We are two couples in early 60's traveling to Istanbul Turkey for the first time in May 2013. We are on a budget but safety is our number one concern. We are not familiar with this part of the world. How safe is travel in Istanbul and in rural areas of Turkey. We have nine nights and would like to see some small typical villages. We like independent travel and would like suggestions on day trips using public transportation. Thanks.

Travel in Istanbul is very safe.

What's your budget?

You might want to take a look at my trip report; click on my name to find it. BTW, my wife and I are your elders.

I've stayed at the Askin Hotel (askinhotel.com), very reasonable rates, ideal location near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia and local transportation. Next door to the more expensive Blue House. I'd go straight back on my next visit.

Just finished reading your report. Very good information and it eases our concern on safety. Our budget is US $125 per night for a double. We will use your report to help with our planning. Thanks!

The Hotel Hali will be well below your budget. That's the hotel we stayed at and the view shown on the site is taken from its breakfast terrace.

http://www.halihotel.com/en/index.php?page=photogallery

I didn't feel unsafe anywhere that I (solo female) traveled in Turkey. You might find some helpful info in my trip report; just click on my name to find it.

It's a wonderful country and I thought May a perfect time for visiting it. Enjoy!

Hi

Try the Hotel Alp - http://www.alpguesthouse.com. I didn't stay there but the owner gave me a tour. I was impressed with the fact you got a taste of the Ottoman style at a very reasonable rate. It's in a quiet street in the Old City, Sultanahmet. Walk to all major tourist attractions. Turkey is safe - commonsense applies as always. Do go - it's a fabulous country, rich in culture and history.

Hotel Tash Konak worked for us and safety was never a concern even when I (80yrs) wandered alone (daytime only however.)

I just returned from Istanbul (female solo traveller) with no issues whatsoever. Never once feared for my safety. Stayed at the Hotel Erboy which is within walking distance of most of the major attractions, and is 1/2 block from the tram. Rates for a double is within your price range, and I can highly recommend this hotel; wonderful staff and great hotel (spotless!).

Hotel Tan

We stayed at the Hotel Ilkay which is within walking distance of most of the major attractions and the tram line goes right by the hotel. There are lots of options for dining within a short walk of the hotel. It is nothing fancy but it was clean, the staff were very helpful and friendly and the hotel provided airport pick up which was so helpful and greatly appreciated when we arrived after a long flight!! We loved Istanbul and are looking forward to visiting this wonderful city again in 2014.

ttt

https://picasaweb.google.com/stuartt...cenesOfTurkey#

Harry...to ease your concerns over safety...I,too, am your elder by a good many years..and my wife and I on our trip to Turkey had no problems, having driven through large regions of the mid and western parts of the country. I was also in Turkey a few years before that, on a project with the Turkish Air Force..and through them I learned much about the country and its culture.

Perhaps these pics will help you and your friends to become familiar with Istanbul, and on the other hand, with the more rural and smaller-villages and towns (in the next post).
Stu Tower

Harry: Here are the Istanbul pics...

https://picasaweb.google.com/stuartt...nesOfIstanbul#

You will have an illuminating(and safe) trip to one of the world's most fascinating countries.
Stu

MmePerdue,
Thanks for the link to Askin Hotel. It looks very nice and the price is right.

Michael,
The Hotel Hali also looks good. With so many good choices I will have to do some research as to which will suite our needs best. Thanks!

Harry...now your "fun" begins..where to hang your hat!!!

Kja,
Just finished your report and all of the responses and links to it. Great report and lots of things to research.

Worldinabag,
Alpguest house will be another worth investigating.

amer_can,
Hotel Tashkonak looks good but is coming in as more expensive then the others. You are right it is not going to be easy, but this is a good problem.

mscleo,
The hotel Erboy is showing no availability for the first week of May. I will try after the new year to see if there is availability. Thanks.

Golemtoo.
Hotel Tan is beautiful and is a little more then some of the rest. We have to decide location,price and value. The choices will not be easy. Thanks.

Snowflake25,
Another beautiful hotel to consider. Thanks!