Be Safe in Istanbul

There are few caveats for those holidaying in Istanbul to observe, and provided these warnings are duly considered, theres no reason why visitors will not enjoy a holiday that is free from any untoward incidents. Taking out holiday insurance prior to your trip can give you some peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your holiday in the knowledge that cash and valuables will be compensated for should you be parted from them.

Safety

Keeping an above average level of awareness and mindfulness is enough to ensure that your personal safety will not be compromised during your stay in Istanbul. Theft is relatively rare, however pickpockets do exist just as in any big city, so its wise to pay special attention to your cash and valuables in crowded places and to thwart the intentions of miscreants by keeping wallets/purses in front pockets or hard-to-reach places.

Male holiday members are warned not to get duped into going to strip or belly-dancing clubs with locals as they may end up being stung with big bills for services that they never requested.

Police: 155

Health

While the chances of contracting a serious disease while holidaying in Istanbul are comparatively low, its worth noting that the country has reported cases of bird flu over the past few years, and while theres no evidence of the disease being passed between humans; it is transmittable from poultry to people so avoiding exposure to birds is advisable.

Tap water is considered safe for drinking but is quite heavily chlorinated so visitors may prefer to drink bottled water instead. As a general rule, standards of hygiene in restaurants are acceptable however street vendors may not be as stringent so its wise to glance around for a clean looking establishment before opting to buy food. The standard of medical care in state-run hospitals is below that of the UK, making it wise to take out travel insurance with provision for medical treatment - that way you are able to make use of privately-operated facilities.

There is a risk of malaria in the southeastern part of the country, but not in the main tourist areas in the west and southwest of the country, although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in summer. There are no vaccination requirements.

General Hospital: +90 212 543 6565