DON'T go to Istanbul 🇹🇷

In this video, I'm sharing some advice on what not to do when traveling to Istanbul. We'll discuss some of the scams that I have experienced personally, as well as the unsafe streets and neighborhoods.
If you're thinking of visiting Istanbul, be sure to watch this video first! In it, we'll give you some valuable information on what not to do when traveling to Istanbul. We'll also warn you about the scams and dangerous streets and neighbourhoods in Istanbul, so you can make the most informed decision when deciding whether or not to go!
00:00 Don't visit Istanbul, Turkey
00:26 Visa Process
00:46 Arrival
02:30 The Night Stranger
05:44 Day 2
07:07 The Taxi Scam
08:57 The Restaurant
11:01 Istiklal Street
12:49 The Galata Tower
14:55 The Emotional Roller-coaster
16:43 Egypt
17:29 The Garbage Slide
17:49 The Contraband
19:10 The Passport Thieves
20:22 Day 3 The Fishermen's Bridge
22:06 The Grand Bazaar
28:06 The Hagia Sofia
29:37 The line up
32:18 The Car Scam
34:39 The Car
36:10 Lahmacun
37:35 Pick your meat
42:39 Day 4 The Airport
44:47 The Gas Scam
45:39 The Empty Tank Scam
49:02 The Gas Station
49:37 Conclusion

[@cat-o-lo-gy]

This video is all about blackmailing. Almost every restaurant serves Turkish breakfast. No-one approaches me when I am on the street, if they ask for something say " Sorry have no time" simple. Go always where locals go. Every taxi-cab has a meter, installed in the front mirror. They have a starting fare about 70p. Don't negotiate the price, but make sure they turn it on. Taxi fares are very affordable. You don't need Uber. There are yellow buttons on the lamp posts. They will be there in 1-3 mins. If you are looking for scams the streets of Paris offer greater variety. Enjoy.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Thank you for the advice. Can you explain the yellow button?

[@tanerkorkmaz3343]

ım from turkey even same things happend to me in 1996 ı vent this pub to watch basketbol game(efes pilsen) cause says front door that they show the game ı order my beer but just after 5 minutes 3/4 girls sit on may table and waiter ask them if girls want drink and ı realise straith away sayin no no and ı left place immeditly.

[@bdal3480]

taxi will take you for long route even if you show them the right way on google they will take the closest highway where you can not get out of the car and will overcharge you

[@narniadan]

​@@tanerkorkmaz3343 ım not from turkey but I'm from Turkey or Turkiye. In 1996, AKP or Erdoğan was not a president and inflation was %500, women were not allowed to cover their head with headscarf, have higher education and work at hospital as nurses, doctors or become engineers. I wasn't allowed to wear short and mini skirts than unlike, now.

[@moelu4650]

05/2024, stil the same scamming. Trip with taxi 500 lira and normal price 164lira. You ask a trip with meter, 2 blocks later he says many traffic its 500 lira. 4 times today i stoped the driver en get off the taxi. Not all drivers, a honnest driver gets a good tip and respect for those who are descent en honnest. Beautifull city but for me was the last time.

[@plaistowbill]

Everyone’s experience are unique. My wife’s cousin worked in Egypt for a few months and absolutely hated the place. Cairo, according to him, was full of scammers and very crowded He said that Istanbul was far more pleasant place to visit. As for my recent trip to Istanbul, my wife and I were there to visit the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Ayup Sultan’s Mosque and tomb. We had no interest in Taksim or Istiklal Street. We stayed in an excellent little hotel across from Sultanahmet Park. The Turkish breakfast buffet was included with the room. The hotel arranged airport transfers. The only scammers we encountered were the annoying people trying to sell us carpets or leather jackets and the people trying to get people to enter shops or restaurants. A rule of thumb is to avoid shops and restaurants that use people to lure customers. We shopped only in places where the merchant wasn’t aggressive or obnoxious. We ate in places that were full of locals. We enjoyed Istanbul more than any American or Western European city we’ve visited. We definitely intend to return to Istanbul and visit of destinations in Turkey.

[@AdventuresFactory]

That sounds reasonable.

[@armanGT800]

So you did not take a Taxi? Even Turkish non or Istanbul residents always complain about their scams. Please do not white wash it, it's a common practice in Istanbul.

[@altafebrahim6609]

A beautiful city ruined by scammers. Wouldn't go again.

[@blkwolff]

" Don't let my experience discourage you from going to Istanbul" then names video " Don't go to Istanbul" lol it's a little extreme don't you think? Here is my advice, you can definitely point out the negative sides and warn people of scams etc but these things happen literally almost everywhere. That doesn't mean that you cannot also look at the positive things and let's be honest, the city provides a lot of beautiful and memorable things to experience as well.

[@AdventuresFactory]

It does indeed! I loved the architecture and all, but if you can't take a taxi to go to the next spot to make beautiful memories, how would you have a good experience?

[@emregomecoglu]

@@AdventuresFactory use public transport or rent a car.

[@AdventuresFactory]

@@emregomecoglu I ended up renting a car

[@Crazyworldd160]

i don't think so , this is an honest and straight forward video . the guy record everything as simple as that .

[@mohamedsied1401]

In Canada, you are stabbed and mugged in broad daylight. You cannot walk outside at night or use public transport in some dangerous areas. Eating out is not a daily occurrence in Canada because it is very expensive, and the quality of food you get in stabul for 400 lira is comparable to 5 star restaurants in Canada for much more money. Also, the Canadian transport system is terrible, yet he expects Istanbul to be completely problem-free? I recently returned from spending 15 great days in Istanbul, and sure, I experienced a lot of what he described in the video in some regions of Istanbul, but I also experienced the same in Latin America, Thailand, and Egypt. That's the price tag that comes with travelling and he did not do his homework.

