What is crucial to remember is that Turkish culture is a predominantly patriarchal culture. Although the mother is the dominant figure in the family, the streets belong to men in most parts of Istanbul. It can feel quite different from being in a European city for a single woman travelling especially if you look European or western. There is a chance that you might get unwanted attention because you are single and also because you are a western woman.
If you come across unwanted attention from a man (and there is a high probability that you shall),
- Avoid eye contact
- Be clear about saying no with your body language and words, don’t be so keen on being kind. No is “hayır” in Turkish
- Be ready for “insistence” which is a part of Turkish culture. Stay firm
- Create physical distance
- Consider wearing a marriage ring and show it to the person to indicate that you are not available
- Avoid empty streets during late hours
- Try to spend time around neighborhoods that are safe vs. those even the locals avoid. Don’t be adventurous. Although the risks might be lower than many countries, there is no need to take a risk.
- If you need help, prefer to consult a female local rather than a male local especially if you are in a more traditional and lower SES neighborhood.
- Don’t forget that your friendly manner can be misinterpreted as flirtatious behavior by men especially in more traditional neighborhoods
- Don’t be too naïve when judging a stranger by their nice and kind behavior. Not all people are as nice as they look
- Don’t trust too easily. Avoid giving personal information too quickly to someone you have recently met. Turkish people might appear very friendly on the surface and of course many might mean it but for security reasons, be cautious.
- Don’t assume that police will help you. There is a high probability that they won’t know English.
- Try to have a local contact who can help you in times of trouble.
- And still don’t forget to enjoy Istanbul along with these cautions
