Istanbul Insider Tips

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Haggling is a way of life in Turkey and if you're willing to learn the rules of the game, you could net yourself a bargain as well as sample a piece of traditional culture. A few simple techniques should help you negotiate the bargaining maze: ask how much at the start, don't let the vendor bully you into naming an initial price; do your homework and know the market for the item you're buying; don't show too much enthusiasm; pay no more than you're prepared to; be prepared to walk away, it could lower the price; don't haggle over the pennies -- and pay in cash.

For up to date listings and features on Istanbul, try the long-running English-language magazine "The Guide", which runs editions covering Turkey's major cities. Find it online at http://www.theguideturkey.com/istanbul/

. Britain's Time Out franchise also publishes a monthly guide in both English and Turkish, the Internet version is at: http://www.timeout.com/travel/istanbul

Travelers wax lyrical about the generosity of the Turks, but like all major cities, Istanbul is no stranger to scams. Watch out for haggling taxi drivers. All cabs should operate meters and if they don't, don't get in.

Although many Istanbulians will engage in friendly conversation with foreigners, men traveling on their own should be aware of scams in which they are befriended by large groups, ushered into bars or restaurants and then unwittingly made to foot an exorbitant bill.

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