[@yesman2304]

Man went to a country without doing his due diligence. Not surprising

[@Mo.Jo.]

My buddy - ALL these scams have been well documented. You just have to do your homework and be prepared and then you will be fine. I went to Istanbul solo for 8-9 days in December of 2022 and I saw most of these scams coming at me from a mile away and i just kept chugging along. I would love to go to Istanbul again. You go unprepared, you will obviously leave with a bad taste in your mouth.

[@AdventuresFactory]

I'm sure that's the case. oh no.. next time, I know. honestly, I could care less for all the scammers, but the Taxis Ubers left me a sour taste every day. Next time I go I'll rent a car from the airport and go to other cities and towns.

[@vojtechhaisman4002]

Public transport is very affordable, there is no reason why you should rent a car or take taxi@@AdventuresFactory

[@mr.khorsani8740]

He's just doing it for the video views and who knows if he's even telling the truth about the club scam. The taxi skeem happens in every country

[@Mr.ert1071]

That club scam is right. Even they scam locals sometimes if u r so hunger for women

[@bichegnaw_yebichenaw05]

thankyou for this amazing video, it almost felt like a documentary. i watched every single minute with full of suspense not like a tour video to just enjoy.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Thank you for the spirit-lifting comment. Really! ❤️

[@deepthought524]

New subbie. I loved your authentic content

[@AdventuresFactory]

I appreciate it. Thank you!

[@user-zj3bj5fl9t]

It is mind-boggling that you did not try to use trams/ferries/buses because it is amazing and cheap to get around for $0.85 a trip

[@AdventuresFactory]

I'm from Toronto. Our transportation system is not the greatest. I usually would rather walk than take the TTC. Lol 😆. It's mostly psychological. 😅.. it's an old system, very loud, too much goes on and too many issues and delays.

[@yasink1978]

For me Istanbul is amazing, going for the 5th time next month. I have stayed in the European part each time. Unfortunate you got scammed but as a traveler you should have researched the scams/transport. The trams/ferrys/buses are amazing and cheap to get to A-Z.

[@msaidely]

Appreciate the content

[@AdventuresFactory]

I appreciate you. thank you for the support. really! 🙏

[@edisonyoutification]

I just watched your video cause my friend was telling me about Istanbul scamming that she just experienced. Your production quality is amazing and then I checked out your other videos than saw you are into fishing. I love fishing, I live in NYC, if you ever come to NYC we should go fishing 🎣

[@AdventuresFactory]

Absolutely, that would be amazing. Thanks for the encouragement.

[@Sue25698]

Nobody mentioned about the breakfast price so i wanna say it’s not a scam actually. The currency is not stable. Turkish Lira is losing value every single day. That means the restaurant is also spending more money on everything from electricity to their rent, workers salary, the product they buy and other everything. Thats why they increase the prices. But just because the money is losing value, at the end paying 250 TL few years or months ago and paying 650 now might be the same amount in Dollar or Euro. Its just inflation. But you could find better breakfast much more cheaper in different areas. So instead of checking prices in TL, better to ask your cousin how much did it cost in Dollar the day she/he visit that restaurant 😊

[@AdventuresFactory]

That's a reasonable suggestion. That's why I didn't talk much about the restaurant. I was just not happy because I saw other people next to me pay less.

[@chinaberg]

That bar scam is in many cities abroad, even in Japan. How could you fall for this?

[@kaypakaipa8559]

Yo Wael this content is EXCELLENT! 🏆 And Those taxi prices are ridiculous, this is important info to know prior to traveling there. Also How easy was it to communicate in english there?

[@AdventuresFactory]

Thanks, Qutz. It wasn't easy, actually. Not even in the airport. It was much easier to find people who spoke English in Egypt. The kids in the area I was staying all spoke English.

[@Yesim730]

Use Google translate. It’ll even speak for you. Simple.

[@carbonoksit4086]

It was an exaggerated video. I leave the taxi issue out. The taxi issue is also a big problem for the locals. The government could solve this problem tomorrow if it wanted to, but for some reason it doesn't. Use public transport. Both fast and cheap. I have been travelling to Turkey since 2016. Turkey is one of the most beautiful and vibrant countries in the world. The people are extremely helpful and friendly. It is one of my favourite countries with its places to visit, holiday resorts, beaches, nature and food.

[@AdventuresFactory]

That's what I've been hearing from everyone, but I just simply didn't have the same experience. I'm still planning to go back to a different city. Maybe Ankara or something. I hear it's calm and beautiful there.

[@bobchinskey4763]

Happy to watch.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Thank you

[@mrvalbajrak]

I was born in İstanbul and I don’t go those places and you could perfectly use the public transportation, taksim is super well connected with metro&bus&tram. No need to hire a car, traffic is terrible. As a local I don’t even use taxi and I do negotiate before, also I call the number 153 to complain. This “bar scam”, known as “pavyon”, is a shitty place, you might end up very badly so you should be really grateful that it didn’t happen. Anywhere in the work I wouldn’t go to a bar calling me for a beer or whatsoever 😊 As I understand from your trip you were in like shittiest places ever. Next time consider stay in Beşiktaş or Kadıköy. You can try a Meyhane next time, with mezes for example if you want to experience a local thing. Eat kokoreç from Reks (Kadikoy), mussels with beer, try islak hamburger on Kizilkayalar, go to Kumkapı for meyhanes, go to breakfast street in Beşiktaş etc etc… And buy from supermarkets like Bim, Migros so that they cannot charge you extra. Just avoid istiklal and taksim… please please Also don’t compare İstanbul with Egypt, for gods sake! Different cultures

[@AdventuresFactory]

I appreciate the advice. I'll definitely try it. I hope it's good.

