Originally Posted by
INEC
I've done this before and would do it again.
PRO
- Much cheaper fare in Business and Economy
- Almost always 125% status miles in Business
- IMO good food, service, seats, AVOD, hard/soft product on board
- if TK J, ease of facilities/customs/etc. at IST
CON
- transit times of 2 - 18hrs (but I think gives free transit hotels?)
- IST can be chaotic is not *G or flying Business
This has often been the cheapest option I've seen, even factoring in the costs for an overnight hotel. There are worse places to transit that IST or places to overnight than Istanbul!
The worst part about flying to the US with TK is the extra security at IST. Back in Dec. they asked us for the printed version for the ESTA and e-tickets - why on earth do they need that? I said I don't have a print out but they should be able to check in their system.
Then ALL our bags were deeply searched and padded from top to toe - this happens to EVERYONE with kids. We were stuck at the gate to wait for Mr. to get checked before we can go on board.