Traveling to Istanbul in August 2017: Safety and Tips for a Safe Trip

Traveling to Istanbul in August 2017, like any other time, comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. From my experience of a 3-week trip in September 2022, I can confirm that while Istanbul is undoubtedly a vibrant and beautiful city, it's important to be aware of certain safety aspects. This article aims to provide insights into what one should expect and how to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Travel Experiences from Previous Visitors

Several travelers have shared their experiences about traveling to Istanbul in August. Many have mentioned that despite certain safety concerns, the city offers a memorable experience. For instance, Lucas from the U.S. noted: "My 3 weeks trip to Türkiye in September 2022 was awsome. Even though I was mugged twice in Istanbul, no place is truly safe, but it's not life-threatening. It's not safe to walk alone in empty streets or overcrowded metro trains. If you're not paying attention and look like a tourist, you might face a few pickpocketing attempts."

Understanding the Current Safety Context

During Ramadan in 2022, Lucas also pointed out that he felt very safe without any issues. He believes that since the main business in Turkey is related to tourism, locals generally do not intend to cause harm to tourists. This sentiment is echoed by other travelers, such as Clara from the UK, who mentioned: "I went there during Ramadan time and feel pretty safe. No problem at all. The business here is mostly related to tourism, so they won't do anything to you. Just enjoy the beautiful Turkey!"

Tips from Long-Term Residents

According to local residents, Istanbul is a large city where safety concerns should not be exaggerated. As shared by Mark from the U.K.: "I have lots of guests from Europe because of my job, and all of them start the question with 'is it safe to travel in Istanbul'. I say them 'come and see, you won't want to go back!' I assure you it's totally safe. I've been living here for 35 years and have never had a problem. It's a big city, and you just need to be careful as in other cities. Enjoy!"

Practical Safety Tips

Based on the experiences of previous travelers and long-term residents, here are some practical safety tips for traveling to Istanbul in August:

Stay Away from Unpopular Areas: Avoid walking around in unfamiliar and less popular areas at night or during late hours. They can be more prone to criminal activities. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your environment, as some pickpockets and scams may operate in crowded places like metro stations and tourist hotspots. Use Reputable Transportation: Try to avoid using taxis during peak hours. Instead, opt for taxis from a reputable service or use the metro system. Properly Secure Your Belongings: Always keep your valuables, especially your wallet and phone, in secure pockets or handbags. Be cautious in crowded areas and with pickpockets. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with local news and be aware of any potential safety issues. You can follow local news channels or websites for the latest updates.

Conclusion

To sum up, while there is no average risk in traveling to Istanbul in August 2017, it is important to be aware of certain safety guidelines and precautions. By following the tips mentioned above, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming locals, Istanbul is a city that should be on every traveler's must-visit list.