When I go to the US the question that I am most often asked is “Do you feel safe there?” The crime rate is considerably lower here than in many places, and in many ways you can feel safer here than on a street in a major city in America. The streets are generally safe. Most violent crimes here are crimes of passion or retribution for some serious affront, rather than random attacks on strangers.
However, terrorist attacks do occur sporadically. Around the time of Nevruz (Kurdish New Year), you should be careful. The US Embassy has just sent out a warning to be cautious between the dates of March 20 and 23. Nevruz is a time when protests, some of them violent, have occurred throughout Turkey and could occur again.
Shoplifting and pickpocketing have increased during the economic slump, especially in tourist areas and markets. You need to be careful when people try to distract you or follow you; they may be pickpockets or petty thieves after your wallet or cash. Sometimes a person may approach you to change money on the street. Decline their request; they will likely give you counterfeit bills.
More recently a number of individuals have had handbags or wallets snatched. It is dangerous to pursue the thief, because they tend to work in gangs. Some even carry knives. I have found yelling is the best response. Others will come to your aid.
Laura, a Today’s Zaman reader, wrote in reply to an article she read and shared this information:
Dear Charlotte:
I have found most Turkish people really friendly. When I go out with my children, who have very blonde hair, we attract a lot of attention! I was scared to death one day when a group of women came up to me and began to start admiring my children. In all the commotion, one of the women grabbed my handbag and threw it to a teenager who appeared out of nowhere. In seconds the kid and my bag were out of sight. Before I knew, it they all were! I realized too late they were cons (dolandirici). Mothers: Be careful in such situations.
Another Today’s Zaman reader shares this:
Dear Charlotte: I find when I raise the subject of crime that often Turks do not like to admit that crime is on the rise. But if that is not the case, why are closed circuit TV surveillance cameras being installed every where? Why does nearly every retail store have its own security guard or guards? Police seem to be using more high-tech methods, especially in the popular tourist areas. From Wayne (Kemerköy)
Dear Wayne: Thanks for your comments and questions. Unfortunately, mugging has increased.
Here are some practical tips for visitors and newcomers to Turkey:
It is always best to travel with another person or a group.
When traveling alone, you are definitely more susceptible to pickpocketing and purse snatching and you could be robbed.
Position your bag in front of you where you can see it, not behind you.
Be careful about accepting food and drinks from strangers.
If you are a woman walking alone or with another woman late at night, it is best not to try to attract attention to yourself. It is usually taken to mean that you are trying to invite males to notice you.
When a protest or football game is planned, be aware of crowds. They can turn violent.
Travel in Turkey is basically safe, with the exception of the Southeast, where Kurdish terrorists have been known to be active.
A general rule is to stick to main roads, especially if you are alone and new to the country.
If you are careful not to get into a fight or make approaches at someone else’s partner, you will be alright.
Back to the question I am often asked when I visit the US. Well, taking all things into consideration, America does have relatively high levels of gun violence and homicide in comparison to other developed countries, not to mention rape, assault, burglary, car theft and arson. I feel pretty safe here in Turkey.
Turkish society at the grassroots level has changed rapidly in the past few decades and more change is to be expected. Let’s hope for the best!
“Society prepares the crime; the criminal commits it” -- Henry Thomas Buckle
