🛑 NOTE 🛑
There is a TRAVEL GUIDE, you will find if you scroll down my profile. In case you are visiting ISTANBUL for the first time, I hope it will make your stay more interesting.
At the end of the GUIDE there are important informations that will help you to avoid fraud and scamming in Istanbul, as well as informations about money exchange and public transportation.
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Hi there!
Welcome to my profile.

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ABOUT ME:

You can call me ABDOU.
I'm a laid-back person with a happy heart and a grin on my face. I enjoy talking about impromptu travel and weekend excursions. I love to travel and discover different countries' customs, cuisines, and civilizations. I currently reside in Istanbul.
In order to help others, share experiences, create friends, and have fun, I would like to be a part of the travelling community.

IG: houdjedje.abdou
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PHILOSOPHY:
Give without anticipating anything in return. Simply have faith in life, provide a helping hand to those you may not see again, and try to make the most of their experience.
If everyone held this belief, our lives would become a utopia.
Simply begin with yourself ;)

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⛔️ FOR SURFERS ⛔️
I don’t like when surfers act friendly and kind only when they need a place to stay. Once I can’t host them or they find other accommodation, they stop replying and disappear. We can still be friends and hang out, I don’t want to waste time with opportunistic and selfish people. I’m looking to meet genuine friends.

🛑 PLEASE 🛑
You don't need to contact me only if you are planning to stay with me, you might also be in touch for tips, advice and/or information.

🔴HOUSE RULES🔴
1- 🚭NO SMOKING🚭
2- ⛔️NO ALCOHOL⛔️
3- As I appreciate your privacy, please respect mine..🤗
4- We only have one communal bathroom, so please keep it clean
5- If you plan to return late at night, please let me know.
6- You are welcome to use my fridge and kitchen, but please put everything back.
7-  Feel free to text me with any more questions or special demands 😇

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Thanks for spending your time to read my profile.

See you in Istanbul :)
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⭕️ ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE ⭕️

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🧭 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SITES 🧭
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• Hagia Sophia: A former Greek Orthodox cathedral, later an Ottoman mosque, then museum and now a mosque. 🔴[payed]🔴

• Topkapı Palace: The primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for approximately 400 years. 🔴[payed]🔴

• Beylerbeyi Palace: located in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood of Istanbul, is a prominent historic site on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. Built between 1861 and 1865 during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz, the palace served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and a place to entertain visiting dignitaries.🔴[payed]🔴

• Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): A historical mosque famous for its blue tiles surrounding its interior walls.✅[free]✅

• Basilica Cistern: The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. 🔴[payed]🔴

• Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

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🏛️MUSEUMS🏛️
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• Istanbul Archaeological Museums: Comprising three museums, this complex houses an impressive collection of artifacts from various civilizations, including Greek, Roman, and Byzantine relics.

• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: Located in the Ibrahim Pasha Palace, it features an extensive collection of Islamic art, including calligraphy, textiles, and ceramics.

• Istanbul Modern:  Commonly known as (İstanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) is Turkey’s first museum of modern and contemporary art, founded in 2004. Originally located in Karaköy, it has moved to a new building in Beyoğlu designed by Renzo Piano. The museum features Turkish and international art across various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and facilities like a library, café, and design shop.

• Pera Museum: Known for its diverse collection, including Orientalist paintings and Anatolian weights and measures, Pera Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.

• Sakıp Sabancı Museum: Situated in a historical mansion on the Bosphorus, it showcases calligraphy, paintings, and furniture, along with temporary modern art exhibitions.

• Chora Museum (Kariye Museum): Famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, the Chora Museum was originally a church, later converted into a mosque, and now serves as a museum.

🛑NOTE🛑
All the museums mentioned above have a paid entry fee.

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🧭 MODERN ATTRACTIONS 🧭
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• Istiklal Avenue: A famous pedestrian street known for its shops, cafes, and restaurants.

• Galataport: is a vibrant and modern waterfront district located along the Bosphorus in Karaköy, Istanbul. This port is not only a hub for international cruise ships but also a bustling destination for tourists and locals alike.
Galataport combines history with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

• Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower with a panoramic vista of Istanbul.  🔴[payed]🔴

• Dolmabahce Palace: The main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. 🔴[payed]🔴

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🧭 SCENIC SPOTS 🧭
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• Bosphorus Cruise: A boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline.

• Pierre Loti Hill: A hilltop café with a fantastic view of the Golden Horn in Eyüp Sultan area.

