away to let her husband pass easily, but they often did not move for her, and she would have to step off the curb.

This was mainly in Istanbul, they spend a few weeks travelling around, seaside towns etc, and she said they did not feel the same( they were better, people warmer in a more genuine way)

I would go, and maybe do a few days on my own, but I would book a tour for most of trip. Part of problem is their alphabet is different , so even a pocket translater would be hard to use.

I took the Rick Steves Turkey trip in May of 2004. It was fabulous in every way!
I was used to traveling with a friend and making my own way, but this tour suited me perfectly--excellent guide to enrich my learning experience plus free time to explore on my own. I arrived 2 days in advance, and this gave me time to rest and explore a little on my own before meeting my tour-mates. We were a very congenial group and all the single women (5) changed roommates in each destination.

Thanks to all who replied to my question. I think the Rick Steves tour is the way to go. Now I just have to decide when I want to go and book my trip...

Hi Ellen,
I just got back from spending a month in Turkey, and I spent four days in Istanbul. I felt completely safe the whole time I was in Istanbul, and I was for the most part alone around the city or with one other person. Things to be cautious of are normal city things, and other then that it is to be careful to not be sucked/forced into stores, and ignore calls from shops. The Turks are wonderful and very helpful, if you ask a question or for directions you will be helped and recieve friendliness. Also if you don't speak Turkish, in Istanbul there are a lot of English and German speakers so not to worry. However it pays just to say a simple 'Merhaba', they will love you for it!
-Jessica

Thanks again to all who replied. I already booked with Rick Steves and a friend is joining me as well. I look forward to exploring yet another country. Happy travels to all!