Travel Report for Turkey

Country Profile for
Turkey

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: November 15, 2006 16:25 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 22:48 EST

Turkey

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

Section 7 of this Travel Report has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

See our Current Issues page for information on Avian Influenza.

Since 2004, there has been a resurgence of terrorist incidents, including bomb attacks in tourist areas such as Ankara, Antalya, Cesme, Istanbul, Izmir, Kusadasi, Marmaris and elsewhere. Terrorists have threatened to continue to target areas frequented by tourists.

On August 28, 2006, three people died and more than 20 were injured when a bomb exploded in the tourist resort of Antalya. On August 27, three bombs exploded in the tourist resort of Marmaris and one bomb exploded in Istanbul, injuring more than 25 people.

The most devastating attacks against Western interests involved two major truck bombs that shook Istanbul in November 2003. One occurred at the British Consulate and another at the HSBC Bank Building, killing 27 individuals and injuring many others. Additional bombings occurred at two synagogues in Istanbul during the same month, killing 24 people and injuring more than 300.

These attacks demonstrate that terrorist incidents can occur without warning and that there is a risk for both Canadian residents and Canadian visitors of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Throughout Turkey, Canadians are advised to maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, particularly in commercial establishments, public places, and other areas where large numbers of foreigners may congregate.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country if they are going to be there for longer than three months. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Most Canadian visitors to Turkey do not experience problems. However, there has been an increase in terrorist incidents aimed at tourists, and the security situation in the east and southeast of the country remains unpredictable. Clashes between the Kurdistan Workers' Party, formerly known as the PKK (sometimes referred to as KONGRA-GEL), and security forces in southeastern Turkey still occur. The violence has caused both military and civilian casualties.

Canadians who travel to the eastern provinces of Turkey, including areas close to the border with Iraq and Iran, should exercise caution. Canadians are reminded that they should not travel to Iraq under any circumstances. For further information, see our Travel Report for Iraq. Travellers can also expect an increased security presence throughout southeastern Turkey. They should carry proper identification at all times and comply with all security requirements. Large public demonstrations occur on occasion and can become dangerous. Canadians should avoid large crowds and gatherings, be vigilant, and keep informed of current events at all times.

There are recent reports of violent crime, such as muggings aboard trains and other transport facilities. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs, particularly in Istanbul. Do not show signs of affluence and ensure that personal belongings are secure at all times. Theft of passports has increased. Store important documents in a hotel safe. Do not accept food or drink from strangers, even if wrappings or containers appear intact. Tourists, including backpackers, have been drugged and subsequently robbed and raped. Refuse unsolicited invitations from strangers to go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods. Sexual assaults have been reported by foreign tourists. Women have also reported being harassed and may be the specific target of muggings and other crimes.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

There are reports of credit card fraud, especially in Istanbul, where extreme overcharging may occur in cafés, bars, restaurants, and shops. Travellers should pay careful attention when their credit cards are being handled by others during payment processing. To avoid overcharging, ensure receipts are in New Turkish lira (TRY) rather than old Turkish lira (TRL), which has six additional zeros and is gradually being phased out.

Mount Ararat is a special military zone, and mountain climbing is permitted only with prior permission from authorities and if accompanied by a professional guide.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Drive defensively at all times. Travel by road is dangerous due to reckless driving, hazardous road conditions, inadequate lighting, poor signage, and high traffic congestion. Turkey has one of the highest accident rates in the world. Fatal road accidents occur frequently, and pedestrians constitute a high percentage of victims. Always watch for oncoming traffic when crossing a street, as drivers often refuse to stop for pedestrians. Avoid intercity driving after dark. The holidays, or "bayrams", that follow Ramadan are accompanied by a dramatic increase in traffic and the highest accident rates of the year.

In the event of an accident, the vehicle should not be moved (even though it may be blocking traffic) until the police have made an official report. To reach traffic police, call 154. Avoid hiring automobiles from unknown car-rental companies, as some have reportedly overcharged customers or refused to return cash deposits. For detailed information on road travel in Turkey, visit the Web site of the General Directorate of Highways.

