Turkey is an incredible country with rich history and beautiful landscapes. But to make sure you stay healthy and safe while visiting, it’s important to be prepared. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy your trip while minimizing any risks.
Staying Healthy
Your health is your most important asset when traveling. Fortunately, staying safe in Turkey is straightforward if you follow a few basic tips.
Drink Bottled Water
Tap water in Turkey may not be suitable for everyone, especially for travelers who aren’t used to it. It’s best to stick to bottled water. You can find it everywhere, and it’s inexpensive. Use it for brushing your teeth too if you want to play it extra safe.
Be Cautious with Street Food
Turkish street food is delicious, but try to stick to places that look clean and have a steady stream of customers. If a place is busy, it’s a sign that the food is fresh and probably safer to eat. Avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out for a while.
Avoid Sunburn and Dehydration
Summers in Turkey can be extremely hot, especially in areas like Antalya or Izmir. Make sure to use sunscreen, wear light clothing, and drink plenty of water. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially if you’re walking around a lot in the heat.
Vaccinations
Before heading to Turkey, check your vaccination records and see if you need any boosters. Here are the recommended vaccinations for most travelers:
Routine Vaccinations
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP), and varicella (chickenpox). These vaccinations are recommended not just for Turkey but for travel in general.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is recommended for most travelers since it can be transmitted through food or water in Turkey. It’s best to get vaccinated at least two weeks before travel so your body has time to build immunity.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B can be spread through exposure to bodily fluids or sexual contact. Consider this vaccination if your activities may put you at risk.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is spread through contaminated food and water. It’s especially recommended for travelers visiting smaller towns or rural regions, where sanitation might not be as strong as in cities.
Safety Precautions in Urban Areas
Most travelers will spend a lot of time in Turkey’s cities. Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are all amazing cities, but like any major city, there are things to watch out for.
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Pickpocketing can be common in crowded tourist areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings; wear a money belt or keep your valuables in a front pocket. Don’t flash cash or expensive items, and keep your phone and camera secure.
Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Sharing Apps
If you need to take a taxi, it’s best to use official licensed taxis. In Istanbul, for example, make sure the taxi driver uses the meter. Alternatively, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi, which are widely available in cities. This also helps to avoid any scams or disputes.
Stay in Well-Lit and Populated Areas at Night
In most Turkish cities, it’s safe to walk around at night, especially in busy areas. However, stay cautious by avoiding poorly lit streets or deserted areas, especially if you’re alone. Stick to well-lit paths and main roads.
Safety Precautions in Rural Areas
Rural Turkey is beautiful and offers so much to explore, from ancient ruins to stunning landscapes. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when you leave the hustle and bustle of the cities.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
Turkish villages tend to be more conservative than the cities. Always dress appropriately, especially in rural areas. Women might want to cover shoulders and knees to avoid unwanted attention. Be respectful of local traditions, especially in smaller communities.
Stay Cautious on Hiking Trails
If you plan on hiking, especially in rural areas like Cappadocia or along the Lycian Way, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. Trails can be remote, and it’s vital to stay hydrated and energized. Cell phone coverage may be spotty, so let someone know your route in case of emergencies.
Wildlife and Stray Animals
It’s not uncommon to see stray dogs or cats, especially in rural areas. Most of them are friendly, but it’s better to keep your distance. Avoid feeding them, and if you’re bitten or scratched, seek medical attention as there’s a slight risk of rabies.
Emergency Contacts and Healthcare
It’s always important to know who to contact in case something goes wrong. Fortunately, Turkey has a reliable healthcare system, and emergency services are readily available.
Emergency Phone Numbers
If you face any emergency, here are the key numbers you should have saved in your phone:
- Police: 155
- Medical Emergency: 112
- Fire Department: 110
- Gendarmerie (for rural areas): 156
Private Hospitals and Clinics
Turkey has both public and private healthcare, and if you need medical attention, private hospitals and clinics are generally better for non-emergency situations. They tend to have English-speaking staff and lower waiting times. Travel insurance is strongly recommended since private healthcare can be expensive otherwise.
Pharmacies (“Eczane”)
Pharmacies are easily found in both cities and towns across Turkey. Many common medications, including antibiotics, can be purchased without a prescription. Pharmacies generally close in the evening, but major cities have 24-hour emergency pharmacies that rotate shifts, so you can find one open at any hour.
General Travel Tips for Safety
Though Turkey is generally safe, here are some extra tips to keep in mind:
Register with Your Embassy
If your country offers an embassy registration service, sign up before you travel. This makes it easier for your embassy to assist you in case of an emergency or political unrest.
Blend Into Your Surroundings
Try not to stand out as a tourist. This doesn’t mean you need to fully dress like locals, but avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothing or jewelry. Acting like a local can help you avoid unwanted attention from scammers or pickpockets.
Respect Religious Sites
Turkey has many beautiful mosques and religious sites that are open to visitors. However, always dress modestly when visiting mosques—men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts, and women should cover their hair and shoulders. Visitors are typically asked to remove their shoes inside, so wear shoes that are easy to take on and off.
Natural Hazards
Turkey is prone to occasional natural events like earthquakes, especially in regions like Istanbul. However, most aren’t severe. It’s useful to know the basic procedures in case of earthquakes: move away from windows, shelter under sturdy furniture, or crouch near interior walls.
What to Do in a Medical Emergency
If you need urgent medical care, call 112 immediately. The emergency lines work nationwide, and you’ll be connected to the nearest available service. In cities, ambulances are fairly quick, and you’ll likely be taken to a public hospital. If you prefer a private hospital, ask for it directly.
Keep a Safe Copy of Your Travel Documents
Keep a digital copy of your passport, travel insurance, and any other important documents stored somewhere secure, like an encrypted cloud service or a USB flash drive. This can be extremely helpful in case your documents are lost or stolen.
And lastly: trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away or change your plans. Staying aware and prepared will help ensure you have a fantastic trip in Turkey.
Leave a reply