Izmir, Turkey Hotels and City Guide

Izmir - Travel Tips

When to Go

Seasons
Izmir has a Mediterranean climate which makes the weather quite mild year round however during high summer, particularly July and August, is can be unbearably hot with temperartures often exceeding 30°C. The best time to travel would be at the begining and end of Summer when it is still quite hot but not dangerously so. You will also find fewe crowds and queues, and may even be able book your hotel at a lower out-of-season rate.

Events
Most of Turkey's major national and religious holidays are celebrated in Izmir as well, including the month of Ramadan, the Commemoration of Ataturk on May 19th and Turkish Republic Day on October 29th. While shops and banks may be closed on public holidays, they shouldn't cause much disruption to your travel plans.

One of Izmir's most popular annual events is the Izmir International Festival, a month-long celebration of music, art and dance. The festival, celebrating its 25th year in 2011, combines a host of Turkish and international acts and genres, from classical and opera to jazz concerts and tango.

Local Customs and Language

Customs
Turkish culture is a lot moe formal than most Western cultures, and this still applies to the touristy beach resorts around Izmir. Visitors should take care to not wear swimwear or revealing clothing when travelling outside of their hotels or the beach, and when visiting the local towns. You should always be covered up when entering any religious buildings, and women should cover their hair when entering mosques.

Language
Turkish is spoken predominantly in the Izmir region however many people in the resort areas will also speak English, to some degree. To help communication, learn a few basic phrases before you travel and keep a phrase book on you.

Smoking
Although the practice of smoking is not frowned upon in Turkey, there are strict laws governing where you can smoke. Smoking is banned in all forms of public transport as well public venues such as stadiums, restaurants, playgrounds and bars. You risk being fined if caught.

Izmir Health and Security Advice

Health Advice
Some of the most common ailments experienced when travelling to resort destinations such as Turkey include sun burn, food ailments and insect bites. These can be avoided by taking common sense precautions such as ensuring food is hot before eating it, avoiding tap water, and always using sun protection cream. Visitors should always ensure they travel with adequate travel insurance cover in case of any emergancies.

Security Advice
The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office's main concerns regarding travel to Turkey are warnings of possible terror attacks on Turkey, in particular the targeting of Western interests. This includes busy tourist spots such as shopping malls and nightclubs. Travellers should always remain vigilant and try stay away from crowds or any sort of political demonstration.

As with most busy tourist areas, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and tourist scams are common. Keep you travel money and passport securely on your body, and avoid showing off expensive items such as watches and cameras. Travellers should also take care when walking around at night, particularly in deserted areas and places where there are many bars.

Many travellers also report being conned on taxi fares - always ask your hotel for a fare estimate and agree on this price with your driver before you begin the journey.

Hotels in Izmir, Turkey