Travel
Travel Note
Visa Requirements
Americans with ordinary passports visiting Turkey do not need a visa to enter. If you need a visa, you can easily obtain an e-Visa before your arrival online: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/apply/
Travel Note
Travel to Turkey
The most convenient American cities for direct flights to Istanbul include New York, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Chicago, each offering daily non-stop flights. Renowned airlines such as United, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa operate these routes, with flight durations ranging from 9 hours and 45 minutes to 13 hours and 5 minutes, depending on the departure city. On average, round-trip flights typically cost around $1,000. Alternatively, there is the possibility of flying to a European destination first and then connecting to Istanbul, which may extend the travel time but could offer a more economical option. Book your flight as early as possible to secure cheaper prices! Summer is a peak time.
Hotel
Crowne Plaza Istanbul - Ortakoy Bosphorus, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza is newly renovated, and walking distance to the wedding venue (~12 mins). To benefit from the discount from the hotel, please book until May 3rd from this link: https://www.crowneplaza.com/redirect?path=asearch&brandCode=CP&localeCode=en®ionCode=1&hotelCode=ISTOR&checkInDate=19&checkInMonthYear=072024&checkOutDate=24&checkOutMonthYear=072024&rateCode=6CBARC&_PMID=99801505&GPC=w12&cn=no&viewfullsite=true
Travel Note
Travel to Pool Party (Kemer)
You can easily call a call cab from Uber, through your hotel or take the subway to "Kemer" station.
Travel Note
Getting Around in Istanbul
Most cabs do not accept credit cards or foreign currency. It's wise to carry Turkish Liras at all times. Finding a cab is notoriously difficult in Istanbul. There are no black cars in Uber, but the app can be used to call yellow cabs. Another ride sharing app for yellow cab is "BiTaksi". The subway system is pretty reliable and covers important hubs. To ride the subway, tram, ferry or bus, you need to purchase Istanbul Kart (anonymous card) from stations, airport or small shops. Look for "Istanbul Kart" or "Akbil" signs.
Hotel
Radisson Blu Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
This hotel is 10 mins walking distance from the wedding venue. Some rooms facing the main street can be noisy. If you choose to stay at Radisson, request for a quiet room.