Istanbul - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
Great for families/couples . The schools were good, housing great, lots of green space, and Turks LOVE kids, so even high end restaurants will have separate kid play areas. They are very accommodating for kids. It was easy (albeit a bit wet at times) to play outside year round. Single men love it; single women had a harder time as there is definitely a sense of machismo in Turkish men. It is a large Consulate and huge city, and housing can be spread out, which does make it a bit harder at times - however, we just made friends outside the Consulate circle. - Aug 2021
Yes to all, though kids don't much like the commute to school. Plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, great restaurants and Turkish people love children. Travel within Turkey, and from Istanbul to elsewhere is very convenient and affordable. - Sep 2017
Great post for all! Couples have each other, and singles have the nightlife! - Oct 2010
Absolutely! There are beautiful parks everywhere and strolling the Bosphorus is a pleasure all its own. Turks ADORE children!There is something to do for everyone if you are willing to get out and explore. There are several websites that list events. You can shop online for groceries and have them delivered regularly and every little store in your neighborhood delivers too if you learn a small amount of Turkish. Huge nightlife scene in Taksim and Moda for singles. Lots of sporting events to watch or participate in. - Jan 2010
Couples if you're ready/willing to pay London prices for uneven service and quality - Jan 2010
Fantastic for people with energy and no kids. Among families, middle-school aged kids seem to do best. Not a great city for strollers and smallest kids, nor for teenagers, who face challenges of getting around independently in such a big city. - Dec 2009
It depends on what you're looking for. For singles it's not that great as the bars and restaurants are extremely expensive. A beer at a high class bar can easily cost you $8.Mixed drinks $18.For families it's a little better, but the cost of food and basic goods is very high. The cconsulate expects you to live off of the commissary in Ankara which is 5 hours away by car. - Dec 2009
