Visitors to mosques are expected to dress modestly and women to cover their heads , although not required, is greatly appreciated. Shoes must be removed before entering. Keep in mind that shorts, short skirts or bare shoulders are not allowed in the mosques and synagogues unlike museums. Comfortable clothes and sensible walking shoes are advisable to wear during sightseeing. Also know that when visiting Topkapi Palace and some museums in Istanbul, large bags or backpacks are not allowed and must be checked at the entrance.
CURRENCY
The monetary unit is New Turkish Lira (YTL), 1 YTL = 100 Kurus (coins)
The banknotes are 100.- 50.- 20.- 10.- 5.- 1.-
The coins (kurus) are 1.- YTL 50.- Kurus, 25.-Kurus, 10.-Kurus, 5 Kurus, 1.- Kurus
EXCHANGE
The Exchange rates for foreign currencies are published daily. You can exchange cash and traveler cheques at the hotel cashier. Banks are open between 09.00 am-12.00 noon / 01.30-05.00 pm. The exchange slips for the conversions should be kept since you may be required to show slips when converting your Turkish currency back into foreign currency.
CREDIT CARDS
American Express, Diner’s Club, Mastercard and Visa credit cards are honored by the reputable restaurants and stores. Check before purchase.
SHOPPING
Shops and stores are open Monday through Saturday from 09.30 am till 07.00 pm Cash, Traveller’s Cheques and the major credit cards are welcomed by the stores. There is a variety of goods you can purchase such as oriental carpets, leather wares, costumes, gold and silver Jewelry, brass and copper Works, silk etc. Articles you purchase may accompany you or be shipped and delivered to your door with full coverage by the reputable establishments.
Turkey is a G.S.P. (Generalized System of Preference) country. This is a system to help developing countries to improve their economic conditions through foreign trade. We do advise you to get certificate with your purchases of goods manufactured and produced in Turkey such as carpets and jewelry.
V.A.T
The value added tax 18% is applied to all services delivered and all items purchased. Items purchased by foreign travelers at reputable establishments are exempt of V.A.T, as such stores are entitled to tax subsidies supplied by the State for surpassing certain limits of exportation. You can ask your official guide for names of recommended establishments.
TIPPING
It is customary to tip an extra of 10 % to 15 %for all services delivered.
TAXIS
All of the taxis have taxi-meters. Available at taxi stands.
PHONE CALLS
Automatic dialing is possible anywhere in the country. Reduced rates are applied in the evening and early mornings. For local, trunk and international calls phone cards should be obtained. Calling from your hotel room is not recommended as it is very highly priced.
LOCAL TIME
G.M.T. + 2 Hours
LANGUAGE
Official language is Turkish that is put in written form by Latin letters.
MEASURES
In Metric System – Kilogram and Meter
ELECTRICITY
220 Volts AC. Cycles 50 Mz.
TAP WATER
It is chlorinated but may have strong taste. Bottled spring water is suggested.
RELIGION
Secular State. Islam is the dominant religion among Turkish citizens, while Judaism and Christianity are also freely practised in Churches and Synagogues throughout the country.
TURKEY VISAS
Here in Turkey we are not able to apply for visas since the guests should apply by themselves for their passports. But, The tour leader can obtain visas upon arrival into Turkey for the whole group. He needs to collect the passports and after purchasing their visa by paying $20 /$60 $15 (depending upon nationality) per person, they will proceed on to the passport control and get their passports stamped. Afterwards they will walk on to the carrousel to collect their luggage.
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