Practical Info
Money
The official currency is the New Turkish Lira (TRY), which was introduced on 1 January 2005, whereby six zeros were dropped from the TL and the sub-unit New Kurush was created. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureau de changes, post offices, airports and ferry ports. Banks are open from Monday to Friday, but some are open daily in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Most bank branches have ATMs which accept Cirrus and Plus. Major credit cards such as Visa or MasterCard are widely accepted, but American Express is accepted in many places as well. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at some banks and currency exchange offices, but are not as welcome as cash or credit cards. US dollars or Euros are preferred. Some pensions and hotels in the most popular destinations accept US dollars as payment.
Visa
Turkey requires visas from British nationals. They are valid for up to three months at a cost of £36 if bought prior to the visit, or £10 if purchased on entry to the country as a sticker-type visa. These tourist visas do not permit any paid or unpaid work to be undertaken in the duration of the stay.
For more information visit www.turkishconsulate.org.uk/en/visa/
Communications
The international country dialling code for Turkey is +90. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. Istanbul Asya (Asia side) is (0)216 and Istanbul Avrupa (Europe side) is (0)212. GSM 900 and 1800 networks cover most of the country. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.
Time
Local time is GMT +2
Electricity
220V, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.
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