I'm travelling by myself to Istanbul in October for 3 days. I'm wondering if I should join a tour or if it is safe for me to join local tours while in the city. Is Sultanamelt safe for accomodations? I'm on a tight budget and would greatly appreciate any recommendations for inexpensive and safe lodging and hammans. Thanks in advance for your time and help!

You have to be kidding that you are going to do this trip on your own. A single woman traveling in Turkey would be a target. I would absolutely join a group tour or choose another country.

Post this message on the appropriate forum and you'll probably find more people familiar with your situation.

My wife says that it was perfectly OK for her to travel as a single woman to Istanbul when she was young. Can't speak for the rest of Turkey.

American Tour groups are much more likely to be targeted for crime than a single traveler.

I would join a local tour and stay away from anything "american" no matter what country your in. I wouldnt always classify turkey as a "danger" zone, well perhaps outside Istanbul. There is always concern when a single lady travels alone. do your research, check with US embassy on security issues, etc...

I did an escorted tour of Turkey, but arrived a few days early in Istanbul to explore on my own. I'm a single woman, too,and I had no problems. If you don't feel comfortable going totally solo, then you can pick up local day tours once you arrive. Dress conservatively, take normal precautions (such as bluestructure above suggested), and you should be fine.

Make sure you check in with the US Embassy while in Istanbul.