Hi all. I have a trip scheduled with entire family next week to Istanbul for 10 days. First time coming. I wasn’t overly concerned with all the demonstration etc because I was told it did not affect tourism and day to day stuff. However, now with this earthquake not sure how it will affect the entire energy of the city. Not sure if we should be going now. Any thoughts? Anybody in the same situation?
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3086 posts
Yesterday's earthquake has been reported as not causing significant damage and no major casualties, and does not resemble the significant event that happened in Southern Turkey in 2023. There is always a possibility of earthquakes in Turkey and exactly no one can tell you if it will happen again in 2 days, 10 days, or 100 days. Whether you stay or go is entirely up to your personal risk tolerance. I live in a part of the US that could be decimated by a significant unpredictable earthquake and I choose to stay.
If you do go, if you are American make sure you have registered with the State Department STEP notices (so they know you're there in case of emergency) and ensure you have travel insurance in the case you need it.
Posted by
Bend, OR
1361 posts
We have friends that arrived there this morning or their evening to start a RS tour in a couple of days. They texted us an hour ago that everything is fine. Just be prepared with a response or they did a laugh and a shrug because they’ve already been asked about US politics.
Posted by
2 posts
Are the mosques and historic buildings open still?
Posted by
Bend, OR
1361 posts
They just had had dinner and said everything appeared normal.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3086 posts
Margie thanks for the live update! News coverage reports the bulk of the injuries were from people jumping off balconies in a panic (don't recommend doing this, BTW). Many people chose to stay outdoors due to their housing situation and potential after shocks (50+ so far) but as those subside they will return to their homes.
Are the mosques and historic buildings open still?
Only one building collapse reported (abandoned property) and there are no reports of damage to the major mosques and tourist attractions, but one might expect some short term disruption while they check everything out. I think you'd want them to do this before visiting, anyway. https://www.thetimes.com/world/asia/article/istanbul-earthquake-today-turkey-news-5ntg028bp
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thank you all. I still have a few days to mull it over.
Posted by
2 posts
We got here and it looks fine
Posted by
9 posts
We have been here since Tuesday (April 22). We felt the earthquake but it has not disrupted our trip at all. Everything is going as planned. In regards to the demonstrations, we have not seen any at all.. Istanbul is a wonderful place. You should come!
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thanks Maureen. I have decided I am coming. Thank you all.