We’re planning a private Istanbul tour for 8 during a July 2026 cruise stop. The guide appears to have good references (and is listed in the Rick Steves, Istanbul), but he asked that payment be sent by Venmo to his brother, rather than directly to him, through a company, or by credit card/PayPal.
Is this common for Istanbul private guides, or would you consider it a red flag? Has anyone handled payment this way?
Thanks for any guidance.