Safety Tips While Traveling In Turkey
The thought of traveling to any exotic destination brings with it the inexplicable charm and thrill, which we all have experienced at some point or the other. Quite often it so happens that we tend to get momentarily blinded by the sheer joy and pleasure that a holiday entails. We usually tend to ignore very important safety tips during travel. In fact adhering to certain safety tips and precautions are mandatory while traveling to any foreign destination. This is not only to avoid unnecessary hassles but also for ensuring one's physical safety.
Turkey has emerged as a major tourist destination of the world. However, we all are aware of the increasing incidences of terrorist bombings on tourists, political and business targets as well as religious, and government setups over the past few years. In fact there has been a major trend among the terrorists to target the Westerners in particular.
Southeastern provinces of Turkey have been marked as "sensitive areas". Travelers coming down to this part of Turkey should follow these guidelines:
•Preferably, do make use of the commercial air travel. If road travel is absolutely necessary then it is advisable that you drive only during the day on important highways.
•Travelers should exercise cooperation if they are stopped for checking of passports, identification cards, vehicle registration, or a driver's license.
Other safety tips for travelers coming down to any part of Turkey include:
•Do not accept parcels, letters, or any other items from strangers requesting delivery in or outside Turkey.
•American citizens must maintain a low profile and be extra cautious while visiting the areas where Americans and Westerners commonly congregate or shop. These may be the softer target areas for the terrorists.
•The U.S citizens are also cautioned against visiting the areas of demonstrations. A peaceful demonstration in no time can become confrontational and violent. It is better to avoid these places or exercise extreme caution if one is in the vicinity of such demonstrations.
•As a general tip for all travelers to Turkey, it is advisable that you carry the bare minimum items outside your hotel. Do not carry your U.S passport every time. It is better to leave it in your hotel safe.
•You should be wary of strangers trying to befriend you. You should not accept any food items, juice or alcohol from any person. There have been several incidences of innocent travelers being duped of their money and valuables by being drugged.
•Do not purchase pirated goods. You might land in serious legal issues.
•Turkish Bath or "Hamam" is no doubt a rejuvenating experience. Female tourists should request for a female attendant during the bath.
•It is better to carry a supply of chronic medications along as it might be difficult to obtain them in Turkey.
•Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered.
•Have your medical insurance done prior to traveling.
•Follow road safety rules and regulations while driving in Turkey.