Travelling opens us up to different cultures, history and new experiences.

There are many amazing destinations to discover across the globe, and we’d love to give you a glimpse of Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul is a major city in The Republic of Turkey that is vibrant, rich with historical attractions and buzzing with great shopping opportunities.

According to Bloomberg, many businesses reopened in July 2021. Since then, there has been an increase in tourists visiting Istanbul, with scenes playing out like business as usual, despite mandatory masks and other strict COVID-19 safety measures.

Visitors and Turkish citizens must register for a personal health passport (HES) within three days of arrival. This ‘passport’ has a code that allows you to upload your PCR test results, and it also tracks contact exposure on and off flights. It is needed to purchase bus tickets, for entering shopping malls, at many dine-in restaurants and for hotel check-in.

Once you’ve decided on your budget, the options for where to stay are many and can be relatively affordable or quite expensive. While there are numerous tours available, getting around Istanbul is easy. Most places are within walking distance or can be reached via the tram or taxi.

Three Popular Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

1. The Blue Mosque is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Known as the Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish, this stunning mosque got its name from the beautiful blue tiles on the surrounding walls of the interior. It is an active mosque, as such, it is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayers. Don’t be discouraged if there is a long line to enter, it usually moves quickly. Entrance is free.

Rules: Persons visiting the mosque must remove their shoes before entering. Women must cover their heads. Once inside, be quiet and do not use your flash when taking photos. Donations are welcomed.

• The Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires are the most famous in the history of Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia is a key monument that represents both empires. Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once considered the world’s largest building and an engineering marvel. It was initially a church, which later became a mosque and was converted into a museum in 1935. The museum has Christian and Islamic influences and features.

Notes: There is a nominal cost for adults to enter. Children below the age of eight have free entry.

• The Basilica Cisterns is the largest surviving underground Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. It is within walking distance from the Hagia Sophia. The cistern was originally used to supply water to the Great Palace and the Topkapi Palace. It consists of over 330 columns made of marble and granite. Inside the cisterns are two gorgon heads, in an upside-down position, and are linked to the legend of Medusa.

Notes: There is an entry fee. Photo opportunities where tourists slip into Turkish outfits were once available inside the cistern. However, COVID-19 safety measures may have created some changes in operations. Call before visiting.

Shopping Opportunities in Istanbul

Try a bit of shopping at the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. Be warned, you could easily get carried away with all the eye-catching goods on display. If you are good at negotiating, put that skill to use. Bring cash (liras) and never take the first price that is offered. There is always a deal that can be made. Dress comfortably, and don’t be in a rush.

The Spice Market boasts an extensive collection of spices. You’ll be greeted by fragrant smells in each aisle. In addition to spices, some shops are packed with Turkish sweets. Most vendors are generous with samples. No trip to Istanbul is complete without sampling the delectable Turkish treats, so don’t be afraid to try as many as you can!

Notes: If your sinuses are easily irritated, consider wearing a nose guard to dull some of the scents. Also, if you have food allergies, ask about the ingredients before trying the samples. Many of them have nuts inside.

Visa information for Travel to Istanbul

Most Caribbean nationals can obtain an e-visa online for a fee or before arrival for travel to Turkey. Citizens of Belize, Trinidad and Tobago and St. Kitts and Nevis are allowed visa-free entry.

We hope that you will add this amazing destination to your travel bucket list. Remember, Find Yello has several listings for travel agencies that can help take the hassle out of travelling!

Sources: Bloomberg, Hagia Sophia Turkey, Lonely Planet, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque.