Clothing

• If so desired, you can pack a light supply of clothes, depending on your trip length, and just buy clothes while you are there; they are relatively inexpensive and will help you blend in. If you plan to visit a mosque, dress conservatively and take off your shoes before entering. Most places of worship require women to wear a head scarf. If you go to the beach, consider wearing water shoes or sandals, as Turkish beaches are full of rocks. Turkish streets can be uneven, especially in the older parts of the cities, so be sure to bring good walking shoes.
  
  

Managing Money

• Those that have traveled to Turkey in the past may remember that American dollars used to be widely accepted there. This trend is not as prominent anymore in tourist areas, and most street vendors and some business accept only the Turkish Lira. Travelers are advised to carry only small or medium amounts of bills, due to fluctuating exchange rates and for reasons of safety. It is appropriate to tip 10 to 15 percent for good service in restaurants, hotels and taxis. Exchanging money is cheaper at exchange offices and post offices (PTTs) rather than banks. Turkey is also not a great place to use travelers checks, so keep that in mind as well.
  
  

Eating

• Turkey is known for its delicious cuisine, and a visitor can get a great meal for a reasonable price. In Istanbul eating away from the high tourist areas will save you some money. Going to a restaurant in Turkey with a local can make for a more traditional meal experience. For those who seek an even more authentic experience, order Raki, the national drink of the country. It is reportedly quite tasty but contains 45 percent alcohol, so enjoy it in moderation. The majority of tourists and Turks themselves drink bottled water over ground water. Be aware that if you open the larger bottle of table water, the restaurant will charge you for it.
  
  

Other Tips

• As with other countries, the Turks appreciate it if you make an attempt to use their language, even if it is just the simple phrases.
  
  The supermarkets in Turkey accept major credit cards.
  
  April, May and September are best times to visit Turkey weather-wise, but you should expect large crowds of tourists throughout the summer. Going off-season can help you save money on lodging, although some accommodations along the coastlines are closed from October to March. Check in advance if you are planning to visit the Aegean or Black Sea coasts.