Hi all, I’m staying in Istanbul for the first time and found a smaller hotel with excellent reviews in the Sultanahmet area. The owner offered a solid rate if I pay in cash, citing high card fees.
I usually don’t carry much cash, and from what I’ve read, most places in Istanbul accept cards. Is it common for hotels to push for cash payments like this? If so, how can I avoid scams? Should I ask for a receipt if they request payment up front?
I want to be respectful of their situation but also avoid any potential issues.
It’s common for smaller hotels in Istanbul to prefer cash payments to avoid card fees. To avoid scams, ensure you get a detailed receipt if paying upfront.
When I traveled to Istanbul for the first time, I stayed in a small hotel in Sultanahmet too, and the owner offered me a discount for paying in cash, just like in your situation. It’s pretty common in smaller hotels and shops there, as they prefer to avoid card fees. I was a bit cautious at first, so I made sure to ask for a receipt and confirmed all the details before handing over any cash. This approach worked well for me and gave me peace of mind. If you decide to go with cash, definitely ask for a receipt upfront to avoid any misunderstandings. It’s a good way to respect their preference while protecting yourself from any potential issues.