Until recently, tourism has been an important activity in Istanbul. However, at this time, due to the political situation in the country and the terrorist threat facing it, it may not be as safe a destination as years ago.
Below you have an index with all the points that we are going to deal with in this article.
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Riots and terrorist attacks
When traveling to Istanbul, it is important to know the most recent and prominent events that have occurred, as well as the current situation in the city and the country in general.
Unfortunately, in recent years, there have been terrorist attacks in Istanbul that have resulted in hundreds of injuries and significant numbers of deaths. The events during 2016 are the following:
- January 12: suicide attack in the tourist district of Sultanhamet. 12 fatalities.
- 19 March: attack on Istiklal Street, central Istanbul. 5 deceased.
- 7 June: car bomb in the historic center. 11 deaths.
- 28 June: attack by three terrorists at Atatürk Airport. 47 fatalities and 200 injured.
- December 10: double attack after a soccer game. 44 deaths.
In addition, in the early morning of January 1, 2017, during the New Year's celebration, fire was opened in a nightclub, culminating in a total of 39 deaths.
The groups that usually carry out these terrorist attacks are the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party), which defends the independence of Kurdistan, and Daesh or ISIS, whose objective is to establish a great Islamic state.
On the other hand, it is a time of political instability that results in protests and demonstrations. Likewise, on July 15, 2016 there was a failed coup attempt in which the military rose up against the government.
Key points
The terrorist threat and the danger of attack is greater in tourist areas, including Taksim, Osmanbey, Haciosman or Yenikapi. Likewise, there is also greater risk in public transport such as the subway or in large facilities such as the airport.
As indicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Spain, a extreme caution if you decide to visit Istanbul. Similarly, you have to avoid crowds and stay informed of the current situation.
However, it must be borne in mind that other areas of Turkey are much more dangerous, such as those bordering countries such as Syria or Ankara, the capital.
Travel alone
Traveling alone can be dangerous in some parts of the world, especially if you are a woman. However, in the case of Istanbul, being a tourist city, traveling alone does not entail no risk additional.
Turks can be a bit pushy with women, but violence is rare. You are only advised to respond politely and avoid unpleasant situations.
However, it is recommended to try not to go out without company at night and in areas with little traffic. Likewise, it is advisable to wear loose and long clothing, although it is not a requirement.
Dangerous neighborhoods
Istanbul is a city that is considered quite safe when it comes to theft and crime. However, depending on the areas you visit, this security can be diminished.
The most controlled and safe part is the historic center, as it is the most touristic area. As for the modern area, it is better to avoid the surroundings of Taksim Square if we know that there is going to be a demonstration or protest.
Near this place we find tarlabasi, a marginal neighborhood in which different ethnic groups coexist and where there is a high rate of poverty. Therefore, it is one of the parts to avoid.
Other points where it is better not to walk, especially at night or if you go alone, is through Merter, Jasim Pasha and Balat (the Kurdish neighborhood), as they are not very touristy places.
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