Turkey

Turkey is very safe for tourists in the main tourist areas — Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turkish Riviera all see millions of visitors a year with very low rates of violent crime. It's worth checking current government travel advisories regarding the southeastern border regions near Syria, which carry standing travel advisories and are best avoided; they are far from the standard tourist circuit.

Yes — US citizens need an e-Visa, a simple online application completed before arrival that takes just a few minutes. It's valid for 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism. Apply only through the official government e-Visa website to avoid third-party markup fees.

It's not generally recommended to drink tap water in Turkey. While it's chlorinated and not usually dangerous, the taste and mineral content vary a lot by region and can cause stomach upset for visitors. Stick to the cheap, widely available bottled or filtered water, which is what most locals drink too.

Around 10% at restaurants is standard practice, though it's not obligatory, especially in casual settings. Rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common at cafes and for taxi drivers. In tourist-heavy areas some restaurants add a service charge automatically, so check your bill before tipping on top.

The best time to visit Turkey is Apr–May & Sept–Oct. During these months you'll find the most pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the best overall experience.

Most visitors spend 10–14 days in Turkey, which gives enough time to cover the main highlights. Shorter trips are possible if you focus on one or two regions.

Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (₺). Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for markets, smaller restaurants, and rural areas.

The official language is Turkish. In popular tourist areas English is generally understood, but locals always appreciate a few words in the local language.

Turkey is known for its Istanbul's East-Meets-West History, Cappadocia's Hot Air Balloons, Ancient Greco-Roman Ruins, Turquoise Turkish Riviera Beaches, Ottoman & Byzantine Architecture and Hammam & Spa Culture — a destination that appeals to a wide range of travellers, from history lovers and foodies to outdoor enthusiasts.

Turkey is an ideal destination for History Buffs, Couples, Adventure Seekers, Foodies, Beach Lovers. The diverse range of experiences makes it a great choice for many types of travellers.