Job Discussion Forums

chakilinh · Joined: 15 Apr 2011 Posts: 1

Hello friends,
I'm seriously mulling over the idea of going abroad to teach English. Istanbul is on my short list of places to go. That being said, I'm concerned about how women are treated/viewed in Istanbul.
I would be a single gal alone in Istanbul. I visited for a few days last year with my boyfriend at the time. I loved the city however I noticed street vendors, waiters etc never spoke directly to me, they always referred to him. I'm not sure if it was out of "respect" to him or bc I was a woman.
I know Turkey is a very modern country however it's very Muslim and more conservative than what I'm used to.
Any thoughts or personal experiences on this? I tried to do a search on the forum and didn't find anything. Perhaps I was using the wrong search terms? Any input would be appreciated.

oipivo · Joined: 02 Jan 2012 Posts: 163 Location: Poland

You really have nothing to worry about. Of course there is sexism here, but there are plenty of foreign single women milling about the city. It's very safe and generally Turks respect women. If that's your only reservation about coming here, don't let that stop you!

gator07 · Joined: 26 Sep 2011 Posts: 45

You'll always have those guys (in Turkey and elsewhere) who have that sexist attitude. But I think you'll find more of an open-minded community in Istanbul. I never felt inferior or discriminated against. As a woman, I had a great experience there! Smile

teacher07 · Joined: 17 Mar 2012 Posts: 8

Im a single girl leaving near istanbul. I think that its a very cosmopolitan city and I dont feel you have anything to worry about. most of the men are very respectful towards women but like anywhere in the world some are not. let us all know what you decide.

Eagle Eyes · Joined: 26 Apr 2012 Posts: 121 Location: Istanbul

There are literally thousands of female EFL teachers here in Istanbul. Istanbul and most of Turkey are great places for women to teach especially kids and children. Goodluck in your search! Smile

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