The Vibe Agency offers destination management services throughout the world. From October 1 – 7, Valerie Bihet traveled to Istanbul to assist with all logistic aspects of a major bank convention. We would like to feature this grand city as a highlighted destination for future clients. Included are fun facts, “in the know”, where to eat and drink, where to shop, and most importantly a few venue selections.
Fun Facts:
- Istanbul is historically also known as Byzantium and Constantinople.
- Istanbul is the largest city in Europe with a population of 15 million
- It bridges the continents of Europe and Asia, with parts of the city on either side of the Bosporus Strait.
- Turkey is famous for its carpets, baths, textiles, ceramic tiles, tea and coffee, and a visitor will get a generous sampling of all.
- It is illegal to photograph Turkish military installations, hardware or personnel.
In the Know:
- Nazar Boncugu is a round bead in the shape of an eye made from blue glass with a hole in the middle. Nazar means “evil eye” in Turkish. Turks believe it will protect them from nazar powers.
- Tipping in restaurants is optional.
- It is impolite to refuse the offer of a drink when in a person’s home or place of work.
- It is impolite to blow your nose in public and do not show the soles of your feet when sitting.