[@Yesim730]

Bravo 👏🏻❤️

[@Yesim730]

@@AdventuresFactorymake sure you follow their advice for anywhere you travel 8n the world. It’s common sense.

[@benandhaley]

Istanbul is one of our favorite cities in the world! Such a fascinating place.

[@AdventuresFactory]

it is, actually. I wish they could control the scams and regulate the taxi prices.

[@RodiBeatz]

Just a very racist and nationalistic country but sure

[@barbarasestak9085]

There are scams everywhere. It's on you to be careful

[@remogatron1010]

Istanbul was the worst for me. I did not like it.

[@labs9618]

I didn’t like İstanbul either too crowded not developed very old gothic you’ll be bored after a day

[@cherylmay1956]

I was a single female traveller to Turkey. A guy came up to me in Taksim square, invited me to his carpet shop , gave me tea and coffee when I got there then tried selling me a carpet. I bought a cheapish one. Afterwards he invited me to smoke hookah with him and his friends...anyway around 9pm I tried getting a taxi. Had the same problem with the taxi couldn't get one...the guy took me back to my hotel on his motorbike then said goodnight and drove off. Damn I kinda get a shiver down my spine when I think how brave I was back then 😅

[@recreepy]

My eyes are sending a virtual high-five.💞💞💞💟💟❣

[@georgep1358]

Great and informative video Wael

[@AdventuresFactory]

Thank you very much Georgep

[@dropin409]

​​@@AdventuresFactory 99% tourists know about turkish scamming. But the real surprise is bouncer did not force you to pay more and more.

[@azarafsar5372]

I have been there 5 times, it's amazing. The problem you have like most travellers you don't do your research before going. What is it with you people, live life and enjoy

[@saeidk736]

istanbul is definitly not a place you just willy nilly go anywhere you like . there are certain things you should avoid for sure. like that bar scam. thats famous . every place has its ups and downs . im iranian been to Istanbul 2 times . its a really beautiful city . lots of great food and great weather. price is also cheap compared to other major cities . all in all its a great place to visit , but you have to know where not to go. it can get dangerous in certain areas . and you should never trust random people who come up to you same as in with most cities

[@AdventuresFactory]

For sure

[@Yesim730]

Exactly. This is true for any city or country you visit in the world. There’s no excuse for falling into scams when a simple Google search will help you learn what to watch out for. Plus use your head. A lot of it is common sense. He continually exposed himself and knew he was doing it.

[@a.yohannes6675]

Yeah that happened to me and my boy last year around Taksim square

[@AdventuresFactory]

The bar scam?

[@a.yohannes6675]

@AdventuresFactory yeah bro

[@hamzasbai3831]

Many people that visited Istanbul recently say that it's not worth it anymore. Taxi scams, restaurant scams, street scams. Everyone wants extra money. Taxi drivers there are some of the most rude people ever. I find this very disappointing because I loved Istanbul when I visited back in February 2019.

[@538696]

Why didn't you take the metro?

[@codringher9700]

Just 2 things you have to be careful about are 1- don't go anywhere by taxi (just use public transportations) 2- don't eat anything at where menu isn't avaible. Just be smart, scammmers are everywhere in the world.

[@user-kw9cr5rn3b]

How was mitani suites im looking for 10 days is it cheap

[@AdventuresFactory]

It's cheap and in the heart of Istiklal st. You can get a room for $40 bucks. The guys in there spoke better English than the airport staff, too. Very nice, guys.

[@user-kw9cr5rn3b]

@@AdventuresFactory oh okay fine ill surely book

[@AdventuresFactory]

@@user-kw9cr5rn3b did you end up going?

[@user-kw9cr5rn3b]

@@AdventuresFactory babe i went to turkie but stay at different property

[@AdventuresFactory]

@@user-kw9cr5rn3b that's good. I hope it was fun.

[@DocumentingMoments]

Are u able to share the details of the restaurant where you pick your own meat please

[@AdventuresFactory]

It's in the video. Very nice place and staff are amazing. It's called Afiyet et.

[@DocumentingMoments]

@@AdventuresFactory thank you Broski

[@BuyurDaym]

I think it is unfair for people to blame the creator for being subjected to scams. A nation should strive for their country to be safer for everyone.

[@michiganwannarbor3255]

Everyone always gives me a hard time for eating at burger king when I went to Istanbuls tourist area. But honestly what's the benefit of eating at those ripoff restaurants.

[@AdventuresFactory]

I went there and it was good.

[@kaypakaipa8559]

Yeah, not sure im visiting Turkey anytime soon lol, those prices & scammers would ruin it for me

[@AdventuresFactory]

You probably could enjoy it if you go to other towns and cities. The country is very beautiful. Just try to hire a guide or bring a turkish friend. It was prettier than Athens by miles. There's a place called Princess Island that's crazy beautiful.

[@rikkidgermano9640]

Istanbul is not Turkey! Stay away from major cities and that goes for every major city in the world. If you go outside of these cities you will get to experience the real country and the people. Turkey is famous for being very visitor friendly!

