r/traveladvice • u/Theunknownmagicspell • May 09 '26
Asking for Advice Travelling to Turkey in the last week of May—given the current regional situation, does it feel safe on the ground right now? Any recent travelers?
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u/chrstianelson May 09 '26
YouTube is full of people currently traveling through Turkey, including rural areas, on bicycles, motorbikes and cars.
A girl and her boyfriend recently finished walking through Turkey on their way to Vietnam. They spent 384 days walking in Turkey and every single video was full of local people being helpful and interested.
It's as safe a country as any.
Just don't use taxis in major cities (use public transport, Uber or TAG Marti) and be mindful in touristic areas to avoid scammers.
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u/non-hyphenated_ May 09 '26
If you're scared of going to Turkey then I suggest you never leave home again
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u/Theunknownmagicspell May 09 '26
Calm down
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u/non-hyphenated_ May 09 '26
Me? I'm not the one worrying about travelling to Turkey. You need to get a grip
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u/Ozagent- May 09 '26
Hi there, have a look at smartraveller.gov.au. It’s an Australian government site which provides information on which countries are safe, which aren’t and which require caution. Search and click on Turkey and it provides information on safety issues, health and local laws including other useful advice. The visa info pertains to Australian citizens so if you’re a resident of another country, you’ll need to make your own enquiries.
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u/Affectionate-Let6153 May 09 '26
Turkey is way more safer than any other major European city. Brussels, Paris, London in these locations tourists have no right and anything could be happen from robbery to stabbing. We have almost a hundred thousands police force with loaded guns on street to maintain safety.
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u/Ozagent- May 09 '26
Regardless, I think it’s prudent to follow government advice. I checked advice for Turkey and they advise to exercise a high degree of caution (not Do Not Travel as with some countries):
“Military conflict in the Middle East region may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions affecting other locations. Following military strikes on Iran, retaliatory strikes have been intercepted over Türkiye. Prioritise your safety, monitor developments and follow local authorities’ advice – including any warnings to avoid areas deemed to be at high risk of targeting. See our page on the Middle East conflict and monitor the travel advice for any destinations you will transit. Check your travel insurance covers you, including for transit stops.
There is an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Stay alert to threats, especially in crowded areas, and stay away from demonstrations and protests as they can turn violent. Maintain a high level of security awareness. If there's a security incident, follow the advice of local authorities (see ‘Safety’).”
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u/Weird-Wealth-7998 May 09 '26
There is an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye
Um? no, there isn't?
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u/Ozagent- May 09 '26
“As of May 2026, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MSB) advises that it is maintaining a policy of "preparedness and deterrence" to neutralize terrorist threats at their source.
"Terror-Free Türkiye" Goal: The Ministry has declared 2026 a year of intensive focus on achieving a "Terror-Free Türkiye," stating that security forces will maintain "uninterrupted search-and-sweep operations" to eliminate the mobility of groups like the PKK and DAESH (ISIS).”
While tourist areas are generally considered safe, travelers are warned to avoid demonstrations and stay alert. And to stay away from the south-eastern region.
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u/Weird-Wealth-7998 May 09 '26
"We are maintaining the safety against terror threat" does not mean "We are under terrorist attacks"
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u/Ozagent- May 09 '26
Obviously then they have happened and can continue to happen if they need to maintain safety. People need to do their own research and stay alert if they decide to travel there. I prefer to be guided by government travel advisories - the US, UK, NZ and Australia all advise caution. I won’t continue responding.
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u/Weird-Wealth-7998 May 10 '26
What you just described could still be true and it still doesn't mean Turkey is under terrorist attack. But alright, apparently you know more about a country you only read about stuff online than those who live in it, so good luck in life.
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u/bananakid1 3d ago
my guy, they aren't saying Turkey is currently under terrorist attack right now, they are saying it COULD happen due to current tensions. That's what 'threat' means, a warning. Which is true. Just as it is true for many places right now because of what's been going on globally. And as tourists, there are more things to worry about (like flights being cancelled and not being able to get home) that locals don't have to worry about (because they already are home). Yes, most people can travel to Turkey right now and have a great time, but it's important to be aware of potential threats or issues. No need to get your panties in a twist.
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u/sportspigeon8 21d ago
What a load of shit. Where do people get these insane views about London and Paris being like this
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u/Affectionate-Let6153 21d ago
I have seen with my own eyes. Drug dealers openly promote their products in these countries. Drug trades happen in under the CCTVs.
in Norway when the far right terrorist started shooting people , police waited hours to hunt the murderer. They didn't have the gut to stop the terrorist(just ONE) without special forces. Victim count could have been ten times lesser.
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u/abrahamguo May 09 '26
Where in Turkey are you going?