Job Discussion Forums

lena · Joined: 25 Jun 2004 Posts: 8

Hello all,

I am moving to Istanbul in September and I would appreciate some practical info regarding the city. First and foremost, I would love suggestions regarding finding a place to live, as I will be living in a hotel until I find an apartment.

I would also love to receive some updated information regarding costs in the city and what kind of pay I can anticipate at an average ESL job. I am an experienced ESL teacher.

If anyone who is currently living in Istanbul has any recommendations regarding expat bars and cafes where one could chat with local expats, please let me know. I am trying to avoid the mistakes I have made in the past with dubious ESL schools.

Cheers,

Elena

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

When you get to Istanbul let me know. We can meet up and I can show you around and point you in the right direction

yaramaz · Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 9:34 am Post subject:

I'll be here in Sept as well. I wont be as useful as dmb but I'll tag along for the beer Very Happy

lena · Joined: 25 Jun 2004 Posts: 8

Thanks for replying. I appreciate the offer. I will certainly be taking you up on it as soon as I get in.

Another question: how is the foreign community reacting to the possible dangers of living in Istanbul, ie the bus bomb incident. I am not too worried about it, but it is definitely a little disheartening and worrysome to read about as I am packing my bags to head out.

Also, is Istanbul anticipating a greater influx of people during the Athens Olympics? Anybody know?

Cheers,

Elena

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

I've said it before. I don't feel in any danger living in the centre of Istanbul. As for the Olympics effecting Istanbul. I haven't heard anything.

lena · Joined: 25 Jun 2004 Posts: 8

Thanks for the info. I am not terribly worried about my safety.

On a different note, which part of the city do you live in, and which part would you recommend living in? I am more interested in a thriving urban setting with good views near a market than modern amenities that are offered in the 'burbs. And what is rent like? Do most people get an apartment through their school?

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

This morning, my quant Parisianesqe street turned into a battle ground. The police charged at protesters and they certainly weren't shy in puting in the boot and using their truncheons. Inocent bystanders were beaten and we all suffered because of the tear gas. I watched all this from my balcony. The biggest danger about living in the centre of Istanbul is the police.

johnslat · Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 1:16 pm Post subject: Law and Order

Dear dmb,

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

Dear John,
the police here are particularly aggressive.
My student last week said that being a policeman was the worst job in Turkey because everyone hates them!