You can obtain your SIM card from operators such as Turk Telekom, Turkcell, or Vodafone. It should cost you around 800 - 1000 TL to acquire a SIM card and purchase a package including internet, minutes, and SMS. Alternatively, you may visit regular phone shops to obtain a SIM card, but please note that it will cost you a bit more as they charge a commission.​

If you plan to use transportation such as the metro, bus, and ferry, you need to have an Istanbul Metro Card. It functions almost like a credit card, allowing you to pay for transportation, purchase groceries from most markets, pay for museum tickets, engage in online shopping, and more. Finding a place that sells the card can be a bit challenging, which is why we have already obtained them for you. You can purchase your card from the reception, charge it at any metro station, and start using it. The card doesn't have an expiration date, so it can be kept for future use. We highly recommend getting one, as it will be beneficial during your trip to Istanbul.

Taxis pose a notable challenge in Istanbul, given the recent increase in scam cases. We highly recommend that you order your taxi through any of the Bitaksi, Uber, or Getir apps, and always ensure to check that the taximeter is activated. Additional fees are incurred for bridges, tunnels, and certain highways, typically ranging from 50 to 100 TL. Furthermore, finding a taxi around 3:00 pm can be difficult, as taxi drivers often change shifts at this time. If you plan a trip around 3:00 pm, it is advisable to prepare at least an hour earlier. If you are planning to go to the airport, you can also book your taxi from our reception or our WEBSITE, which you can prepay for, save time, and avoid other related problems.

On the Asian side, most people do not speak English very well. However, if you find yourself in need of assistance, it is advisable to seek help from young individuals, such as students, as they are generally more proficient in English and better educated.

Pharmacies are typically open from 09:00 to 19:00. However, there are always pharmacies on duty after 19:00, and you can check their availability on the "ibbEczane" app.

There is significant traffic congestion between 07:00 - 09:00 and 17:00 - 20:00, as many city residents will be commuting to work or returning home during these hours.

Some restaurants may suggest tipping. You can choose to do so if you are satisfied with the service. However, tipping is not mandatory.

In Turkey, we use type C/F plugs. If your electronic devices require different plugs, you can obtain a plug from the reception or purchase one from an electrical shop nearby.

If you ever need to send something to another city or country, you can visit the "PTT ÜSKÜDAR" post office. Keep in mind that most of the workers may not be fluent in English, so you might find it helpful to use Google Translate while communicating with them.