• Ortaköy Mosque: A beautiful mosque situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square. You can taste in Ortaköy area the famous KUMPIR, which is a baked potato that is cut open and covered with a pile of delicious toppings of your choosing. You can choose from sweetcorn, peas, tuna and kisir.
Mosque entry is ✅[free]✅

• Pembe Yalı Cafe: Often referred to as “Pembe Yalı,” is a charming and popular café located in Istanbul, Turkey. Known for its picturesque waterfront setting along the Bosphorus, it offers a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary Turkish cuisine. The café is a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a relaxing ambiance with beautiful views of the water. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal, sip on Turkish tea or coffee, and take in the scenic surroundings.
🛑NOTE:🛑
The food they offer has poor reviews, so it's best to just grab a drink and enjoy the view.

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🧭 ASIAN SIDE 🧭
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• Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi): A tower lying on a small islet located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus strait. 🔴[payed]🔴

• Skywalk: at Emaar Mall in Istanbul refers to a thrilling experience offered at Emaar Square Mall, located in the Üsküdar district on the Asian side of the city. The Skywalk is an adventurous activity where participants walk on a glass platform, providing a breathtaking view of the city below. 🔴[payed]🔴

• Kadıköy: A vibrant neighborhood with lots of cafes, bars, and a lively market.

• Çamlıca Hill: The highest point in Istanbul, offering a panoramic view of the city. If you go there it is preferable to visit Çamlıca Tower which is the  tallest structure in Turkey, standing at 369 meters. Opened to the public in 2021, it serves multiple purposes including telecommunications, broadcasting, and restaurants/Cafés. The tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul from its observation decks, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. 🔴[payed] 🔴

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🏝️Princes’ Islands🏝️
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• Büyükada: The largest and most popular island, known for its historic mansions, horse-drawn carriages (now replaced by electric vehicles), and scenic views.

• Heybeliada: Known for its lush greenery, the Naval High School, and the historic Halki Seminary.

• Burgazada: Smaller and quieter, ideal for relaxing walks and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

• Kınalıada: Closest to the city, known for its beaches and less crowded environment.

HOW TO GET THERE:
- Public Ferries: Operated by Şehir Hatları (City Lines), they depart from Kabataş, Kadıköy, and Bostancı. Check the schedule on the Şehir Hatları website for timings.

- Fast Ferries: Operated by companies like İDO, they offer quicker travel times and depart from various points including Kabataş and Bostancı.

- Sea Taxis: Available for more flexible and private travel options, though they are more expensive.

TIPS:
- Timing: Ferries can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

- Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance if possible. Istanbulkart can be used for public ferries.

- Amenities: Bring water and snacks, as options might be limited on some islands.

For more detailed schedules and ticket information, visit the websites of Şehir Hatları: https://sehirhatlari.istanbul

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🛑IMPORTANT INFORMATIONS🛑
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⭕️ To use public transportation in Istanbul, you’ll need an Istanbul Card, which you can buy from machines at the stations. You can use one card for multiple people. The metro operates from 6:00 AM until midnight. There are also shuttle buses available, and metrobüs(es) are available 7/24. (I’m sharing this because many of non-turkish Couchsurfers had issues with Taxi and transportation.

⭕️ For currency exchange, the best rates are at the LALELI tram station (HAS and TAÇ DÖVİZ) the Old City.

⭕️ Always carry some cash for emergencies, as many places don’t accept cards or charge extra for card payments.

⭕️ Street food is affordable and delicious, though only cash is accepted.

⭕️ Plan to spend at least two days exploring the Old City and try to visit early to avoid crowds. After the Old City, Taksim is a popular area to visit. You might find that one day is sufficient, but five days might not be enough to truly experience it.

⭕️ On the Asian side, Üsküdar and Kadıköy are popular areas. A walk from Kabataş to Ortaköy is also a great experience.

⭕️ If you plan to visit the Princes’ Islands, go early in the morning to make the most of your time on the island.

⭕️ Be cautious with taxis and clubs, if someone approaches you on the street offering to take you to a club, buy you a drink, or give you free food, it’s best to decline and leave immediately. We have had many negative experiences with this.

🛑IMPORTANT 🛑

⭕️ For any problems or safety issues, the fastest way to get help is to contact the Tourism Police. Here are their contact details:

Call ☎️ : +90 212 527 45 03
WhatsApp 📱: +90 505 187 66 14

😊😇HAVE A WONDERFUL STAY IN ISTANBUL😇😊

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I like to listen, share and learn from the stories, struggles and adventures of others...
ESPECIALLY around the campfire.

Interests

I like to share the joy and happiness

• cats
• music festivals
• festivals
• motorcycles
• cars
• music
• cycling
• camping
• history
• ping pong

Music, Movies, and Books

Solo, jaz, country, pop

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Turkey tour by car, best experience (hot air balloon in Cappadocia and ski in Bursa and Erzurum)

Teach, Learn, Share

teach... learn... and SHARE

Countries I’ve Visited

Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Algeria, Turkey