As the most populous city of Turkey, Istanbul has a cosmopolitan aspect. In addition to the migration from Anatolia, there are many foregniers who are residents of Istanbul. Therefore , life in Istanbul is different from and faster than any other province of Turkey. The many privately owned hospitals as well as the state owned hospitals provide health care 24 hours a day. All health institutions own or offer ambulance services. In order to use ambulance service all around the country , a single phone number applies: 112 . The pharmacies are open during working hours on weekdays , and some pharmacies are open during the nights and at the weekend.

155 Police help line is at everyone’s disposal. It is the shortest way of accesing the police.

The red direction signs around the city make it easy to go to historical sites.

All currencies are accepted. Banks have ATM machines to draw cash and foreign money exchange offices are available in most areas. Certain banks cash traveller’s cheques, in TL only and with a commision.