Author: Enes Karaboga

Tipping, while not compulsory, is a common practice in Istanbul as it is in many parts of the world. It’s a way to show appreciation for good service in restaurants, hotels, and other service-oriented establishments. The amount you choose to tip can vary greatly depending on the setting and your level of satisfaction with the…

The construction of the Hagia Sophia is a story of a grand vision realized through the genius of its creators, Emperor Justinian I and his chosen architects Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus. The Birth of a Vision: Emperor Justinian I The man who commissioned the building of the Hagia Sophia we know today…

Despite its historical significance, cultural richness, and global renown, Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey. That designation goes to Ankara. The decision to make Ankara the capital was driven by strategic, economic, and symbolic considerations during the founding of modern Turkey in the early 20th century. The Birth of Modern Turkey and Capital Shift…

The primary language spoken in Istanbul, as in the rest of Turkey, is Turkish. As the country’s official language, Turkish is used in all spheres of life including education, business, media, and daily conversation. However, due to Istanbul’s status as a cosmopolitan city and a significant tourist hub, several other languages are also spoken and…

Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, iconic architecture, flavorful cuisine, and vibrant markets. With its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, Istanbul stands as a testament to the civilizations that have risen and fallen on its soil, resulting in a city known for its distinct cultural…

One of the unique aspects of Istanbul is its geographical location: the city straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. Separated by the Bosphorus Strait, part of Istanbul resides in Europe, while the other part is situated in Asia, making it the only city in the world to span two continents. European Istanbul The European side…

The city of Istanbul is steeped in a history that spans over two and a half millennia. Established in the 7th century BCE, Istanbul, previously known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has served as the capital of four different empires and has absorbed the rich cultural influences of each, making it one of the oldest and…

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a metropolis rich in history and cultural significance. But what does the name “Istanbul” mean? The name is derived from the Greek phrase “εἰς τὴν Πόλιν” (eis tin Polin), which means “to the city” or “into the city.” Over time, this phrase was slurred into “Istanbul,” a testament…

Yes, Istanbul is generally safe for Americans and other international travelers, with thousands visiting each year without incident. The city is a popular tourist destination and, like any major global city, has infrastructure in place to ensure the safety of its visitors. However, as with any travel, it’s important to stay vigilant, be aware of…

Whether or not to rent a car in Istanbul is a decision dependent on several factors, including the duration of your stay, your comfort with driving in foreign countries, and your planned itinerary. While renting a car offers flexibility, the city’s extensive public transportation network, traffic congestion, and challenging parking conditions can make other modes…