West Turkey information

Also  note that a charge may also appeal for late night collections depending on the car hire company’s office hours. All clients interesting in hiring a car to  drive will need to produce a full British driving licence which has been held for at least one year.In case a certain  car type not being provided by the car hire company an alternative vehicle of the same category or higher may be provided.

Passports and visas

For British citizens whose passports were issued within the UK be aware to  check with the passport office if in any doubt. Anyone who is not a British citizen, (this includes  overseas  British citizens  )should consult the Turkish Consulate or the Home Office immigration department to check whether they require any special documentation for visiting Turkey or for returning to the UK. Be aware that only full ten-year passports with a recommended six months validity on your return travel date are valid for travel overseas and  also note that children now require their own passports. If you need to obtain a new passport, this will normally take two weeks by post. In case you you require further information  you can visit the website at www.ukpa.gov.uk. You may also purchase a £10 visa on entry into Turkey as well.

Health and safety

If you or any member of your party is an expectant mother or suffers from any serious medical condition, you must check with your doctor about the advisability of travelling abroad and be sure that you have the   correct travel insurance will being in Turkey.  Unfortunately crimes against people and property are a fact of life throughout the world and you have the same responsibility for your personal safety as you do at  your home country home.  In the event that you should lose any items of value while on holiday through theft or otherwise, you must report the facts immediately to the local police or other competent authority and obtain a written report. Also be aware that if  a report is not obtained it will be difficult for you to pursue any claim through your holiday insurance.

Money

You will not face  any problem   changing  major currencies in exchange offices, and many post offices ,  as well as shops and hotels . Cashing even major travellers cheques can be a hassle ,although post offices in tourist areas are a good bet, and the exchange rate is usually slightly lower. Be aware that places that don't charge a commission usually offer a worse exchange rate instead .Also be prepared  that   foreign currencies are readily accepted in shops, hotels and restaurants in many tourist areas.

Tipping

In cheaper restaurants it's not necessary to leave more than a few coins in the change plate. In more expensive restaurants,  you're expected to give around 5% to the waiter  that has taking care of you . In taxis you might like to round up the bill ,  in other situations, for example, helpful guardians at archaeological sites, delicacy is required. In hamams you should tip 10% to 20% of the admission price to the masseuse/masseur.

Climate

The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have very hot and dry summers, and wet, mild winters when the coastal towns more or less shut down between October and April. Winter in Istanbul and Cappadocia can be very cold with a dusting of snow. The peak tourist season is during high summer, roughly between July and September. From June the mosquitoes can be a problem. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as the climate is still hot, but not unbearable. Eastern Turkey should be visited during summer as roads and mountain passes may close due to winter ice and snow.

Currency

The official currency is the New Turkish Lira ,  introduced on 1 January 2005. The coins is called the ‘kurus'.  British Pound is  very strong currency  towards Turkish Lira, offering foreign citizens  and visitors a luxurious living at a low cost.   Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports ,  banks have the worst rates and highest commissions, but will exchange lesser known foreign currencies. Banks open mainly Monday to Friday, but some are open daily in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. . Major credit cards are widely accepted  the most popular being  Visa  and MasterCardAlso be aware that . travellers cheques can be exchanged at some banks and currency exchange offices, but are not as welcome as cash or credit cards.

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