[@kaankockar3904]

As a Turk, taxi drivers have been on our agenda for about a year or two (maybe longer). This is happening because of our government's senseless hatred of uber and shared taxis. They do the same tricks not only to you but also to a Turkish tourist going to Istanbul because tourists don't know the way. People trying to sell things around will not harm you. It is best to ignore them and walk past them. Istanbul is a great city but it has been ruined by the influx of immigration and refugees from the east of our country.

[@lefterismagkoutas4430]

All the comments saying he should be prepared about different things prove his point honestly. I loved Istanbul, but I stand with every person whose experience wasn't ideal because he got scammed in one of a thousand ways you can get scammed in Istanbul. Let's not normalize this for places intended for Tourism. It is not normal to have to research the place extensively in order for your holidays to not be ruined by a scammer.

[@atterraggio2490]

You've obviously not been scammed in Soho in London yet. By the way I think it says MUG on your forehead.

[@AdventuresFactory]

😄 I think so.

[@can1s_lupus]

In Istanbul, the scammers search for middle eastern singles guys as fair game. No offense but many Arabic men come to İstanbul for certain reasons and get scammed easily…

[@fidel7498]

Please do not forget that Istanbul is a city of 20 million people and be objective. In addition, Türkiye is the 4th country visited by the most tourists in the world. 50-60 million people visit this magnificent country every year. It is a world-historical country with its rich culture, history and unique food. 2 of the 7 wonders of the world are in this country. In addition, Istanbul is the only city in the world that was the capital of the Byzantine, Eastern Roman and Ottoman empires, that is, the 3 largest empires..

[@AdventuresFactory]

No one is denying that. I'm just speaking of my experience in Istanbul. I haven't been elsewhere in Turkey yet.

[@fidel7498]

I respect you, I am commenting as someone who visits Turkey every year. The only thing that attracts your attention is that you have a prejudiced approach. Yes, you are right, fraud is a very bad experience, but rest assured, I have experienced this in New York, Paris and Rome, but I never said not to go there. The title of the video seems terrible because it gives the impression that you are criticizing the whole country and the Turkish people because you made a video saying "don't go to Istanbul". If I were you, I would change the title to a more positive one.

[@AdventuresFactory]

@fidel7498 I appreciate your input. The title is simply what I thought would bring attention. But in the video, I try to be fair. I mentioned it a lot that the country is beautiful. I also mentioned that the Asian side of Istanbul is a lot more calm than the European part. I also tell people not to let my experience discourage them from visiting it. It's merely an advice to avoid having a bad experience. I myself want to visit other parts of Turkey because I think they look amazing. But next time, before even leaving the airport, I'll just rent a car and will enjoy my trip. Also New York and other cities do have scams, but Uber or taxi is always your ticket out of a bad situation. Not in Istanbul. In there, you're stuck. Also, the Turkish people I know in Canada are the reason why I wanted to visit Turkey. My Turkish friends here are amazing. Some of the people I met even in the European part are fantastic. The hotel concierge, for instance, was really nice. I never said anything bad about the people. They're just as any other population. They wake up, go to work, eat food, sleep, and wake up to work the next day. I'm talking about the scammers in particular that I interacted with.

[@Crazyworldd160]

i agree with you this is really 100% true , i will never visit again .

[@user-dn2mq8jf7e]

How is possible that you pay 50 usd for a meal you can get that in Swiss and it’s Istanbul turkey !!!! Like wtf are people on their mind are people bc stupid I been there just some days before and we paid that for 3 people and I still think it’s too expensive

[@andrewclark8630]

The prices of everything have increased. Since that was a good and big breakfast with a view of the Bosphorus, I'd say 650TL is the normal price, and can even be considered reasonable (£16 or so). I am sure it used to be half the price, in pounds or dollars too, but as they say, that was then and this is now.

[@djglass69]

I paid $30 for VISA ON ARRIVAL, and Took the HAVAIST bus to TAKSIM for around $6..

[@AdventuresFactory]

With what passport? What country?

[@djglass69]

@AdventuresFactory UNITED STATES 🇺🇸. I paid $30 for Visa on arrival for 6 months at Istanbul airport

[@AdventuresFactory]

@djglass69 Oh wow, that's pretty good.

[@djglass69]

@AdventuresFactory , the VISA booth is right on your right as you enter the airport. Buying the visa online is EXPENSIVE but in the airport is $30 for 6 months.

[@AdventuresFactory]

@djglass69 Yeah, we can only do that in some airports there.

[@molkagbary1416]

I told you about the Bar....and sorry for the breakfast!

[@AdventuresFactory]

😄😄😄😄 I had to see it for myself, I guess. The breakfast was good, but I just think it was just a bad day for them with the rain. So they were trying to milk it.

[@wesleybushell3215]

5000 lira is £128 uk pounds

[@andjusticeforallav.ismailg1011]

1-Never and ever believe a man who promises a good club that you can find nice ladies :). 2-Taxi scammers have been a huge problem not only for tourists and also for us local citizens. There could be some solutions but even these solutions are not enough. 3- Dining in a restaurant in bosphorus area always is most expensive. İ had one kalamari and one sea trout and two cokes the bill is 250 lira in 2018 on that time 1 dollar was around 5-6 liras so the bill was 50 dollars in a fish restaurant in Beykoz. İ am a local, it was not a scam but beware of boshorus restaurants(cafes and clubs also), if you don't want to overpay.

