My husband and I planned a trip to Turkey (Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus) for June of this year. The U.S. government travel website noted that "in response to reports of the government of China’s restrictions on Uighurs during the 2015 Ramadan celebrations, incidents of unprovoked, violent harassment against East Asian individuals have occurred in Turkey. U.S. citizens of East Asian descent, or those who are perceived to be from East Asia, are most at risk."
My husband is Caucasian and I am Japanese....We've been looking forward to visiting Turkey for a long time, but now I'm starting to wonder if we should go elsewhere?? Please share your thoughts. Thank you!
Posted by
Corvallis OR
7025 posts
I don't see any warning about East Asian individuals in Turkey. The only warning I see is to avoid travel to the southeastern part of Turkey especially near the Syrian border. The only place on your itinerary that might be of any concern would be Cappadocia and I wouldn't even worry too much about that, just follow the advice given.
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/turkey-travel-warning.html
Posted by
OP
NYC
4 posts
Hi Nancy, thanks for your insight! The warning is actually on the Turkey information page, under 'safety and security' (last paragraph).
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
Kara, I happened to read that same page yesterday. The note about East Asians came a surprise to me, since I had not heard any related news. A Google search now doesn't immediately bring up any news fresher than last summer's Ramadan. I would count on protestors having short memories and most Turks standing on their tradition of hospitality.
Posted by
istanbul
9 posts
Hi Kara,
As being a local, please please please no worries, about it. Yes it is real after China's restrictions to Uighurs (last year) there were individual incidents (only a few). Turkish people are very respectful to tourists (whatever their nation or their religion). I can easily say no worries at all, definetely.
Please come and see Turkish hospitality and enjoy your trip.