The different regions of Turkey offer an assortment of landscapes, activities and characters, and whether one is a history or archaeology enthusiast, a sun-worshipper, sailor, or city-lover keen on shopping, there is something on offer for everyone. Istanbul, with one part in Europe and the other in Oriental Asia, is a fascinating city with its frenzied market places, imperial residences and minarets, and sporting a lively ambience of contemporary art and musical entertainment. Cappadocia in Central Turkey offers an astounding landscape of eroded volcanic rock cones and fairy chimneys, remarkable subterranean cities and rock-hewn houses that merge harmoniously with the ochre-coloured landscape; while further south the 'Turquoise Coast' is a haven for boat cruises. One can enjoy a variety of water sports, sunbathe on golden sands, or explore the wonderful ancient cities of Troy and Ephesus on the shores of the Aegean Sea.

Most visitors concentrate on Western Turkey, with its picturesque seaside resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, scenic and recreational attractions, well-preserved archaeological sites and fascinating museums that bring its rich history to life. Wherever one ventures in Turkey there is certain to be a warm welcome and traditional hospitality, making this a deeply satisfying corner of the world in which to travel.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the commercial, historical and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins, splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams (bath-houses) and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant suburbs. The call to prayer heralds the start of each day and the city comes to life with over 12,000 residents forming a chaotic social and cultural mix of unscrupulous carpet merchants, wealthy shoppers, religiously veiled women and destitute beggars. Joining the noisy throng are over-awed tourists and those capitalising on the tourist trade.

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Time:
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in

Electricity:
220 volts AC, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.

Language:
Turkish is the official language, but English is widely understood in the main tourist areas.

Health:
There is a risk of malaria in the south-eastern part of the country, but not in the main tourist areas in the west and south-west of the country, although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in summer. There are no vaccination requirements. Most tap water in the larger towns and cities has been chlorinated, but bottled water is still recommended for drinking. Food from street vendors should be treated with caution. Medical facilities and standard of health care are not high in state hospitals and private health insurance is recommended.


Tipping:
Tipping is a way of life in Turkey and it is customary to give some small change for most services, or a small percent of the bill. In bigger hotels and restaurants if a service charge is not added to the bill, it is customary to tip between 10 and 15%. For taxi fares it is enough to round up the bill. Attendants at turkish baths expect to share about 15% of the total bill if service has been good.


Safety:
Due to the current situation in neighbouring Iraq, travellers are advised to be cautious and check with their embassy before departure for a current update on the situation. There is a significant threat from terrorism in Turkey and there have been a number of terrorist incidents, including small explosions, around the country. Explosions in July 2005 in Cesme and Kusadasi (Aegean Coast) and most recently in Antalya on the Mediterranean have killed and injured many people, including foreign tourists. Kurdish militant groups, as well as international terrorist groups, are currently active in Turkey and further attacks against the tourism industry in particular are likely. Visitors are advised to be vigilant especially in the coastal resorts of the Aegean Sea. There are continuing incidents of local terrorism in Eastern Turkey, particularly the south east. Visitors should avoid any public demonstrations. Street crime is relatively low although visitors should guard their valuables at all times. A number of sexual assaults have been reported in coastal tourist areas. Many parts of Turkey lie on a major seismic fault line and are subject to earthquakes and tremors; several fairly recent earthquakes have shaken eastern Turkey, the southwest and southeast.

Customs:
Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious shrines. Do not take photographs of or near military and official institutions and always ask permission when taking photographs of people.


Communications:
The international country dialing code for Turkey is +90. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). GSM 900 and 1800 networks cover most of the country. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

Currency:
The official currency was the Turkish Lira (TRL), however a new currency, the "New Turkish Lira" (TRY), was introduced on 1 January 2005, whereby six zeros were dropped from the TL and the sub-unit new kuru was created. Both currencies will be used side by side until 31 December 2005. Shops are legally obliged to display prices in both currencies during 2005. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports; banks have the worst rates and highest commissions, but will exchange lesser known foreign currencies. Banks open mainly Monday to Friday, but some are open daily in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Most bank branches have ATMs which accept Cirrus and Plus. Major credit cards are widely accepted; the most popular are Visa or MasterCard, but American Express is accepted in many of the more expensive places. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at some banks and currency exchange offices, but are not as welcome as cash or credit cards. US$ or Euros are preferred. Some pensions and hotels in the most popular destinations accept US$ as payment

Visa and Passports:
Entry requirements for Americans: US passport holders must have a valid passport. A visa is required for stays of up to three months and can be obtained from the point of entry.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK passport holders must have a valid passport. A visa is required for stays of up to three months and can be obtained from the point of entry.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian passport holders must have a valid passport. A visa is required for stays of up to three months and can be obtained from the point of entry.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian passport holders must have a valid passport. A visa is required for stays of up to three months and can be obtained from the point of entry.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans must hold a valid passport. A visa is also required and must be obtained in advance from the Consulate General in South Africa. .

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a valid passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a valid passport. A visa is required which can be obtained on arrival for a period of three months (multiple entry).

Passport/Visa Note: All travellers to Turkey are required to hold documents for onward or return travel, and sufficient funds for the period of their stay. Entry may be refused to those of unkempt appearance.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Airports: Istanbul Ataturk International Airport (IST)
Location: The airport is situated 15 miles (23km) west of Istanbul. Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October). Contacts: Tel: +90 212 663 2550 or 353 0000. Transfer to the city: The Istanbul Metro system provides quick and easy access to the city, including the intercity bus terminal. Use metro station Zeytinburnu and transfer to a tram to reach the Eminonu ferry or Sea Bus docks. The Havas Airport Bus connects to Taksim Square. Taxis are also available. Car rental: Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Hertz, National and Sixt. Facilities: Banks, ATMs and bureaux de change are available. Facilities for the disabled are good, but those with special needs should make advance arrangements with the airline. Other facilities include tourist information and hotel reservations, bars, restaurants, duty-free shopping, a conference centre, a post office, 24-hour left luggage and first aid. Turkish Airlines and British Airways have their own lounges, while the Millenium Lounge serves the First Class and Business Class passengers of other airlines that run scheduled flights. Website: www.ataturkairport.com

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