[@delphiniapickett2934]

If there's too much scamming in a city or country to visit, then it's not worth visiting and this year. In a legit tourism company with the group of people and economists interpreter and all that that becomes included. But it seems like a stressful period same as visiting Egypt. I watched all the videos of the hagglers, the hassle. And I don't know what else just to look at the pyramids. It's not worth it. The same as visiting brazil that's what i've been observing many videos

[@kaanjel]

I have heard a lot about those scams, but I have never encountered it being a full week in Istanbul alone. I find it actually quite weird how you say; "The place looked so scammy, everything js fake, and they asked me to buy a drink for the lady and I said 'no problem'." Why would you do that in a shady, fake-looking bar, in the first place. Secondly, you said it's 750 lira, which is about 50$, then on day 2 you say that 600 Lira is about 22$. Even the math isn't correct. I find this video to be more shady than the city of Istanbul in my honest opinion. Oh, edit: I think taxidrivers are horrible people in every country, so those don't count. You should avoid them anyway, in any country. I took busses and metro's all around Turkey, they rarely cost more than 70ct (euro) per ride. The intercity busses (2+h drives) obviously cost more, but they are cheap as well. I paid 350 lira (€9,95) for a 7 hour drive.

[@trehayireve4981]

i've been 3 times there and I was scammed EVERY time. You can't really avoid it, unless you're risking entering a fight... :(

[@AdventuresFactory]

It's tough

[@aronisalberg]

Great video I had no idea turkey was full of scammers and rude people too😢 we need to go to South America and Asia brother ❤️

[@AdventuresFactory]

They're not rude. It's just when they don't speak the language, they tend to seem rough. Like for example, Slavic cultures. If you're not familiar with them, you'd think they're mad at you, as they talk, when in reality they're not really mad, but it's just the way they talk because of literal translation. They won't say "hi, how are you?" For example, because to them, it sounds fake. They'll just say hi. And when you say it to a stranger, they'll think you're a phony. Because you don't even know them, why ask about their life. But to us, it's just a matter of being warm and polite. Just different cultures.

[@RodiBeatz]

Full racists and nationalists sadly too

[@ufukkuzu6780]

​@@AdventuresFactoryTheir friendliness is fake, the only thing that counts for them is money, and it happens from time to time that they become violent towards tourists. As a Turk, I don't go to Turkey myself! The people themselves are of no quality there, so you don't have to expect that the vacation will be good.

[@ufukkuzu6780]

​@@RodiBeatzIt depends on who. They behave very racist towards Arabs but towards Europeans they would sell all their honor to make themselves popular. I wouldn't call them "nationalists" either, there are Germans who have lived there for 20 years and get recognition without learning a word of Turkish! On the contrary, the Turks, i.e. the locals there, adapt to the foreigners and learn German to show that they are "Europeans"........real nationalists would never act like that! I have traveled to many countries and don't know any other people who make such a fool of them in their own country! Many tourists from Europe only go there because it's cheap, they lie on the beach all week and don't see anything of Turkish culture! Those who like quality go somewhere else!

[@user-ey9zj6uz4w]

Without watching the whole video i don't get why he went to the bar when he was invited. that scam is well known. Guy should do his due diligence. Unfortunately in some places scams are more common.

[@Albani310]

Not trying to sound like a hater but were you really that naive to fall for the bar scam and at 10:49 €20 for all those that you have in the table does sound expensive at all. Seems like a fair price. Anyway appart from these two I like the style of your vlog. Keep it up!

[@AdventuresFactory]

No.. I usually tip, especially when I use my camera. My tip alone is $20. But why does the table next to me pay $10 and I pay more? I tipped people left right and center in Egypt. But they didn't try to change me extra except at the pyramids or museums because they have a foreign price and a local for the attractions. A restaurant is not an attraction. Had they charged me the same price as everyone else, I would have tipped them 50% to 70%. Even the Ubers, I never received a message from any uber driver asking me to change the price. But in Istanbul 9 out of 10 times they sent me a message asking me for astronomical prices. $40 US up to $80 for a 10-minute ride. Why? Say Uber says $20 on the app, but the driver will request $60. Simply because you're at the European area. Or sometimes they take you, and before he drops you, he tells you, "You have to pay $40" on top of the $20 that's already coming out of your credit card. I don't care, if I know that's the price for everyone, but I have a problem with price discrimination. Especially if they think you're from the Gulf or hear that you're from the west. They don't do it nice either. They get in your face to tell it to you with an aggressive tone.

[@ahmetozkaya9136]

You are right Istanbul is very expensive. But i hope you know ervery Metropolian Cities on the world are expensive.

[@AdventuresFactory]

It's not expensive, but rather overpriced for tourists. The Asian side was a lot cheaper.

[@delphiniapickett2934]

I heard it's not very safe for Egyptians to be in Turkey. There's no reason why period's probably because of my great migrant people from Egypt to Turkey who knows??

[@user-tj9wv8zr9y]

How much that man suffered in Turkiye. His whole adventure was a nightmare.!!!

[@maxsteinke3378]

bosporous tour is also scammy. costs 4 euros and they try to sell you for 25

[@LittleGoldenGunesh]

Dude you are from egypt and you talk about scams in istanbul? Lol

[@AdventuresFactory]

I'm not from Egypt.

[@sartorialboss]

That first scam is a well known one. As an experienced traveller you should have done your research and you could have easily avoided it!

[@shazadhussain4467]

I’m surprised you got scammed by so many ppl… I’m a foreigner and was there for around two weeks and never got harassed or scammed by anyone… well I guess I did get harassed a little on the Fatih side by the Syrian street beggars… but that’s minor :)

[@AdventuresFactory]

I'm cool with beggars. I only have a problem with being seen as a walking ATM.

