Travel_Nerd

You state that "part of your trip" is covered by insurance? Why haven't you insured ALL of it?

Check the provisions of the policy you do have, though, as some may not cover civil unrest. Most *should* but that does not mean they do.

I cannot offer anything else that hasn't already been said here other than if you go, just remain vigilant of your surroundings. Vigilance is not paranoia, but keep your eye out for suspicious people and be wary of large gatherings. Istanbul may even beef up security at their major landmarks as a result of this incident (thinking of Paris after the Charlie attack last winter).

Safe travels.

samuell

Tulips and Travel Nerd,

Thank you both for your input, I like what you said about being vigilant but not paranoid, you are also right that security is beefed up in Istanbul and other major sites.

Again, it's comforting to know that many people still are travelling to Turkey and feels safe.

I was more concerned with flight cancellation.
I am checking into my insurance in details today.

KTtravel

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Turkey a few years ago and, yes, some friends and relatives who rarely travel thought we were crazy to go. My FIL just tried to talk us out of a trip to Italy recently because of the "refugee issue."

I would not hestitate to return to Turkey but you must feel comfortable with the decision. I don't remember if you mentioned if you are traveling independently or with a tour. If with a tour, I am sure the guide will be monitoring the news carefully. If you are on your own, you can always chat with the staff at your hotel and discuss your plans with them and ask their advice if you have concerns.

I hope you have a great trip!

samuell

KT,

We will be on our own and will check our government travel advisory and apparently if we register with our Canadian foreign affairs, they will text us with updates..

You are right that we have to be comfortable going, nobody can make that decision for us and we are not expecting it..

We are looking for reassurance/encouragement from more experience traveler during time of uncertainty.

As Sassafrass had said - knowing our options will calm us down..
Some of you have offered them.

Thank you.

wtm003

Samuel, my mother called me and told me not to go to Turkey and to go to India instead. I laughed and told her if I was going to India she would tell me to go to Turkey. A few years ago she thought I was making a huge mistake by going to Mexico.

We took a day tour in Cappadocia and two women from Australia told our group how "well-meaning" family and friends thought they were crazy for traveling to Turkey. Most of us had the same experience. We all agreed when one of the women suggested that no one would question us if we said we were going to Paris even though it has its own issues.

If for some reason you are uncomfortable after you arrive in Turkey, then have a back up plan and go to Barcelona or Greece or ...?

samuell

My mother would have liked if we just stayed home..
Back up plan is a good idea..