Hi, we’re a group of three women in our 30s planning a trip to Turkey in November 2024 for two weeks. Two of us are getting rhinoplasty, so we’ve been advised not to fly until 7-10 days post-op. A friend suggested a road trip across Turkey since we want to visit Cappadocia and Antalya.
Is it safe to drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia, then from Cappadocia to Antalya, and finally back to Istanbul? We only have 13 nights in total, so buses and trains would take too long. I’m a bit nervous about driving, especially given the mixed reviews about driving in Turkey.
Here are my questions:
- Is it safe for female travelers to drive there?
- Where should we rent cars from?
- How long should we allocate for each leg of the trip, and what should we see along the way?
We want to make the most of our trip since Turkey is about a 22-hour flight from Australia and we might not return soon. Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
You might want to get more information from your doctor’s office about your recovery after rhinoplasty. I recall a friend who spent 5-7 days mostly just resting on the couch after her surgery.
A few things to consider. First, check out this video about the new name and pronunciation of Türkiye.
After rhinoplasty, you’ll be stuffed and bandaged for a week, only breathing through your mouth. Travel might not be very enjoyable during this time. If you’re having the procedure in Istanbul, it might be best to explore the city instead of planning extensive travel. There’s plenty to see in Istanbul itself. I wouldn’t suggest doing any road trips until your bandages are off. Bring large sunglasses to hide the bruising, which will likely get worse each day. My sister had the procedure and her bruising lasted almost a year, even with Arnica. Trust me, the first two days will be rough—you’ll have swollen eyes and limited sight, so it’s best to just rest. You’ll feel much better once everything is removed and you can start traveling then. Just make sure to wear masks to avoid catching a cold after your surgery!
I understand you want to combine business with pleasure, but rhinoplasty is a major surgery and you don’t want to rush or risk coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose.
Honestly, you might have too much planned for this trip. Stick to Istanbul and avoid pushing yourself too hard. It’s better to plan for less and be pleasantly surprised if you can do more.
Your plan sounds exciting! Driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia, then to Antalya, and back is doable, but be cautious. It’s generally safe for female travelers, though it’s wise to rent from reputable agencies. Allocate around 8-10 hours for each drive. In Cappadocia, explore the fairy chimneys; in Antalya, enjoy the old town and beaches. Ensure you rest well after surgery. Enjoy your trip and stay safe!
Hi there! Driving in Turkey is typically safe, but be aware of local driving habits. Opt for car rentals from well-known agencies such as Hertz or Enterprise.
Check the current exchange rates online to compare. If the bank rate is close to the market rate, it’s worth converting now to avoid any potential ATM fees or poor rates.
I highly recommend allocating about 7-9 hours for each drive between Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya, making sure to take breaks and enjoy notable stops like Konya. I’m telling you, it’s worth it