I'm going to accompany my husband to Istanbul next weekend. We are staying for a week, but he will travel down south to do some consulting work. I will be alone in Istanbul for 3 days. Usually I wouldn't worry. I often come with my husband on trips and he goes off to work and I "play" around town. I'm a very good traveler and used to being on my own. I've never done a tour group, just used Rick Steves books and had a great time! But my husband is very concerned about me "getting myself in trouble running around by myself", and he has a point! I have a history of trying anything! So what do you think? How independent can I be without just being an idiot.
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7049 posts
I don't know what kind of trouble you can get yourself into (buying a Turkish carpet?) but I spent over two weeks alone in Istanbul (petite female). Yes, you will get touts bugging you all the time in the Old City but just ignore them and keep going. I had a wonderful time - I purposely dressed very modestly so as to attract the least bit of attention. Three days can be easily filled up with great museums - go first thing in the morning before they get busy.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
My experience is the same as Agnes'. If you do accept an invitation to drink tea (or to see a real Van cat) in a shop, remember that you are still under no obligation to buy. A Bosphorus ferry cruise is also a low-stress day plan, if you won't have time to do it together.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Great! Thanks for the advice! And I love the cruise idea too. I usually don't have trouble with shopkeepers, but will keep the advice in mind. Here I go!!