Originally Posted by
747FC
Wife and I are flying into Istanbul for the first time, and staying at Conrad for five days.
(1) I would like to get SIM cards for our cell phones. Can anyone recommend (A) a carrier, (B) a location to purchase the SIMs?
(2) I would like to retain the services of a reputable guide. Can anyone recommend one?
Many thanks!
If you intend to use the handsets that you currently have, you will need to register them with the Turkish carrier; after about 2 weeks your handsets will be "locked out."
That having been said, I would recommend Turkcell as the preferred Turkish carrier. Turkcell SIM cards are sold in designated kiosks in the arrival hall of Ataturk Airport, immediately after exiting passport control and luggage retrieval/customs.
About a guide, I can not help you. Istanbul is a tourist-friendly city, and I would reckon that you can get around easily without a guide. Specific guides are available outside of Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Museum; use licensed guides if you decide that you need their services. Also, entrance to Dolmabace Palace is restricted to groups with guides; you will automatically be escorted with a guide there.
Good luck!