[@YurtDsDunyas-fp4ct]

You seem like you went to Istanbul just to say negative things. I don’t think you wanted to enjoy the city even for a second. I have an advice for you, please don’t go to Turkey again if you hate that much. I understand most Arabs hate Turkey just like you, but that doesn’t mean you have to say stuff which is not real. Good luck you in Egypt, and please stay there.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Why would anyone hate a country? Someone could have a bad experience in a city. But hating a country just sounds like an exaggeration. Watch the video again and see if I mentioned anything about turkish people or turkey. If anything, I said they are nice even though they seem rough around the edges. I also mentioned that it's hard to find English speaking people. I also said, I'll go the next time to another part of Turkey that's a lot calmer. I said too that the country is gorgeous. Watch the video, then come back and tell me if I said anything about turkey. I also didn't mention anything about Arabs. I mentioned a little segment on my experience in Egypt as a tourist. If you notice too, my cousins are the ones that recommended me to visit turkey. Do you think they don't like it? 🤔 you're funny 😄. All love and respect to the beautiful turkish people and all people from the world. I'm Canadian, by the way. We don't generalize because it's not logical. Love and respect to you too.

[@sozio23]

Yeah I-SCAM-bul…. I‘m used to scammers but there, nearly everyone tries to scam me. It seems normal for this city….

[@deepthought524]

FYI, Hagia Sophia used to be a church

[@istanbulportrait]

Yes, 571 years ago 😁😂 and it has been a treasure belonging to the Turks for 571 years.

[@anniewho315]

@@istanbulportraityour prayers will never be heard in a church.

[@istanbulportrait]

@@anniewho315 Are you a prophet? or god? How do you know this?

[@anniewho315]

@@istanbulportrait that's according to your Quran not me as a prophet. Go read your Quran and you'll know that it clearly states Muslims prayers will NOT be heard in a CHURCH. Now SICK DEER

[@forrgy89]

Buying a drink for a stranger, you deserve to be scammed. You were a willing participant. Say no and keep walking.

[@AdventuresFactory]

They don't give you an option. In Canada it's normal to buy drinks for strangers.

[@victoriaselezneva9823]

45:45 what that guy did was not cool. When I went there, I mostly stayed in the Asian area. It was nicer.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Yeah, that's smart. to stay in the Asian side and visit the European.

[@toniwertman4818]

Prices seem super high

[@kayacenk4164]

Did you reported bar to Police? İ guess no.. So if u not report them Police and whini g here or not show the place then how we can fix the problem? U should report it ot u should show the bar name then we can report for you.

[@cordial_neighbour1237]

The Most Famous Scammers Country is Egypt

[@AdventuresFactory]

Maybe, but based on my experience so far, I'd take getting scammed in Egypt any day. The scam average is about $0.20-5. If you consider people asking you for tips or financial help a scam. You get a lot of that at the pyramids and maybe Khan El Khalili. Other than that, I never really experienced anything else.

[@bqxpd6]

You look more Egyptian than Turkish, maybe that’s why you got all scammers gang on you 😂 Thanks for sharing this side of the story.

[@AdventuresFactory]

😄😄 I do have both bloodlines. That's why I wanted to visit both countries. I've never been to either. I sincerely wanted to love Istanbul. Next time I'll go to the Goreme Open Air Museum. It looks amazing!

[@plaistowbill]

I went to school with Turks in my country. I also just got back from a week in Istanbul. Turks come in all shapes, sizes and colours. Some look as if they have Indian ancestry. Some Turks look “Mediterranean”. Some Turks have fair skin, blue eyes and light brown/blonde hair. Over the centuries, people from Europe, North Africa and Asia settled in the former Ottoman Empire. Turkey is a melting pot of many ethnicities. For me, this is one of the things that makes me love Turkey.

[@bostonluyasar7045]

as long as you don't come back. there is no problem 👍

[@mr.khorsani8740]

How are you an experienced traveler but so dumb to get scammed so easily. For one you should do your research before hand . Regardless of doing research it's common sense with the taxis and the club scam

[@AdventuresFactory]

That's not normal, though, after Uber changed the game. Taxi drivers in North America lost all their power. Even if one wants to scam you, they can add a little extra to your bill, but not charge you 10 times the price. That's just a little too much. I wouldn't care if they charged me a tourist's price, but in Istanbul, it was some astronomical numbers that stopped making sense. Also they kept canceling one after the other. They all use the uber app, but none of them follow the uber rules. I used uber in Egypt and it was so good, I paid them all the maximum tip. About the bar, that was curiosity to be honest. I just wanted to see. I didn't expect an entire bar still open up to become a scam rather than a regular bar.

[@mr.khorsani8740]

@@AdventuresFactory crazy because i always wanted To go to Egypt but after seeing so many videos about scammers in Egypt. İ took it off my list. İ went to İstanbul three years in a row. This year I'ma pass because it got boring the last time. But i never got i scammed. Just the first time I was there when i bought a hookah set to bring back to America. But i watched some videos beforehand and everyone says avoid taking taxis

[@yesgyesg5114]

gitmeyin abi istanbul a gelmeeeyinnnn, hele ortadogudan hic gelmeyin

[@deeist7541]

Good grief have you not read any guidebook. Public transportation is the way to go in Istanbul. You absolutely did not do your homework.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Nope.. I thought it was on my way, it shouldn't be as bad. I was already in Egypt.

