Quote:
Originally Posted by tork101
I am interested in finding an upscale area to stay, safety (even at night), upscale shopping (Chanel, Hermes, LV etc.), Istanbul theater and opera. Middle aged or older crowd, preferbaly mostly europeans/ americans. Not interested in crazy nightlife and clubbing. Any restaurant recommendations greatly appreciated. How is Sultanahmet area?
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When I was around the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, I felt completely safe. I wasn't there at night, but I am pretty sure the Turkish police take security in that area very seriously. At Ephesos they had the Jandarma with automatic rifles. The officers were very excited to see me due to my beard, and offered cheerful greetings. At no time did I feel menaced in any way by any Turkish officialdom, even the port cops carrying submachineguns checking to make sure we had our Turkish Landing Cards.
I think the thing that rattles Americans in Istanbul is the frequent pestering by vendors, both inside and outside the bazaars. You simply have to accommodate to this and understand that it's the Turkish way, and learn how to say 'no, thanks' (
hayir, tessekurler; pronounce every syllable with some emphasis, 'ha-year tesh-eh-kur-lair'). You may have to say it several times.
The thing is, in our culture they would be invading your personal space big time. In theirs, it is normal, and good salesmanship. But even if you don't buy anything, they appreciate it if the brush-off is friendly, and if you speak a single word of Turkish they are fascinated with you and will engage you in conversation. Are they just trying to get around to a second (fourth, etc) sales pitch? Yes and no. Most enjoy talking with someone who seems to 'get' the Turkish way, and are eager to hear what you have experienced and what you think. Most Turks seem very proud of the fact that they have a tremendous Islamic history, yet maintain a stable and secular republic. But yeah, there's probably another pitch coming. My advice to anyone who wants to walk around in an impenetrable cocoon until he or she decides it is time to initiate contact is simple: don't go to Istanbul. Open-minded, adventuresome people will probably have a blast.
I would think anywhere on or near the Golden Horn is pretty upscale. Saw some pretty fancy dwellings there, and our tour guides Amet and Ergin told us that the real estate prices there are simply stratospheric.
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What are the richest, most presigious and fashionable areas in Istanbul, Turkey?
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