Train travel is slow and inefficient due to an antiquated railway system, and numerous train accidents have occurred in recent years. Extensive and reliable bus, tram, and subway services are available in major cities. A modern and convenient intercity bus network exists throughout Turkey.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Turkey is located in one of the world's most active seismic zones. The North is particularly vulnerable to major earthquakes. Floods and snow storms may also have widespread impacts, as Turkish cities are not as well equipped as those in Canada to deal with severe weather. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Ankara or the Consulate of Canada in Istanbul (see Section 7 below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Visitors should dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts (e.g., women should cover their head with a scarf and visitors should cover their arms and legs in all places of worship and in many rural areas).

During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar) and wherever appropriate, visitors should use discretion and good judgment if considering eating, drinking, or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Many rural regions and the older, more traditional areas of cities have much less tolerance for such behaviour during this period. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on or about September 24, 2006.

It is illegal to desecrate the Turkish flag, government, security forces, or the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey.

Dual nationals may be subject to national obligations such as military service. Those affected should enquire at the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey (see Section 8 below) regarding their status. Holding dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. For more information, see our publication entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know.

Explicit authorization is needed for the purchase and/or removal of Turkish antiquities and other cultural artifacts. A receipt and official "museum export certificate" (issued by the Turkish customs office) are needed to legally export an item.

Taking photographs of military or public installations is forbidden. Photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces is also strongly discouraged. Cameras and film may be confiscated.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Turkey - ANKARA, Embassy of Canada
Address: Cinnah Caddesi No. 58, Çankaya 06690, Ankara, Turkey
Tel.: 90 (312) 409-2700
Fax: 90 (312) 409-2712
E-mail: ankra@international.gc.ca
Internet: www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/canada-europa/turkey

Turkey - ISTANBUL, Consulate of Canada
Address: Istiklal Caddesi No. 373/5, Beyoglu, 80050 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel.: 90 (212) 251-9838
Fax: 90 (212) 251-9888
E-mail: zeyda@mymerhaba.com
Internet: www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/canada-europa/turkey

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara or the Canadian Consulate in Istanbul and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 00800-14-220-0149 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Turkey is 00-800-16677, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Turkish authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on March 15, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

Canadians intending to visit Turkey as tourists must be in possession of a visa and a Canadian passport, which must be valid for at least six months following the issuance of the visa. Holders of valid Canadian passports may obtain a tourist or business visa from the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Ottawa or upon arrival at any Turkish point of entry. Visas will be for multiple entry and valid for three months. There will be a processing fee, which is most easily paid in U.S. dollars at the port of entry.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

Canadian diplomatic, official, and service passport holders are not eligible to obtain visas upon arrival. They must obtain visas prior to arrival from a Turkish diplomatic or consular office abroad. The processing fee is not applicable to bearers of Canadian diplomatic passports, and bearers of official and service passports may be exempt from the fee if they can establish that they are travelling on official government business. Overstaying a visa may result in a substantial fine.

Canadians should ensure that an entry stamp is placed in their passports by Turkish immigration officials upon arrival. Canadians have occasionally entered the country without obtaining entry stamps or without purchasing entry visas, resulting in fines, detention, deportation, or serious difficulties upon departure.
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Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the New Turkish Lira (TRY), which was introduced in January 2005 to replace the old Turkish Lira (TRL). The conversion entailed dropping six zeros off the old Turkish Lira. The U.S. dollar and the euro are widely accepted for exchange and can also be used in many large hotels. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques can be difficult to exchange. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. ATM services are widely available.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Turkey (capital: Ankara) is located in Western Asia, bordered by Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Greece, Bulgaria, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. The official language is Turkish. English and German are spoken in tourist areas. Main tourist destinations have extensive services and facilities.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Adequate medical care is available in major cities but not necessarily in outlying areas. Consumption of untreated water and water-based foods greatly increases the chances of illness. Do not drink tap water. Travellers should drink only bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, unpasteurized or unrefrigerated dairy products, and most food sold in the streets, especially if prone to food allergies or stomach ailments.

A rabies vaccination is recommended, as there are numerous stray dogs and cats in and around Istanbul, Ankara, and other cities. Dog attacks on pedestrians and joggers have occurred.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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18. ANNEX

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