MileHacker Logo
Bagcilar Travel Resources

Bagcilar Travel Resources

Bagcilar Istanbul, Turkey Travel Guide

Essential Apps for Istanbul

Navigation & Communication Aids

  • Google Maps

    Indispensable for navigation, directions, and locating points of interest. Download offline maps for Istanbul.

  • Google Translate

    A tool for overcoming language barriers. Download the Turkish language pack for offline use. Its camera feature proves useful for signs and menus.

  • BiTaksi or Uber

    Use these applications to hail licensed taxis, view fare estimates, and track your ride.

  • MOBIETT

    The official Istanbul Public Transport app. Real-time information on schedules and routes is offered.

  • Yemeksepeti

    A popular food delivery app in Turkey, for ordering food to your accommodation.

Connectivity & Local Utilities

  • Go Turkey Tourism

    The official tourism website for Turkey. General information about the country is presented.

  • Istanbul's Transport Website

    Official website for detailed information on Istanbulkart, routes, and schedules.

  • Turkish Airlines Website

    For flight bookings, status updates, and facilities if flying with the national carrier.

  • E-Visa Turkey

    Official website for applying for an e-Visa to Turkey. Usage of `e-visa.gov.tr` circumvents scams.

  • Official Social Media Accounts

    Follow Istanbul tourism or major cultural institution accounts for updates on opening hours, events, and new exhibitions.

Print Resources & Literary Journey

Essential Guides

A comprehensive, up-to-date Istanbul guidebook from a reputable publisher contains detailed information on attractions, restaurants, and practical tips.

Literary Explorations

'Istanbul: Memories and the Urban area' by Orhan Pamuk, a memoir and historical account. 'The Bastard of Istanbul' by Elif Shafak, a compelling novel with insights into Turkish identity and history.

Historical Depths

'Constantinople: City of the World's Desire, 1453-1924' by Philip Mansel, a detailed historical account of Istanbul during the Ottoman era.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual & Artistic Immersion

  • "Kedi" (2016): A heartwarming documentary about Istanbul's street cats.
  • "Istanbul: The City of Emperors": A historical documentary exploring the city's past.
  • Discover Turkish classical music, Sufi music (often linked with Whirling Dervishes), or contemporary pop.
  • Acquaint yourself with traditional Turkish arts like Ebru (marbling), calligraphy, and miniature painting.

Community & Language Insights

  • Join travel forums (e.g., TripAdvisor Istanbul, Reddit r/travel) for peer advice.
  • For basic Turkish phrases, apps like Duolingo and Babbel appear introductory lessons.
  • More comprehensive language learning resources, like Pimsleur Turkish, allow for a language journey.
  • Search for podcasts focusing on Turkish history, culture, or travel in Istanbul.

Quick Reference Sections

Essential Numbers

  • General Emergency (Ambulance, Police, Fire): 112
  • Tourist Police: +90 212 527 4503
  • U.S. Embassy Ankara: +90 312 455 5555
  • U.S. Consulate General Istanbul: +90 212 335 9000

Medical Facilities

  • Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty Hospital
  • Çapa Medical Faculty Hospital
  • Acıbadem Hospitals (private, English-speaking staff)
  • Travel health clinic consultation for vaccinations

Lost Document Process

  • Report lost/stolen documents to local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report for insurance claims and replacement.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate promptly.
  • They guide you through obtaining a replacement passport or emergency travel document.

Emergency & Critical Information

Emergency & Safety Contacts

General Emergencies

  • General Emergency (Ambulance, Police, Fire): 112
  • This single number applies to all emergency amenities in Turkey.
  • Call 112 for rapid response.
  • Stay calm and clearly state your location.

Tourist Police

  • Tourist Police: +90 212 527 4503.
  • Specific assistance for visitors.
  • Their office is in Sultanahmet.
  • For lost passports or scams.

Lost Documents

  • Report lost or stolen documents to local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report; this document is needed for insurance claims.
  • It is also required to obtain replacement documents.
  • Contact your embassy promptly for guidance.

Medical Facilities & Care

Hospital Locations

  • Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty Hospital (major hospital).
  • Çapa Medical Faculty Hospital (major hospital).
  • Private hospitals like Acıbadem feature modern facilities and English-speaking staff.

Health Preparedness

  • Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.
  • Ensure any necessary prescription refills are sorted.
  • Carry a small, basic first-aid kit.

Embassy & Consulate Support

Diplomatic Missions

  • U.S. Embassy Ankara: +90 312 455 5555.
  • U.S. Consulate General Istanbul: +90 212 335 9000.
  • Register your trip with your country's embassy (e.g., Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for US citizens).

Lost Passport Guidance

  • Contact your embassy promptly for replacement passport procedures.
  • They assist in obtaining emergency travel documents.
  • Adhere to their guidance for safety and next steps.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Earthquake Readiness

  1. Remember to "drop, cover, plus hold tight" during an earthquake.
  2. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture.
  3. Stay away from windows and unsecured objects.
  4. If outdoors, move to an open area.
  5. Do not re-enter damaged buildings until deemed safe.

General Emergency Responses

  1. Adhere to instructions from local authorities.
  2. Tune into local news channels for updates.
  3. Utilize emergency apps for guidance and information.
  4. Stay calm and assess your surroundings.
  5. Contact family/friends when safe to do so.

Emergency Services

Medical Aid

Access to emergency medical assistance at hospitals and clinics.

Fire Department

Professional fire rescue services and emergency response.

Police Assistance

Support for safety, security, and general assistance.

Important Safety Note

Always be alert and keep emergency numbers readily available.

Language & Local Culture

Turkish Language Essentials

Basic Greetings & Phrases

  • Merhaba (Hello)

    A friendly greeting for any interaction.

  • Evet (Yes)

    Simple confirmation for common questions.

  • Hayır (No)

    A polite refusal.

Common Interactions

  • Teşekkür ederim (Thank you)

    Expressing gratitude demonstrates respect.

  • Nerede? (Where is...?)

    Useful for asking directions to places.

  • Ne kadar? (How much?)

    For price inquiries in markets or shops.

Cultural Immersion & Etiquette

Religious Site Conduct

Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees. Women wear headscarves. Remove shoes before entering.

Market Negotiations

Bargaining is common in bazaars; proceed with a smile and lightweightheartedness.

Turkish Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality. Accepting tea is a common gesture of friendliness.

Social Practices & Interactions

Dining Etiquette

  • Wash hands before meals.
  • Eat with your right hand (if no cutlery).
  • Tipping is appreciated (10-15%).
  • Offer seats to elders on public transport.

Photography Manners

  • Ask before photographing individuals.
  • Be respectful in religious settings.
  • Maintain personal space.
  • Politeness is highly valued.

Common Gestures & Norms

Head Nods & Sounds

  • Nodding head up signifies 'No'.
  • Nodding head down signifies 'Yes'.
  • Clicking the tongue also indicates 'No'.
  • Pointing with an index finger is considered impolite.

Greetings & Farewells

  • Handshakes are common between men.
  • Cheek kisses are common among close friends and family.
  • "Güle güle" is said by the person staying when someone leaves.
  • "Allahaısmarladık" is said by the person leaving.

Cultural Exchange

Engaging with locals with an open mind creates memorable interactions.