[@gust8802]

Agia Sophia was an Eastern Orthodox Church. Like the Vatican is to Roman Catholic. Erdogan recently converted it from a museum to a mosque. He just converted an orthodox monastery to a mosque too. No tolerance for other religions. Sad

[@ahmedelsawy567]

Not right was a mosque officially bought from christian church from Mohamed Fatih sultan which is the opposite in Andalusia Spain when Europe conquer Andalusia they forced every Muslim family to be converted or immigrate or be killed and punished And every mosque either demolished or converted to a church Europe has no single mosque in old times no Mercy to other religions despite Muslim word full of churchs , temples for other religions

[@TSantarem]

Same problem bro

[@DebacleWhimsical]

you clearly didnt do your home work/due diligence.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Of course not. I was heading to different countries, and turkey was one of them. I was told it was nice and I went with that.

[@armanGT800]

Taxi scams are the worst in Istanbul - The city official must do better, this is taking away from potential tourists visits. So short sighted. gaining a few bucks loosing 100s in Hotel and Shopping expenditures. This is why Turkey still not considered a real European country.

[@AdventuresFactory]

That's my point. The city is amazing and people will go regardless of what anyone would say.

[@armanGT800]

@@AdventuresFactory I love comments like I have been to Istanbul and it's better than any US or Canadian cities. Go pound sand that's my reply. Never in my life living in NYC or now in San Diego ever had to argue about cab fare ever. White washing these blatant issues is not helping the city. As I visit Istanbul at least once a year.

[@ufukkuzu6780]

That is not possible with this mayor; he would rather travel all over Turkey than stay in Istanbul and solve the problems.

[@sat4.20]

Not İstanbul, its Taksim. Do NOT GO to the Taksim or Eminönü

[@Mr.ert1071]

egyptian who pretends to be canadian.😂 genius promo

[@AdventuresFactory]

I'm not Egyptian. I wish. That was my first trip to Egypt. But yes my mom was born there, but she only lived there briefly before she had to go back to South Arabia, which is now united in one country called Yemen. But even then, they moved to the UK, then UAE before going back. And I lived briefly too in Malaysia. I don't like saying that I'm from Yemen because Canada has always been my real mother. She adopted me, raised me, gave me education, and a better chance in life. She, too, is not high on ideology or substances. Only canada deserves in my perspective all my love and admiration. So, no, I'm not Egyptian. I don't carry any papers that are Egyptian. But I find egypt to be the other mother in that part of the world and probably the only one that gave home to many people that lost their home. It did so to the Syrians, yemenis, Sudanese now and it did so a long time ago to the Greeks and other Europeans. Even when you read about anciant Egyptians "far away from biblical mythology," they also were generous in giving home to anyone coming from outside of Egypt. If what you're asking is why I have a soft spot for Egypt, that is why.

[@ezoBezoo]

Ok. I'm at minute 3:48. I have 2 comments and I won't watch the rest, because 2 strikes in first few minutes is too much. If you have vape and smoke it you won't get in trouble. I often see people smoking it at the street. However producing and importing it is banned. If you are over 18 you can bring it with you for personal use. You may or may not know it beforehand but imo it would be nice to cover all aspects if you are making this kind of video. As for the bar, omg why are you following strange a guy to a shady place. There are a lot of pubs/ bars in İstanbul, especially around İstiklal caddesi. You can buy a 0,5 liter beer bottle for less then 50 liras from grocery store. Why are you following a weird guy to pay triple to price?

[@AdventuresFactory]

I mentioned that in the video. And as for the shady person, you can call it curiosity. 😆.. I wanted to know why he's very persistent, and I wanted to know what I'm going to warn anyone who's going to Istanbul about. This scam is very new to me.

[@AdventuresFactory]

I appreciate your comment BTW.

[@PhilIpp88]

100% true. We went there in October and the city is full of scamers 😒

[@AdventuresFactory]

Maybe it's a new thing, because people who visit it a few years ago told me it was less hectic than Egypt.

[@uzaydaisemekisteyenadam4543]

This is something new. The large number of refugees causes this.

[@remogatron1010]

It will always be Constantinople for me:(

[@uzaydaisemekisteyenadam4543]

@@remogatron1010 Dude, is there any point in calling it Constantinople? That's Istanbul now. It's been 600 years.

[@remogatron1010]

@@uzaydaisemekisteyenadam4543 And yet we cry for Palestine? Why? So, Muslims can conquer Christian lands and not give it back? Jews cannot act like Muslims colonialists and conquer lands too? Why the double standards? And by the way, the Turks and Ottoman Empire were colonialists as well. MANY ARABS fought against the Turks in Palestine for freedom. Why do you ignore the Turkish colonialist? Muslim colonialists get a free pass now?

[@ajvaani593]

Just dnt go to istanbul!! Its so sad! Scammr every where. Just dnt go to istanbul go somewhere!

[@gauravsingh25]

Bro you are a nice Human being but always remember when we travel at most of tourist places all they want from you is money and that is the harsh reality of this world

[@AdventuresFactory]

Yes, but there are ways to make money and give you a good time and other ways to try to take money against your will.

[@user-tj9wv8zr9y]

For me people are not so helpful. They are introversed and closed to tourists there .

[@alexiabardi5607]

I wouldn’t go there even they gave me 1M $ dollars . NEVER

[@hamedsaloom9917]

I agree with this guy. They love scamming tourists. I remember they try charging 300lira to go toilet in tourist areas like grand bazar and for the locals it’s free. They’re also lack manners and over there. Give them a bit of rudeness back down there, don’t afraid to be rude, otherwise they’ll take you for a ride .

