Advice needed on Istanbul living

londoneditor wrote:

I have visited Istanbul several times and have Turkish friends there, but I'd like some feedback from expats, ideally Brits, on life in the city.

My questions:
1 Is it true that you can rent an apartment for 2500TL per month. I am not sure of areas. I stayed in Balat last time which I loved - I prefer authentic neighbourhoods with a sense of community and beautiful or not so beautiful older houses. Which areas would you recommend? Ideally I'd like to be somewhere green and quiet so not sure if the Asian side is better?

2 What kind of visa would I have to get to allow me to spend, say, six months there, while I decide if it's a good long-term idea?

3 I work as a freelance journalist and could continue working for magazines etc in the UK. But is it easy to find that kind of work in Turkey - I don't speak Turkish, so would have to be English-speaking publications

4 Is it difficult to live there without speaking Turkish?

5 I'm a single woman - is it safe?

6 I would be coming to live there alone and am keen not to feel isolated. Is it possible / easy to meet fellow professionals from other countries ?

7 Did or do you feel accepted by the locals? Have you made any friends?

I'm sorry for so many questions but any answers at all would be most welcome. Thanks in advance. Jo x

1 you can even find around 1200-2000. not so central though. asian is better yes

2 turist visa then residence visa

3 there are so few english publications in Turkey. thats the hard part of finding a good one here

4 you have to learn turkish otherwise everyone would try to ... you (deceive:)

5 normally yes it is if you arent  too hot and appealing cloths

6 ofc. there are lots of expats here. Just dont be introvert!

7 Turkish people are mostly hospital and friendly. If you aren't from Syria it wont be a problem

you are welcome