Arriving in the Center of the World

Arriving at Ataturk Havalimani, the main international airport in Istanbul, one has a feeling of familiarity. The terminals are modern; there are the ubiquitous cafes you see in every major airport, name brand shops, massive duty free outlets, etc. Everything is as you’d hoped it would be, but maybe weren’t quite sure. As you stretch your legs by racing other hurried passengers toward passport control, glance upwards just as you begin to glimpse a mass of queuing humanity. Attached from the ceiling, you’ll see a sign advertising a special, separate queue for tourist visas. Turkey is one of those wonderful countries where getting a visa is not an arduous, bureaucratic task. Simply show up, pay your 20.00 USD fee, and get your visa. Head back over to the main immigration area, wait your turn and in a few minutes, you’re officially in Turkey.
After you collect your luggage, exit past the tea drinking Customs officials (who’ll hardly acknowledge your presence) and you’re ready for your Turkish adventure to begin. Immediately, as you enter into the area where waiting families and drivers gather together, you’ll get your first taste of what Istanbul will be like: A throbbing mass of humanity, one on top of the other, coexisting in relative harmony. The history of Turkey has created a gene pool so unique, so beautiful, that one could easily mistake a Turk for an Italian, Russian or Moroccan. Despite the fact that they look like sardines packed together in a too-small tin, there is no sense of disturbance or claustrophobia. This image will stick with you throughout your time in Istanbul. In a city of 17 million, people are surprisingly calm. They’ve learned to get along with each other; soon you’ll discover you fit right in as well. If you haven’t arranged for transport through your hotel, file past the throngs of people and follow the signs toward the taxi area.
Istanbul taxi drivers are on one hand, the most patient drivers on earth and on the other hand, the most impatient. Now, just because they seem impatient behind the wheel, doesn’t mean they aren’t safe, they are. These drivers usually sit in agonizingly bad traffic most of their day, so when the opportunity arises to step on the gas and make some up some time, they fly. You’ll inevitably grip the nearest available handle, resist the urge to cry out and wonder why there aren’t seatbelts in your taxi. Never fear, these guys are professionals, they’re excellent drivers and will get you to your destination in one, perhaps frazzled piece. Another wonderful aspect of Istanbul taxi drivers is that they are friendly, knowledgeable (they will know your hotel) and almost always honest. Taxis are metered; there is no haggling about prices, hidden fees or other miscellaneous unpleasantries. Sit back, enjoy the ride and allow your senses take in the unearthly beauty of Istanbul.