[@ralphastorga4891]

8:33 LOL what in tarnations is going on with these taxi prices 😂

[@AdventuresFactory]

They were relentless

[@ASMRFANCLUB477]

Another travel video 99% pointed at vloggers face

[@AdventuresFactory]

Lol.. I have videos with proper equipment where I barely show myself and others with a simple camera. I'm still testing what works.

[@ASMRFANCLUB477]

@@AdventuresFactory dude the quality was excellant the content you talking brilliant but we see very little of the country, too many spend to much time pointing the camera at themselves you have great potential - please take this as positive feedback as that was my intention 🙏🙏🙏

[@AdventuresFactory]

@ASMRfan Absolutely, I prefer constructive criticism anytime of the day. Really! I appreciate your input 🙏

[@CIHANOZEL-ij6vd]

Hayde yallah 🐪🏜️💩

[@erkanhoca6155]

scamming is a life style here in turkey. millions of scammers in here. if u insist to not to. they will bash you up

[@boragercek]

Taxi issue is a problem that upsets everyone in Turkey. This problem even preoccupies our media on a daily basis. Do you know the person who is the president of the organization that represents taxi drivers in your country? Everyone in Turkey knows this mediocre guy and hates him. In Istanbul, please use the MARTI TAG application, which is similar to Uber, instead of a taxi.

[@AdventuresFactory]

That's valuable information. I appreciate it! 🙏

[@tosapai297]

Walking up and down through the hills is good to stay fit, I understand that's hard for a North American 😂

[@AdventuresFactory]

Walking in Athens was even worse 😄😄. I haven't walked on hills for ages.

[@maxsteinke3378]

he wants to get scammed for clickbait

[@zenshaw2128]

Dude Starbucks?? Cmonnnn mannnn Boycott that shit

[@user-gm3kn2ik6h]

WHY?

[@dvr1337]

why wud anyone go there anyways

[@TheMusicell]

"sen gel, sen gel, sen gel, sen gelme lan ayı!"

[@MeatballOne]

Guy’s born with a target on the back of his head😂

[@AdventuresFactory]

😆😆😆.. I guess.

[@PrincessSitatemset]

BTW you don't look Turkish, you look more Ancient Persian 😍😍😍❤️❤️❤️✨✨✨

[@AdventuresFactory]

Lol, thank you! I guess! My grandma's ancestors are turkish.

[@reefjosey1947]

In turkey nobody looks like central asian. most of them anatolian origin. being turkish is not comes from genes but the mind and common struggle, Atatürk says. Hagia sophia belongs to the people of Istanbul and their symbol. It means temple of wisdom. Originally there was a temple of Artemis here. They demolished it and a church was built on top of it. later this church into mosque. Fatih Sultan Mehmet's mother was a Christian and Anatolian Rum. just like ur mother's different ancestors.

[@PrincessSitatemset]

@@AdventuresFactory my pleasure 🤗❤️❤️✨✨ I see. You should take your DNA test

[@AdventuresFactory]

@@PrincessSitatemset 🤔 I will.. 😄

[@PrincessSitatemset]

@@AdventuresFactory wonderful Hun ☺️😘❤️❤️✨✨

[@hottiezol]

So where should I go waeeeeeel!???😅😂🤣

[@AdventuresFactory]

Toronto baby! 😄

[@bakrdemir8656]

africa

[@Nothingreturned]

Fake every where in workplace, some neighbour's, all different counties, fake easy to spot

[@mohamedsied1401]

My buddy, you did not do any research and is now upset with yourself for not making an effort to learn about the place that you are visiting. First and foremost, did you truly use cabs to get about your limited geographical district? If your hotel is near the Glata Tower, the Egyptian market is a short walk away; in fact, you can stroll the entire Fatih neighbourhood from your hotel. There are also buses, trains and trams that you may use with a single transit card known as the Istanbul Pass. Scamming occurs all around the world, including Mexico and Latin America, where it is known as Grino tax. When I was in Thailand, everyone attempted to scam me, including the police. Thirdly, my man You sound so arrogant going into a foreign nation and expecting the locals to know English. According to your accents and mastery of English, it is evident that English is not your first language. Turkish English is not even a third or fourth language; it is a language in which the younger generation has just developed an interest and can communicate on a basic level. Most older individuals will not speak English, although many will know Arabic, German, Russian, Italian, and French. I find it annoying when foreigners arrive in a different place without making an attempt to learn the language and expect the natives to speak English. i don't speak trukish however while am there i use audio translation apps . I'm sorry you spoiled your own experience by being so irritable and upset over things you might have done better, but you didn't do your research. Good luck next time. Istanbul is a magnificent city that is dealing with inflation and economic difficulties. I hope you improve your mindset so that you may enjoy life more. Good luck.

[@kayacenk4164]

İmagine you going fancy restuarnt in İstanbul and whining for 22 dolar. And u eating turkish breakfast.. İn Canada u can order only hamburger with that money bcuz taxes and tips. İf u eat that break Fast in Canada at a fancy restuarnt u Will pay like merhaba 200 dolar minumum

[@ahmedal-akki2078]

You seem to be a novice traveler. Before travelling you need to do a little bit of research and preparation. Also please change the title of this video.

[@AdventuresFactory]

Yes, turkey was not planned. I just went without looking up any info. But Greece too was not planned, bulgharia and amsterdam too.